1 PATENTS ACT 1990 Section 29 Innovation Patent 5 Applicant & Inventor: Matthew Wade Herrmann Address: 57 Cameron Road Burpengary Queensland 4505 Australia 10 Priority claimed: 2013901992 filed 3 June 2013 15 Title of Invention: VOLTAGE DETECTION TOOL The applicant applies for the grant of a patent for the invention described in the accompanying complete patent specification: 20 The following is a full description of the invention including the best method of performing the invention, known to us: qnprPA)nl ci 14 2 VOLTAGE DETECTION TOOL [0001] The present invention relates to a voltage detection tool, and in particular for a voltage detection tool for use by an electrician. 5 [0002] We all use electricity and electrical appliances in our everyday lives. Professional electricians work hard to keep the electrical supply working and maintain or repair electrical devices so that they can be used safely. These electricians are well trained in safety procedures and yet every year many electricians are injured or killed due to live wires being cut. Contact with a live io wire leads to the person to conduct the charge as it tries to get to earth, giving an electric shock. Electric shocks are, at best, painful and can lead to serious injury or death. It is not visually apparent that a wire is live and could cause an electric shock on contact. Mistakes can easily occur where a person believes the power supply to be turned off only to find that the wires are still 15 live or live due to a fault. Therefore an electrician or other person may be working on wiring and inadvertently contact or cut the live wire and be electrocuted. [0003] Voltage detectors and meters and other large pieces of equipment are 20 known for detecting and measuring a charge in a wire or appliance. To test a wire or appliance first a person must pick up and use the specialised voltage detector or meter, an inconvenience which adds to the time of a job. In the day-to-day work of an electrician there may be dozens of different circuits worked on, and although voltage detectors of various types may be 25 used it is easily possible for a cable to be missed and left untested. Or an energised circuit may be inadvertently mixed among de-energised circuits. It is easy then for a wire to be cut only to find that the wire is live, and an electric shock sustained. 30 [0004] Therefore, it would be most desirable for there to be a convenient way qnprPA)nl ci 14 3 to know if a wire was live before cutting, without the need for separate or specialised tools or equipment to be used, or any additional action to be taken. 5 [0005] The inventor has, through careful and lengthy experimentation, developed a voltage detection tool that can be used in the same way as conventional tools including the significant improvement of voltage detection. [0006] The following describes a non-limiting example of the invention being io used with reference to the tool being electrician's pliers, as a useful example of the invention. However, the voltage detection tool can be other tools, and it is not intended that the voltage detection tool be limited to pliers other than where specified. For example, the tool may be wire cutters, side cutters, a screwdriver, cable cutters, or power tools. 15 [0007] For clarity, any prior art referred to herein, does not constitute an admission that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge, in Australia or elsewhere. 20 [0008] It is an object of the present invention to provide a voltage detection tool that at least ameliorates one or more of the aforementioned problems of the prior art. [0009] Accordingly, the present invention provides, in a first aspect, a voltage 25 detection tool including: a tool; a voltage detection means associated with the tool, the voltage detection means including a voltage detector and a warning means; qnprPA)nl ci 14 4 wherein, in use, the voltage detector detects voltage proximal to the detector and the warning means alerts the user that voltage is detected so that they can avoid possible electrocution. 5 [0010] Preferably, the voltage detection tool is an everyday tool including a voltage detection means. Preferably, the voltage detection tool is a tool that an electrician may use in the ordinary course of work that also includes voltage detection capabilities. Most preferably, the tool can be used conventionally but having the further advantageous properties of voltage io detection. [0011] Preferably, the tool is a tool used by an electrician. The tool may be any suitable tool. The tool may be any tool that may be used in a situation where exposure to live voltage may occur. Preferably, in one form of the 15 invention, the tool is a pair of pliers. The pliers may be electrician's pliers. The electrician's pliers may be 1000v rated electrician's pliers. Preferably, the tool may be a wire or cable cutting tool. Preferably, in this