Cirris Systems Corporation

Paul Samuel Smith

Jon Bertrand

Marlin Carl Shelley

A smart module is disclosed for use in testing equipment such as cables and wire harnesses. The smart module may be incorporated within an adapter that interfaces with a test device and a wiring analyzer. The smart module includes a processor and a memory wherein data relating to the adapter may be stored. The smart module further includes first and second inputs that enable synchronous, bi-directional communication with the wiring analyzer. The smart module receives power, clock, communication data, and a reference input from the wiring analyzer and transmits data stored in the memory. The smart module may further include one or more visual indicators, such as LEDs, for displaying conditions of an interface between the adapter and a test device.

Smart module and adapter apparatus

A system that finds breaches in solid insulation, as well as detecting insufficient air gaps between conductors. The invention solves problems in how to detect breaks in solid insulation by applying high voltages without damaging the solid insulation. The invention also overcomes limitations where the voltages required to detect an insufficient air-gap can cause damage to, or are difficult to apply to the electrical device under test. The system for testing conductors held physically separated or otherwise isolated from each other by an insulating material is composed of a high-voltage breakdown tester, a means of connecting the tester to the conductors, and an added gas that is used to displace air in the proximity of the conductors. Optionally additional conductors or probes are placed in proximity to the original conductors to: 1) find breaks in the solid insulation of one or more conductors, or 2) detect intended air-gaps or mechanical position in the DUT that have insufficient spacing to the additional conductors. The gas conducts current or arcs at a lower voltage gradient than air, which allows detection of insulation and isolation defects better and earlier than testing performed in ambient air conditions.

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West Valley, UT, United States of America

Paul Samuel Smith