Lightning protection circuit life detection system, method, and communication device

Abstract

The application belongs to the technical field of lightning protection circuit life detection, and provides a lightning protection circuit life detection system, method and communication equipment. The system comprises an antenna interface, a radio frequency antenna interface, an isolation module, a first protection module, a second protection module, a voltage conversion module, an analog-digital conversion module and a control module. The antenna interface receives lightning surges and radio frequency signals from an antenna; the isolation module transmits the lightning surges to the first protection module and also transmits the radio frequency signals to the radio frequency antenna interface; the radio frequency antenna interface transmits the radio frequency signals; the first protection module discharges lightning energy in the lightning surges; the second protection module absorbs residual lightning surge energy discharged by the first protection module and outputs a residual voltage; the voltage conversion module converts the residual voltage output into a converted voltage; the analog-digital conversion module converts the converted voltage into a digital quantity; and the control module counts the number of lightning strikes and lightning strike energy according to the digital quantity, and predicts the remaining life of the lightning protection circuit in combination with the life of the first protection module.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of lightning protection circuit life testing technology, and particularly relates to a lightning protection circuit life testing system, method and communication equipment. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of mobile communication technology, 4G and 5G base stations and outdoor communication equipment are being deployed extensively in outdoor environments. Because antennas are constantly exposed to the outside, they are highly susceptible to lightning surge signals, causing permanent damage to communication equipment. Currently, antenna-side lightning protection typically employs surge protection devices such as gas discharge tubes and thermistors. These devices are lossy, and their performance gradually degrades until they fail after repeated lightning strikes. However, in actual use, the timing, frequency, and energy of lightning strikes are random. Maintenance personnel cannot directly perceive the actual wear and tear and remaining lifespan of the lightning protection devices, and can only perform passive repairs after equipment is damaged by lightning. This hinders early warning and proactive maintenance, severely impacting the operational stability and reliability of the communication system. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides a lightning protection circuit life testing system, method, and communication equipment, which can solve the problem that existing communication equipment is difficult to achieve early fault warning and proactive maintenance, seriously affecting the operational stability and reliability of the communication system.

[0004] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a lightning protection circuit life testing system applied to communication equipment. The lightning protection circuit life testing system includes an antenna interface, a radio frequency antenna interface, an isolation module, a primary protection module, a secondary protection module, a voltage conversion module, an analog-to-digital conversion module, and a control module. The antenna interface is used to connect an antenna, the radio frequency antenna interface is used to connect to the radio frequency interface of the communication equipment, the isolation module is connected to the antenna interface, the radio frequency antenna interface, and the primary protection module, the voltage conversion module is connected between the secondary protection module and the analog-to-digital conversion module, and the analog-to-digital conversion module is connected to the control module. The antenna interface is used to receive lightning surges and radio frequency signals from the antenna; the isolation module is used to transmit the lightning surges to the primary protection module and also to transmit the radio frequency signals to the radio frequency antenna interface; the radio frequency antenna interface is used to transmit the radio frequency signals; the primary protection module is used to discharge the lightning energy in the lightning surge; the secondary protection module is used to absorb the residual lightning surge energy after it has been discharged by the primary protection module and output residual voltage; the voltage conversion module is used to output a converted voltage based on the residual voltage; the analog-to-digital conversion module is used to convert the converted voltage into a digital quantity; the control module is used to count the number of lightning strikes and the lightning energy based on the digital quantity, and predict the remaining lifespan of the lightning protection circuit based on the lifespan of the primary protection module.

[0005] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the isolation module includes a first isolation unit and a second isolation unit. The first isolation unit is connected between the antenna interface and the radio frequency antenna interface to isolate the lightning surge and transmit the radio frequency signal to the radio frequency antenna interface. The second isolation unit is connected between the antenna interface and the primary protection module to isolate the radio frequency signal and transmit the lightning surge to the primary protection module.

[0006] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the first isolation unit includes a first capacitor, a first end of which is connected to the antenna interface, and a second end of which is connected to the radio frequency antenna interface.

[0007] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the second isolation unit includes a first inductor, a first end of which is connected to the antenna interface, and a second end of which is connected to a primary protection module.

[0008] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the primary protection module includes a gas discharge tube, the first end of which is connected to the isolation module, and the second end of which is grounded.

[0009] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the secondary protection module includes a first resistor, the first end of which is connected to the isolation module and the primary protection module respectively, and the second end of which is connected to the voltage conversion module.

[0010] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the voltage conversion module includes a second resistor, a third resistor, and a second capacitor. The first end of the second resistor is connected to the secondary protection module, and the second end of the second resistor is connected to the first end of the third resistor, the first end of the second capacitor, and the analog-to-digital conversion module, respectively. The second end of the third resistor and the second end of the second capacitor are both grounded.

