CN105807115B

CN105807115B - Testing and measuring device with pistol grip handle

Info

Publication number: CN105807115B
Application number: CN201610161137.4A
Authority: CN
Inventors: M·N·琼斯; E·H·源; S·D·布勃利茨; J·R·克罗
Original assignee: Milwaukee Electric Tool Corp
Current assignee: Milwaukee Electric Tool Corp
Priority date: 2008-04-09
Filing date: 2009-04-09
Publication date: 2020-08-28
Anticipated expiration: 2029-04-09
Also published as: DE112009000897T5; CN102066953B; GB201017744D0; GB2471248A; GB201210676D0; WO2009126824A1; DE112009000897B4; GB2488720A; AU2009234158B2; GB2494584B; GB2494584A; CN105807115A; GB201222710D0; GB2488720B; CN102066953A; CA2720996A1; GB2471248B; CA2720996C; AU2009234158A1

Abstract

In another embodiment, the present invention provides a clamp meter configured to receive a removable and rechargeable battery pack. The clamp meter includes a body having a first axis, a handle, a clamp, a trigger, and a display. The handle has a second axis and includes a first recess configured to receive a battery pack. The first recess includes at least first and second electrical terminals that are exposed when the battery pack is not inserted into the first recess. The second axis forms an oblique angle with the first axis, and the battery pack is inserted into the first recess along the second axis. The clamp is coupled to the body, aligned with the first axis, and operable to measure an electrical characteristic of the conductor based on the induced current. The trigger is operable to selectively open and close the jaws, and the display is configured to display an indication of the electrical characteristic.

Description

Testing and measuring device with pistol grip handle

The present application is a divisional application of patent application No. 200980121671.0, filed on 2009, 09.04.2009 entitled "testing and measuring device with pistol grip handle".

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of the previously filed co-pending U.S. patent application serial No. 12/399,835, filed on even date 3/6 of 2009, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. This application also claims the benefit of previously filed co-pending U.S. provisional patent application serial No. 61/043,455 (filed on 2008/4/9) and U.S. provisional patent application serial No. 61/095,053 (filed on 2008/9/8), both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Background

Test and measurement devices such as digital utility meters ("DMM' S"), clamp meters, thermometers, plunger sensors, and the like are powered by replaceable or rechargeable alkaline storage batteries. For example, a typical testing and measuring device includes a receiving area on the bottom or back of the device adapted to receive a number (e.g., two, three, four, etc.) of alkaline storage batteries. The battery is securely held within the receiving area via a movable door or plate that is securely attached to the device housing. Alkaline storage batteries, typically having a nominal voltage rating of 1.5V, are connected in series to provide operational power to the device.

In some cases, these devices have dedicated functions. For example, DMMs are capable of measuring electrical characteristics such as voltage and current and displaying an indication of the measured electrical characteristics. Clamp meters have similar or identical functionality to DMMs, but differ in the manner in which certain electrical characteristics are measured (e.g., using inductive coupling). A thermometer, such as an infrared ("IR") thermometer, includes a detector and a laser source for predicting an indication of the location or size of the sensed area. The plunger sensor has the following capabilities: detecting wooden or metal plungers that are hidden behind a surface, and providing the ability to indicate the sensed plungers via light emitting diodes ("LEDs") or audible indicators such as small speakers.

Disclosure of Invention

In one embodiment, the present invention provides a test and measurement device configured to receive a removable and rechargeable battery pack. The test and measurement device includes a body having a first axis, a handle having a second axis, a first recess, and a second recess. The first recess includes a mating interface for receiving a first attachment portion along a second axis, the first attachment portion operable to provide electrical power to the test and measurement device, and the second recess is configured to receive a second attachment portion operable to provide operational control to the test and measurement device. The handle is offset from the body of the test and measurement device and is attached to a lower portion of the body along a second axis such that the handle forms an oblique angle with respect to the first axis.

In another embodiment, the present invention provides a method of operating a clamp meter including a body, a handle, a clamp, and a pair of electrical leads. The method includes powering the clamp meter with a removable battery pack inserted into the handle recess; sensing a first electrical characteristic based on the induced current with the clamp; measuring a second electrical characteristic based on signals received over a pair of electrical leads; and displaying an indication of the first electrical characteristic and the second electrical characteristic on the display. The pair of electrical leads are operable to receive a pair of electrical probes, the battery pack is inserted along a first axis, the clamp is aligned along a second axis, and the first axis and the second axis form an oblique angle.

Other aspects of the invention will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

Drawings

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a testing and measuring device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a front view of the handle of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the handle shown in FIG. 1;

fig. 4 is a perspective view of a battery pack;

fig. 5 is an exploded view of the battery pack shown in fig. 4;

FIG. 6 is a top view of the battery pack shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view of a clamp meter according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a right side view of the clamp meter of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a left side view of the clamp meter of FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a top view of the clamp meter of FIG. 7;

FIG. 11 is a bottom view of the clamp meter of FIG. 7;

FIG. 12 is a front view of the clamp meter of FIG. 7;

FIG. 13 is a rear view of the clamp meter of FIG. 7;

FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of a second battery lock according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a rear elevational view of the second battery lock illustrated in FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a top view of the second battery lock of FIG. 14;

FIG. 17 is a front view of a second battery locker according to another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a second battery lock according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 19 is a rear perspective view of a jaw of a clamp meter according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 20 is a top view of the jaw gage of FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is a side view of the jaw gage of FIG. 19;

FIG. 22 is a block diagram of the clamp meter of FIG. 7;

FIG. 23 is a rear perspective view of an infrared ("IR") thermometer according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 24 is a front view of the IR thermometer of FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 is a right side view of the IR thermometer of FIG. 23;

FIG. 26 is a left side view of the IR thermometer of FIG. 23;

FIG. 27 is a rear view of the IR thermometer of FIG. 23;

FIG. 28 is a top view of the IR thermometer of FIG. 23;

FIG. 29 is a bottom view of the IR thermometer of FIG. 23;

FIG. 30 shows a control section of the IR thermometer shown in FIG. 23;

FIG. 31 is an exploded view of the IR thermometer of FIG. 23;

FIG. 32 is a block diagram of an IR thermometer according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 33 is a process for operating an IR thermometer according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a wall scanner according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 35 shows a top view of the wall scanner of FIG. 34;

FIG. 36 illustrates a front view of the wall scanner of FIG. 34;

FIG. 37 shows a side view of the wall scanner of FIG. 34;

FIG. 38 shows an exploded view of the wall scanner of FIG. 34;

FIG. 39 shows an exploded view of the lower portion of the wall scanner of FIG. 34;

FIG. 40 shows an exploded view of a side portion of the wall scanner of FIG. 34;

FIG. 41 illustrates an exploded view of a control segment and display according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 42 shows a block diagram of a wall scanner according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 43 shows a control section of a wall scanner according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 44 shows several display screens of a wall scanner according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 45 shows several display screens of a wall scanner in a plunger scanning mode in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 46 illustrates several display screens of a wall scanner in a metal scan mode in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 47 illustrates a control process for a wall scanner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description

Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways.

Test and measurement devices (e.g., wall scanners, thermometers, digital utility meters ("DMMs"), clamp meters, etc.) and other non-motorized sensing tools are typically lightweight and low power devices powered by one or more alkaline storage batteries. Removable and rechargeable batteries (e.g., nickel-cadmium ("NiCd") or nickel metal hydride ("NiMH") batteries), such as those used in power tools, are not well suited for use in testing and measuring devices due to the size and weight of the batteries. However, lithium-ion batteries enable the use of high voltage removable and rechargeable batteries in these non-motorized sensing tools.

As a result of the test and measurement device accepting operational electrical power from a battery pack having lithium-based chemistry, the device can have various features or functions in addition to its conventional features and functions, which increase the electrical power requirements of the device. For example, the clamp meter may include a high intensity LED flash, a non-contact voltage detector, a thermocouple, a backlight control section or actuator, a high resolution LCD, a color LCD, and/or an additional or remote display. Conventionally, powered clamp meters (e.g., clamp meters powered by alkaline batteries) either fail to provide the voltage and current required to power these additional features, or the operational run time of the alkaline battery (i.e., the amount of time the battery can provide power to the clamp meter before the battery needs to be replaced or recharged) becomes short. In contrast, lithium-based battery packs are able to power the additional features of the clamp meter, as well as the additional features and functions, while maintaining comparable or longer operational run times as compared to conventional clamp meters that do not include the additional features. Additional testing and measurement devices, such as infrared ("IR") thermometers and wall scanners, may also include additional features and functionality when powered by a lithium-based battery pack.

