Multimeter Shutter Mechanism for Error-Proof Terminal Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multimeters face challenges in preventing erroneous probe insertion, which can damage circuits or fuses due to excessive current, and require complex structures and significant space for prevention mechanisms, especially with advanced functions and complex internal circuits.
Innovation Solution
A multimeter design featuring a rotary switch with convex portions that drive reciprocating shutter plates to selectively open selection terminal holes, using a simple structure that saves space and includes position holding mechanisms to maintain opening states despite external forces like vibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a shutter plate is rotated to open selection terminal holes, then erroneous insertion is prevented, but the structure becomes complex and requires wide space
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter plate is divided into multiple independent shutter units, each capable of opening or closing specific selection terminal holes. This segmentation allows each unit to operate independently with simpler mechanisms, reducing overall structural complexity while maintaining comprehensive protection against erroneous insertion.
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter units are designed to rotate dynamically in response to rotary switch position changes, automatically opening the appropriate terminal holes without requiring complex mechanical linkages. The dynamic operation simplifies the structure by eliminating the need for followers and gear mechanisms while maintaining reliable function.
2Reliability
If a shutter plate is rotated to open selection terminal holes, then erroneous insertion is prevented, but wide space is needed
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple shutter units are integrated within a compact plate structure, nesting them together to minimize the overall space required. The shutter units are arranged in a space-efficient configuration that allows them to function independently while occupying minimal area on the multimeter faceplate.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic rotation mechanism allows the shutter units to open and close quickly without requiring large travel distances or extensive mechanical arms. This dynamic operation enables effective terminal hole protection within a compact space, eliminating the need for wide clearance areas.
3Volume of moving object
If the multimeter size is decreased to improve portability, then space is saved, but the erroneous insertion preventing mechanism requires saved space
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter mechanism is segmented into multiple independent units that can be compactly integrated into the multimeter housing. Each unit is small and simple, allowing them to be arranged in a space-efficient manner that maintains protective function while minimizing overall device size for improved portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter units utilize thin plate structures that can flex and rotate within limited space. These thin-film-like components enable the shutter mechanism to provide reliable terminal hole protection without requiring significant thickness or volume, thus maintaining compact multimeter dimensions.
Data Source
AI summary
A multimeter includes: a rotary switch which selects a measurement function; a common terminal hole into which a connector of a test probe is inserted; selection terminal holes into which the connector of the test probe is selectively inserted; and shutter plates which selectively open the selection terminal holes. The rotary switch includes convex portions. The shutter plate includes a hole corresponding to the common terminal hole so that the shutter plate rotates by using the center of the common terminal hole as the rotation axis and includes a concave portion engageable with the convex portion so that the shutter plate rotates to open the selection terminal holes by the movement of the convex portion. The shutter plate includes a concave portion engageable with the convex portion so that the shutter plate opens and closes the selection terminal hole by the movement of the convex portion.