Multi-Function Fuse Tool: Grasping, Cleaning, and Continuity Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tools are inadequate for easily removing blade-type electrical fuses from their receptacles due to tight spacing and lack of secure grasping, and they fail to effectively clean corrosion from electrical contact surfaces, which can cause increased resistance and discontinuity.
Innovation Solution
A multi-purpose tool with picking arms for grasping and removing fuses, abrasive tabs for cleaning receptacle contacts, and a battery-powered circuit tester for checking continuity, all integrated into a single device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If common tools such as needle nose pliers are used to grasp a fuse, then the tool can reach the fuse, but it cannot securely grasp the fuse for easy removal
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is divided into distinct functional segments: picking arms for grasping, abrasive tabs for cleaning receptacles, and a slot with abrasive surfaces for cleaning fuse blades. Each segment is optimized for its specific function, allowing the tool to securely grasp fuses while providing multiple maintenance functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The fuse maintenance tool combines multiple functions into a single device: it can grasp and remove fuses, clean fuse blades, clean receptacle contacts, and test electrical continuity. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate tools and ensures secure grasping through specially designed picking arms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate tools are used for fuse removal, cleaning, and testing, then each function can be performed adequately, but the overall process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges fuse removal, cleaning, and testing functions into a single integrated tool. The picking arms, abrasive tabs, slot with abrasive surfaces, and circuit tester are all combined in one device, reducing the number of tools needed while maintaining functional versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool is designed as a universal fuse maintenance device that can perform multiple functions: grasping fuses of different types, cleaning fuse blades, cleaning receptacle contacts, and testing electrical continuity. This universality simplifies the toolset while addressing all fuse maintenance needs.
3Reliability
If corrosion is not cleaned from electrical contact surfaces, then the fuse can remain in place, but electrical resistance increases and continuity is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The tool enables preliminary cleaning action before electrical problems develop. The abrasive tabs and slot with abrasive surfaces allow users to clean corrosion from receptacle contacts and fuse blades during routine maintenance, preventing increased resistance and continuity issues before they affect circuit operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit tester component allows the fuse and contact assembly to self-test for continuity after cleaning, providing immediate feedback on whether the cleaning was effective. This self-service capability ensures electrical reliability without requiring additional testing equipment.
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 easy removal and cleaning of fuses and receptacle contacts, while ensuring electrical continuity, thus maintaining circuit function and reducing corrosion-related issues.
Implementation Method 1
The tool includes a pair of abrasive tabs for cleaning female fuse receptacles, a slot with at least one abrasive surface for cleaning male fuse blades
Implementation Method 2
The tool also may provide a battery-powered circuit to check the continuity of a fuse
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-purpose tool singularly provides all functions necessary to remove a blade-type fuse, clean the male blades of a fuse, and clean contact points of a female fuse receptacle. The tool also may provide a battery-powered circuit to check the continuity of a fuse. The tool includes a pair of abrasive tabs for cleaning female fuse receptacles, a slot with at least one abrasive surface for cleaning male fuse blades, and a pair of picking arms for grasping a fuse.