One embodiment of the present invention is described with respect to a handle suitable for testing and measuring devices, such as handle 10 shown in fig. 1, 2, and 3. The handle 10 is a pistol grip type handle and includes a housing 15 and several pockets. For example, the housing 15 includes a first housing half 20 and a second housing half 25. The first housing half 20 and the second housing half 25 of the housing 15 are securely attached to each other, for example, to form a clamshell configuration. The first housing half 20 and the second housing half 25 form a number of recesses when coupled to each other. In other embodiments, the handle 10 is molded as a single piece. The first recess 30 includes a mating interface, such as, for example, a track or mating groove (not shown) for slidably receiving an attachment, such as a battery pack. The second recess 35 is configured for receiving a control device, such as, for example, a trigger or knob for operation of at least a portion of the control device. In other embodiments of the invention, more or fewer dimples are included. The handle 10 is also configured to ergonomically conform to the shape of a user's hand (left or right) so that the device can be held and operated with a single hand without the user having to distract his or her view, as described below.

The handle 10 is configured to be offset from the gripping position of the device so as to align the display, control device and operation of the device with the user's line of sight or first axis 40. The handle 10 is attached to the lower portion of the device body along a second axis 45 such that the handle 10 is in an angled position relative to the first axis 40. In other embodiments, the handle 10 is substantially perpendicular to the body. The battery pack is inserted into the first recess 30 and along the second axis 45 of the handle 10 to power the testing and measuring device.

Embodiments of lithium-based batteries for powering test and measurement devices are shown in fig. 4,5, and 6. In the illustrated embodiment, battery pack 100 includes batteries having a lithium-based chemistry such that battery pack 100 is more than 65% lighter and 50% smaller than an equivalent nickel-cadmium ("NiCd") battery pack. Lithium ion battery pack 100 also provides longer operating run times and longer life (e.g., number of rechargeable weeks) for test and measurement devices than other non-lithium based battery packs.

The illustrated battery pack 100 includes a housing 105, an outer casing 110 coupled to the housing 105, and a number of batteries 115 (see fig. 5) located within the housing 105. Housing 105 is shaped and sized to fit within recess 30 in the device to connect battery pack 100 to the device. The housing 105 includes an end cap 120 to substantially enclose the battery 115 within the housing 105. The illustrated end cap 120 includes two power supply terminals 125 configured to mate with corresponding power supply terminals of the device. In other embodiments, end cap 120 includes terminals 125 that extend from battery pack 100 and are configured to be received within a receptacle supported by the device. The end cap 120 also includes sensing or communication terminals 130 (see fig. 6) configured to mate with corresponding terminals originating from the device. Terminal 130 is coupled to a battery circuit (not shown). The battery circuit may be configured to monitor various aspects of the battery pack 100, such as pack temperature, battery pack and/or cell state of charge, etc., and may also be configured to send and/or receive information and/or instructions to and/or from a device. In one embodiment, the battery circuit operates as shown and described in U.S. patent No. US7,157,882, entitled "METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR battery charging evaluation A SELECTIVELY-activated SWITCH," filed on.1/2/2007, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In another embodiment, the battery circuit operates as shown and described in U.S. patent application 2006/0091858, entitled "METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR BATTERYPROTECTION", filed 5/24/2005, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

When battery pack 100 is positioned within recess 30, housing 105 and power supply terminals 125 substantially enclose and cover the terminals of the device. That is, battery pack 100 functions as a cover for recess 30 and device terminals. Once battery pack 100 is disengaged from the device and the housing is removed from recess 30, the battery terminals located on the device are typically exposed to the ambient environment.

The outer shell 110 is coupled to an end of the housing substantially opposite the end cap 120 and surrounds a portion of the housing 105. In the illustrated construction, the housing 110 is generally aligned with the outer surface of the handle when the housing 105 is inserted into or positioned within a corresponding recess 30 in the device. In this configuration, the housing 110 is designed to be contoured to substantially match the contour of the device to match the general shape of the handle. In such embodiments, the housing 110 generally results in an increased (e.g., elongated) length of the handle 10 of the test and measurement device.

In the illustrated embodiment, two actuators 135 (only one of which is shown) and two tabs 140 are formed in the housing 110 of the battery pack 100. Actuator 135 and tab 140 define a coupling mechanism adapted to releasably couple battery pack 100 to a device. Each tab 140 engages a corresponding recess formed in the device to securely hold battery pack 100 in place. The tabs 140 are normally biased away from the housing 105 (i.e., away from each other) due to the resiliency of the material forming the housing 110. Actuating (e.g., pressing) actuator 135 causes protrusions 140 to move toward housing 105 (i.e., toward each other) and disengage from the pocket, which can pull battery pack 100 out of pocket 30 and away from the device. The device also includes a second battery lock (described below) that must be released before battery pack 100 can be removed from the device. In other embodiments, battery pack 100 may include other suitable coupling mechanisms to releasably secure battery pack 100 to a device, as described below.

As shown in fig. 5, battery pack 100 includes three battery cells 115 positioned within housing 105 and electrically coupled to terminals 125. The battery cell 115 provides operating power (e.g., DC power) to the test and measurement device. In the illustrated embodiment, the battery cells 115 are arranged in series, and each battery cell 115 has a nominal voltage rating of about 4 volts ("4.0V"), such that the battery pack 100 has a nominal voltage rating of about 12 volts ("12V"). The battery cell 115 also has a rated capacity (capacity rating) of about 1.4 Ah. In other embodiments, battery pack 100 may include more or fewer battery cells 115, and battery cells 115 may be arranged in series, parallel, or a combination of series and parallel. For example, battery pack 100 may include a total of six battery cells 115 arranged in two groups of three battery cells connected in series, which are in turn connected in parallel. The series-parallel combination of battery cells 115 provides battery pack 100 with a nominal voltage rating of about 12V and a rated capacity of about 2.8 Ah. In other embodiments, battery cells 115 may have different nominal voltages, such as, for example, 3.6V,3.8V,4.2V, etc., and/or may have different nominal capacities, such as, for example, 1.2Ah,1.3Ah,2.0Ah,2.4Ah,2.6Ah,3.0Ah, etc. In other embodiments, battery pack 100 may have a different nominal voltage rating, such as, for example, 10.8V,14.4V, etc. In the illustrated embodiment, battery cell 115 is a lithium ion battery, such as a chemistry having lithium-cobalt ("Li-Co"), lithium-manganese ("Li-Mn"), or Li-Mn spinel. In other embodiments, battery cell 115 may have any suitable lithium or lithium-based chemistry.

Another embodiment of the present invention is described with respect to a clamp meter 200 as shown in fig. 7-13. The clamp meter 200 includes a clamp 205 in addition to the handle 10 described above, a main body 210, an embedded display 215, a number of control buttons 220, electrical terminals or wires 225, a hole for a second battery locking portion 230 (see fig. 12), a control device or trigger 235, a jaw mechanism (see fig. 9), a flashlight 237, and a non-contact voltage detector (not shown). Handle 10 is also operable to receive battery pack 100. The clamp meter 200 is operable to measure various electrical properties or characteristics of circuit elements, such as wires, resistors, capacitors, and the like.

The clamp 205 is attached to the front portion 240 of the body 210 along the first axis 40 such that the handle 10 also forms an oblique angle with respect to the clamp 205. The clamp 205 supports and encapsulates a magnetic core in order to measure the current flowing through an object or medium (e.g., a wire). The clamp 205 allows a user to measure, for example, the current flowing through a circuit element without disconnecting the element from the corresponding circuit. When the clamp 205 is opened, the conductor (e.g., wire) is positioned within the opening defined by the clamp 205 such that the magnetic core substantially surrounds the wire. When the clamp 205 is closed, an alternating current flowing through the conductor induces a current in the clamp 205.

The display 215 is attached to the rear portion 245 of the body 210 along the first axis 40. The user's line of sight is aligned or parallel with the first axis 40. In the illustrated embodiment, the display 215 is a liquid crystal display ("LCD"), such as a negative LCD with an electroluminescent backlight ("NLCD"), but may alternatively be other suitable types of displays. The negative LCD includes illuminated symbols, such as white alphanumeric symbols, on a black background. NLCDs improve the visibility of the display 215 in low or poor brightness conditions, such as outdoor, dark, or dirty conditions. In some embodiments, the display 215 is located at a first angle relative to the first axis 40 in order to improve the visibility of the display 215. The display 215 also includes a screen sleep period, which may be preprogrammed or set by the user. If the screen sleep period is reached or elapsed, and no control buttons 220 are actuated and/or no measurements are taken, the display 215 enters a standby or power-saving mode to conserve power.

