Line inspection method and line inspection device of multi-spectrum sound wave line inspection instrument

Abstract

The invention discloses a line inspection method and a line inspection device for a multi-spectrum sound wave line inspection instrument, and relates to the technical field of multi-spectrum sound wave line inspection instruments, and the method comprises the steps: determining a sound wave signal outputted by a signal transmitting end of the multi-spectrum sound wave line inspection instrument based on the length of a to-be-detected cable; the sound wave signal is dynamically transmitted in the to-be-detected cable, the corresponding sound wave refraction event is output, the corresponding sound wave line inspection system is determined according to the sound wave refraction event and the signal detection end of the multi-spectrum sound wave line inspection instrument, and the accuracy of the sound wave line inspection system is improved. Determining a plurality of frequency line inspection signals based on the identification of the sound wave line inspection system, and determining a corresponding signal intensity sorting event according to the comparison of the plurality of frequency line inspection signals so as to screen out an optimal frequency line inspection signal; and the other end of the cable to be detected is determined according to the tracing of the optimal frequency cable checking signal, and the cable checking event of the target cable is marked, so that the cable is not disassembled, the operation loop is not influenced, and safety and reliability are realized.

Description

Cable checking method and device of multi-spectral acoustic cable checker Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the technical field of multi-spectral acoustic cable tracers, and more particularly to a cable tracer method and device using a multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer. Background Technology

[0002] Secondary cables in substations play a crucial role as a major component of the control system. The correctness of their wiring affects the function of the control system. Currently, the correctness of the wiring can only be verified using a multimeter, but this requires disconnecting both ends of the operating secondary cable from the system first, which affects the safety and reliability of the secondary circuit. In particular, the correctness of the wiring of the operating current secondary circuit cannot be measured with a multimeter. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art. This invention provides a method and device for checking the wiring of a multi-spectral acoustic wiring tester, which can verify and check the correctness of the circuit without removing the original secondary circuit wiring.

[0004] This invention provides a cable inspection method using a multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector, comprising: marking the cable to be inspected; determining a corresponding numbered abnormal event based on the cable's number and triggering the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector to inspect the cable; during the inspection, determining the acoustic signal output by the signal transmitter of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector based on the cable's length; the acoustic signal being dynamically propagated in the cable and outputting a corresponding acoustic refraction event; determining a corresponding acoustic cable inspection system based on the acoustic refraction event and the signal detector of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector; identifying multiple frequency inspection signals within the acoustic cable inspection system; determining a corresponding signal strength ranking event based on the comparison of the multiple frequency inspection signals to select the optimal frequency inspection signal; and tracing the optimal frequency inspection signal to determine the other end of the cable to be inspected and marking the target cable's inspection event.

[0005] This invention provides a cable inspection device for a multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector, which is applied to the cable inspection method described above.

[0006] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are: (1) Marking the cable to be tested, determining the corresponding number abnormal event based on the viewing of the number of the cable to be tested, and triggering the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer to perform the cable tracing operation of the cable to be tested; in the cable tracing operation of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer to the cable to be tested, the acoustic signal output by the signal transmitting end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer is determined based on the length of the cable to be tested; the acoustic signal is dynamically transmitted in the cable to be tested and outputs the corresponding acoustic refraction event, and the corresponding acoustic cable tracing system is determined according to the acoustic refraction event and the signal detection end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer, introducing the cable tracing operation of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer to the cable to be tested, and further controlling the acoustic signal output by the signal transmitting end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer, thereby improving the accuracy of the acoustic cable tracing system.

[0007] (2) In the acoustic cable tracing system, multiple frequency cable tracing signals are determined based on the identification of the acoustic cable tracing system. The corresponding signal strength ranking event is determined by comparing the multiple frequency cable tracing signals to select the best frequency cable tracing signal. The other end of the cable to be tested is determined by tracing the best frequency cable tracing signal, and the cable tracing event of the target cable is marked. The comparison of multiple frequency cable tracing signals is introduced, which realizes the detection of the other end of the cable to be tested, improves the accuracy of the cable tracing event of the target cable, and achieves safety and reliability without disconnection and without affecting the operating circuit. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 is a flowchart illustrating the cable inspection method of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating step S11 of the cable inspection method of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating step S12 of the cable inspection method of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating step S13 of the cable inspection method of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating step S14 of the cable inspection method of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating step S15 of the cable inspection method of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 is a structural diagram illustrating the cable inspection device of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating the signal transmitting end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating the signal detecting end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector in an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0009] The technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of the present invention.

[0010] Please refer to Figures 1 to 9. A cable inspection method using a multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector is applied to a multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector scenario. The cable inspection method includes: Step S11: Marking the cable to be inspected, determining the corresponding abnormal event based on the cable number, and triggering the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector to inspect the cable; Step S12: During the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector's inspection of the cable, determining the acoustic signal output by the signal transmitter of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector based on the length of the cable; Step S13: The acoustic signal... The acoustic wave signal is dynamically transmitted in the cable to be tested and outputs corresponding acoustic wave refraction events. Based on the acoustic wave refraction events and the signal detection end of the multi-spectral acoustic wave cable finder, the corresponding acoustic wave cable finding system is determined. Step S14: In the acoustic wave cable finding system, multiple frequency cable finding signals are determined based on the identification of the acoustic wave cable finding system. Based on the comparison of multiple frequency cable finding signals, the corresponding signal strength ranking events are determined to select the best frequency cable finding signal. Step S15: Based on the tracing of the best frequency cable finding signal, the other end of the cable to be tested is determined, and the cable finding event of the target cable is marked.

