Cable Rod End Locator With Multi-Sensory Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for locating the end of a cable rod, such as LED-lit tips and radio wave transmitters, are ineffective in visually obstructed environments and can be hindered by building materials that attenuate radio waves, making it difficult for electricians to accurately identify the rod's end during electrical installations.
Innovation Solution
A multi-sensory locator device attached to the cable rod that provides different types of sensory outputs, including audio, visual, and vibrational feedback, and is powered by a rechargeable battery with a remote activation switch, allowing for reliable location in obstructed environments and reducing power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If LED light is used to illuminate the space, then the electrician can see the cable rod end, but the light is not distinguishable from other light sources and is ineffective in visually obstructed environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a colored light source (red LED) instead of white light to provide distinctive visual identification of the cable rod end. The red color is specifically chosen to be distinguishable from other common light sources in electrical installation environments, solving the problem of light source indistinguishability while maintaining illumination functionality in dark spaces.
2Measurement precision
If radio waves are used to locate the cable rod end, then the electrician can detect the position, but thick stone walls heavily attenuate the radio waves making detection inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the radio wave-based detection system with a passive acoustic emission system. Instead of actively transmitting radio waves that are attenuated by thick walls, the cable rod end naturally emits acoustic signals when it contacts building structures. These acoustic signals can penetrate through thick stone walls effectively, solving the attenuation problem while maintaining location accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces acoustic waves as an intermediary medium for detection. Rather than directly detecting radio waves or visual signals that are blocked by thick walls, the system uses acoustic emissions that naturally propagate through building materials to carry information about the cable rod end's position and contact points.
3Measurement precision
If a separate handheld receiver is used to detect radio waves, then the cable rod end can be located, but the electrician cannot operate the cable rod and receiver simultaneously when feeding through large distances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service detection system where the cable rod end itself generates the detection signal through passive acoustic emissions when contacting building structures. The acoustic emission sensor attached to the cable rod autonomously detects these self-generated signals, eliminating the need for a separate handheld receiver and enabling continuous operation during cable feeding through long distances.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the cable rod and detection sensor into a single integrated unit. The acoustic emission sensor is attached to the cable rod, combining the rod's mechanical function with the detection function, allowing the electrician to operate the cable rod without interruption while the sensor continuously monitors for contact points.
4Reliability
If continuous operation of output devices is used, then the cable rod end can always be located, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic activation of the output devices based on detected acoustic emission events. Instead of continuous operation, the visual and audible outputs are activated only when acoustic emissions indicate contact between the cable rod end and building structures, significantly reducing power consumption while maintaining reliable location capability during critical moments.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables electricians to accurately locate the cable rod end in various environments, improving installation efficiency by providing distinct sensory cues that are not affected by visual obstruction or radio wave attenuation, and optimizing power usage through remote activation.
Implementation Method 1
The first output device 102 is a light source, such as a light emitting diode (LED)
Implementation Method 2
The second output device 104 is an audible alert device, such as a buzzer
Implementation Method 3
The third output device 106 is a vibrational alert device
Implementation Method 4
a locator (100) for locating an end of a cable rod... powered by a rechargeable battery
Data Source
AI summary
A locator (100) for locating an end of a cable rod comprises a first output device (102) configured to provide a first type of sensory output to a user. A second output device (104) is configured to provide a second type of sensory output to the user. The second type of sensory output is different to the first type of sensory output, and the locator is connectable to the end of the cable rod. A system for locating an end of a cable rod is also provided, the system comprising the locator and a controller (550) configured to send a wireless signal to the locator.