Reversible Test Probe Tip for Multi-Standard Electrical Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing test probes require multiple sets of probe tips for different applications, leading to user inconvenience, such as difficulty in carrying and managing multiple probes, and increased risk of loss or misplacement, as users need to switch between different probe tips for various energy levels and applications.
Innovation Solution
A reversible test probe tip design featuring a conductive member with two electrically conductive tips of different lengths, one for CAT II and one for CAT III applications, which can be easily secured and swapped within a single probe body, eliminating the need for multiple probe sets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If users carry multiple probe sets for different applications, then different energy level requirements are met, but user convenience deteriorates due to difficulty in carrying and managing multiple probes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple probe tips with different exposed metal lengths (CAT II, CAT III, and CAT IV compliant tips) into a single reversible probe assembly. The probe body can accept and switch between different tip configurations, allowing users to carry one probe instead of multiple separate probes while maintaining compliance with different energy level requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The reversible probe is designed with a universal probe body that can accommodate multiple types of probe tips through reversible attachment mechanisms. This multi-functional design allows a single probe to serve multiple test applications across different energy levels, eliminating the need for separate specialized probes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If users switch between multiple probe sets, then appropriate tips are available for different applications, but reliability deteriorates due to increased risk of loss or misplacement
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating multiple probe tips into a single reversible probe assembly, the invention reduces the total number of separate components users must manage. The probe tips are stored within or attached to the same probe body, minimizing the risk of losing individual tips while maintaining availability for different test applications.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If probe tip length is reduced for high energy applications, then safety improves by reducing arc hazards, but adaptability deteriorates because longer tips are needed for standard wall sockets
Solution Approach 1:
The reversible probe incorporates a dynamic attachment system that allows users to change probe tip configurations based on the specific application. The probe body can quickly switch between different tip lengths and types, enabling the system to adapt from short-tipped high-energy mode to long-tipped low-energy mode as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe body is designed with universal compatibility to accept multiple tip types including both short-tipped variants for CAT III/IV applications and longer-tipped variants for CAT II applications. This multi-functionality allows a single probe to safely handle both high-energy and low-energy test scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
A reversible test probe and test probe tip. In one embodiment, a test probe tip is reversible relative to a test probe body. The reversible probe has a first probe tip at a first end and a second probe tip at a second end. The test probe body has an opening operable to receive the first probe tip and the second probe tip. When the first probe tip is positioned in the opening, the first probe tip is electrically coupled to a metal device in the test probe body. When the second probe tip is positioned in the opening, the second probe tip is electrically coupled to a metal device in the test probe body. In another embodiment, a test probe having two test probe tips is reversible relative to a test lead.