Control buttons 220 are located near display 215, on handle 10, on body 210, or any combination thereof. The location and configuration of the button 220 allows the clamp meter 200 to be controlled without the user having to divert his or her line of sight from the display 215 or without having to operate the clamp meter 200. The control buttons 220 are operable to select the function of the clamp meter 200 and adjust the settings of the clamp meter 200. For example, one control button 220 may be actuated to bring the clamp meter back to zero, one control button 220 may be actuated to change the units of the displayed value (e.g., transition from Fahrenheit to Celsius), one control button 220 may be actuated to temporarily hold or save the displayed value, one control button 220 may be actuated to display the maximum and minimum measured values, and one control button 220 may be actuated to display only the peak or momentary peak.

The clamp meter 200 may also include a positive or negative terminal 225 located on a rear portion 245 of the body 210 generally opposite the clamp 205. The terminals 225 are operable to receive electrical leads (not shown) suitable for the probe, allowing a user to measure other electrical characteristics or properties of the circuit. For example, terminals 225 may be used to measure AC and DC currents, AC and DC voltages, resistance and capacitance of various circuit elements. In some embodiments, terminal 225 is operable to receive a contact temperature sensor such as a thermocouple (e.g., a K-type thermocouple). The thermocouple includes two metal elements (e.g., a hot side and a cold side) that provide different output voltages. The difference between the output voltages is used to determine a contact temperature measurement. An ambient temperature sensor (not shown), such as a thermistor, may be used in conjunction with a look-up table for cold end compensation of the thermocouple. In some embodiments, the thermocouple is operable to detect temperatures in the range of-40 ℃ (-40 ° F) to 400 ℃ (752 ° F), for example.

As shown in fig. 10, the clamp meter 200 further includes a dial 250 supported on the upper surface of the main body 210. The dial 250 is electrically coupled to the controller and is operable to change the mode of operation (i.e., the electrical characteristic to be measured) of the clamp meter 200. That is, actuating (e.g., rotating) the dial 250 adjusts the electrical characteristic measured by the clamp meter 200. The electrical characteristics measurable by the clamp meter 200 include, for example, alternating current ("AC"), direct current ("DC"), AC voltage, DC voltage, resistance, capacitance, conductivity, and temperature. Further, one position of the dial 250 is an off position that interrupts current flow from the battery pack to the clamp meter 200.

In some embodiments, clamp meter 200 includes a second battery locking feature or additional locking mechanism or other suitable lockable structure that prevents the user from easily removing the battery pack. For example, in one embodiment, the clamp meter 200 includes a second battery locking feature 300, as shown in fig. 14-16. Second battery locking feature 300 works in conjunction with the actuator and tab of battery pack 100 and is operable to additionally secure battery pack 100 to clamp meter 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the second battery lock 300 includes a first end 305, the first end 305 having a ball joint 310 for pivotally coupling the second battery lock 300 to the handle 10 of the clamp meter 200. Second battery lock 300 includes a second end 315, second end 315 having a flange 320 for mating with a rib, groove, ridge, etc. of battery pack 100. The second battery locking part 300 is located within the hole 230 of the handle 10 (see fig. 12) and is configured to be released only with a separate tool, such as a flat head screwdriver or a knife. Thus, second battery lock 300 must be carefully opened or disengaged from battery pack 100 before battery pack 100 is removed. Second battery lock 300 also includes an arcuate central portion 325 that connects first end 305 and second end 315. The central portion 325 is configured to conform to the contour and curvature of the handle 10. In some embodiments, the central portion 325 is straight and does not conform to the contour of the handle 10.

Fig. 17 shows a second battery locking part 400 according to another embodiment. The second battery lock 400 is similar to the second battery lock 300 described with respect to fig. 14-16. However, the second battery locking part 400 is located behind the surface 405 or door that is within the aperture 230 of the handle 10. In some embodiments, second battery lock 400 includes a first end having, for example, a ball joint for pivotally coupling second battery lock 400 to a clamp meter housing. In other embodiments, the second battery locking portion 400 includes a cylindrical recess for receiving a rod, shaft, or pin. In such an embodiment, the second battery locking part 400 pivots about the cylindrical recess. The second battery locking part 400 includes a second end having a flange for mating with a rib, groove, ridge, etc. of the battery pack. Second battery locking portion 400 also includes an arcuate central portion connecting the first and second end portions. The central portion is configured to conform to the contour and curvature of the handle 10.

The second battery lock 400 is contacted through a key hole 410 in a surface 405 of the handle 10. The key hole 410 is configured to release the second battery lock portion 400 using only a separate tool, such as a flat head screwdriver or a knife. A tool is inserted into the key hole 410 to contact the second battery lock 400, forcing the second battery lock 400 to pivot about the first end and disengaging the battery lock from the battery pack 100. Thus, second battery lock 400 must be carefully opened or disengaged from battery pack 100 before battery pack 100 is removed.

Fig. 18 shows a second battery locking part 500 according to another embodiment. The second battery lock 500 is similar to the second battery lock 300 described with respect to fig. 14-16. However, the second battery locking part 500 includes a screw cap 505 and a first cam 510. The second battery locking portion 500 includes a first end 515, the first end 515 having a cylindrical recess 520 and a first flange 525 or surface, for example, for receiving a rod, shaft, or pin. In such an embodiment, the second battery locking portion 500 pivots about the cylindrical recess 520. In other embodiments, the second battery lock 500 includes a ball joint for pivotally coupling the second battery lock to the handle 10. Second battery lock 500 includes a second end 530, second end 530 having a second flange 535 for mating with a rib, groove, ridge, etc. of battery pack 100. The second battery lock 500 also includes an arcuate central portion 540 that connects the first end 515 and the second end 530. The central portion 540 is configured to conform to the contour and curvature of the handle 10. The second battery locking part 500 is released from the battery pack 100 by turning the screw cap 505 with a separate tool such as a flat screwdriver or a cutter. The screw cap 505 is accessed through a window in the handle 10 or a keyhole similar to that described with respect to fig. 17. As the screw cap 505 is rotated, the first cam 510 is rotated to engage the first cam 525. First cam 510 forces first flange 525 to rotate about cylindrical recess 520 and disengages second flange 535 from battery pack 100. In some embodiments, screw cap 505 is spring loaded such that when battery pack 100 is inserted into first recess 30, screw cap 505 is caused to close second battery lock 500 or cause second battery lock 500 to rotate to engage battery pack 100. Thus, second battery lock 500 must be carefully opened or disengaged from battery pack 100 before battery pack 100 can be removed.

The trigger 235 of the clamp meter 200 is operable to control, for example, a jaw mechanism for opening and closing the clamp 205. The trigger 235 is also operable to turn on the LED flash 237. In one embodiment, the clamp meter 200 includes a jaw mechanism 600 as shown in FIGS. 19-21. The jaw mechanism 600 includes a trigger 235, a conductor or switch 605, an LED flash circuit 610, a plunger 615, a first spring 620, a second spring 625, a first jaw 630, and a second jaw 635. In the illustrated embodiment, the jaw mechanism 600 is operable to simultaneously activate the LED flash 237 and open the first jaw 630 and the second jaw 635. Switch 605 is a two-state switch. The trigger 235 pivots about point 640 to impart rotational motion to the flash circuit 610. For example, the trigger 235 engages a first distance to close the switch 605 and activate the flash 237. When the trigger 235 is engaged, the terminal contact of the flash circuit 610 moves in a direction opposite to the direction of movement of the trigger 235 and approaches the switch 605. After the trigger 235 engages the first distance, the terminal contacts of the flash circuit 610 contact the switch 605 and turn off the LED flash circuit 610. With the LED flash circuit 610 turned off, a voltage supplied from the battery pack 100 is applied to the terminal of the LED flash 237, and the LED flash 237 lights up.

As the trigger 235 is further engaged, an upper portion of the trigger 235 contacts the plunger 615 and generates linear motion toward the first jaw 630 and the second jaw 635. The plunger 615 is coupled to a first jaw latch 655 of the first jaw 630 and a second jaw latch 660 of the second jaw 635, respectively. The first and

second springs

620, 625 are also coupled to the first and

second hook portions

665, 670, respectively, to provide a resilient connection between the first and

second jaws

630, 635 and the body 210. After the trigger 235 engages the second distance, the upper portion of the trigger forces the plunger 615 into the first jaw 630 and the second jaw 635. Linear motion of the plunger 615 translates into rotational motion of the first jaw 630 about the first jaw pivot axis 675 and rotational motion of the second jaw 635 about the second jaw pivot axis 680, respectively. When the trigger 235 is fully engaged, the plunger 615 is fully extended and the clamp 205 provides a maximum spaced distance between the first jaw 630 and the second jaw 635 to allow a wire or other conductor to be placed into the clamp 205.

