Switch Element Disconnects Filter Circuit for Dielectric Testing

Solution Overview

Problem

The existing process of dielectric testing for aerospace-quality control units requires manual removal and reinstallation of filter circuits connected to ground, increasing costs and error likelihood due to additional manual labor and manufacturing steps.

Innovation Solution

An electronics system module with a primary electrical circuit, a filter circuit connected to ground, and a switch element that automatically disconnects from ground when engaged by a test connector, allowing for high AC voltage testing without manual intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If filter circuits are manually removed and reinstalled during dielectric testing, then the testing can be performed, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase due to additional manual labor steps

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedielectric test capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing process complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The switch element is pre-configured in a normally closed state during manufacturing, automatically opening when the test connector is inserted. This preliminary setup eliminates the need for manual removal and reinstallation of filter circuits, as the switching action is built into the circuit design before testing begins.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The test connector itself triggers the switching action through its physical insertion into the switch element. The system serves itself by using the test connector's presence to automatically open the switch and disconnect the filter circuit from ground, eliminating the need for external manual intervention in the testing process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If filter circuits are manually removed and reinstalled during dielectric testing, then the testing can be performed, but the likelihood of errors increases due to additional manual steps

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedielectric test capabilityVSAvoidtesting accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The test connector automatically triggers the switch element to open, eliminating manual handling of the filter circuits. This self-actuating mechanism removes the source of human error entirely, as the switching action is triggered solely by the insertion of the test connector, ensuring consistent and accurate testing results.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The manual mechanical process of removing and re installing filter circuits is replaced by an electrical switching mechanism. The switch element, triggered by the test connector's insertion, electrically disconnects the filter circuit from ground, replacing manual mechanical operations with an automated electrical switching system that eliminates errors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If filter circuits are manually removed and reinstalled during dielectric testing, then the testing can be performed, but production time increases due to additional steps

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedielectric test capabilityVSAvoidtesting throughput

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The switch element is pre-configured in a normally closed state during manufacturing, automatically opening when the test connector is inserted. This preliminary setup eliminates the need for manual removal and reinstallation of filter circuits, as the switching action is built into the circuit design before testing begins.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The test connector itself triggers the switching action through its physical insertion into the switch element. The system serves itself by using the test connector's presence to automatically open the switch and disconnect the filter circuit from ground, eliminating the need for external manual intervention in the testing process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP2784525B1Electrical circuit testing

Publication Date: 2019.05.01 HAMILTON SUNDSTRAND CORP

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AI summary

An electronics system module 210 includes a primary electrical circuit 211 including input connectors and output connectors and a filter circuit 212 connected between the primary electrical circuit 211 and ground. The module also includes a switch element 215 connected between the primary electrical circuit 211 and ground. The switch element 215 is configured to be engaged by a test connector 303 to open the switch to disconnect the primary electrical circuit from ground. The test connector includes electrical connectors configured to connect to the input connectors and the output connectors of the primary electrical circuit. The switch element 215 is configured to automatically close based on the test connector being disengaged from the switch element.