[0011] Referring to Figure 2, in step S11, the specific steps are as follows: S111: Collect the location of the cable, detect the location of the cable, and mark the corresponding cable to be detected. At this time, mark the number area of ​​the cable to be detected, and check the number area to determine the numbering status. Based on the numbering status and the length of the cable to be detected, determine the corresponding numbering abnormal event; S112: Trigger the detection of the cable to be detected based on the numbering abnormal event, and mark one end of the cable to be detected. At this time, the multi-spectral acoustic cable locator performs cable locator detection on the cable to be detected and performs the corresponding cable locator operation.

[0012] In the embodiments of this application, the location of the cable is collected, the location of the cable is detected, and the corresponding cable to be detected is marked. At this time, the numbering area of ​​the cable to be detected is marked, and the numbering area is viewed to determine the numbering status. Based on the numbering status and the length of the cable to be detected, the corresponding numbering abnormal event is determined. This takes into account both the numbering status and the length of the cable to be detected, ensuring the accuracy of the corresponding numbering abnormal event.

[0013] At this point, the system locates the cable and records a series of three-dimensional coordinate points of the cable's centerline. Simultaneously, the multi-spectral acoustic cable locator uses its multi-spectral acoustic transmitter to emit a low-power detection acoustic pulse onto the located cable surface. By analyzing the acoustic characteristics of the echo (such as acoustic impedance and attenuation coefficient), the system makes a preliminary inference about the cable's material and internal structure. This process is non-invasive. In the system, the cable is assigned a unique temporary task ID and bound to the previously collected spatial coordinates and physical characteristic data. At the same time, the operator uses a matching RFID tag gun or ultraviolet marker to attach a mark to the physical entity of the cable.

[0014] The multi-spectral acoustic cable inspection device is equipped with a high dynamic range (HDR) camera and an adjustable focal length lens. It is used to photograph the areas on the cable that are usually marked with numbers. For reflective or oily surfaces, the device can use polarization filtering technology to suppress glare. The device's built-in algorithm preprocesses the acquired images, including noise reduction, contrast enhancement, and distortion correction. Then, it starts the optical character recognition (OCR) engine to try to extract the number information. The algorithm automatically generates a multi-dimensional "number index" based on the confidence level of the OCR, the integrity of the characters, and the degree of background interference.

[0015] Furthermore, based on the numbered abnormal event triggering the detection of the cable to be tested, and marking one end of the cable to be tested, at this time, the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer performs cable trace detection on the cable to be tested and performs the corresponding cable trace operation on the cable to be tested, thus introducing the corresponding cable trace operation on the cable to be tested.

[0016] At this time, the central processing unit of the multi-spectral acoustic cable detector is running a real-time operating system. When the "numbered abnormal event" (E-001) generated by S111 is written into the system event queue, a high-priority interrupt service routine will be triggered immediately. This routine will call the "StartCableDetection" task, parse the event attributes, and automatically load the "high-power multi-spectral combined scanning" strategy from the strategy database according to its "high-risk" level. This strategy presets the acoustic frequency sequence, transmission power level and signal processing algorithm parameters for dealing with long-distance, high-attenuation environments.

[0017] The operator places the handheld transmitter probe, which integrates an acoustic transducer and a position sensor, at an accessible end of the cable. The probe's built-in inertial measurement unit (IMU) and near-field sensor are calibrated in real time with the global three-dimensional coordinate system established in step S111. When the probe is stably attached, the system records the precise three-dimensional coordinates of the transmission origin. To ensure efficient injection of acoustic energy, an acoustic impedance matching gel or flexible coupling pad is used at the front end of the transmitter. The system detects the contact quality through a micro-displacement sensor and provides feedback on the screen.

[0018] Based on the loading strategy and the cable parameters obtained by S111, the signal generator generates a composite acoustic signal composed of multiple different frequencies (such as low-frequency components for long distances and high-frequency components for high-resolution positioning) superimposed through specific encoding. The phased array acoustic transducer at the transmitting end converts the electrical signal into mechanical vibration and achieves directional focusing of acoustic energy by controlling the array phase. After signal injection, the system synchronously starts the receiving array to listen to the echo in real time, and finely adjusts the power and frequency combination of the subsequent transmitted signal in real time according to the intensity and attenuation rate of the initial echo, forming a closed-loop adaptive control system.

[0019] The acoustic signal captured by the multi-channel receiving array is amplified with low noise and then sampled and quantized by a high-speed analog-to-digital converter. The system's digital signal processor processes the digital signal stream in real time, including bandpass filtering, envelope detection, and correlation operations with the transmitted signal to improve the signal-to-noise ratio and extract the signal time-of-flight information. All the pre-processed signal data is packaged into a standardized "line lookup dataset", stored in real time and timestamped with the coordinates of the transmission origin, forming the raw input for subsequent analysis.

[0020] Referring to Figure 3, in step S12, the specific steps are as follows: S121: Real-time monitoring of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer's cable tracing operation. The signal transmitting end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer faces one end of the cable to be tested and outputs an acoustic signal. At this time, the length of the cable to be tested is collected, and the corresponding acoustic signal is determined according to the length of the cable to be tested and the signal transmitting end.