After the conductor is placed in the clamp 205, the trigger 235 is released to close the first jaw 630 and the second jaw 635. If the user desires the LED flash 237 to illuminate the area enclosed by the clamp 205 or the area located in front of the clamp meter 200, the trigger 235 may be partially engaged so that the terminal contacts of the LED flash circuit 610 remain in contact with the switch 605 to turn off the LED flash circuit 610. Optionally, the trigger 235 may be fully disengaged and the LED flash 237 deactivated. When the first jaw 630 and the second jaw 635 are closed, the magnetic core within the clamp 205 is closed and the induced current can be used to measure the current in the conductor. In some embodiments, the trigger 235 is coupled to a geared mechanical actuator. In other embodiments, the clamp 205 can be opened and closed electronically when the trigger 235 is engaged or disengaged, or a different mechanical jaw mechanism can be used.

The flash 237 may include a number of incandescent light bulbs, a number of light emitting diodes, etc. In one embodiment, the LED flash 237 includes three high intensity LEDs and has an output of, for example, 250LUX at a distance of two feet. In some embodiments of the present invention, the output of the LED flash 237 is greater than the output of 250LUX at a distance of two feet. In some embodiments, the LED flash 237 is integrated with the clamp meter 200 or is detachable from the clamp meter 200. LED flash 237 includes a second power source that is charged or otherwise receives power from battery pack 100. The LED flash 237 also includes a flash sleep period. The flash sleep period may have pre-programmed values or may be set by the user. If the time to reach the screen sleep period or the screen sleep period elapses and the LED strobe 237 is not turned off, the clamp meter 200 turns the LED strobe 237 off to conserve power.

A non-contact voltage detector ("NCVD") (not shown) is positioned at the base of the clamp 205 on the body 210. The voltage sensing circuit is located within the clamp meter 200 and illuminates a voltage sensing indicator, such as an LED, when it detects an AC voltage. In some embodiments, all or a portion of the voltage sensing circuit is included within the clamp meter controller (described in detail below). The voltage sensing circuit is operable to detect an AC voltage, for example in the range of 90V-600V. In some embodiments, the voltage sensing circuit NCVD is operable to detect the AC voltage at any time that the clamp meter is powered or turned on. In other embodiments, the NCVD is selectively activated using an NCVD control button or switch. In other embodiments, the clamp meter includes a removable NON-CONTACT VOLTAGE DETECTOR (not shown), such as described in co-pending U.S. patent application serial No. 12/421, 187, filed on 9.4.2009, entitled "slide block VOLTAGE open-CONTACT VOLTAGE DETECTOR," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, which is slidably attached to the clamp meter.

Fig. 22 is a block diagram of the clamp meter 200 shown in fig. 7. In addition to the components and features of the clamp meter 200 described above, the clamp meter 200 also includes a controller 700. Controller 700 may receive signals from clamp 205, NCVD 705, electrical lead or terminal 225, dial 250, control button 220, trigger 235, and battery pack 100. The controller 700 processes and/or processes the signal and outputs the processed signal to, for example, the display 215 or another indicating device, such as a voltage sensing indicator. The clamp meter controller 700 also includes, for example, at least one printed circuit board ("PCB"). The PCB is assembled with several electrical and electronic components that provide operational control and protection for the clamp meter. In some embodiments, the PCB includes a control or processing unit, such as a microprocessor, microcontroller, or the like. In some embodiments, controller 700 includes, for example, a processing unit, a memory, and a bus. A bus connects the various components of the controller 700, including the memory, to the processing unit. In some embodiments, the memory includes read only memory ("ROM") and random access memory ("RAM"). The controller 700 also includes an input/output system that includes programs for transferring information between components within the controller 700. Software involved in the execution of the clamp meter is stored in the ROM or RAM of the controller 700. For example, the software includes firmware applications and other executable instructions. In other embodiments, the controller 700 may include additional, fewer, or different components.

For example, the PCB also includes a number of additional passive and active components, such as resistors, capacitors, inductors, integrated circuits, and amplifiers. These components are arranged and connected to provide several electrical functions to the PCB including, among others, filtering, signal processing, and voltage modulation. For purposes of illustration, the PCB and electrical components assembled to the PCB are collectively referred to herein as a "controller" 700. The display 215 receives the processed and processed signals from the controller 700 and displays a value (e.g., a number) corresponding to the measured current or an indication (e.g., a sensing mode) of a control parameter of the clamp meter 200.

In some embodiments, a battery pack controller (not shown) provides information regarding the battery pack temperature or voltage level to the clamp meter controller 700. Clamp meter controller 700 and battery pack also include a low voltage monitor and a state of charge monitor. The above-described monitor is used by the clamp meter controller 700 or the battery pack controller to determine whether the battery pack is in a low voltage state that may prevent the proper operation of the clamp meter 200 or in a charged state that makes the battery pack 100 vulnerable. If such a low voltage condition or state of charge exists, clamp meter 200 will be turned off or otherwise prevent battery pack 100 from further discharging in order to prevent battery pack 100 from further depletion.

Another embodiment of the invention is described with respect to an infrared ("IR") thermometer. Fig. 23-29 show an IR thermometer 810 that includes, among other things, a handle 815, a body 820, an embedded display 825, a control or trigger 830, a control section 835, a grip portion 840, and a high voltage removable and rechargeable battery pack (described below). The handle 815 is similar to the handle 10 described with respect to fig. 1-3. The handle portion includes a recess adapted to receive the battery pack 100, as described with respect to fig. 4-6.

The display 825 is attached to the rear of the body 820 along a first axis 850. The user's line of sight is aligned with or parallel to the first axis 850. In the illustrated embodiment, the display 825 is a liquid crystal display ("LCD"), such as a negative LCD ("NLCD") with an electroluminescent backlight, but may alternatively be other suitable types of displays. The negative LCD includes illuminated symbols, such as white alphanumeric symbols, on a black background. NLCDs improve the visibility of the display 825 in low or poor brightness conditions, such as outdoor, dark or dirty conditions. In some embodiments, display 825 is located at an off angle with respect to first axis 850 in order to improve visibility of display 825. The display 825 also includes a screen sleep period, which may be preprogrammed or set by the user. If the screen sleep period is reached or elapsed, and no control buttons are actuated and/or no measurements are taken in the control section 835, the display 825 enters a standby or power-saving mode to conserve power.

Control section 835 is shown in fig. 30. The control section 835 is located near the display 825 and includes a number of control buttons. The location and configuration of the control buttons allows the thermometer 810 to be controlled without the user having to divert his or her view from the display 825 or having to operate the thermometer 810. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the control section 835 is located below the display 825. The control section 835 includes a mode button 860, an up button 865, a down button 870, a set button 875, a record save button 880, an alarm button 885, and a flash button 890. The mode button 860 is actuated to select an operating mode, for example, from a menu or a predetermined group of operating modes. For example, mode button 860 allows the user to browse through several operating modes, such as an average temperature mode, a maximum temperature mode, a minimum temperature mode, a humidity mode, a dew point mode, a wet bulb temperature mode, and a contact temperature mode. In some embodiments, the mode button 860 is repeatedly selected to cycle through the operating modes of the thermometer 810. In other embodiments, once mode button 860 is pressed, up button 865 and down button 870 can be used to browse the mode of thermometer 810. The selected mode of operation determines the information displayed on the display 825. Thus, in some embodiments, the thermometer 810 is a menu driven device. In some embodiments, the thermometer 810 also includes one or more LEDs to provide an indication to the user of the status or mode of operation of the thermometer 810, the battery pack, or both.

Additional control buttons may be located on the handle 815 and/or on the body 820. For example, an electronic trigger lock button 895 is located on handle 815 and allows thermometer 810 to take a continuous non-contact temperature reading without trigger 830 engaging. In some embodiments, thermometer 810 does not take a non-contact temperature reading until the user engages trigger 820 a second time. In other embodiments, a continuous reading is not taken until trigger lock button 895 is deactivated or a predetermined time limit (e.g., 20 minutes) has passed.

