Integrated Cable Testing Circuit Board for Portable Fault Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cable testing methods are labor-intensive, require external computing devices, and are bulky, limiting their use in confined spaces and field environments, with inaccuracies in measurements and high capital overheads.
Innovation Solution
A compact, self-contained electrical circuit board for cable testing that performs multiple tests, including shorts, cut-offs, and resistance checks, with wireless communication capabilities, providing accurate results without the need for a personal computer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional cable testing methods are used, then comprehensive cable testing can be performed, but the devices are bulky and require external computing devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple testing functions (continuity, insulation resistance, loop resistance, cable length measurement) and previously separate components (test equipment, computing device, display) into a single integrated portable device with built-in processor, memory, display, and wireless communication capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The portable device performs multiple cable testing functions including continuity testing, insulation resistance measurement, loop resistance measurement, and cable length measurement using time domain reflectometry, replacing multiple specialized devices with one universal tool
2Productivity
If manual visual inspection is used, then no special equipment is needed, but the process is labor intensive and less accurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection with automated electronic testing using a processor-controlled system that performs electrical measurements, signal analysis, and automatic fault detection, eliminating human labor while maintaining high measurement precision through digital signal processing
3Measurement precision
If external PC-connected devices are used for accurate measurements, then measurement accuracy is improved, but capital overhead and wiring complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the computing and processing functions from external PC-connected devices and embeds them within the portable device itself, including a processor, memory, and display, eliminating the need for external computing equipment and complex wiring while maintaining measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The portable device is self-contained with built-in processing, memory storage, display capability, and wireless communication functions, allowing it to perform accurate measurements and communicate results independently without requiring external PC connections or additional equipment
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical circuit board for testing at least one cable, which comprises one or more wires, the circuit board comprising: an input connector configured to be connected to one end of the one or more wires; an output connector configured to be connected to the other end of the one or more wires; at least one processor connected via a first signal driver to the output connector; an Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) and a second signal driver, an SPXT (single pole, X throw) switch configured to connect the input connector to the input circuit; an oscillator circuit coupled to the at least one processor, an energy source; and wherein the at least one processor comprises a plurality of signal generation modules, which are configured to: generate and transmit at least one test signal through the end of the one or more wires of the at least one cable; receive the at least one test signal transmitted through the other ends of the one or more wires of the at least one cable; and analyze the at least one test signal using one or more signal measurement logic methods to yield data comprising intermediate test results or final test results which relate to one or more faults in the at least one cable or characteristics of the at least one cable.