[0021] In the embodiments of this application, the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer performs cable inspection operations on the cable to be inspected in real time. The signal transmitting end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer faces one end of the cable to be inspected and outputs an acoustic signal. At this time, the length of the cable to be inspected is collected, and the corresponding acoustic signal is determined according to the length of the cable to be inspected and the signal transmitting end. This takes into account the overall consideration of the length of the cable to be inspected and the signal transmitting end, ensuring the accuracy of the corresponding acoustic signal.

[0022] At this time, the monitoring system of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer will simultaneously collect multiple data streams, including the working status of the signal transmitter, the raw echo signal received by the detector, and data from the built-in miniature vibration and temperature sensors. The system's digital signal processor will analyze the received echo signal at extremely high frequencies, with core evaluation indicators including signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), signal attenuation slope, and Doppler frequency shift. In the initial stage, the system will transmit a low-power broadband scanning signal and establish a dynamic baseline model of the cable's acoustic characteristics based on the feedback. All subsequent monitoring will be compared with this baseline.

[0023] The direct digital synthesizer module of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer can generate complex acoustic excitation waveforms in real time according to instructions, such as a pulse train with low frequency as the main frequency and high frequency "probes". The acoustic transducer array at the signal transmitting end adopts phased array technology. By precisely controlling the excitation timing of each array element, a highly focused acoustic beam is formed, which makes its energy propagate along the cable axis and reduce leakage to the surrounding medium. At the same time, the built-in impedance matching network will automatically adjust according to the real-time monitored cable input impedance to ensure maximum power transmission.

[0024] The system employs Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) for length measurement: it emits a short, broadband acoustic pulse and precisely measures its total flight time from the transmitter to the cable end and back. The cable length is then calculated based on a preliminary estimate of the sound velocity. Since the initial sound velocity is an estimate, the system uses an iterative algorithm to optimize the sound velocity model with the measured length, and then recalculates the length using the optimized sound velocity until the length converges to a high-precision result. Once the precise length is obtained, the system's decision engine queries its internal "length-signal parameter mapping table" and, based on the optimal acoustic signal parameters corresponding to different length ranges, tailors the most suitable acoustic signal for the current cable.

[0025] Specifically, the transmitter of the multi-spectral acoustic cable finder emits a slight "humming" sound, indicating that the internal phased array is working; the screen displays: "Emitting adaptive Chirp signal, center frequency: 25kHz, bandwidth: 15kHz-35kHz, transmit power: 80%". At the same time, a visualized acoustic beam diagram shows that the energy is precisely confined to the axial direction of the cable.

[0026] After the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracing instrument completes its first length measurement, the screen displays: "Preliminary length measurement: 62.5 meters (based on estimated sound velocity); iterative refinement in progress..." Five seconds later, the display updates to: "Final length measurement: 63.8 meters (confidence level 99.2%)". Immediately afterwards, the system automatically adjusts the signal parameters: "Based on the length of 63.8 meters, the optimal signal scheme has been selected: center frequency 22kHz, pulse width 5ms, and transmission power increased to 95%; the new signal parameters have been loaded into the signal generator."

[0027] Referring to Figure 4, in step S13, the specific steps are as follows: S131: The acoustic signal is output from one end of the cable to be tested to the other end of the cable to be tested, and is dynamically transmitted within the cable to be tested to output multiple corresponding signal transmission factors. The acoustic refraction event is determined based on the multiple signal transmission factors and the cable to be tested; S132: The signal detection end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable finder is marked, and the signal detection end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable finder faces the other end of the cable to be tested. At the same time, multiple acoustic refraction features are determined based on the analysis of the acoustic refraction event. The corresponding acoustic cable finding system is determined based on the multiple acoustic refraction features and the signal detection end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable finder.

[0028] In the embodiments of this application, the acoustic signal is output from one end of the cable to be tested to the other end of the cable to be tested, and is dynamically transmitted within the cable to be tested to output multiple corresponding signal transmission factors. The acoustic refraction event is determined based on the multiple signal transmission factors and the cable to be tested, which takes into account the overall consideration of multiple signal transmission factors and the cable to be tested, and ensures the accuracy of the acoustic refraction event.

[0029] At this point, the cable, as a coaxial multilayer structure composed of materials with different acoustic impedances, will excite multiple guided wave modes when a 22kHz acoustic pulse is injected, including longitudinal guided waves propagating along the conductor and surface waves propagating along the surface. These modes have different phase velocities and group velocities, causing the signal to disperse during propagation, and the waveform gradually broadens and deforms. At the same time, the acoustic energy will attenuate due to internal friction of the material and radiation to the external medium, and the high-frequency components attenuate faster, producing a dispersion effect. Any geometric discontinuity of the cable, such as bending or twisting, will become a scattering center, causing complex scattering and mode conversion, further increasing the complexity of the transmission process.

[0030] The system extracts data such as Doppler frequency shift and phase modulation caused by cable vibration, nonlinear acoustic effects (such as second harmonics) caused by microscopic damage under high power conditions, and the spatiotemporal distribution of propagation velocity caused by multimode propagation and dispersion. These factors together constitute a multidimensional dataset that comprehensively reflects the interaction between sound waves and cable structures.