If thermometer 810 is operating in the average temperature mode, an indication that thermometer 810 is operating in the average temperature mode is displayed on display 825. In one embodiment, the letter "AVG" is displayed. When operating in the average temperature mode, the average temperature is also displayed on the display 825 during a single temperature reading (e.g., at the time the trigger 830 is pressed). If thermometer 810 is operating in the highest temperature mode, an indication that thermometer 810 is operating in the highest temperature mode is displayed on display 825. In one embodiment, the letters "MAX" are displayed. When operating in the maximum temperature mode, the maximum temperature is also displayed on the display 825 during a single temperature reading. If thermometer 810 is operating in the lowest temperature mode, an indication that thermometer 810 is operating in the lowest temperature mode is displayed on display 825. In one embodiment, the letter "MIN" is displayed. When operating in the lowest temperature mode, the lowest temperature is also displayed on the display 825 during a single temperature reading. If the thermometer 810 is operating in the humidity mode, an indication that the thermometer 810 is operating in the humidity mode is displayed on the display 825. In one embodiment, the letter "HUM" is displayed, and an indication of the relative humidity measurement is displayed (e.g., "RH%"). When operating in the humidity mode, three numbers of relative humidity (e.g., 96.3) are displayed. If the thermometer 810 is operating in the dew point mode, an indication that the thermometer 810 is operating in the dew point mode is displayed on the display 825. In one embodiment, the letter "DEW" is displayed, as well as the calculated dew point. If the thermometer 810 is operating in the wet bulb temperature mode, an indication that the thermometer 810 is operating in the wet bulb temperature mode is displayed on the display 825. In one embodiment, the letter "WET" is displayed, and the calculated WET bulb temperature is displayed. If thermometer 810 is operating in the contact temperature mode, an indication that thermometer 810 is operating in the contact temperature mode is displayed on display 825. In one embodiment, the letters "CON" are displayed on the display 825 along with the contact temperature measurement.

A set button 875 can be operated to set or change various thresholds and functions of the thermometer 810. For example, set button 875 is actuated to navigate through user-controllable thresholds and functions. For example, the set buttons 875 allow the user to set a high temperature alarm threshold, a low temperature alarm threshold, record readings, emissivity, and temperature measurement unit (e.g., fahrenheit or celsius), and turn the laser on or off (see fig. 31). In some embodiments, the set button 875 can be repeatedly actuated to cycle through the thresholds and functions described above. In other embodiments, once set button 875 is actuated, thermometer thresholds and functions can be browsed using up button 865 and down button 870.

When setting the high temperature alarm threshold, the user actuates set button 875 until the letter "H" is displayed on display 825. The user adjusts the high temperature alarm threshold using up button 865 and down button 870. An alarm is activated when the non-contact temperature reading is above a high temperature alarm threshold. When setting the LOW temperature alarm threshold, the user actuates set button 875 until the letter "LOW" is displayed on display 825. The user adjusts the low temperature alarm threshold using up button 865 and down button 870. An alarm is activated when the non-contact temperature reading is below a low temperature alarm threshold. An alarm button 885 is used to trigger and deactivate the alarm. When setting the recorded value, the user actuates the set button 875 until the letter "LOG" is displayed on the display 825. The thermometer 810 also displays a number (e.g., between 1 and 20) indicating the location where the recorded value is stored. For example, if the record value is saved in advance to the record value storage location, the saved record value is displayed. The user can browse the saved recorded values using up button 865 and down button 870. When a particular recorded value storage location is displayed, the user can override the pre-saved recorded value by actuating the record save button 880. The user sets the emissivity of the thermometer 810 by actuating the set button 875 until the symbol is displayed. The user adjusts the emissivity level using the up button 865 and the down button 870. The user triggers the laser or turns off the laser by actuating the set button 875 until a laser symbol (e.g., a second level laser safety symbol) is displayed, and selectively activates and deactivates the laser using the up button 865 and the down button 870.

FIG. 31 shows an exploded view of the IR thermometer 810. The thermometer 810 includes, among other things, a trigger lock button 895, an IR temperature sensor 900, a contact temperature sensor port 905, a humidity sensor 910, a buzzer 920, an LED flash 925, a laser module 935, a convex lens 940, a cylindrical aluminum tube 945, and an LCD assembly 950. Within the control section 835, a flash 925 is activated and the flash 925 is deactivated using the flash button 890. The flash 925 may include an incandescent bulb, a number of light emitting diodes, or the like. In one embodiment, the LED flash 925 includes three high intensity LEDs and has an output of, for example, 250LUX at a distance of two feet. In some embodiments of the present invention, the output of the LED flash 925 is greater than the output of 250LUX at a distance of two feet. In some embodiments, the LED flash 925 is integrated with the thermometer 810 or is removable from the thermometer 810. In such embodiments, flashlight 925 includes a second power source that is charged or otherwise receives power from the battery pack. The LED flash 925 also includes a flash rest period. The flash sleep period may have pre-programmed values or may be set by the user. If the time to reach the screen sleep period or the screen sleep period elapses and the LED flash 925 is not turned off, the thermometer 810 turns the LED flash 925 off to conserve power.

FIG. 32 is a block diagram of an IR thermometer 810. Thermometer 810 includes thermometer controller 1000, IR temperature sensor 900, contact temperature sensor port 905, humidity sensor 910, ambient temperature sensor 1005, control section 835 and display 825. The controller 1000 includes a number of differential amplifiers 1010, a number of analog-to-digital converters ("ADCs"), a processing module 1020, an IR temperature output 1025, a contact temperature output 1030, a humidity output 1035, an ambient temperature output 1040, a storage module 1045, an IR temperature compensation module 1050, a contact temperature compensation module 1055, and a humidity compensation module 1060. In some embodiments, the ADCs 1015 are 24-bit high precision delta-sigma analog-to-digital converters. Thermometer controller 1000 also includes, for example, at least one printed circuit board ("PCB"). The PCB is populated with several electrical and electronic components that power the thermometer 810, provide operational control and protection of the thermometer 810. In some embodiments, the PCB includes a processing module 1020, for example, a microprocessor. The controller 1000 also includes a bus for connecting together various components and modules located in or connected to the controller 1000. In some embodiments, the memory module 1045 includes read only memory ("ROM"), such as electrically erasable programmable read only memory ("EEPROM"), and random access memory ("RAM"). The controller 1000 also includes an input/output system including programs for transferring information between components within the controller 1000. Software included in the execution of thermometer 810 is stored in the ROM or RAM of controller 1000. For example, the software includes firmware applications and other executable instructions. The IR temperature compensation module 1050 and the contact temperature compensation module 1055 utilize the output signal from the humidity sensor 910 or the ambient temperature sensor 1005 in order to compensate the temperature measurement and generate a compensated IR temperature output and a compensated contact temperature output. The humidity compensation module 1060 utilizes the output from the ambient temperature sensor in order to compensate the humidity measurement and generate a compensated humidity output. In other embodiments, controller 1000 may include additional, fewer, or different components.

For example, the PCB also includes a number of additional passive and active components, such as resistors, capacitors, inductors, integrated circuits, and amplifiers. These components are arranged and connected to provide several electrical functions to the PCB including, among others, filtering, signal processing, and voltage modulation. For purposes of illustration, the PCB and electrical components assembled to the PCB are collectively referred to herein as a "controller" 1000. The controller 1000 receives signals from the IR temperature sensor 900, the contact temperature sensor port 905, and the ambient temperature sensor 1005; processing or machining the signal; and transmits the processed and processed signals to a display 825. In some embodiments, the IR temperature sensor 900, the contact temperature sensor port 905, and the humidity sensor 910 are calibrated or recalibrated with the ambient temperature signal. The display 825 receives the processed and processed signals and displays IR temperature measurements, contact temperature measurements, humidity, dew point, etc. to the user.

In some embodiments, a battery pack controller (not shown) provides information regarding the battery pack temperature or voltage level to the thermometer controller 1000. Thermometer controller 1000 and battery pack also include a low voltage monitor and a state of charge monitor. The above-described monitor is used by the thermometer controller 1000 or the battery pack controller to determine whether the battery pack 100 is subjected to a low voltage condition that may prevent proper operation of the thermometer 810 or is in a state of charge such that the battery pack is susceptible to damage. If such a low voltage condition or state of charge exists, thermometer 810 will be turned off or otherwise prevent battery pack 100 from further experiencing discharge current in order to prevent battery pack 100 from further depletion.

The IR temperature sensor 900 may be, for example, a thermopile. The thermopile includes several pyroelectric elements (e.g., thermocouples) connected in series to form a sensing region or detector, and the sensing region is covered by an IR absorbing material. The lens focuses the infrared energy onto the detector, and the thermopile outputs a signal proportional to the energy of the infrared radiation incident on the detector. In some embodiments, the IR temperature sensor 900 is operable to sense temperatures in the range of-30 ℃ (-22 ° F) to 800 ℃ (1472 ° F), for example. The contact temperature sensor port 905 is, for example, a thermocouple port and is operable to receive a thermocouple, such as a K-type thermocouple. The combination of a thermocouple and a thermocouple port is referred to herein as thermocouple 905. Thermocouple 905 includes two metal elements (e.g., a hot side and a cold side) that provide different output voltages. The difference between the output voltages is used to determine a contact temperature measurement. Ambient temperature sensor 1005 (e.g., a thermistor) may be used in conjunction with a look-up table for cold end compensation of thermocouple 905. In some embodiments, thermocouple 905 is operable to sense temperatures in the range of-40 ℃ (-40 ° F) to 550 ℃ (1022 ° F), for example. The thermocouple may be used independently of the temperature sensor. In this way, the output of the thermopile may not be compensated or otherwise altered by the output of the thermocouple 905. The thermopile is operable to sense a first temperature of the first region in a non-contact manner, and the thermocouple 905 is operable to sense a second temperature of the second region in a contact manner. In some embodiments, the first and second regions are located on the same object or surface, and a thermocouple 905 may be used in conjunction with the IR temperature sensor 900 to provide both contact and non-contact temperature measurements of the object, for example. In other embodiments, the first region is located on a first object and the second region is located on a second object.

