Test Lead Assembly with Zipper Fastener for Knot Prevention

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing test lead assemblies often result in knotting or intertwining of test leads during repeated measurements, limiting the movable range and stability of the probes when connecting to different test points.

Innovation Solution

A test lead assembly with a fastener member, such as a zipper fastener, that allows for repeated engagement and release of the test leads, preventing knotting and enabling adjustable length for improved mobility between test probes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If test leads are kept separate for flexibility, then movable range is improved, but knotting and entanglement occur during repeated measurements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemovable range of test probesVSAvoidknotting and entanglement of test leads

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the two separate test leads into a single integrated assembly with a common handle and connector housing. The test leads are routed through a shared structure that prevents them from becoming tangled while maintaining the ability to move probes independently for measurements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Object-generated harmful factors

If test leads are engaged together to prevent knotting, then entanglement is reduced, but movable scope between test probes is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveintertwining and knotting of test leadsVSAvoidmovable scope between test probes

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-generated harmful factorsVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The test lead assembly is segmented into distinct functional zones: a common handle and connector housing for stability, and separate probe sections for independent movement. The test leads are separated at the probe ends while being organized together at the connection point, allowing both prevention of knotting and maintenance of movable scope.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple measurements are performed at different test point locations, then measurement versatility is improved, but test leads become intertwined requiring continuous movement

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemeasurement at different test pointsVSAvoidcontinuous movement and repositioning required

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The test leads are pre-organized within the integrated assembly structure with guides and routing channels that maintain their arrangement before use. This preliminary organization prevents tangling during the measurement process, allowing operators to quickly move between test points without dealing with intertwined leads.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10054614B2Test lead assembly and measurement device

Publication Date: 2018.08.21 FLUKE CORP

AI summary

A test lead assembly includes a first test lead having a first cable extending between a distal end and a proximal end, a first test probe attached to the distal end and a first plug attached to the proximal end; a second test lead having a second cable extending between a distal end and a proximal end, a second test probe attached to the distal end, and a second plug attached to the proximal end; and a fastener member for repeatedly releasably engaging at least a portion of the first cable with at least a portion of the second cable along a length of the first and second cables. The test lead assembly and a measurement device incorporating the test lead assembly can avoid or at least reduce knotting of the test leads.