[0031] The algorithm engine of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer inputs all conduction factors into a multi-parameter fusion model and uses weighted analysis to determine whether a significant acoustic event has occurred. The system has a physical model of the cable. When the combination of conduction factors monitored in real time matches the characteristics of certain preset boundary conditions (such as "free end", "joint", "defect") in the model, the system confirms a corresponding event. After confirmation, the system classifies and quantifies it. For example, an event with strong reflection and a sudden increase in high-frequency attenuation is classified as a "cable end event", while an event with weak reflection, increased local attenuation and strong nonlinearity is classified as a "potential defect event". Each event is assigned a confidence score.

[0032] Specifically, after the 22kHz acoustic pulse emitted by the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer enters the cable, its built-in simulation model shows that the energy is mainly distributed in two modes: one is the L(0,2) mode, which propagates along the copper conductor at a higher speed, and the other is the L(0,1) mode, which is slower and whose energy is mainly concentrated in the insulation layer area. As the acoustic wave propagates along the 63.8-meter cable, the system monitors in real time that the overall amplitude of the signal is attenuating at a rate of about 0.8dB / meter. At the same time, the energy of the high-frequency part decreases much faster than that of the main frequency, showing a significant dispersion effect. When the acoustic wave passes through a cable bend of about 30 meters, the model detects a weak but identifiable mode conversion event, in which a small portion of the energy of the L(0,2) mode is converted into surface waves.

[0033] The signal processing unit of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer continuously analyzes the weak signals fed back from inside the cable. It successfully extracted the following signal transmission factors: Mode velocity difference: The arrival time difference between L(0,2) and L(0,1) modes is stable at 2.3 microseconds; Attenuation coefficient: The attenuation coefficient of the 22kHz main frequency is 0.75dB / m, while the attenuation coefficient of the 40kHz harmonic is as high as 1.8dB / m; Second harmonic distortion: When the transmitted power exceeds 85%, a second harmonic component of -60dB is detected, indicating the presence of a slight nonlinear effect; Doppler frequency shift: A periodic frequency shift with a peak value of ±5Hz and a frequency of 50Hz is detected, which is consistent with the power frequency interference of the substation, indicating that the cable has a small vibration synchronized with the power grid.

[0034] After the acoustic pulse propagated in the cable for approximately 187.3 microseconds, the event detection algorithm of the multi-spectral acoustic cable locator was triggered. It integrated the following data: the signal amplitude of all modes dropped sharply, a strong reflected echo with an amplitude of about 30% of the main wave was detected, and the spectrum of the echo changed significantly. These factors combined highly matched the physical model of the "solid-air interface" (i.e., the cable end) inside the system. Therefore, the system officially confirmed and recorded an "acoustic refraction event", the event type was "cable end reflection", the confidence level was 99.5%, and the time of the event was precisely marked. The establishment of this event is the key basis for subsequent accurate positioning and construction of the cable locator system.

[0035] Furthermore, the signal detection end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer is marked, with the signal detection end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer facing the other end of the cable to be inspected. Simultaneously, multiple acoustic refraction characteristics are determined based on the analysis of acoustic refraction events. A corresponding acoustic cable tracing system is determined based on these multiple acoustic refraction characteristics and the signal detection end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer. This comprehensive consideration of multiple acoustic refraction characteristics and the signal detection end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer ensures the accuracy of the corresponding acoustic cable tracing system. Furthermore, the cable tracing operation of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer on the cable to be inspected is introduced, and the acoustic signal output from the signal transmitter of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer is further controlled, improving the accuracy of the acoustic cable tracing system.

[0036] At this point, the signal detection end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable locator is equipped with a high-precision inertial measurement unit (IMU) and an ultra-wideband (UWB) positioning module. When the operator deploys it in the expected cable end area, the system obtains the three-dimensional coordinates of the detection end in real time through the UWB base station network or in coordination with the transmitter. The IMU continuously measures the attitude of the detection end, and the system guides the operator to accurately align the main axis of the acoustic receiving array with the most likely source direction of the acoustic refraction event through a visual laser pointer or AR overlay image. Once the position and orientation are locked, the system establishes a local three-dimensional coordinate system associated with the global coordinate system with the detection end as the origin.

[0037] The system performs time-domain analysis on the captured acoustic refraction event signal to extract features such as time of arrival and pulse rise time; it performs frequency-domain analysis through fast Fourier transform to extract features such as dominant frequency and spectral bandwidth; it uses the microphone array at the detection end and employs a high-resolution direction-of-arrival estimation algorithm to calculate the azimuth and elevation angles of the acoustic signal; and it analyzes the guided wave mode components contained in the event signal. These features together constitute a unique "acoustic refraction feature" vector.

[0038] The core of the acoustic cable tracing system is a data fusion engine that takes the spatial coordinates of the probe end, all acoustic refraction characteristics, cable length, and physical model as input. Based on the principles of geometric acoustics, the fusion engine constructs a ray-tracing model of acoustic wave propagation from the transmitter to the probe end. Through a nonlinear optimization algorithm, the system continuously adjusts the unknown parameters in the model until the error between the theoretical calculation results and the actual observation results is minimized. When the model converges, the acoustic cable tracing system is finally established. It not only provides the precise three-dimensional coordinates of the cable end but also predicts signal changes, making it the optimal mathematical description for current cable tracing scenarios.

[0039] Specifically, the operator carries the probe of the multi-spectral acoustic cable finder into the target cable well approximately 65 meters from the transmitter. The device screen displays: "Searching for UWB base station... Connected; Probe coordinates: (X: 73.1m, Y: 20.5m, Z: -1.0m)". A compass and level appear on the screen to guide the operator in adjusting the probe's orientation. When the probe is aligned in the correct direction, a crosshair on the screen coincides with the predicted path in the AR view, and the system indicates: "Orientation calibrated, deviation from predicted event direction: 1.2°; Probe coordinate system established."

