Portable Pull Test Tool for Wire Connector Verification
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pull testing tools are inadequate for verifying the secure insertion and connection of wires in electrical connectors, especially in field conditions, as they often rely on friction or improper seating, and are not suitable for assembled components or harsh environments.
Innovation Solution
A portable pull testing inspection tool with a connector and handle that applies force to a wire or component, featuring an indicator to measure and provide feedback on the applied force, allowing for secure testing without damaging the component, and can be used in confined spaces or harsh conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing pull testing tools are used, then testing can be performed, but the testing is unreliable and may give false positives due to friction or improper seating
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a portable inspection tool as an intermediary device between the tester and the wire connector. This tool includes a connector that properly engages with the wire and component, a handle for applying controlled force, and an indicator mechanism that provides accurate force measurement. The intermediary tool eliminates the need for direct hand-pulling, ensuring reliable and precise pull testing.
2Ease of operation
If manual pull testing is performed, then simplicity is maintained, but the testing is destructive and requires significant training
Solution Approach 1:
The portable inspection tool is designed to be self-guiding and self-measuring. The indicator mechanism automatically measures and displays the force applied during pull testing, eliminating the need for trained operators to estimate or interpret results. The tool performs the measurement function automatically, making the testing process reliable yet simple to operate.
3Ease of operation
If friction-based connection is used, then ease of insertion is improved, but the connection security cannot be verified
Solution Approach 1:
The portable inspection tool incorporates an indicator mechanism that provides immediate feedback during pull testing. The indicator displays whether the applied force has reached the threshold required to verify secure connection. This feedback mechanism allows operators to confirm connection security objectively, distinguishing between proper secure connections and those relying merely on friction.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a portable device, which includes a connector configured to contact or grasp a portion of a component and to apply a force on the component during a pull test of the component. The portable device also includes a handle configured to be pulled to apply the force on the component during the pull test of the component. The portable device further includes an indicator configured to at least one of: (i) identify the force being applied to the component during the pull test and (ii) identify when a specified amount of force has been applied to the component during the pull test.