LAN Testing Plug with Integrated Switch and Indicator

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing LAN testing systems face challenges in allowing users to quickly initiate and verify test results due to the cumbersome positioning of long testing devices relative to the sockets being tested, hindering efficient testing processes.

Innovation Solution

A LAN testing system with a plug that includes a switch device and an indicator device, communicatively coupled via a cable to the testing devices, allowing users to initiate tests and receive feedback on test results without needing to physically move the devices, utilizing a switch device and indicator device integrated into the plug, which can provide visual, audio, or tactile feedback.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If LAN testing devices are positioned far from the socket being tested due to long cords, then the testing coverage is extended, but the user convenience and testing efficiency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting coverageVSAvoiduser convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the testing function into two parts: the testing device (which can be positioned remotely) and the plug unit (which is positioned at the socket). The plug unit contains the switch device and indicator device, separating the operation interface from the testing equipment, allowing the user to operate tests directly at the socket location.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The plug unit acts as an intermediary between the user and the LAN testing device. It receives test signals from the LAN testing device through the cable, processes them locally, and provides immediate feedback to the user without requiring the user to be physically close to the testing device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If the user must physically move the LAN tester plugs from tested sockets to new sockets, then the testing process is complete, but the time required for testing increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting speedVSAvoidtime for repositioning
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The plug unit is pre-configured with the switch device and indicator device at the socket location before testing begins. This preliminary setup allows the user to immediately initiate tests without first repositioning equipment, as all necessary components are already in place at the testing location.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The plug unit performs self-contained functions including receiving test signals, processing test logic, and providing visual feedback indicators. This self-service capability eliminates the need for the user to manually reposition testing devices between tests, as the plug unit automatically handles test execution and result display.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If the user is positioned far from the socket due to long testing cords, then the testing device can reach remote locations, but the ability to quickly verify test results deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveremote testing capabilityVSAvoidtime to verify results
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The plug unit incorporates an indicator device that provides immediate visual feedback on test results directly at the socket location. This local feedback mechanism allows the user to verify test results instantly without needing to return to or interact with the remote testing device, significantly reducing verification time while maintaining remote testing capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP3316519B1LAN testing system
Publication Date: 2020.12.09 IDEAL INDUSTRIES NETWORKS LIMITED
  • EP3316519B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3316519B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP3316519B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

A system for use in testing a local area network (LAN) cabling system having a LAN cable communicatively coupled to a pair of sockets. The system includes a first LAN testing device that is adapted to exchange test communication signals with a second LAN testing device through the LAN cabling system and a cable communicatively coupled to the first LAN testing device having a plug sized and arranged to communicatively couple with a one of the pair of sockets. The plug includes a switch device and an indicator device that are communicatively coupled to the first LAN testing device via the cable. The first LAN testing device is programmed to initiate one or more LAN cabling test procedures in cooperation with the second LAN testing device in responsive to a first signal received from the plug via the cable as a result of the switch device being actuated and to provide one or more signals to the indicator device via the cable to thereby cause the indicator device to indicate a condition associated with a result of the initiated one or more LAN cabling test procedures.