The humidity sensor 910 provides a signal to the controller 1000 indicative of the humidity in the environment surrounding the thermometer 810. The humidity sensor 910 is, for example, a resistance hygrometer using a polymer film whose conductivity changes with the amount of water it absorbs. Humidity sensor 910 is used to calibrate IR temperature sensor 900 and to compensate for measurements made using IR temperature sensor 900 and thermocouple 905. In some embodiments, the humidity is displayed on the display 825.

Thermometer 810 also includes a distance to spot ratio ("D: S"). The ratio D: S is the ratio of the distance to the object to the area of the temperature measurement (i.e., the spot size). For example, if the D: S ratio is 20: 1, then the IR temperature sensor 900 is averaging the temperature of an object 20 feet away over an area having a diameter of 1 foot. The farther the IR temperature sensor 900 is from the object, the larger the spot size. In some embodiments, the IR temperature sensor 900 includes provisions for measuring the temperature of the reflective and non-reflective surfaces.

In some embodiments, thermometer 810 also includes a range finder (not shown). For example, the distance meter is a laser distance meter. The distance meter uses the time of flight of the light pulse or the ultrasonic wave to determine the distance to the object. The rangefinder measures the time of flight required for a light pulse or ultrasound to travel to an object and then back. The distance to the object is calculated based on the time of flight and the known speed of light (or speed of sound). In other embodiments of the invention, the distance to the object is determined using different techniques, such as multi-frequency phase shift techniques.

The spot size can be calculated using the D: S ratio of the IR temperature sensor 900 and the distance measurement from the rangefinder. For example, the rangefinder and the IR temperature sensor 900 are aligned along an axis such that the rangefinder and temperature sensor are approximately the same distance from the object. The range finder uses a single light beam to determine the distance from the thermometer 810 to the object. The thermometer 810 uses the distance measurements from the rangefinder and the ratio D: S to calculate the diameter of the measured area on the object. For example, thermometer 810 displays a numerical representation of the spot size, the area of the spot, or both. In other embodiments, a visual representation of the measured area and/or spot size is displayed.

FIG. 33 shows a process 1100 for temperature measurement using a thermometer 810. Thermometer 810 first determines whether battery pack 100 is experiencing a low voltage condition (step 1105). If battery pack 100 is in a low voltage condition, a low voltage warning is initiated (step 1110). In some embodiments, a low voltage warning is displayed on display 825. In other embodiments. The LED lights up or the buzzer sounds to provide a low voltage warning. If a low pressure condition is not present, the thermometer 810 may be operated to take a temperature measurement. The default operation and display mode for thermometer 810 is a non-contact temperature measurement mode. To make an IR temperature measurement (step 1115), the user engages the trigger 830. Temperature measurements are taken as soon as the trigger 830 is engaged. Alternatively, if the electronic trigger lock button 895 is engaged, a continuous temperature measurement may be taken with the trigger 830 not continuously engaged. Thermometer 810 then determines whether thermocouple 905 is present (step 1120). If a thermocouple 905 is present, a contact temperature measurement is made (step 1125), and the relative humidity is measured using the humidity sensor 910 (step 1130). If thermocouple 905 is not present, thermometer 810 measures relative humidity using humidity sensor 910 (step 1130). The thermometer 810 then determines whether the measured IR temperature is greater than a high temperature alarm threshold or less than a low temperature alarm threshold (step 1135). If the measured IR temperature is outside of the low temperature alarm threshold and the high temperature alarm threshold, i.e., greater than the high temperature alarm threshold and less than the low temperature alarm threshold, a temperature range warning is initiated (step 1140). In some embodiments, a temperature range warning is displayed on the display 825. In other embodiments. The LED lights up or the buzzer sounds to provide a temperature range warning. If the measured IR temperature is not greater than the high temperature alarm threshold or not less than the low temperature alarm threshold, the measured temperature is displayed on display 825 (step 1145).

Another embodiment of the invention is described with respect to a wall scanner capable of detecting objects hidden behind surfaces. The wall scanner includes a housing, a plurality of sensors, a display, a control section, and a plurality of wheels. Similar to the handle 10 described with respect to fig. 1-3, the housing includes a body portion and a handle portion. The handle portion includes a recess adapted to receive the battery pack 100, as described with respect to fig. 4-6.

34-41 illustrate a wall scanner 1205 and a housing 1210 according to an embodiment of the invention. Handle portion 1215 of wall scanner housing 1210 includes a battery pack recess 1220 (see fig. 38) adapted to receive battery pack 100. Battery pack recess 1220 includes several terminals (shown as 1345 in fig. 40) for electrically connecting battery pack 100 to wall scanner 1205. In addition, the handle portion 1215 includes a grip portion 1235 that provides several recesses for the user to otherwise grip.

The handle portion 1215 and battery pack 100 define a first axis 1241 of the wall scanner 1205. The handle portion 1215 is coupled to the body portion 1240 of the wall scanner 1205 and extends from the body portion 1240 of the wall scanner 1205 such that a recess 1245 is formed between the body portion 1240 and the handle portion 1215. Extending from the body portion 1240 is a handle portion 1215 that allows the wall scanner 1205 to receive the battery pack 100. In some embodiments, the recess 1245 between the handle portion 1215 and the body portion 1240 is closed by the first connection portion 1250 and the second connection portion 1255. In other embodiments, the recess 1245 is open and includes a single connecting portion. Recess 1245 defines a space for receiving a user's finger when the user is holding wall scanner 1205.

The handle portion 1215 extends approximately half the length of the housing 1210 and is substantially parallel to the body portion 1240 and the display 1260. In one embodiment, the first axis 1241 is parallel to the second axis 1243, and the second axis 1243 extends through the center of the body portion 1240. In other embodiments, the first axis 1241 is not parallel to the second axis 1243, and the first axis 1241 intersects the second axis 1243 at a point d from the wall scanner 1205. The display 1260 is located on the body portion 1240 such that the display 1260 is not obstructed by a user's hand when the user grasps the wall scanner 1205. The control segment 1265 is disposed on a first connector portion 1250 located between the body portion 1240 and the handle portion 1215 of the wall scanner 1205. The control section 1265 is located at a diagonal angle relative to the main body portion 1240 of the housing so that a user may activate a button or switch (described below) located within the control section 1265 with the same hand of the user gripping the wall scanner 1205. In some embodiments, the wall scanner 1205 also includes one or more LEDs to provide status indications of the wall scanner 1205, the battery pack 100, or both to the user. Wheels 1270 are rotationally coupled to the housing 1210 to facilitate movement of the wall scanner 1205 along a surface. In the embodiment shown, wheels 1270 are idler wheels, but may alternatively be driven wheels powered by battery pack 100.

Fig. 38 shows an exploded view of the wall scanner 1205 shown in fig. 31-41. Wall scanner 1205 includes a base housing assembly 1300, a left housing assembly 1310, and a right housing assembly 1305, a board assembly 1315, and a battery pack 100. An exploded view of the base housing assembly 1300 is shown in fig. 39. Base housing assembly 1300 includes a main printed circuit board assembly ("PCB") 1320, a sensor board 1325 including a board sensor for sensing a plunger, a D-coil sensor 1330 for sensing metal, a base 1335, and a wheel 1270. An exploded view of the right housing assembly 1305 is shown in fig. 40. The left housing assembly 1310 is similar to the right housing assembly 1305 and will not be described in detail. The right housing assembly 1305 includes terminals 1345 that contact the board, a PCB 1350 that contacts the battery, a right half 1355 of the housing, an indicator lens 1360, and an LED 1365. An exploded view of the plate assembly 1315 is shown in fig. 41. Board assembly 1315 includes keypad 1370, key holder 1375, rubber keys 1380, light guide 1385, key PCB 1390, keyboard 1395, LCD lens 1400, and LCD assembly 1405.