[0011] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the control module includes a controller and a memory, the controller being connected to the analog-to-digital conversion module and the memory, respectively.

[0012] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a method for testing the lifespan of a lightning protection circuit, applied to the lightning protection circuit lifespan testing system described in any one of the first aspects, the method comprising: Obtain the digital value output by the analog-to-digital converter module; The number of lightning strikes and the energy of the lightning strikes are calculated based on the aforementioned numerical values. Based on the number of lightning strikes and the lightning energy, and in conjunction with the lifespan of the primary protection module, the remaining lifespan of the lightning protection circuit is predicted.

[0013] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the step of counting the number of lightning strikes and the energy of lightning strikes based on the digital quantity includes: When the digital quantity exceeds a preset threshold, it is determined that a lightning strike has occurred and the number of lightning strikes is accumulated. The lightning energy corresponding to the current lightning strike is determined based on the proportion of the digital quantity to the analog-to-digital conversion range.

[0014] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, predicting the remaining lifespan of the lightning protection circuit based on the number of lightning strikes and the lightning energy, combined with the lifespan of the primary protection module, includes: The total lightning strike energy is obtained by calculating the energy of each lightning strike according to a preset weight. The total lightning strike energy is compared with the lifespan of the primary protection module to obtain the lifespan consumption ratio of the lightning protection circuit. The remaining lifespan of the lightning protection circuit is determined based on the lifespan consumption ratio.

[0015] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device, including the lightning protection circuit life detection system described in any one of the first aspects.

[0016] The beneficial effects of the embodiments in this application compared with the prior art are: The surge protection circuit life detection system provided in this application includes an antenna interface, a radio frequency antenna interface, an isolation module, a primary protection module, a secondary protection module, a voltage conversion module, an analog-to-digital converter module, and a control module. The isolation module transmits the radio frequency signal from the antenna to the radio frequency antenna interface, ensuring normal signal transmission of the communication equipment. Simultaneously, the isolation module directs lightning surges introduced by the antenna to the primary protection module, which then dissipates most of the lightning energy. The secondary protection module further absorbs the residual lightning surge energy after it has been dissipated by the primary protection module and outputs a residual voltage. The voltage conversion module outputs a converted voltage based on the residual voltage, and the analog-to-digital converter module converts the converted voltage into a digital quantity for the control module to recognize and process. After receiving the digital quantity, the control module uses it to count the number of lightning strikes and the lightning energy, and combined with the lifespan of the primary protection module, predicts the remaining lifespan of the surge protection circuit. Therefore, the lightning protection circuit life detection system of this application not only has a two-level protection lightning protection circuit to achieve reliable lightning protection, but also has a control module that can collect lightning strike data and evaluate life status. This allows the system to accurately predict the remaining life of the lightning protection circuit while achieving lightning protection, and to output a life warning in advance before the lightning protection devices in the lightning protection circuit fail, reminding maintenance personnel to replace them in time, avoiding damage to communication equipment by lightning strikes due to the failure of lightning protection devices, and significantly improving the safety and reliability of communication equipment when operating outdoors.

[0017] It is understood that the beneficial effects of the second and third aspects mentioned above can be found in the relevant descriptions in the first aspect mentioned above, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic block diagram of a lightning protection circuit life testing system provided in one embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is a schematic block diagram of a lightning protection circuit life testing system provided in another embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is a circuit connection diagram of a lightning protection circuit life testing system provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic flowchart of a lightning protection circuit life testing method provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 5This is a flowchart of the total lightning strike energy calculation provided in one embodiment of this application.

[0020] In the diagram, 100 is the antenna interface; 200 is the RF antenna interface; 300 is the isolation module; 310 is the first isolation unit; 320 is the second isolation unit; 400 is the first-level protection module; 500 is the second-level protection module; 600 is the voltage conversion module; 700 is the analog-to-digital conversion module; and 800 is the control module. Detailed Implementation

[0021] In the following description, specific details such as particular system architectures and techniques are set forth for illustrative purposes and not for limitation, in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of this application. However, those skilled in the art will understand that this application may also be implemented in other embodiments without these specific details. In other instances, detailed descriptions of well-known systems, apparatuses, circuits, and methods have been omitted so as not to obscure the description of this application with unnecessary detail.

[0022] It should be understood that, when used in this application specification and the appended claims, the term "comprising" indicates the presence of the described features, integrals, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components and / or a collection thereof.

[0023] It should also be understood that the term “and / or” as used in this application specification and the appended claims means any combination of one or more of the associated listed items and all possible combinations, and includes such combinations.

