Integrated Measurement System with Optical Sensing for Industrial Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for recording measurement data in testing environments are inefficient, as they require technicians to manually log results and take pictures, which can be hazardous and lead to inaccuracies, especially in industrial settings where using hands is limited and traditional cameras are not suitable.
Innovation Solution
A mobile measurement system comprising a handheld device communicatively coupled with a measurement device and an optical sensing device, allowing for simultaneous generation, association, and storage of measurement data and optical images, enabling remote troubleshooting and reducing operator errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a technician uses a traditional camera to take pictures while performing measurements, then visual records of the test setup can be obtained, but the technician cannot perform measurements accurately due to distraction and lack of free hands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the measurement device and camera into a single integrated unit. The camera is mounted on the measurement device housing, allowing simultaneous capture of measurement data and visual records without requiring separate manual operations. This merging eliminates the distraction and coordination problems of using separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement device automatically captures images at measurement points without requiring manual operation. The system self-services by triggering the camera based on measurement events, eliminating the need for the technician to manually operate the camera while performing measurements.
2Measurement precision
If a technician uses both hands to hold measurement probes for testing, then accurate measurements can be performed, but the technician cannot take pictures with a traditional camera
Solution Approach 1:
The camera is integrated into the measurement device housing, creating a unified tool that performs both measurement and documentation functions. This eliminates the need for separate manual camera operation while maintaining measurement precision through proper two-handed probe handling.
3Loss of information
If a technician manually logs measurement results in a log book, then measurement data can be recorded, but the process is time-consuming and prone to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically logs measurement data and associates it with corresponding images without requiring manual transcription. The measurement device and camera work together to self-record all measurement information, eliminating time-consuming manual logging and reducing transcription errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of writing in a log book with an electronic automated system. Measurement data is captured digitally and automatically associated with images through electronic storage and processing, eliminating the manual writing process entirely.
4Illumination intensity
If a technician holds a light to see the system being measured in tight spaces, then visibility is improved, but the testing process becomes more complex and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting function is integrated into the measurement device housing, combining illumination with measurement and imaging capabilities in a single compact unit. This eliminates the need to separately hold and coordinate multiple devices (probes, camera, light source) in tight spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement device is designed as a multi-functional tool that combines measurement, imaging, and illumination functions. This universal device can perform multiple tasks simultaneously or sequentially, reducing the number of separate tools needed and simplifying the testing process in confined spaces.
5Loss of information
If traditional cameras are used in industrial testing environments, then pictures can be taken, but the cameras are susceptible to breakage and not suitable for harsh conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The camera is integrated into the measurement device housing, which is designed to be rugged and suitable for industrial environments. This integration allows the use of a more durable, compact camera that can withstand harsh conditions, replacing fragile traditional cameras.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera is positioned and protected within the measurement device housing, providing localized protection from environmental hazards. The housing structure and mounting arrangement are optimized for the specific industrial testing environment, enhancing the camera's reliability in that context.
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 system enables efficient and safe recording of measurement data and images, reducing the risk of inaccuracies and accidents by allowing remote verification of test setups and results, thus improving measurement reliability and safety.
Implementation Method 1
an optical sensing device integrated into the measurement device... The optical sensing device generates optical images corresponding to a measurement interface between the measurement device and the external system
Data Source
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AI summary
A mobile measurement system (400) includes a handheld device (410), a measurement device (402), and an optical sensing device. The measurement device (402) and the optical sensing device are communicatively coupled to the handheld device (410). The handheld device (410) receives measurement data that comprises at least one measured electrical parameter corresponding to a physical property of an external system (414). The measurement device (402) generates measurement data that corresponds to a period of time. The measurement device (402) communicates the generated measurement data to the handheld device (410). The optical sensing device generates optical data corresponding to an interface (434) of the measurement device (402) and the external system (414) where the measurement data is being generated. The generated optical data corresponds to a particular time within the measurement period of time. The mobile measurement system (400) associates and stores the generated optical data for the particular time with measurement data corresponding to the period of time.