FIG. 42 is a block diagram of a wall scanner 1205 according to an embodiment of the invention. Wall scanner 1205 includes a main system module 1415, a plunger sensor 1325, a D-coil sensor 1330, and a display 1260. The main system module 1415 includes, among other things, a wall scanner controller 1420, a signal processing module 1425, a peak detection module 1430, and an analog-to-digital conversion module 1435. For example, the display 1260 is a 128 x 64 dot matrix liquid crystal display ("LCD") or negative LCD ("NLCD"). For example, the wall scanner controller 1420 includes a PCB, such as the PCB 1320 shown in FIG. 39. The PCB 1320 is populated with several electrical and electronic components that provide operational control and protection for the wall scanner 1205. In some embodiments, PCB 1320 includes a control or processing unit, such as a microprocessor, microcontroller, or the like. In some embodiments, controller 1420 includes, for example, a processing unit, a memory, and a bus. A bus connects the various components of the controller 1420, including the memory, to the processing units. In some embodiments, the memory includes read only memory ("ROM") and random access memory ("RAM"). The controller 1420 also includes an input/output system that includes programs for communicating information between components within the controller 1420. Software included in the execution of the wall scanner 1205 is stored in the ROM or RAM of the controller 1420. For example, the software includes firmware applications and other executable instructions. In other embodiments, controller 1420 may include additional, fewer, or different components.

PCB 1320 also includes a number of additional passive and active components, such as resistors, capacitors, inductors, integrated circuits, and amplifiers, for example. These components are arranged and connected to provide several electrical functions to the PCB 1320, including filtering, signal processing, and voltage modulation, among others. For illustrative purposes, the PCB 1320 and the electrical components assembled to the PCB 1320 are collectively referred to herein as a "controller" 1420. The controller 1420 receives signals from sensors within the wall scanner, processes and processes the signals, and transmits the processed and processed signals to the display 1260. Display 1260 receives the processed and processed signals and displays an indication of the sensed characteristic of the avatars hidden behind the surface. The signal processing module 1425 provides signals to the plunger sensor 1325 and receives signals from the plunger sensor 1325, as described below; the peak detection module 1430 provides signals to the D-coil sensor 1330 and receives signals from the D-coil sensor 1330, as described below; and an analog-to-digital conversion module 1435 provides the necessary conversions for enabling the controller 1420 to interpret the analog signal from the D-coil sensor 1330.

In some embodiments, a battery pack controller (not shown) provides information about the battery pack temperature or voltage level to the wall scanner controller 1420. The wall scanner controller 1420 and battery pack also include a low voltage monitor and a state of charge monitor. The above monitors are used by the wall scanner controller 1420 or battery pack controller to determine whether the battery pack is in a low voltage condition that may prevent proper operation of the wall scanner 1205 or whether the battery pack 100 is in a state of charge that makes the battery pack 100 susceptible to damage. If such a low voltage or charging condition exists, wall scanner 1205 will be turned off or otherwise prevent battery pack 100 from being further subjected to discharge current in order to prevent battery pack 100 from becoming further depleted.

The wall scanner 1205 is operable to detect the presence of a plunger, such as a wooden plunger or a metal joist, within a room, residential structure, and industrial structure using the plunger sensor 1325. Wooden plungers or metal joists can be detected when concealed on a surface comprised of, for example, gypsum, non-metallic wall materials, wood panels, wallboard, and the like. The plunger sensor 1325 includes a sensor circuit having a pair of sensors. Each sensor includes coplanar motherboards 1440A with a single sided coplanar board 1440B disposed between the motherboards. The presence and position of the plunger is then determined in a manner similar to that described in U.S. patent application publication No. 2008/0238403, entitled "STUD SENSOR," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

The wall scanner 1205 may also be configured to operate in a metal scanning mode. The metal scanning mode is operable to detect ferrous (i.e., iron-based) and non-ferrous (e.g., copper) metals within rooms, residential and industrial structures. In the metal scanning mode, the wall scanner 1205 can detect metal (e.g., steel bars, metal pipes, copper tubing, etc.) behind a surface composed of wall panels, tiles, plaster, bricks, etc. The wall scanner 1205 can also detect metal located within a wall composed of concrete, stone, wood, brick, etc. In some embodiments, the wall scanner 1205 is operable to sense metal, for example, six inches deep.

The D-coil sensor 1330 shown in FIG. 39 utilizes an inductively coupled sensor that includes overlapping D-shaped transmitter and

receiver coils

1445A and 1445B. When the D-coil sensor 1330 detects a metal object, the sensor 1330 outputs a signal indicating the position of the object to the controller 1420. The wall scanner 1205 detects the presence of metal in a manner similar to that described in U.S. patent application publication No. 2008/0272761, entitled "DEVICE AND METHOD detecting FERRITE AND NON-fence OBJECTS," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

The wall scanner 1205 is also configured to detect the presence of "live" (i.e., powered) wires behind the surface. In some embodiments, the wall scanner 1205 includes an AC detection circuit, such as the AC detection circuit described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,894,508, entitled "APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR positioning on-Board diagnostic BEHIND A WALLLINING," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In other embodiments, the wall scanner 1205 includes a removable NON-CONTACT voltage detector (not shown), such as described in pending U.S. patent application serial No. 12/421, 187, filed on 2009, 9, and entitled "slide available-CONTACT voltage detector," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, that is SLIDABLY attached to the housing 1210 of the wall scanner 1205. The wall scanner 1205 includes an LED 1365 for indicating AC voltage detection. The LED 1365 may be located at a first end of the wall scanner 1205, such as the end opposite the battery pack 100 (as shown in fig. 40), on the display 1260, or both. Regardless of the operating mode of the wall scanner 1205 (e.g., metal sensing mode or plunger sensing mode), the wall scanner 1205 is operable to sense the presence of an AC voltage and no calibration of the wall scanner 1205 is required in order to detect the presence of an AC voltage.

Fig. 43 shows a control section 1265 of the wall scanner 1205. The control section 1265 is located along the first axis 1241 between the display 1260 and the handle portion 1215. The control section 1265 includes buttons, switches or other actuating devices for controlling the functions and operations of the wall scanner 1205. In some embodiments, the control section 1265 includes a metal sense mode button 1500, a plunger sense mode button 1505, a menu button 1510, a power button 1515, and a calibration button 1520. In other embodiments, the control section 1265 includes additional buttons or switches for controlling additional or different features or functions of the wall scanner 1205. One or more of the buttons included in the control section 1265 may have multiple functions, such as selecting an operating mode and enabling a user to navigate through menu options on the display 1260. In the illustrated embodiment of the control section 1265, the buttons are arranged in a circular manner. In other embodiments, the buttons in the control section 1265 may be arranged in a variety of different configurations, such as a grid or array. In various embodiments of the control section 1265, the buttons are configured such that a user can access and select each button using a single hand (e.g., the same hand that the user uses to grasp the handle portion of the forceps body scanner).

Display 1260 is symmetrically aligned along a first axis 1241 defined by handle portion 1215 and battery pack 100. The display 1260 is configured to display several states regarding the operation of the wall scanner 1205. For example, the display 1260 may display, among other things, the mode of operation of the wall scanner 1205, the real-time location of the object concealed behind the surface, the depth of the object concealed behind the surface, whether the object concealed behind the surface is ferrous or non-ferrous, the battery power level, and an indication (i.e., an audible indication) of whether the sound is turned on or off. 44-46 illustrate embodiments of wall scanner status indications in which the display 1260 is configured for display.

The controller 1420 receives signals from the sensors, processes and processes the signals, and transmits the processed and processed signals to the display 1260 as described above. The display 1260 receives the processed and processed signals and displays images, numerical values (e.g., distances, coordinates, etc.), alarms regarding detected objects, test results, measurements, properties of the wall scanner, and the like. The display 1260 includes illuminated symbols, such as white alphanumeric symbols, on a black background. The display 1260 improves the visibility of the display in low or poor brightness conditions, such as outdoor, dark, or dirty conditions. Additionally or alternatively, the wall scanner 1205 can include a remote display (not shown) that can be attached to the wall scanner 1205 or detached from the wall scanner 1205 to provide a remote display to a user regarding the detection and/or position of the plunger, or operation of the wall scanner 1205. The wall scanner 1205 may include a transmitter and receiver for synchronizing with the remote display. In some embodiments, the remote display is configured to display the same information as display 1260.

The user can enter a menu on the display 1260 (screen 1600) by activating a button in the control section 1265. A list of options from the menu that are relevant to the wall scanner 1205 is displayed on the display 1260. The user can select between english and metric units to display the depth or position of the object (screen 1605). The user can select whether the sound is activated (screen 1610). When the sound is activated, the wall scanner 1205 generates, for example, a beep or series of beeps to indicate the presence or depth of an object hidden behind the surface. In other embodiments, the menu may be manipulated to control additional functions, such as display screen brightness, turning the backlight on and off, controlling the operation of the remote display, and adjusting the sensitivity of the wall scanner. Thus, the wall scanner 1205 is a menu driven device.