[0024] As used in this application specification and the appended claims, the term "if" may be interpreted, depending on the context, as "when," "once," "in response to determination," or "in response to detection." Similarly, the phrase "if determined" or "if [the described condition or event] is detected" may be interpreted, depending on the context, as "once determined," "in response to determination," "once [the described condition or event] is detected," or "in response to detection of [the described condition or event]."

[0025] Furthermore, in the description of this application and the appended claims, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., are used only to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0026] References to "one embodiment" or "some embodiments" as described in this specification mean that one or more embodiments of this application include a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment. Therefore, the phrases "in one embodiment," "in some embodiments," "in other embodiments," "in still other embodiments," etc., appearing in different parts of this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, but rather mean "one or more, but not all, embodiments," unless otherwise specifically emphasized. The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to," unless otherwise specifically emphasized.

[0027] With the rapid development of mobile communication technology, 4G and 5G base stations and outdoor communication equipment are being deployed extensively in outdoor environments. Because antennas are constantly exposed to the outside, they are highly susceptible to lightning surge signals, causing permanent damage to communication equipment. Currently, antenna-side lightning protection typically employs surge protection devices such as gas discharge tubes and thermistors. These devices are lossy, and their performance gradually degrades until they fail after repeated lightning strikes. However, in actual use, the timing, frequency, and energy of lightning strikes are random. Maintenance personnel cannot directly perceive the actual wear and tear and remaining lifespan of the lightning protection devices, and can only perform passive repairs after equipment is damaged by lightning. This hinders early warning and proactive maintenance, severely impacting the operational stability and reliability of the communication system.

[0028] To address the aforementioned issues, this application provides a surge protection circuit lifespan detection system, comprising an antenna interface, a radio frequency antenna interface, an isolation module, a primary protection module, a secondary protection module, a voltage conversion module, an analog-to-digital converter module, and a control module. The isolation module transmits the radio frequency signal from the antenna to the radio frequency antenna interface, ensuring normal signal transmission for the communication equipment. Simultaneously, the isolation module directs lightning surges introduced by the antenna to the primary protection module, which then dissipates most of the lightning energy. The secondary protection module further absorbs the residual lightning surge energy after it has been dissipated by the primary protection module and outputs a residual voltage. The voltage conversion module outputs a converted voltage based on the residual voltage, and the analog-to-digital converter module converts the converted voltage into a digital quantity for the control module to recognize and process. Upon receiving the digital quantity, the control module uses it to count the number of lightning strikes and their energy, and, combined with the lifespan of the primary protection module, predicts the remaining lifespan of the surge protection circuit. Therefore, the lightning protection circuit life detection system of this application not only has a two-level protection lightning protection circuit to achieve reliable lightning protection, but also has a control module that can collect lightning strike data and evaluate life status. This allows the system to accurately predict the remaining life of the lightning protection circuit while achieving lightning protection, and to output a life warning in advance before the lightning protection devices in the lightning protection circuit fail, reminding maintenance personnel to replace them in time, avoiding damage to communication equipment by lightning strikes due to the failure of lightning protection devices, and significantly improving the safety and reliability of communication equipment when operating outdoors.

[0029] To illustrate the technical solution described in this application, specific embodiments are provided below.

[0030] Figure 1 A schematic block diagram of a lightning protection circuit life testing system according to an embodiment of this application is shown. See also... Figure 1 As shown, the surge protection circuit life testing system is applied to communication equipment. The surge protection circuit life testing system includes an antenna interface 100, an RF antenna interface 200, an isolation module 300, a primary protection module 400, a secondary protection module 500, a voltage conversion module 600, an analog-to-digital converter module 700, and a control module 800. The antenna interface 100 is used to connect the antenna, the RF antenna interface 200 is used to connect the RF interface of the communication equipment, the isolation module 300 is connected to the antenna interface 100, the RF antenna interface 200, and the primary protection module 400, respectively, the voltage conversion module 600 is connected between the secondary protection module 500 and the analog-to-digital converter module 700, and the analog-to-digital converter module 700 is connected to the control module 800.

[0031] Specifically, the isolation module 300 transmits the radio frequency signal from the antenna to the radio frequency antenna interface 200, ensuring normal signal transmission of the communication equipment. Simultaneously, the isolation module 300 directs lightning surges introduced by the antenna to the primary protection module 400, which discharges most of the lightning energy. The secondary protection module 500 further absorbs the residual lightning surge energy after being discharged by the primary protection module 400 and outputs a residual voltage. The voltage conversion module 600 outputs a converted voltage based on the residual voltage, and the analog-to-digital conversion module 700 converts the converted voltage into a digital quantity for the control module 800 to recognize and process. After receiving the digital quantity, the control module 800 uses it to count the number of lightning strikes and the lightning energy, and, combined with the lifespan of the primary protection module 400, predicts the remaining lifespan of the lightning protection circuit. Therefore, the lightning protection circuit life detection system of this application not only has a two-level protection lightning protection circuit to achieve reliable lightning protection, but also has a control module 800 that can collect lightning data and evaluate life status. This allows the system to accurately predict the remaining life of the lightning protection circuit while achieving lightning protection, and to output a life warning in advance before the lightning protection device in the lightning protection circuit fails, reminding maintenance personnel to replace it in time, avoiding damage to communication equipment by lightning due to the failure of the lightning protection device, and significantly improving the safety and reliability of communication equipment when operating outdoors.