form of the invention voltage in the wire or cable is detected by the voltage detector before the wire or cable is cut and the warning alerts the user not to cut the 20 wire or cable so that they can avoid electrocution. The tool may be chosen from the group: pliers; wire cutters; side cutters; screwdriver; cable cutters or power tools. The tool may be made of metal, wood, plastic or any suitable combination of materials. The tool may be a power tool of a known form including voltage detection means. In this form of the invention the power 25 source of the power tool may provide power to the voltage detection means. [0012] Preferably, the tool includes one or more handle. Preferably, the tool includes a contact point and it is the contact point that may be proximal too or contact the live voltage, for example a live wire or cable. Preferably, the 30 contact point is within the head of a tool. qnprPA)nl ci 14 5 [0013] Preferably, the voltage detection means takes any suitable form for detecting voltage. Preferably, the voltage detector includes a detection probe. The detection probe may take any suitable form. Preferably, the 5 detection probe is located proximal to the contact point of the tool. Where the tool is pliers the contact point may be the jaws of the pliers and the detection probe may be positioned in the jaws of the pliers. Preferably, the contact point is a voltage detection probe. Preferably, the voltage detection probe detects the electromagnetic field of a live wire. Preferably, the voltage detection io probe is an uninsulated copper strip. Preferably, the uninsulated copper strip conducts the charge induced by the electromagnetic in the live wire. Preferably, the voltage detection probe is connected to an insulated voltage conductor. Preferably, the voltage detection probe is connected to an insulated detector probe conductor which in turn is connected to a circuit 15 board which on completion gives a warning to the user. [0014] Alternative forms of detection probe can be used to detect voltage. [0015] The voltage detector means may be fitted in the tool in any suitable 20 means. The fitting of the voltage detection means is, preferably, integral with the tool. The voltage detection means may be fitted within a handle of the tool. The voltage detection means may be fitted about the tool. Preferably, the voltage detection means does not interfere in anyway with the usual manner of use of the tool. Preferably, part of the voltage detection means is 25 fitted with the handle of the tool and part within the head of the tool. [0016] Preferably, the voltage detector is fitted in the tool at the contact point or head of the tool. Preferably, the voltage detection means includes a detection probe, and the detection probe is located proximal to the contact 30 point of the tool, in use. Alternatively, the voltage detector may be installed close to the contact point or head of the tool. Any suitable position for the qnprPA)nl ci 14 6 voltage detection may be used for maximum contact or proximity with the item to be checked for voltage. Where the tool is pliers the detection probe is installed in the head of the tool. In this form of the invention the voltage detection probe is installed close to the jaws of the pliers. In other cutting 5 tools the detection probe is installed close to the cutting blades. Where the tool is a power tool or screw driver or the like the detection probe is installed close to the point of the tool. The electromagnetic field of a live wire may be detected when the voltage detection probe is close to or in contact with the wire. 10 [0017] The electromagnetic field of live current may be detected other than in wires for example in a metal part of a device. [0018] Preferably, one or more warning means is included in the voltage 15 detection means to alert a person to voltage being present. Preferably, the warning means includes one or more form of warning, chosen from the group: audible warning; visual warning; vibration or other tactile warning. Preferably, the warning means includes an audible warning. Preferably, the audible warning is a buzzer. Preferably, a visual warning is included. Preferably, the 20 visual warning is illumination of a LED. Preferably, both an audible and visual warning are included. Preferably, a buzzer and a LED warning light are included and a buzzing sound and warning light occur when voltage is detected by the voltage detector. 