Wireless Multimeter with Retractable Cable and Rotating Hub
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Hand-held multimeters face limitations in portability and feature accessibility due to size and weight constraints, and are often restricted to measuring low voltages, which hinders their ability to accurately measure higher voltages while complying with safety standards.
Innovation Solution
A compact, portable multimeter with a retractable assembly and integrated wireless communication circuit that allows signal measurement data to be transmitted to a remote location, utilizing a rotatable hub and reel mechanism for cable management and a small battery-powered electronic circuit for low power consumption, enabling communication via protocols like Zigbee, WiFi, or Bluetooth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If hand-held multimeters are designed to measure high voltages while complying with safety standards, then measurement capability is improved, but size and weight increase, reducing portability
Solution Approach 1:
The device separates high voltage measurement functions from the main handheld unit by using external probes that can be connected when high voltage measurement is needed. The probes contain the necessary insulation and safety components, while the main unit remains lightweight for portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediate measurement system where the handheld multimeter communicates with external probes via wireless or wired connection. The probes serve as intermediaries that handle the high voltage measurement while the main unit processes and displays the data, allowing the handheld device to measure high voltages without incorporating bulky internal components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If embedded computer features are added to multimeters to provide convenient measurement functions, then measurement features are improved, but hardware size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The handheld multimeter is designed with a universal platform that can perform multiple measurement functions through software applications rather than dedicated hardware for each function. A single processor and sensor array are used to measure various parameters including voltage, current, temperature, and other environmental conditions, eliminating the need for separate measurement circuits for each parameter.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses software simulations and digital models to replicate complex measurement functions that would traditionally require dedicated hardware. Virtual instruments and software-based measurement algorithms provide the functionality of multiple specialized devices within a single handheld unit, maintaining compact size while expanding measurement capabilities.
3Ease of operation
If multimeters are designed for basic fault finding and field service work, then portability is improved, but measurement and display features are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The handheld multimeter features a dynamic, reconfigurable measurement system where the available measurement functions can be selected and activated based on the specific task at hand. Users can choose from multiple measurement modes and parameters through a touchscreen interface, allowing the device to adapt its functionality to match the requirements of different field service scenarios while maintaining a compact form factor.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a measuring device such as a multimeter, comprising a retractable assembly, and including (i) a cable comprising a first end portion having a first probe and a second end portion having a second probe; (ii) a reel comprising a rotatable hub adapted to wind up and unwind said cable; and (iii) a circuit in connection with said cable, the circuit being adapted to wirelessly communicate a signal measured by the first probe or the second probe to a remote location; wherein the circuit is rotatable in conjunction with said rotatable hub.