[0032] It should be noted that the antenna interface 100, isolation module 300, primary protection module 400, and secondary protection module 500 constitute a lightning protection circuit, which can discharge and absorb residual voltage of lightning surges introduced by the antenna, effectively suppressing lightning overvoltage from entering the radio frequency port of the communication equipment, thereby achieving lightning protection for the communication equipment.

[0033] It should be noted that after receiving the digital quantity output from the analog-to-digital converter module 700, the control module 800 determines that a lightning strike has occurred when the digital quantity exceeds a preset threshold, and accumulates the number of lightning strikes. Simultaneously, it determines the lightning energy corresponding to the current lightning strike based on the proportion of the digital quantity to the analog-to-digital converter's range, thus achieving accurate identification of lightning strike events and quantitative calculation of lightning energy. Based on this, the control module 800 performs weighted calculations on each lightning strike energy according to preset weights and accumulates them to obtain the total lightning energy. The total lightning energy is compared with the preset withstand life of the primary protection module 400 to obtain the lifespan consumption ratio of the lightning protection circuit. Finally, based on the lifespan consumption ratio, the remaining lifespan of the lightning protection circuit is accurately determined. This enables real-time statistics on the number of lightning strikes and lightning energy, as well as accurate assessment of the lifespan of the lightning protection circuit. It allows for early detection of wear and tear before the lightning protection devices reach their lifespan limit, providing a reliable basis for fault warning and proactive maintenance.

[0034] It should be noted that the energy of each lightning strike varies, and this difference in energy has varying impacts on the lifespan of surge protection devices. Weaker lightning strikes have a smaller impact on the lifespan of surge protection devices, while stronger lightning strikes have a larger impact. Therefore, the voltage transformation module and the analog-to-digital conversion module 700 can not only count the number of lightning strikes but also the energy of each strike, thus providing a more accurate estimate of the lightning energy that the surge protection devices can withstand.

[0035] For example, if the analog-to-digital conversion range is set to 0–1024 and the preset threshold is 50, when the detected digital value reaches 150 and exceeds the threshold, a lightning strike is determined, and the count is incremented by 1. Based on the proportion of the digital value 150 to the range, this lightning strike is determined to be a weak-energy lightning strike. If the maximum withstand energy of the primary protection module 400 corresponds to a total loss threshold of 1000, when the cumulative total lightning strike energy reaches 800, the lifespan consumption ratio is determined to be 80%, and the remaining lifespan is 20%, and a lifespan warning can be output in advance. The warning threshold can be set according to the actual situation (such as the lifespan of the primary protection module 400), and is not limited here.

[0036] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 2 As shown, the isolation module 300 includes a first isolation unit 310 and a second isolation unit 320. The first isolation unit 310 is connected between the antenna interface 100 and the radio frequency antenna interface 200 to isolate lightning surges and transmit radio frequency signals to the radio frequency antenna interface 200. The second isolation unit 320 is connected between the antenna interface 100 and the primary protection module 400 to isolate radio frequency signals and transmit lightning surges to the primary protection module 400.

[0037] Specifically, the first isolation unit 310 is connected between the antenna interface 100 and the RF antenna interface 200, effectively blocking lightning surges while ensuring normal transmission of RF signals to the RF antenna interface 200, thus ensuring that the RF signals of the communication equipment are not interfered with. The second isolation unit 320 is connected between the antenna interface 100 and the primary protection module 400, used to block RF signals from entering the lightning protection circuit and conduct lightning surges introduced by the antenna to the primary protection module 400 for discharge. Through the cooperation of the two isolation units, the RF signal and lightning surge are separated and transmitted, which does not affect normal communication and reliably introduces lightning energy into the lightning protection circuit, thus achieving effective protection for the communication equipment.

[0038] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 3 As shown, the first isolation unit 310 includes a first capacitor C1, the first end of the first capacitor C1 is connected to the antenna interface 100, and the second end of the first capacitor C1 is connected to the radio frequency antenna interface 200.