25 [0019] The warning means may be installed at any suitable position on the tool. Preferably, the warning means is installed in the tool so as to not interfere with the normal operation of the tool. Preferably, the warning means is installed in the handle of the tool. Preferably, the visual warning can be readily seen when using the tool. The visual warning may be an LED which 30 illuminates on detection of voltage by the voltage detector. Similarly, where an audible warning is included the warning sounds as soon as voltage is qnprPA)nl ci 14 7 detected by the voltage detector. As the person moves the voltage detector away from the source of the voltage the warning will desist. In another form of the invention the warnings may continue to be given even after the voltage detector has been moved away from the source of voltage detected. In 5 another forms of the invention the warning means may cause an alert other than on the tool, such as on a separate attachment or electronic device. [0020] Preferably, a power source is included to provide power to the voltage detection means. Preferably, the power source provides power to the voltage io detector and the warning means. Preferably, the power source is one or more battery. The battery may be a lithium battery. The battery may be installed in the handle of the tool. Preferably, the battery is accessible by use of a battery cover to enable replacement. There may be one or more AAA or AA batteries included to provide power. The power source may be a rechargeable battery. 15 The power source may be rechargeable through use of an AC or DC adapter charger. [0021] Preferably, any electrical charge in a proximal wire is detected by the voltage detection probe and conducted by the insulated conductor to 20 complete the circuit and cause a warning to issue. Preferably, the electromagnetic field generated by the electrical charge induces a charge to be conducted from the voltage detection probe to the insulated conductor. A Printed Circuit Board is preferably included with a circuit that will be completed when charge is detected by the voltage detector probe. 25 Preferably, the voltage detection probe detects an electromagnetic field and this induces a current to be conducted to complete a circuit. Preferably, a circuit is completed to light an LED to warn the user that electrical charge is detected. Preferably, a circuit is completed to sound a warning buzzer. Preferably, several circuits are completed to cause multiple warnings to 30 occur. The LED is mounted on the handle for easier viewing. Multiple LEDs qnprPA)nl ci 14 8 may be included with different colours as is suitable to the particular tool being used. [0022] Preferably, a battery test button is included. The battery test button 5 may be included on the handle. Preferably, pressing the battery test button completes a circuit of the Printed Circuit Board such that an indication that power is provided is given. Preferably, a LED lights to indicate that the batteries providing power are charged. Other indications such as an audible indication or otherwise may be given. 10 [0023] Preferably, the voltage detection system is always on so that the user does not need to remember to turn anything on, the voltage detection system will always be on. Pressing the battery test button can verify that the voltage detection is operable to give comfort to a user. 15 [0024] Preferably, the tool can be used in the usual manner but at the same time any voltage close to the tool is detected to alert the user to the potential danger of electrocution. For example, the user may be alerted to not cut a cable or wire that is in the jaws of the tool as the voltage detector detects 20 voltage and the warnings alert the user to the voltage. Preferably, voltage is detected by the voltage detector when before the tool is used for the purpose it was intended. For example, preferably, voltage is detected before a wire or cable is cut by a tool. The proximity of the wire or cable to the tool may be in contact or very close to the tool. Preferably, the contact point of the tool is in 25 contact with or very close to the potential source of voltage. Preferably, the contact point of the tool is in contact with or very close to the wire or cable to be cut. Preferably, the contact point need only be close to the live wire for the electromagnetic field to induce an electrical charge to complete the circuit so that no contact need be made by the tool with the live wire. 30 qnprPA)1q11d 9 [0025] The voltage may be any suitable form of voltage, as used in the particular country of use. The voltage or current may be any suitable electrical charge that can be detected by the detector means. 5 [0026] Preferably, use of the voltage detector means is as for the usual manner of use of the tool with the added advantage of a warning being given if the tool is to be used near a live wire, cable or appliance so that the person may take action before making contact with the live wire, cable or appliance. 