[0040] A "Event Feature Analysis" window pops up on the screen of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer, displaying the analysis results of the cable end refraction event: Time domain: ToA: 187.31μs, rise time: 0.8μs, pulse width: 4.5μs; Frequency domain: dominant frequency: 21.8kHz, -3dB bandwidth: 3.2kHz, harmonic distortion: -45dB; Spatial domain: DOA (azimuth, elevation): (178.5°, 2.1°); Mode: dominant mode: L(0,2), mode purity: 92%; These data together constitute a unique "acoustic refraction feature" vector.

[0041] The processor of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer begins to build the "acoustic cable trace system"; the screen displays: "Fusing data...building ray tracing model...starting iterative optimization..." A few seconds later, a three-dimensional model window pops up, clearly showing the complete acoustic ray path from the transmitter to the cable end, and then to the detector; the end position of the model is marked by a bright red sphere; the system finally reports: "Acoustic cable trace system established; target cable end position: (X:73.98m, Y:20.52m, Z:-1.25m), positioning accuracy: ±5cm." This system, driven by multi-feature fusion, provides the most reliable reference benchmark for the next step of signal screening in S14.

[0042] Referring to Figure 5, the specific steps in step S14 are as follows: S141: Real-time monitoring of the acoustic wave line finding system, dynamic identification of the acoustic wave line finding system, and outputting multiple frequency line finding signals during the identification process; S142: Marking the signal strength values ​​of each frequency line finding signal, sorting the signal strength values ​​of each frequency line finding signal, and outputting the corresponding signal strength sorting event; and selecting the best frequency line finding signal based on the detection of the signal strength sorting event.

[0043] In the embodiments of this application, the acoustic wave cable finding system is monitored in real time, the acoustic wave cable finding system is dynamically identified, and multiple frequency cable finding signals are output during the identification process, thus introducing the output of multiple frequency cable finding signals during the identification process.

[0044] At this point, the multi-spectral acoustic cable finder can accurately predict the theoretical arrival time, direction of arrival, and expected waveform characteristics of the direct signal returning from the end of the target cable using the "acoustic cable finding system." Based on this, the system sets a dynamic "detection window" in the spatiotemporal domain. Any signal outside this time window or from a direction other than the predicted direction will be significantly suppressed, thereby greatly improving the signal-to-noise ratio. The system's digital signal processor processes multiple data streams in parallel, including the original sound pressure signal, real-time spectrum, and spatial energy distribution map, and activates an adaptive noise cancellation algorithm to cancel environmental noise in real time, ensuring that weak signals are not drowned out.

[0045] The system employs high-resolution time-frequency analysis techniques such as short-time Fourier transform or wavelet transform to finely dissect the signals within the monitoring window, distinguishing signals with different time-frequency characteristics. Due to the complex cable structure, multiple tightly coupled reflection signals may be generated at the end. The system uses a blind source separation algorithm to treat these mixed signals as multiple independent sources and attempts to separate them. At the same time, the built-in lightweight neural network model analyzes each separated signal in real time and quickly determines which type of acoustic event it belongs to based on its characteristics.

[0046] Dynamically identified candidate signals with high confidence are formally defined as "frequency cable lookup signals" for subsequent processing. Whenever a signal is identified by the system as an event related to the target cable, the system creates an independent "frequency cable lookup signal" object instance for it. Each object encapsulates all the key information of the signal, forming a rich feature vector, including a unique ID, timestamp, time of arrival, direction of arrival, signal amplitude, signal-to-noise ratio, spectral centroid, waveform data, classification result, and confidence level. All instantiated frequency cable lookup signal objects are added to a dynamically updated "candidate signal list," providing a data foundation for the next step of screening.

[0047] Specifically, on the screen of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracing instrument, the "Acoustic Cable Tracing System" monitoring window is active; a three-dimensional spatiotemporal filter graph is displayed, resembling a virtual "funnel" with its opening aligned with the predicted cable end direction, and only open within a very small window before and after the predicted Time of Flight (ToF) on the time axis; the system status bar displays: "Adaptive noise cancellation has been activated, background noise reduced by 18dB; spatiotemporal window filter has been activated, signal-to-noise ratio improved by more than 30dB."

[0048] The operator fine-tunes the probe near the predicted location; suddenly, the time-spectrum graph on the system screen shows a concentrated signal ridge; almost simultaneously, the blind source separation algorithm decomposes it into two closely connected signal components; the neural network model instantaneously classifies these two components and labels them on the screen: "Signal candidate A: Classification - direct reflection, confidence level 94%; Signal candidate B: Classification - edge diffraction, confidence level 88%". This process is completely dynamic and automatic.

[0049] On the screen of the multi-spectral acoustic line finder, a list window titled "Candidate Frequency Line Finding Signals" updates in real time; two entries appear in the window: [ID:CS-001] - Category: Direct Reflection (94%), ToA: 187.31μs, DOA: (178.5°, 2.1°), SNR: 25.3dB; [ID:CS-002] - Category: Edge Diffraction (88%), ToA: 187.85μs, DOA: (179.1°, 2.3°), SNR: 15.1dB; these two output "frequency line finding signals" provide a complete data basis for the precise comparison and screening in the next step S142.