[0039] Specifically, capacitors have the characteristics of blocking DC and passing AC, and passing high frequencies while blocking low frequencies. Since lightning surge energy is mainly concentrated in low-frequency and broadband transient components, it can be regarded as a low-frequency interference signal relative to high-frequency radio frequency signals. Therefore, the first capacitor C1 can block the low-frequency lightning surge introduced by the antenna, preventing lightning energy from directly entering the radio frequency interface of the communication equipment. At the same time, it presents low impedance characteristics to high-frequency radio frequency signals, which can ensure smooth transmission of radio frequency signals. While achieving lightning isolation, it does not affect the transmission of normal communication signals.

[0040] For example, the capacitance value of the first capacitor C1 can be selected as a picofarad level capacitor according to the actual requirements of the RF impedance. For instance, the first capacitor C1 can be a ceramic capacitor with high voltage resistance and large capacitance, such as a ceramic capacitor with a voltage resistance of 2KV, a capacitance of 150pF, and a size of 1206 package.

[0041] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 3 As shown, the second isolation unit 320 includes a first inductor L1, the first end of the first inductor L1 is connected to the antenna interface 100, and the second end of the first inductor L1 is connected to the first-level protection module 400.

[0042] Specifically, the inductor has the characteristic of passing low frequencies and blocking high frequencies. It presents low impedance to lightning surges, whose energy is concentrated in the low-frequency component. The first inductor L1 can smoothly conduct the lightning surge introduced by the antenna to the first-level protection module 400 for discharge. Simultaneously, the first inductor L1 presents high impedance to high-frequency radio frequency signals, effectively blocking radio frequency signals from entering the lightning protection circuit, avoiding radio frequency energy loss or leakage, and ensuring that the radio frequency signal is mainly transmitted along the branch of the first capacitor C1. This achieves effective guidance and discharge of lightning strike energy without affecting the normal signal transmission of the communication system.

[0043] For example, the first inductor L1 may be an inductor with an inductance value in the Nahen range.

[0044] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 3 As shown, the primary protection module 400 includes a gas discharge tube GDT1. The first end of the gas discharge tube GDT1 is connected to the isolation module 300, and the second end of the gas discharge tube GDT1 is grounded.

[0045] Specifically, when the lightning surge introduced by the antenna reaches a certain amplitude, the gas discharge tube GDT1 will quickly break down and conduct, exhibiting low impedance characteristics. This allows the transient lightning energy to be rapidly discharged to ground (the chassis ground), effectively dissipating most of the lightning energy and suppressing the surge voltage amplitude. In other words, the gas discharge tube GDT1 can discharge transient lightning overcurrent and limit overvoltage. Under normal operating conditions without lightning strikes, the gas discharge tube GDT1 maintains a high-resistance insulation state and will not affect the radio frequency communication circuit. Thus, while providing strong lightning protection, it also ensures the stable operation of the communication system.

[0046] For example, the gas discharge tube GDT1 can be a 10KA or 20KA type ceramic gas discharge tube GDT1, or a gas discharge tube GDT1 with model number J10G091M2SH.

[0047] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 3 As shown, the secondary protection module 500 includes a first resistor R1. The first end of the first resistor R1 is connected to the isolation module 300 and the primary protection module 400, respectively, and the second end of the first resistor R1 is connected to the voltage conversion module 600.

[0048] Specifically, after most of the lightning energy is discharged by the gas discharge tube GDT1, residual surge voltage and current may still exist. The first resistor R1 (thermometer) has the functions of current limiting, damping, and absorbing residual surge energy. After the primary protection module 400 discharges most of the lightning energy, residual surge voltage and current still exist. The thermistor can limit the current, stabilize the voltage, and absorb the residual surge through its own impedance characteristics, suppress surge spikes, reduce the residual voltage amplitude, and prevent the subsequent voltage conversion module 600, analog-to-digital conversion module 700, and control module 800 from being damaged by high voltage impact. At the same time, the thermistor can smooth the surge waveform and provide a stable and safe voltage signal for the subsequent detection circuit, ensuring the reliable operation of the life detection circuit while achieving secondary fine protection.

[0049] For example, the first resistor R1 can be a thermistor of model BMSM010 / 30. After the first-level protection of the gas discharge tube GDT1, there will still be a residual voltage of about 90V. This energy will be converted into heat and consumed on the thermistor after passing through it.

[0050] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 3 As shown, the voltage conversion module 600 includes a second resistor R2, a third resistor R3, and a second capacitor C2. The first end of the second resistor R2 is connected to the secondary protection module 500, and the second end of the second resistor R2 is connected to the first end of the third resistor R3, the first end of the second capacitor C2, and the analog-to-digital conversion module 700, respectively. The second end of the third resistor R3 and the second end of the second capacitor C2 are both grounded.