10 [0027] Accordingly, the present invention provides, in a second aspect, a voltage detection tool including: a pair of electrician's pliers including a pair of handles and a pair of jaws; a voltage detection means associated with the pliers, the voltage 15 detection means including a voltage detector to enable detection of voltage at the jaws of the pliers; wherein, in use, the voltage detector in the jaws of the pliers detects the electromagnetic field induced by a live cable or wire placed close to the jaws and the warning means alerts the user that voltage is detected so that they 20 can avoid possible electrocution. [0028] The invention also provides a method of use of a voltage detection tool, the tool including jaws including a voltage detector, and handles, and the method including the following steps: a) positioning the jaws of the tool about a cable, wire or the like; 25 b) detecting the voltage with the voltage detector and if voltage is detected; and c) a warning means is activated to warn the user that voltage is detected. [0029] The tool of the method may be the tool of the invention, in any of its 30 aspects and variants. qnprPA)nl ci 14 10 [0030] The invention will now be described in connection with a non-limiting preferred embodiment with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: 5 Figure 1 is a plan view from above of a voltage detector tool according to a preferred embodiment of the invention; Figure 2 is a top view of the voltage detector tool of Figure 1; 10 Figure 3 is an end view of the voltage detector tool of Figure 1 and 2, with all parts except the end of the handles omitted for clarity of representation; Figure 4 is a side view of the voltage detector tool of Figures 1 to 3; 15 Figure 5 is a schematic circuit diagram of the wiring of the voltage detection tool of Figures 1 to 4; and Figure 6 is the view of Figure 1 with the battery cover removed showing the 20 internal electrics. [0031] Referring to Figures 1 to 6, a preferred embodiment of the invention will be described, where voltage detection tool 1 has head 10, neck 12 and handles 14 and 16. Tool 1 appears much as a conventional pair of pliers but 25 incorporates the very useful feature of voltage detection. Tool 1 as illustrated is a pair of 1 000v rated electrician's pliers. Other tools instead of pliers could be used, for example, side cutters, screwdrivers, cable cutters or power tools. In these forms of the invention the voltage detection occurs at the head and contact point of the tool. The head and contact point of the tool may be 30 include the cutting part or point of the tool used to work on wires or qnprPA)nl ci 14 11 appliances. Therefore voltage detection can be alerted to the user when use of the tool is close to live wires or the like, so they can avoid electrocution. [0032] Head 10 is formed of first part 18 and second part 20 moveably joined 5 at pivot 21, in the usual manner. Jaws 22 and 24 can be closed about a wire (not shown) by use of handles 14 and 16, as would be well understood by an electrician. Handles 14 and 16 open and close first part 18 and second part 20 by pivoting on pivot 21. Jaws 22 and 24 include teeth 26, used to cut wires as well as other cutting surfaces (not labelled) as with a standard tool. Tool 10 1 has all the functionality of a standard pair of electrician's pliers, with the additional and significant advantage of voltage detection, to alert the user that they must not use the tools to cut or contact a live wire. First part 18 and second part 20, pivot 21, jaws 26 and neck 10 are all made of stainless steel. Other materials or combinations of materials could be used alternatively. 15 Handles 14 and 16 are also made of stainless steel with a plastic covering for electrical insulation and comfort of the user, and a battery cover as described in detail below. [0033] The voltage detection system is incorporated inside tool 1 and in the 20 most part cannot be seen from outside during use. Head 10 includes voltage detection probe 28, which if a live wire comes near will set off an alert to the user that there is live current. As illustrated voltage detection probe 28 is an uninsulated copper strip. The person can then know not to cut the wire due to the danger of electrocution. Detection probe 28 is positioned close enough 25 to where the wire or cable will be located prior to cutting to detect the electromagnetic field but without interfering with use of tool 1. [0034] Referring to Figure 6 in particular, the workings of tool 1 can be seen. Power is provided to the voltage detection system by two batteries 29 fitted 30 in handle 14. Batteries 29 as illustrated are AAA batteries of a known kind. The form and type of battery used to power tool 1 can be readily changed as qnprPA)nl ci 14 12 would be understood by a person skilled in the art. Battery cover 30 is included in handle 14 to enable access to batteries 29 and replacement when necessary. 