Handheld Lighting Tester with Multi-Function Diagnostic Circuits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electricians and maintenance technicians face challenges in diagnosing lighting system problems due to the lack of a comprehensive tool that can efficiently test for gas presence, ballast functionality, and filament integrity in fluorescent lamps, often relying on trial and error methods.
Innovation Solution
A lighting tester with multiple test circuits and a worklight that can selectively power different testing functions, including a lamp test for gas presence, a ballast test for power and frequency verification, and a filament test for continuity, along with display and audio components for clear indications, enabling efficient diagnosis in dark environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple testing functions are integrated into a single device, then diagnostic capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple testing functions (lamp gas presence testing, ballast functionality testing, and filament integrity testing) into a single handheld lighting tester device. The device integrates a high-voltage test circuit with a step-up transformer, a ballast test circuit, and a filament test circuit with continuity tester, all controlled by a single microcontroller unit. This merging of previously separate testing tools into one unified device directly resolves the contradiction by improving diagnostic capability while managing device complexity through integrated circuit design.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting tester is designed as a universal diagnostic tool that can test multiple components of a lighting system (lamps, ballasts, filaments) using a single device. The microcontroller-based control system allows the user to select different test modes, and the device automatically configures the appropriate test circuit. This multi-functionality approach enables one device to replace multiple specialized testing tools, thereby improving versatility while maintaining manageable complexity through software control.
2Ease of manufacture
If trial and error analysis is used for diagnosing lighting problems, then equipment cost is reduced, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting tester performs preliminary diagnostic actions by systematically testing each component (lamp gas presence, ballast output, filament continuity) in a predetermined sequence. The microcontroller automatically guides the user through the diagnostic process, performing necessary measurements and interpretations before a final diagnosis is made. This preliminary systematic action replaces the traditional trial-and-error approach, reducing time consumption while keeping the device relatively simple and cost-effective.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates feedback mechanisms that provide real-time information about the lighting system's status through visual displays and audible indicators. During testing, the microcontroller processes measurements and provides immediate feedback about component functionality, guiding the user through the diagnostic process and indicating problems as they are detected. This feedback system eliminates the need for trial-and-error guessing, significantly reducing diagnosis time while maintaining ease of operation.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If interrupting power to the lighting system is used to identify wiring problems, then safety is improved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting tester introduces an intermediary testing approach that allows diagnostics to be performed without completely interrupting power to the lighting system. The device uses non-contact voltage detection and isolated measurement circuits that can safely measure electrical parameters while the system remains powered. This intermediary method maintains safety through isolated measurement circuits and proper grounding while avoiding the productivity loss associated with complete power interruption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical approach of physically interrupting power circuits with electronic measurement techniques. The testing device uses high-impedance voltmeters, isolated transformers, and microcontroller-based measurement circuits that can detect electrical parameters without breaking the electrical circuit. This substitution of mechanical power interruption with electronic sensing maintains safety through proper isolation and grounding while allowing continuous operation of the lighting system, thereby maintaining productivity.
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 lighting tester provides a comprehensive solution for diagnosing various lighting system issues, reducing the need for trial and error by offering clear, intuitive testing capabilities for gas-filled lamps, ballast functionality, and filament integrity, facilitating quicker problem identification and resolution.
Implementation Method 1
The first test circuit is configured to generate a test voltage signal. The test voltage signal is capable of being applied via the antenna to a lamp and ionizing a gas within the lamp.
Implementation Method 2
The lighting tester also includes a worklight configured for use in conjunction with at least one of the first test circuit, the second test circuit, and the third test circuit.
Implementation Method 3
Ultraviolet radiation resulting from these collisions is converted to visible light by a fluorescent coating on the inside of the lamp's glass surface.
Data Source
AI summary
A combination lighting tester tool. The combination lighting tester tool includes at least three independent testing tools for identifying and diagnosing a problem in a lighting system. For example, the tester includes a lamp testing function in which a high voltage test signal is generated and transmitted using an antenna. When the test signal is in proximity to a gas filled lamp, the voltage is of sufficient magnitude to ionize the gas inside the lamp, causing the lamp to illuminate. The tester also includes a ballast testing function in which the power lines or wires connecting a ballast to a lamp or lighting fixture are tested, and a filament tester for testing the filaments in a lamp for continuity or resistance. The tester also includes a worklight for illuminating an area under test and one or more display devices (e.g., LEDs, an LCD display, or the like) which provide an indication of, for example, a test being performed or a result of a test.