[0051] Specifically, the second resistor R2 and the third resistor R3 form a voltage divider circuit, which proportionally divides the residual voltage output from the secondary protection module 500 to obtain a low-voltage conversion voltage that matches the acquisition range of the analog-to-digital converter module 700, thus preventing high-voltage damage to downstream components. The second capacitor C2, together with the voltage divider circuit, forms an RC filter circuit to filter out high-frequency noise and interference signals in lightning surges, making the conversion voltage output to the analog-to-digital converter module 700 smoother and more stable, thereby providing accurate and reliable analog voltage signals for subsequent analog-to-digital conversion and lightning energy statistics.

[0052] In one embodiment of this application, the analog-to-digital conversion module 700 specifically includes an analog-to-digital converter (ADC), one end of which is connected to the voltage conversion module 600 and the other end of which is connected to the control module 800. It is used to convert the analog voltage signal (converted voltage) output by the voltage conversion module 600 into a digital signal that the control module 800 can recognize and calculate, and transmit the digital signal to the control module 800. This provides the control module 800 with digital detection basis for counting the number of lightning strikes, calculating lightning energy, and assessing the remaining life of the lightning protection circuit, thereby realizing reliable conversion from analog signal to digital signal.

[0053] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 3 As shown, the control module 800 includes a controller and a memory, with the controller connected to the analog-to-digital converter module 700 and the memory respectively.

[0054] Specifically, the controller's input / output pins connect to the digital output pins of the analog-to-digital converter (ADC) to receive the converted digital values. Based on these digital values, the controller performs processing logic such as lightning strike count statistics, lightning strike energy calculation, lifetime consumption ratio analysis, and remaining lifetime prediction. The memory stores information such as preset thresholds, ADC range, weighting coefficients, 400 rated lifetime parameters of the primary protection module, cumulative lightning strike count, single lightning strike energy, total lightning strike energy, and historical lifetime data. This provides stable data support for the controller's judgment, calculation, and status tracing, ensuring data is not lost after power failure and enabling the lightning protection circuit's lifetime detection and early warning functions to operate continuously and reliably for a long period.

[0055] For example, the controller can reuse the existing controller inside the communication equipment. If it has a built-in analog-to-digital converter module 700, it can also directly connect to the analog voltage signal through the corresponding pin, simplifying the system structure. The memory can use common storage media such as EMMC and EEPROM to store information such as the number of lightning strikes, the energy of a single lightning strike, the total cumulative energy, the lifespan threshold, and historical detection data, providing data support for the controller's calculation and judgment and status traceability, ensuring the continuous and reliable lifespan detection process.

[0056] Based on the aforementioned lightning protection circuit life testing system, this application also discloses a lightning protection circuit life testing method. This method is applied to the aforementioned system and mainly realizes the operation function of the control module in the system. It is used to collect, identify and calculate lightning strike signals to complete the statistics of lightning strikes, the accumulation of lightning strike energy and the prediction of the remaining life of the lightning protection circuit, thereby realizing real-time status monitoring and life assessment of the lightning protection device.

[0057] like Figure 4 As shown, the lightning protection circuit life test method includes steps S101 to S103.

[0058] Step S101: Obtain the digital value output by the analog-to-digital converter module.

[0059] Specifically, the controller reads the digital signal output from the analog-to-digital converter in real time. This digital signal is converted from the analog residual voltage signal output from the voltage conversion module and can accurately reflect the magnitude of the residual lightning voltage in the lightning protection circuit. By directly acquiring the digital detection signal, interference and attenuation during analog signal transmission can be avoided, ensuring the accuracy of subsequent lightning strike judgment and energy calculation.

[0060] Step S102: Calculate the number of lightning strikes and the energy of the lightning strikes based on the digital data.

[0061] Specifically, based on the acquired digital data, the effective identification and energy quantification of lightning strike events are completed, enabling accurate recording of lightning strike conditions. This provides basic data support for subsequent life assessment and avoids deviations in life assessment due to missing lightning strike information.

[0062] Step S102 includes steps S1021 to S1022.

[0063] Step S1021: When the digital quantity exceeds the preset threshold, it is determined that a lightning strike has occurred and the number of lightning strikes is accumulated.

[0064] Specifically, the controller compares the real-time acquired digital data with an internal preset threshold. When the digital data exceeds the threshold, it determines that a valid lightning strike event has occurred and increments the count of lightning strikes.

[0065] For example, the analog-to-digital conversion range is set to 0~1024, and the preset threshold is 50. When the detected digital value reaches 80, it is determined that a lightning strike has occurred, thus realizing automatic and rapid identification of lightning strike events, avoiding false judgments caused by noise interference, and ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the statistical count.

[0066] Step S1022: Determine the lightning energy corresponding to the current lightning strike based on the proportion of the digital quantity to the analog-to-digital conversion range.