The display 1260 also provides instructions to the user for calibrating the wall scanner 1205 after activation. When the wall scanner 1205 is operating in the plunger sensing mode, the user is prompted to place the wall scanner 1205 on the surface to be scanned and to activate the calibration button 1520 (screen 1615). The display 1260 then provides an indication to the user that the wall scanner 1205 is calibrated (screen 1620). If desired, the user can manually change the sensitivity (e.g., scan depth) of the wall scanner 1205. For example, in one embodiment, a default depth setting of 0.5 inches is set for the wall scanner 1205 when in the plunger sensing mode. To change the scan depth, the user activates the calibration button 1250 when calibrating the wall scanner 1205. Activating the calibration button 1520 a second time changes the scan depth from 0.5 inches to 1.0 inches. Activating the calibration button 1520 a third time changes the scan depth from 1.0 inch to 1.5 inches. If the correction button is activated a fourth time, the scan depth cycles back to 0.5 inches. In other embodiments, the wall scanner 1205 is configured to have different scan depths and sensitivities. If an error occurs during the calibration process. The user is provided with a prompt for error information, such as in screen 1625.

After correction, the display 1260 indicates to the wall scanner 1205 when to scan the plunger (screen 1630). The display 1260 is configured to display the real-time position of the detected plunger as the wall scanner 1205 passes over the plunger. For example, as the wall scanner 1205 traverses the surface from left to right and detects the plunger, the plunger is identified by the partially illuminated portion of the display 1260 (e.g., the plunger is represented by a combination of illuminated and non-illuminated pixels). The illuminated pixels form lines, such as horizontal lines, vertical lines, diagonal lines, or any combination thereof separated by non-illuminated pixels or lines. The display 1260 also includes visual and/or textual identification of the plunger edge (e.g., an arrow and/or the word "edge" displayed on a wall scanner display), as shown in screen 1635. The display 1260 also displays two edges of the plunger if the width of the plunger is not greater than the width of the display 1260. In this case, each edge is identified by an arrow and/or text, and the plunger is represented by a combination of illuminated and non-illuminated portions (screen 1640). The wall scanner 1205 includes a similar visual representation of the real-time position of the plunger as the wall scanner moves from right to left (screen 1645).

When operating the wall scanner 1205 in the metal sensing mode, the user is prompted to take the wall scanner 1205 away from the surface to be scanned in order to accurately calibrate the wall scanner 1205 (screen 1650). Similar to the plunger sensing mode, the wall scanner 1205 provides an indication on the display that the wall scanner 1205 is being calibrated (screen 1655). If an error occurs during the calibration process, a prompt is provided to the user for error information, such as shown in screen 1660. After correction, the display 1260 instructs the wall scanner 1205 when to scan the metal (screen 1665). If the wall scanner 1205 detects the presence of metal, a visual or audible indication is provided to the user that metal has been detected (screen 1670). The display 1260 then provides an indication to the user of whether the detected metal is ferrous or non-ferrous, a numerical indication to the user of the depth of the detected object, and a visual indication to the user of the depth of the object (screen 1675). In some embodiments of the present invention, the display 1260 also provides a symbol indicating the closest distance to the detected metal object.

A process 1700 for operating a wall scanner 1205 is generally shown in fig. 47. After the wall scanner 1205 is launched (step 1705), the default sensing mode for the wall scanner 1205 is a metal sensing mode. To use the metal scanner in the metal sensing mode, the user activates the calibration button 1520 from the control section 1265 (step 1710). If the wall scanner 1205 is successfully calibrated (step 1715), the wall scanner 1205 is ready to detect metal objects hidden behind the surface (step 1720). If the wall scanner 1205 is not properly calibrated, the calibration error is displayed (step 1725), and the wall scanner 1205 waits for the user to change the sensing mode or to activate the calibration button 1520 again (step 1730). In some embodiments, if the user selects the plunger sensing mode (step 1735), the wall scanner 1205 is automatically calibrated. In other embodiments, the user must activate the calibration button 1520. If the correction is successful (step 1740), the wall scanner 1205 is ready to detect the plunger hidden behind the surface (step 1745). If the wall scanner 1205 was not successfully calibrated, the calibration error is displayed (step 1725), and the wall scanner 1205 waits for the user to change the sensing mode or to activate the calibration button 1520 again (step 1730). After

steps

1720 and 1745, the wall scanner 1205 also waits for the user to change the sensing mode or to activate the calibration button 1520 again (step 1730). Optionally, the user may activate the menu button 1510 from the control section 1265 (step 1750) in order to set up the wall scanner tools (step 1755), such as selecting a display unit, and turning on and off the sound. To exit the tool setup, the user activates the menu button 1510 a second time (step 1760).

The present invention thus provides, among other things, a clamp meter configured to receive a removable and rechargeable battery pack. The clamp meter includes a body having a first axis, a handle, a clamp, a trigger, and a display. The handle has a second axis and includes a first recess configured to receive a battery pack. The second axis forms an oblique angle with the first axis, and the battery pack is inserted into the first recess along the second axis. The clamp is coupled to the body in alignment with the first axis so as to be operable to measure an electrical characteristic of the conductor based on the induced current. Various features and advantages of the invention are set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A test and measurement device comprising:

a device housing including a recess;

a test or measurement sensing circuit supported by the device housing;

first and second battery terminals disposed substantially in the recess;

a removable battery pack including a battery pack housing and a coupling mechanism engaging the device housing to releasably secure the battery pack to the device housing, the coupling mechanism including an actuator located on the battery pack housing and operable to cause the coupling mechanism to be replaced between an engaged state in which the coupling mechanism engages the device housing and a disengaged state in which only a portion of the battery pack housing can be inserted into the recess to engage the first and second battery terminals; and

a battery lock pivotally coupled to the device housing and operable to cause the battery lock to be replaced between a secured state and an unsecured state, wherein the portion of the battery housing is prevented from being removed from the recess when the battery lock is in the secured state.

2. The test and measurement device of claim 1, wherein the coupling mechanism of the battery pack comprises a protrusion, and wherein the protrusion engages a second recess to releasably secure the battery pack to the device housing.

3. The test and measurement device of claim 2 wherein the actuator is operable to disconnect the protrusion from the pocket.

4. The test and measurement device of claim 1, wherein the battery pack is a lithium ion battery pack.

5. A test and measurement device according to claim 4, wherein the battery pack is a 12V battery pack.

6. The test and measurement device of claim 1 wherein the battery pack has a shape and size that matches the contour of the device housing.

7. The test and measurement device of claim 1, wherein the battery lock comprises a first end, a second end, and a central portion connecting the first end to the second end.

8. The test and measurement device of claim 7, wherein the central portion conforms to a contour of the device housing.

9. The test and measurement device of claim 1, wherein the battery lock comprises a flange for mating with the battery pack.

10. The test and measurement device of claim 1, wherein the battery lock comprises a screw cap with a cam.

11. The test and measurement device of claim 10, wherein the battery lock is configured to be changed from the unsecured condition to the secured condition by turning the screw cap.

12. The test and measurement device of claim 1 wherein the sensing circuit comprises a microprocessor.

13. The test and measurement device of claim 1 wherein the sensing circuit is operable to sense a voltage.

14. A test and measurement device comprising:

a device housing including a recess;

first and second battery terminals disposed substantially in the recess;

a removable battery pack including a battery pack housing and a coupling mechanism engaging the device housing to releasably secure the battery pack to the device housing, a portion of the battery pack housing being insertable into the recess to engage the first and second battery terminals;

an actuator supported on the battery pack housing and operable to cause the coupling mechanism to be replaced between an engaged state in which the coupling mechanism engages the device housing and a disengaged state; and

a battery lock pivotally coupled to the device housing and having a secured state and an unsecured state, wherein the portion of the battery housing is prevented from being removed from the recess when the battery lock is in the secured state, wherein the battery lock is configured to be released from the secured state to the unsecured state using only a separate tool.

15. The test and measurement device of claim 14, wherein the battery lock comprises a first end, a second end, and a central portion connecting the first end to the second end.

16. The test and measurement device of claim 15, wherein the central portion conforms to a contour of the device housing.

17. The test and measurement device of claim 14, wherein the battery lock comprises a flange for mating with the removable battery pack.

18. The test and measurement device of claim 14, wherein the battery lock comprises a screw cap with a cam.

19. The test and measurement device of claim 18, wherein the battery lock is configured to be changed from the unsecured condition to the secured condition by turning the screw cap.

20. The test and measurement device of claim 14 further comprising a sensing circuit, wherein the sensing circuit is operable to sense a voltage.