Audio-Enabled High Voltage Phasing Meter for Hazardous Environments
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Solution Overview
Problem
High voltage phasing meters face challenges in difficult environments with inadequate lighting and distance from the meter, making it hard for line workers to accurately read phase-to-phase voltage and phase angle measurements without visual reference.
Innovation Solution
A high voltage detection device with an audio output module that uses a processor-driven interactive voice menu to announce measured parameters, allowing operators to determine line voltage parameters without visual inspection, featuring a probe connected in series with a resistor and a control module with an input and signal processing module driving an audio module for audio output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If visual display (analog, digital, LED) with backlight is used to improve visibility, then reading capability is improved, but in environments with inadequate lighting and distance, reading remains difficult without visual reference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the visual display system (mechanical/optical) with an acoustic system. The meter converts visual measurement data into audible outputs through a speaker system, allowing operators to receive measurement information through sound rather than sight. This substitution enables accurate reading in environments where visual displays are ineffective due to lighting conditions or distance constraints.
2Measurement precision
If operators must visually read the meter to obtain measurement data, then measurement precision is maintained, but operational efficiency decreases in hazardous environments requiring close proximity to lines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an acoustic intermediary system that mediates between the measurement process and the operator. The speaker system acts as an intermediary, converting measurement data into audible form that can be received from a distance, eliminating the need for operators to closely approach the meter for visual reading while maintaining accurate data acquisition.
3Device complexity
If traditional visual display alone is used, then device complexity is minimized, but adaptability to hazardous environments with inadequate lighting and distance constraints is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional output system that provides both traditional visual display and acoustic output through a speaker system. This universal approach allows the meter to adapt to various operational conditions - visual display for normal conditions and acoustic output for hazardous environments with lighting or distance constraints - without requiring separate specialized devices.
Data Source
AI summary
A high voltage detection device comprises a probe comprising an electrode for sensing a high voltage electrical line. The electrode is connected in series with a resistor. A meter comprises a housing enclosing a control for measuring parameters of line voltage. The control comprises an input module for connection to the probe to develop a voltage signal. A signal processing module receives the voltage signal and determines parameters of line voltage and drives an audio module. The audio module provides an audio output representing the determined parameters of line voltage.