In-line Modular Indicator Assembly for Space-Constrained Electrical Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing indicator systems require separate electrical cables and mounting structures, which complicates their installation and usage, especially in space-constrained environments, and often cannot simultaneously monitor multiple operating conditions effectively.
Innovation Solution
The in-line modular indicator system taps into the existing electrical cable power, eliminating the need for separate cables and mounting structures, and features a series of indicators with different circuitry to detect various operating conditions, providing distinct notifications through illumination or audio devices, each with compact mechanical dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate electrical cables and mounting structures are used for indicator devices, then the indicator devices can be installed and operated, but the installation becomes complicated and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator device is merged with the electrical cable by integrating the indicator components directly into the cable structure. The cable body houses the light source, detection circuit, and power supply, eliminating the need for separate mounting structures and simplifying installation to merely connecting the cable ends.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical cable serves multiple functions: it transmits power to the monitored system, provides the structural housing for the indicator device, and contains the notification components. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated mounting structures and reduces the number of components required.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional indicator devices are used, then they can provide notifications, but they require additional mounting structures and occupy more space
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator components (light source, circuitry, power supply) are nested within the electrical cable body. The cable structure contains these components in a compact arrangement, allowing the indicator device to occupy minimal space while maintaining full functionality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single indicator device monitors multiple operating conditions, then space is saved, but the device cannot effectively distinguish between different conditions
Solution Approach 1:
Different detection circuits are assigned to different locations within the cable, with each circuit monitoring a specific operating condition. Each light source is positioned to indicate a particular condition, providing localized information about specific system states while maintaining compact integration.
Solution Approach 2:
Different colored light sources are used to indicate different operating conditions. Each wavelength corresponds to a specific condition being monitored, allowing users to quickly distinguish between multiple conditions through color coding without requiring separate indicator devices.
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
This configuration simplifies installation, allows for multiple condition monitoring in limited spaces, and provides clear, differentiated notifications for various system states, enhancing user awareness of system operating conditions without the need for additional infrastructure.
Implementation Method 1
A first detection circuit is in electrical communication with the light source and the first photodetector, where the first detection circuit is configured to detect a first signal indicative of a first operating condition of the system based on an amount of light of the wavelength absorbed by the first chemical substance that reaches the first photodetector
Implementation Method 2
A second photodetector is optically coupled to the light source, where the second photodetector is configured to detect light of a second wavelength absorbed by a second chemical substance
Implementation Method 3
A light source is positioned within the electrical cable, where the light source is configured to emit light
Data Source
AI summary
The current technology relates to an in-line modular indicator assembly. Each of a plurality of in-line modular indicators are configured to be coupled in a series with a first electrical cable and a second electrical cable. The plurality of in-line modular indicators is configured to define an electrically conductive path to transmit electricity from the first electrical cable to the second electrical cable. Each of the in-line modular indicators have detection circuits having alternate configurations and notification devices configured to provide alternate notifications.