[0050] Furthermore, the signal strength values ​​of each frequency line lookup signal are marked, the signal strength values ​​of each frequency line lookup signal are sorted, and the corresponding signal strength sorting event is output; the optimal frequency line lookup signal is selected based on the detection of the signal strength sorting event.

[0051] At this point, a comprehensive and quantifiable "signal strength value" is calculated for each frequency signal. This value is not a simple amplitude measurement, but a multi-dimensional weighted evaluation. The system extracts multiple key performance indicators such as signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), signal amplitude, mode matching degree with theoretical models, and waveform fidelity from the feature vector of each signal. Through a built-in weighted fusion algorithm, the system assigns different weights to each indicator according to the current scenario and fuses all standardized indicators to obtain a comprehensive strength value that fully reflects the signal quality and reliability.

[0052] The system uses a descending sorting algorithm to sort all candidate signals from highest to lowest according to their "signal strength value". After sorting, the system generates a standardized "signal strength sorting event", which contains the complete sorted list, the ranking of each signal, and the advantage difference of the leading signal. This event is published to the internal message bus to notify other modules that the sorting results are ready and can trigger subsequent decision-making logic.

[0053] The system has a built-in set of rules for determining the "best signal," including absolute strength thresholds, relative advantage thresholds, and hard requirements for key indicators. When a "signal strength ranking event" is detected, the decision engine automatically executes these filtering rules to check whether the top-ranked signal meets all the conditions. If it does, the system will automatically filter it as the "best frequency line-checking signal" and lock it. If it does not meet the conditions, it will issue an alarm to the operator and request manual intervention.

[0054] Specifically, in the "Signal Strength Evaluation" window of the multi-spectral acoustic cable finder, the system calculates the two frequency cable finding signals identified by S141. For the frequency cable finding signal CS-001 (direct reflection), after its SNR, amplitude, mode matching degree, and waveform distortion degree are standardized, the system applies weights to calculate its comprehensive strength value of 92.1. For the frequency cable finding signal CS-002 (edge ​​diffraction), after the same calculation, its comprehensive strength value is 68.5. Each signal is clearly marked with this calculated strength value.

[0055] After the processor of the multi-spectral acoustic cable finder completes the sorting, the system log records: "Signal strength sorting event generated (Event-ID: E-20231114-001)". Simultaneously, the "Candidate Signal List" on the screen automatically refreshes, becoming an ordered leaderboard: [Rank 1] ID: CS-001 - Overall Strength Value: 92.1; [Rank 2] ID: CS-002 - Overall Strength Value: 68.5; The list also displays "Strength Difference: 23.6", indicating that CS-001 has a very significant lead; the decision engine of the multi-spectral acoustic cable finder detects the "signal..." The strength sorting event "E-20231114-001" begins to execute the filtering rules: CS-001 strength value (92.1) > 85 -> pass; strength difference (23.6) > 15 -> pass; CS-001 pattern matching degree (96%) > 90% -> pass; all conditions are met; the system then turns the CS-001 entry green on the screen and pops up a confirmation box: "Optimal frequency cable tracing signal has been filtered: CS-001; this signal will be used for final cable end tracing." The operator clicks "confirm," and the entire cable tracing process then proceeds to the final step S15.

[0056] Referring to Figure 6, in step S15, the specific steps are as follows: S151: Acquire the optimal frequency cable inspection signal, trace the optimal frequency cable inspection signal, determine the other end of the cable to be inspected during the tracing process, and trigger the response signal of the signal detection end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector; S152: Determine the target cable based on the detection of the response signal of the signal detection end, so as to mark the cable inspection event of the target cable.

[0057] In the embodiments of this application, the optimal frequency cable inspection signal is collected, the optimal frequency cable inspection signal is traced, and the other end of the cable to be inspected is determined during the tracing process. The response signal of the signal detection end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector is triggered, thus introducing the response signal of the signal detection end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector.

[0058] At this point, the system extracts key parameters such as time of arrival, direction of arrival, and phase information from the locked "optimal frequency cable lookup signal" with sub-microsecond and sub-degree precision. Subsequently, the system calls the "acoustic cable lookup system" constructed in step S13, using the DOA of the optimal signal as the initial vector, and performs reverse ray tracing starting from the coordinate point of the detection end. The ray will pass through the multi-layer structure of the cable in reverse according to the sound speed model and refraction law in the system, and finally accurately trace back to the emission point of the signal inside the cable. Through this process, the system can accurately calculate the three-dimensional coordinates of the cable end and generate an "error ellipsoid" through Monte Carlo simulation, giving the positioning accuracy range with a 95% confidence level.

[0059] The system calculates three-dimensional coordinates through reverse ray tracing, and based on the "acoustic cable tracing system" model, these coordinates are explicitly assigned the physical meaning of "cable end". If the cable tracing system is connected to the digital twin model of the substation, the system will automatically associate and match this determined end coordinate with the corresponding cable terminal in the digital model, achieving a precise mapping between the physical and digital worlds. At the same time, the system will also connect the calculated end coordinates with the transmitting end coordinates to generate a complete theoretical acoustic wave propagation path and verify whether its total length is consistent with the cable length measured in S121 for cross-validation.

