Multi-channel Handheld Digital Multimeter with Separate Common Terminals

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing digital multimeters (DMMs) cannot accurately conduct concurrent measurements of two signals due to a lack of independent measurement channels with separate points of reference.

Innovation Solution

A handheld DMM device with two or more independent measurement channels, each having its own dedicated user control interface and electrically isolated from the other, allowing for simultaneous measurement and processing of results, which can be displayed together on a single display.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a single common terminal is used for multiple measurement channels, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to inability to conduct accurate concurrent measurements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice complexityVSAvoidmeasurement precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the measurement system into separate measurement channels, each with its own common terminal. This segmentation allows independent reference points for each channel, enabling accurate concurrent measurements without requiring a single shared reference that would compromise precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple measurement channels are added to enable concurrent measurements, then measurement capability is improved, but device complexity increases due to separate terminals and electrical isolation requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement capabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements multiple measurement channels with separate common terminals that are electrically isolated from each other. This segmentation enables concurrent measurements on different circuits without interference, while the electrical isolation ensures that each channel maintains its own reference point, preventing ground loops and measurement errors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Measurement precision

If separate common terminals are provided for each measurement channel, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation worsens due to multiple terminals requiring management

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement precisionVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent provides separate common terminals for each measurement channel, clearly labeled and positioned for easy identification. Each terminal serves a specific channel, eliminating the confusion of shared references and enabling users to correctly connect test leads for concurrent measurements without worrying about reference conflicts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS20240319237A1Multi-channel handheld digital multimeter having separate common terminals
Publication Date: 2024.09.26 FLUKE CORP
  • US20240319237A1 patent drawing
  • US20240319237A1 patent drawing
  • US20240319237A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A single handheld multimeter device includes two or more independent measurement channels that are completely electrically separated and independent from one another. Each measurement channel has its point of reference, typically configured to be coupled to the ground. Measurements by the two or more independent measurement channels can be conducted concurrently, and the measurement results of the two channels can be processed and displayed together.