[0067] Specifically, the controller normalizes the current lightning strike energy based on the ratio of the digital quantity to the analog-to-digital conversion range, converting the voltage signal into a quantifiable energy value.

[0068] For example, if the digital value is 256 and the range is 1024, then its proportion is 25%, which corresponds to the magnitude of the lightning strike energy. This achieves objective quantification of lightning strike intensity, allowing lightning strikes of different intensities to be distinguished and recorded, thus improving the accuracy of lifespan calculation.

[0069] Step S103: Based on the number of lightning strikes and the energy of the lightning strikes, and in conjunction with the lifespan of the primary protection module, predict the remaining lifespan of the lightning protection circuit.

[0070] Specifically, by analyzing the cumulative lightning strike energy and combining it with the withstand limit of the primary protection module, the loss status and remaining lifespan of the lightning protection circuit can be accurately assessed, thereby enabling early warning and preventing equipment damage caused by the failure of lightning protection devices.

[0071] Step S103 includes steps S1031 to S1033.

[0072] Step S1031: Calculate the total lightning strike energy by weighting each lightning strike according to a preset weight.

[0073] Specifically, the controller weights and accumulates the lightning strike energy of each judgment according to preset weights to obtain the total cumulative lightning strike energy, thereby comprehensively reflecting the overall impact degree that the lightning protection device has withstood. Different weights can be set for lightning strikes of different energy levels to avoid over-statisticalizing low-energy lightning strikes or under-statisticalizing high-energy lightning strikes, making the total loss assessment more in line with the actual aging pattern of the device.

[0074] It should be noted that the energy of each lightning strike varies, and this difference in energy has varying impacts on the lifespan of surge protection devices. Weaker lightning strikes have a smaller impact on the lifespan of surge protection devices, while stronger strikes have a larger impact. Therefore, by using voltage variation modules and analog-to-digital conversion modules, not only can the number of lightning strikes be counted, but also the energy of each strike can be measured, thus providing a more accurate estimate of the lightning energy that the surge protection devices can withstand. Therefore, an algorithm can be designed on the controller to calculate the impact of each lightning strike's energy on the lifespan of the surge protection devices. A flowchart for the specific process can be found here. Figure 5 As shown.

[0075] For example, since lightning strikes of different intensities cause varying degrees of lifespan loss to surge protection devices, this application sets differentiated weighting coefficients for different lightning strike energies: when the analog-to-digital conversion value ADC_VALUE is within 10% to 30% of the ADC range, it is determined to be a weak lightning strike, with a weight of 0.1; when the analog-to-digital conversion value ADC_VALUE is within 90% to 100% of the ADC range, it is determined to be a strong lightning strike, with a weight of 0.95. The controller multiplies the ADC value corresponding to this lightning strike by the corresponding weight to obtain the lifespan loss value of the surge protection device caused by this lightning strike, and accumulates the loss values ​​of multiple lightning strikes to obtain the total lightning strike energy, thereby more realistically reflecting the actual aging degree of the surge protection device and improving the accuracy of remaining lifespan determination.

[0076] Step S1032: Compare the total lightning strike energy with the lifespan of the primary protection module to obtain the lifespan consumption ratio of the lightning protection circuit.

[0077] Specifically, the total lightning strike energy is compared with the rated maximum withstand energy of the primary protection module (such as a gas discharge tube) to calculate the proportion of the lifespan that has been consumed.

[0078] For example, if the maximum withstand threshold of the device is 1000 and the current cumulative total energy is 700, then the lifespan consumption ratio is 70%, which directly reflects the degree of loss of the surge protection circuit.

[0079] Step S1033: Determine the remaining lifespan of the surge protection circuit based on the lifespan consumption ratio.

[0080] Specifically, the controller further derives the remaining lifespan percentage based on the calculated lifespan consumption percentage, and can set early warning thresholds accordingly.

[0081] For example, when the consumption rate reaches 80%, it is determined that the remaining lifespan is insufficient, and a lifespan warning signal is output to realize the active monitoring and early prediction of the lifespan of surge protection devices, so as to facilitate timely replacement by maintenance personnel and ensure the safe operation of communication equipment.

[0082] This application also discloses a communication device including the aforementioned surge protection circuit lifespan detection system. By employing this system, the communication device can simultaneously achieve normal transmission of antenna radio frequency signals while providing multi-level discharge protection against lightning strikes. It also tracks the number and energy of lightning strikes in real time, accurately assessing the lifespan of the surge protection circuit and providing early warnings. This facilitates timely replacement of surge protection devices by maintenance personnel, effectively preventing damage to the communication device from lightning strikes due to device failure. This significantly improves the operational stability and safety of the communication device in complex outdoor environments. For example, the communication device can be a 4G / 5G base station.