[0060] The detection end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer uses augmented reality (AR) visual guidance to overlay the calculated three-dimensional coordinates of the cable end onto the real-world camera image or project it directly into the physical space as a prominent virtual marker. At the same time, the distance sensor built into the detection end triggers a dynamic auditory feedback signal, such as the frequency and volume of the beeping changing as the operator approaches the target. Advanced detection ends may also integrate a haptic feedback module, generating a slight vibration when approaching the target, providing the operator with a non-visual confirmation method.

[0061] Specifically, the screen of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracing instrument displays: "Tracing the best signal CS-001..."; the system extracts ToA: 187.312μs, DOA: (azimuth 178.5°, elevation 2.1°) from CS-001; subsequently, the system initiates reverse ray tracing, and a virtual ray emanating from the detection end appears on the screen, precisely tracing back along the calculated path; a few seconds later, a positioning result window pops up on the screen: "Cable end position determined: (X: 73.98m, Y: 20.52m, Z: -1.25m) Positioning accuracy: ±5cm (95% confidence); a semi-transparent error ellipsoid is also simultaneously displayed in the 3D model, intuitively showing the uncertainty range of the positioning."

[0062] On the screen of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracing instrument, once the coordinates of the end point are calculated, the system immediately marks this point as "cable end" in the 3D model. At the same time, a complete acoustic ray path from the transmitter to this point is highlighted, and the system displays: "Calculated path length: 63.82m, consistent with the measured value of 63.8m, verification passed." This coordinate point is no longer an isolated number, but is given a clear physical identity and is associated with all the data in the entire cable tracing system.

[0063] The operator holds a detector, and on the AR screen, a red 3D frame is precisely fitted onto a cable terminal in a cable well. At the same time, the detector emits a "beep...beep..." sound. As the operator slowly moves the detector toward the terminal, the rhythm of the sound increases significantly. When the detector is about 5 centimeters away from the terminal, the sound becomes a continuous long tone, the display frame on the screen turns green, and displays "Target locked, please confirm." This multimodal response signal allows the operator to effortlessly find and confirm the physical target calculated by the system.

[0064] Furthermore, the target cable is determined based on the detection of the response signal from the signal detection end, thus marking the cable inspection event. This approach incorporates the overall consideration of detecting the response signal from the signal detection end, ensuring the accuracy of the target cable. At the same time, the comparison of multiple frequency inspection signals is introduced, enabling the detection of the other end of the cable to be inspected, improving the accuracy of the cable inspection event, and achieving safety and reliability without disconnection or affecting the operating circuit.

[0065] At this point, the response signal of the multi-spectral acoustic cable detector (such as a color change in the display frame and a long tone in the sound) is a "request for confirmation" instruction. The operator needs to perform a physical confirmation action, such as pressing the "confirm" button. At the moment of confirmation, the proximity sensor, camera, and IMU at the detection end will perform a final data acquisition to verify the legality of the operation. Once the system receives the confirmation instruction and passes the verification, it will immediately complete the identity binding, replace the temporary identifier with a unique "target cable ID", and change its status from "locating" to "located / confirmed".

[0066] The system generates a standardized data packet called "Tracking Event," which is a complete summary of the entire S11-S15 process, including key fields such as event metadata, task information, final results, and key evidence. To prevent tampering, the entire data packet is digitally signed using the device's private key. The generated data packet is immediately encrypted and stored locally, and can be optionally uploaded to a cloud management platform. At the same time, the system renders it into a richly illustrated PDF report for easy human reading and archiving.

[0067] Specifically, the operator saw the display frame of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer turn green and heard a continuous long tone. He then pointed the probe at the locked cable terminal and pressed the green "confirm" physical button. The system instantly completed the verification: the proximity sensor reading was 5cm, the camera flash lit up, and a photo of the scene was taken. A prompt immediately popped up on the screen: "Target cable identified: Cable-Target-B-001." Next to the original "Cable" label, a green "confirmed" checkmark was added.

[0068] After operator confirmation, the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracing device displays: "Marking cable tracing events... Data encapsulation... Generating report..." A few seconds later, a window pops up on the screen: "Cable tracing event successfully marked and archived (Event ID: EVT-20231114-001)". At the same time, a "Preview Report" button appears on the screen. After clicking, a complete PDF report is generated. The cover of the report clearly states: "Non-contact acoustic cable tracing report - Target cable: Cable-Target-B-001". The first page contains a summary of the location results and the crucial on-site photo. This report can be immediately sent to the back-end management system via the device, providing accurate, reliable, and irrefutable technical evidence for subsequent secondary safety measures.

[0069] Please refer to Figure 7, which is a schematic diagram of the structural composition of the cable inspection device of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector in an embodiment of the present invention. The cable inspection device of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector includes: a cable inspection module 21, used to mark the cable to be inspected, determine the corresponding abnormal event based on the number of the cable to be inspected, and trigger the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector to perform cable inspection operation on the cable to be inspected; an acoustic signal module 22, used to determine the acoustic signal output by the signal transmitting end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector based on the length of the cable to be inspected during the cable inspection operation of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector; and an acoustic cable inspection system module 23, used for... The acoustic signal is dynamically transmitted in the cable to be tested and outputs corresponding acoustic refraction events. Based on the acoustic refraction events and the signal detection end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable finder, the corresponding acoustic cable finding system is determined. The frequency cable finding signal module 24 is used to determine multiple frequency cable finding signals based on the identification of the acoustic cable finding system. Based on the comparison of multiple frequency cable finding signals, the corresponding signal strength ranking event is determined to select the best frequency cable finding signal. The cable finding event module 25 is used to determine the other end of the cable to be tested based on the tracing of the best frequency cable finding signal and mark the cable finding event of the target cable.

