Dynamic Connection Indication for Measurement Terminals

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users of measurement devices face challenges in accurately identifying and connecting the correct terminals for testing, leading to errors that can cause delays, produce erroneous readings, and pose safety risks due to complex labeling and configurations.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that uses indicator mechanisms, such as lights or GUIs, to inform users of the appropriate connection terminals needed for specific tests, reducing the reliance on manual configuration and minimizing errors by providing clear visual and auditory feedback.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If complex labeling and configurations are used to provide comprehensive testing functionality, then the device can perform a wide range of tests, but users face difficulties in accurately identifying and connecting the correct terminals

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting functionalityVSAvoidterminal identification
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides real-time feedback to users by displaying visual indicators (such as highlighted labels or icons) that show which connection terminals should be used for the currently selected test type. This feedback mechanism guides users through the complex terminal configuration without requiring them to memorize or interpret complex static labeling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The connection terminal indicators are made dynamic rather than static. The system dynamically updates the displayed terminal information based on the selected test type, automatically highlighting or emphasizing the correct terminals for each specific test. This dynamic adaptation simplifies the user interface while maintaining comprehensive testing capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If comprehensive terminal configurations are provided for multiple test types, then the device can perform various tests, but connection errors occur due to user confusion

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetest typesVSAvoidconnection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously provides feedback to confirm correct terminal selection. When a user selects a test type, the system responds by highlighting the appropriate terminals and may provide additional confirmation signals, creating a feedback loop that reduces connection errors and improves reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring and displaying the correct terminal information before the user makes a connection. This advance guidance allows users to verify the correct terminals before physically connecting test leads, thereby preventing connection errors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Loss of information

If detailed manual configuration instructions are provided, then users can understand terminal usage, but the process becomes time-consuming and error-prone

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveterminal usage informationVSAvoidconfiguration time
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides self-service by automatically displaying the relevant terminal information based on the selected test type, eliminating the need for users to search through manuals or documentation. The interface serves itself by dynamically generating context-appropriate guidance, reducing both time loss and information loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The information display is dynamic and context-aware, automatically adjusting the displayed terminal information based on the current test selection. This eliminates the need for static, comprehensive manuals and provides users with only the information they need at each moment, reducing configuration time while maintaining complete information availability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP3978935B1Dynamic connection indication
Publication Date: 2024.01.31 BAKER HUGHES OILFIELD OPERATIONS LLC
  • EP3978935B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3978935B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3978935B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Systems, methods, and a computer readable medium are provided herein for providing an indication of a connection terminal (305) on a measurement device (220, 300) for use in performing a test of a target device (210). The system can include a target device and a measurement device. The measurement device can couple to the target device via a plurality of connection terminals to perform a test of the target device. The measurement device can receive an input identifying a test to be performed on the target device by the measurement device. The measurement device can determine, based on the received input, an indication identifying at least one connection terminal of the plurality of connection terminals to connect to the target device to perform the test. The measurement device can provide the indication of the at least one connection terminal via an indication mechanism (310) associated with the at least one connection terminal.