[0083] Since the processing and functions implemented by the lightning protection circuit life detection method and communication equipment in this embodiment are basically the same as the embodiments, principles and examples of the aforementioned lightning protection circuit life detection system, any details not covered in this embodiment can be found in the relevant descriptions in the aforementioned embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0084] The above-described embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and should all be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A lightning protection circuit life testing system, characterized in that, The lightning protection circuit life testing system, applied to communication equipment, includes an antenna interface, a radio frequency antenna interface, an isolation module, a primary protection module, a secondary protection module, a voltage conversion module, an analog-to-digital converter module, and a control module. The antenna interface is used to connect an antenna; the radio frequency antenna interface is used to connect to the radio frequency interface of the communication equipment; the isolation module is connected to the antenna interface, the radio frequency antenna interface, and the primary protection module; the voltage conversion module is connected between the secondary protection module and the analog-to-digital converter module; and the analog-to-digital converter module is connected to the control module. The antenna interface is used to receive lightning surges and radio frequency signals from the antenna; the isolation module is used to transmit the lightning surges to the primary protection module and also to transmit the radio frequency signals to the radio frequency antenna interface; the radio frequency antenna interface is used to transmit the radio frequency signals; the primary protection module is used to discharge the lightning energy in the lightning surges; The secondary protection module is used to absorb the residual lightning surge energy discharged by the primary protection module and output residual voltage; the voltage conversion module is used to output a converted voltage based on the residual voltage; the analog-to-digital conversion module is used to convert the converted voltage into a digital quantity; the control module is used to count the number of lightning strikes and lightning energy based on the digital quantity, and predict the remaining life of the lightning protection circuit in combination with the life of the primary protection module.

2. The lightning protection circuit life testing system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The isolation module includes a first isolation unit and a second isolation unit. The first isolation unit is connected between the antenna interface and the radio frequency antenna interface to isolate the lightning surge and transmit the radio frequency signal to the radio frequency antenna interface. The second isolation unit is connected between the antenna interface and the primary protection module to isolate the radio frequency signal and transmit the lightning surge to the primary protection module.

3. The lightning protection circuit life testing system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first isolation unit includes a first capacitor, a first end of which is connected to the antenna interface, and a second end of which is connected to the radio frequency antenna interface.

4. The lightning protection circuit life testing system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second isolation unit includes a first inductor, a first end of which is connected to the antenna interface, and a second end of which is connected to the first-level protection module.

5. The lightning protection circuit life testing system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The primary protection module includes a gas discharge tube, the first end of which is connected to the isolation module, and the second end of which is grounded.

6. The lightning protection circuit life testing system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The secondary protection module includes a first resistor, the first end of which is connected to the isolation module and the primary protection module, and the second end of which is connected to the voltage conversion module.

7. The lightning protection circuit life testing system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The voltage conversion module includes a second resistor, a third resistor, and a second capacitor. The first end of the second resistor is connected to the secondary protection module, and the second end of the second resistor is connected to the first end of the third resistor, the first end of the second capacitor, and the analog-to-digital conversion module. The second end of the third resistor and the second end of the second capacitor are both grounded.

8. The lightning protection circuit life testing system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control module includes a controller and a memory, with the controller connected to both the analog-to-digital conversion module and the memory.

9. A method for testing the lifespan of a lightning protection circuit, characterized in that, The method, applied to the lightning protection circuit life testing system according to any one of claims 1-8, comprises: Obtain the digital value output by the analog-to-digital converter module; The number of lightning strikes and the energy of the lightning strikes are calculated based on the aforementioned numerical values. Based on the number of lightning strikes and the lightning energy, and in conjunction with the lifespan of the primary protection module, the remaining lifespan of the lightning protection circuit is predicted.

10. The method for testing the lifespan of a lightning protection circuit according to claim 9, characterized in that, The method of calculating the number of lightning strikes and the energy of lightning strikes based on the digital quantities includes: When the digital quantity exceeds a preset threshold, it is determined that a lightning strike has occurred and the number of lightning strikes is accumulated. The lightning energy corresponding to the current lightning strike is determined based on the proportion of the digital quantity to the analog-to-digital conversion range.

11. The method for testing the lifespan of a lightning protection circuit according to claim 9, characterized in that, The method of predicting the remaining lifespan of the lightning protection circuit based on the number of lightning strikes and the lightning strike energy, combined with the lifespan of the primary protection module, includes: The total lightning strike energy is obtained by calculating the energy of each lightning strike according to a preset weight. The total lightning strike energy is compared with the lifespan of the primary protection module to obtain the lifespan consumption ratio of the lightning protection circuit. The remaining lifespan of the lightning protection circuit is determined based on the lifespan consumption ratio.

12. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes the lightning protection circuit life testing system according to any one of claims 1-8.

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