Combination Test Device Non-Contact Voltage Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional receptacle testers are difficult to use due to small code labels that are hard to read, especially in poorly lit areas and when outlets are not oriented upright, and they require users to interpret multiple indicators to determine wiring status.
Innovation Solution
A combination test device with a receptacle tester and non-contact voltage tester housed in a single unit, featuring detection circuitry for wireless voltage detection and outlet testing circuitry with visible and audible indicators that provide clear, orientation-independent feedback on wiring conditions without a code label.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional receptacle tester with a code label is used, then the device can test outlet wiring, but the code label text is too small to read clearly in poorly lit areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual code label reading system with an electronic display system that shows wiring status directly. The electronic display eliminates the need for users to interpret small printed code labels by providing dynamic visual feedback through LED indicators and a display screen that clearly shows wiring conditions regardless of ambient lighting.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing system between the outlet and the user. Instead of directly reading code labels, the system uses detection circuitry to analyze outlet wiring and translates it into easily interpretable visual displays and LED patterns, serving as a mediator that converts complex wiring information into user-friendly feedback.
2Measurement precision
If a conventional receptacle tester is used, then the device can identify wiring status, but the user must interpret multiple indicators against a code label which is difficult to read
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements direct feedback through LED indicators and electronic display that immediately show wiring status without requiring interpretation. The system provides real-time visual feedback where specific LED patterns and display messages directly correspond to wiring conditions, eliminating the need for users to cross-reference multiple indicators with a code label.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the interpretation function from the user and places it within the device itself. The detection circuitry and control system automatically analyze the outlet wiring and determine the wiring status, removing the cognitive burden of interpretation from the user and replacing it with automated electronic analysis and clear visual output.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a receptacle tester is used in non-standard outlet orientations, then the device can physically connect to the outlet, but it is difficult for the user to see the indicators and code label
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a temporal dimension to the display system through multiple LED patterns and sequential indications that can be observed from different angles. The electronic display provides information that persists and can be read from various orientations, and the LED indicators use multiple colors and patterns that remain distinguishable regardless of the device's rotational orientation relative to the user.
4Measurement precision
If a non-contact voltage tester is used first to identify hot conductors, then the receptacle tester can be used to determine wiring conditions, but this requires two separate devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges a non-contact voltage detection system and a receptacle testing system into a single integrated device. The housing contains both detection circuitry for non-contact voltage sensing and receptacle testing circuitry, allowing users to perform both functions with one device rather than requiring separate testers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal testing device that performs multiple functions: non-contact voltage detection, receptacle wiring analysis, and GFCI testing. This multi-functional device replaces the need for multiple specialized testers, providing versatility while consolidating the number of devices users need to carry and operate.
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
The device simplifies electrical outlet testing by allowing users to easily identify wiring conditions through visible and audible indicators, improving safety and usability by eliminating the need to read code labels and accommodating non-standard outlet orientations.
Implementation Method 1
The detection circuitry is configured to wirelessly detect a voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A combination test device including detection circuitry, outlet tester circuitry, and a single housing. The detection circuitry is configured to wirelessly detect a voltage. The outlet tester circuitry electrically is configured to perform a plurality of electrical outlet testing functions. The single housing has a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and an enclosure between the first end and the second end. The enclosure encloses the detection circuitry positioned at the first end and encloses the outlet tester circuitry positioned at the second end.