[0070] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined arbitrarily. For the sake of brevity, not all combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

Claims

1. A method for tracing cables using a multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer, characterized in that, include: The cable to be inspected is marked, and the corresponding abnormal event is determined based on the cable's serial number, triggering the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer to perform the cable inspection operation. During the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer's inspection operation, the multi-spectral frequency is determined based on the cable's length. The acoustic wave signal is output from the signal transmitter of the acoustic wave cable tracer; this acoustic wave signal is dynamically propagated in the cable to be tested and outputs corresponding acoustic wave refraction events. Based on the acoustic wave refraction events and the signal detection end of the multi-spectral acoustic wave cable tracer, the corresponding acoustic wave cable tracing system is determined; in the acoustic wave cable tracing system, multiple frequency cable tracing signals are determined based on the identification of the acoustic wave cable tracing system, and the corresponding signal strength ranking events are determined by comparing the multiple frequency cable tracing signals to select the optimal frequency cable tracing signal; the other end of the cable to be tested is determined by tracing the optimal frequency cable tracing signal, and the cable tracing event of the target cable is marked.

2. The cable inspection method of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The process of marking the cable to be tested involves determining the corresponding abnormal event based on the cable's serial number and triggering the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer to perform a cable tracing operation. This includes: acquiring the cable's location, detecting the cable's location, marking the corresponding cable to be tested, marking the serial number area of ​​the cable to be tested, and checking the serial number area to determine the serial number status. Based on the serial number status and the length of the cable to be tested, a corresponding abnormal event is determined. The abnormal event triggers the detection of the cable to be tested, and one end of the cable to be tested is marked. At this point, the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer performs a cable tracing test on the cable to be tested and performs the corresponding cable tracing operation.

3. The multi-spectral acoustic wave detector according to claim 1 The cable checking method of the cable tester is characterized by, In the cable inspection operation of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer, the multi-spectral frequency is determined based on the length of the cable to be inspected. The acoustic signal output by the signal transmitter of the acoustic cable tracer includes: real-time monitoring of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer's cable tracing operation. The signal transmitter of the multi-spectral acoustic cable tracer faces one end of the cable to be tested and outputs an acoustic signal. At this time, the length of the cable to be tested is collected, and the corresponding acoustic signal is determined based on the length of the cable to be tested and the signal transmitter.

4. The cable inspection method of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector according to claim 1, characterized in that the acoustic signal is dynamically transmitted in the cable to be inspected and outputs a corresponding acoustic refraction event, and the corresponding acoustic cable inspection system is determined according to the acoustic refraction event and the signal detection end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector, including: the acoustic signal is output from one end of the cable to be inspected to the other end of the cable to be inspected, and is dynamically transmitted in the cable to be inspected to output multiple corresponding signal transmission factors, and the acoustic refraction event is determined according to the multiple signal transmission factors and the cable to be inspected.

5. The cable inspection method of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector according to claim 4, characterized in that, The acoustic signal is dynamically transmitted in the cable to be tested and outputs corresponding acoustic refraction events. The corresponding acoustic cable finding system is determined based on the acoustic refraction events and the signal detection end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable finding instrument. The system also includes marking the signal detection end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable finding instrument so that the signal detection end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable finding instrument faces the other end of the cable to be tested. At the same time, multiple acoustic refraction features are determined based on the analysis of the acoustic refraction events. The corresponding acoustic cable finding system is determined based on the multiple acoustic refraction features and the signal detection end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable finding instrument.

6. The cable inspection method of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the acoustic cable finding system, multiple frequency cable finding signals are determined based on the identification of the acoustic cable finding system, and the corresponding signal strength ranking event is determined by comparing the multiple frequency cable finding signals in order to select the best frequency cable finding signal. This includes: real-time monitoring of the acoustic cable finding system, dynamic identification of the acoustic cable finding system, and outputting multiple frequency cable finding signals during the identification process.

7. The cable inspection method of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector according to claim 6, characterized in that, In the acoustic cable finding system, multiple frequency cable finding signals are determined based on the identification of the acoustic cable finding system, and corresponding signal strength ranking events are determined based on the comparison of multiple frequency cable finding signals to select the best frequency cable finding signal. The system also includes: marking the signal strength values ​​of each frequency cable finding signal, ranking the signal strength values ​​of each frequency cable finding signal, and outputting the corresponding signal strength ranking event; and selecting the best frequency cable finding signal based on the detection of the signal strength ranking event.

8. The cable inspection method of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The process of determining the other end of the cable to be tested based on the tracing of the optimal frequency cable inspection signal and marking the cable inspection event of the target cable includes: acquiring the optimal frequency cable inspection signal, tracing the optimal frequency cable inspection signal, determining the other end of the cable to be tested during the tracing process, and triggering the response signal of the signal detection end of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector.

9. The cable inspection method of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector according to claim 8, characterized in that, The method of determining the other end of the cable to be inspected based on the tracing of the optimal frequency cable inspection signal and marking the cable inspection event of the target cable further includes: determining the target cable based on the detection of the response signal of the signal detection end, so as to mark the cable inspection event of the target cable.

10. A cable inspection device for a multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector, characterized in that, The cable inspection device of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector is applied to the cable inspection method of the multi-spectral acoustic cable inspector as described in any one of claims 1-9.

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