Non-contact Clamp Probe for Insulated Conductor Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional voltmeters and multimeters require galvanic contact for measuring AC voltage, posing safety risks and failing to provide accurate magnitude measurements, while non-contact devices only indicate the presence of AC voltage without measuring its magnitude.
Innovation Solution
A non-contact clamp probe with movable clamp arms, a bias element, and a flexible strap with integrated non-contact sensors that allow for safe, accurate measurement of AC voltage and current in insulated conductors without physical contact, using a Rogowski coil for current measurement and control circuitry for data processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional voltmeters or multimeters are used to measure AC voltage, then voltage measurement capability is achieved, but galvanic contact is required which poses safety risks and requires wire insulation removal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical galvanic contact system with a non-contact sensing system using Hall effect sensors and other electronic sensing elements. This allows voltage measurement without physical contact with the conductor, eliminating safety risks associated with exposed wires and galvanic contact while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary magnetic field sensing mechanism between the measurement device and the conductor. By detecting the magnetic field generated by current flow or voltage potential without direct contact, the system achieves measurement capability while avoiding harmful galvanic contact.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If non-contact voltage detectors are used, then safety risks are eliminated, but only presence/absence indication is provided without actual voltage magnitude measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional device that combines both safety features of non-contact detection with the measurement precision of conventional meters. The clamp probe can detect voltage presence for safety and simultaneously measure actual voltage magnitude through integrated Hall effect sensors and signal processing circuitry.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from simple presence/absence binary detection to continuous analog measurement of voltage magnitude. By using Hall effect sensors and signal conditioning circuits, the system measures the actual voltage level while maintaining non-contact operation.
3Ease of operation
If clamp arms are made resilient to grip conductors, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision and structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the clamp structure into distinct functional segments: resilient clamp arms for gripping operation and rigid support structures for structural stability. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized independently - the arms can be flexible for ease of operation while the overall structure maintains precision through rigid mounting and alignment features.
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 convenient, safe, and accurate measurement of electrical parameters like voltage and current in insulated conductors without galvanic contact, providing precise data for users while minimizing safety hazards.
Implementation Method 1
at least a portion of the flexible strap being elastically deformable around the insulated conductor positioned within the clamp cavity to exert a force against the insulated conductor
Implementation Method 2
a bias element coupled to the clamp portion that biases the first and second clamp arms toward the closed position
Implementation Method 3
The first and second clamp arms may include a Rogowski coil that enables non-contact measurement of current in the insulated conductor
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and methods for measuring electrical parameters (e.g., voltage, current, power) in an insulated or blank uninsulated conductor (e.g., insulated wire) without requiring a galvanic connection between the conductor and a clamp probe. A clamp probe may include a normally closed, spring loaded jaw having a flexible strap therein that includes one or more non-contact sensors. The jaw may also include a Rogowski coil to enable non-contact current measurements. A user may compress handles of the clamp probe to open its jaw. In the open position, the user may position the jaw around the conductor under test and release the handles. The jaw then closes and tightens the flexible strap around the insulated conductor such that the one or more non-contact sensors are positioned adjacent the insulated conductor to obtain an accurate measurement of an electrical parameter of the insulated conductor.