5 [0035] Battery test button 31 is included on handle 14 to enable a test to be conducted to ensure batteries 29 have charge. The position of battery test button 31 is conveniently located so as not to interfere with the usual manner of use of tool 1, while allowing batteries 29 to be tested easily. Depression of battery test button 31 on handle 14 causes a light emitting diode ("LED") io under opaque plastic cover 32 at the top of handle 14 to light to confirm batteries 29 are working. Batteries 29 provide a constant power supply to the voltage detection system so that the voltage detection system is "always on" and working, ready to alert a user to the danger of a live wire. By having the voltage detection constantly on any and all cables or wires placed in head 10 15 will be tested. There is no need to turn on any buttons for the voltage detection to be operable. Therefore it is not possible to forget to turn on the safety feature, the safety feature of voltage detection will always be functional when the person uses tool 1. Clearly, it is most advantageous to have tool 1 functioning to detect electrical charge without the need for the user to 20 remember to turn tool 1 on. [0036] Printed Circuit board ("PCB") 36 is fitted in handle 14 as illustrated in Figure 6. PCB 36 and the circuit of tool 1 is schematically illustrated in Figure 5 including test button 31, LED 32 as well as voltage detector probe 28 and 25 batteries 29. Batteries 29 provide power to PCB 36 to enable voltage detection probe 28 to function. Voltage warning buzzer 38 is incorporated into the base of handle 14 labelled piezo in Figure 5 being the particular type of buzzer used. Other forms of buzzer could be used instead. 30 [0037] In use, the electromagnetic field created by a live cable will induce a signal into voltage detection probe 28. Voltage detection probe 28 will qnprPA)nl ci 14 13 conduct this signal via insulated conductor 40 to PCB 36 to complete the circuit. Completion of the circuit causes power from batteries 29 to light LED 32 and the give a loud audible warning from buzzer 38. The user can hear and see the warnings and recognise that there is a danger and stop. The 5 person can then avoid electrocution that may occur if the live wire was cut. Further, action can be taken to identify and rectify the cause of the live wire. Voltage detection probe 28 is an uninsulated copper strip connected to insulated detector probe conductor 40, which passes through head 10 and connects to PCB 36 and the rest of the electrical circuit as illustrated. 10 [0038] In use, a person will use tool 1 as normal and if a voltage is detected by the detection probe 28 a warning will occur. The alert as illustrated is sounding of voltage buzzer 38 in the base of handle 14 and lighting of the alert LED 32 on the shoulder of handle 14. When a person sees and hears 15 these warnings they are alerted that the cable or wire they have in jaws 22 and 24 is live and should not be cut. The person can then move away from the live wire so as not to risk contact. Action can be taken to turn off power to the cable or wire or other appropriate action so that the person need not risk electrocution by cutting a live wire. 20 [0039] Tool 1 has been developed to provide a very economic and useful means to improve safety of electricians. Safety is improved by use of the voltage detector tool for non-contact AC voltage detection in a tool used every day by the electrician. The voltage detection can be in a number of different 25 tools used frequently by the electrician so that the commonly used tools each include the voltage detection feature. Any improvement to safety that can save lives is a valuable addition to an electrician's tool box, particular when the tools work with no interruption to usual use and at a similar cost to a standard tool. 30 qnPrPA)n1q114 14 [0040] It is envisaged that the technology will become obligatory in tools for electricians, particular where working in dangerous environments such as mine, construction or industrial sites. In these locations safety is extremely important as the environment is a dangerous one and also any delay or 5 downtime caused by an accident, and the subsequent investigation, can cost thousands of dollars to the owner in lost time or productivity. [0041] The inventor has developed a convenient tool, including voltage detection that is less cumbersome that use of lots of different tools to do the io same tasks. Further the inventor has designed the voltage detection tool to be readily and economically manufactured, key advantages and advances over standard tools or large voltage detectors. [0042] It will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that changes may be 15 made to the embodiment disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention in its various aspects. qnprPA)nl ci 14 15 REFERENCE SIGNS LIST: 1 Tool 10 Head 12 Neck 14 Handle 16 Handle 18 First part of head 20 Second part of head 21 Pivot 22 Jaws 24 Jaws 26 Teeth 28 Detection probe 29 Batteries 30 Battery cover 31 Battery test button 32 LED cover 36 Printed Circuit Board ("PCB") 38 Voltage detection buzzer 40 Insulated Conductor qnprPA)nl ci 14