Broken Conductor Detector Using Acceleration and Orientation Vectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Broken electrical conductors in power systems pose risks to public safety and infrastructure due to potential fires and service disruptions, and existing detection methods are inadequate in accurately distinguishing between transient conditions and permanent conductor failures.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of broken conductor detectors affixed to power lines near pylons, which monitor orientation and acceleration to determine if a conductor is broken, and communicate wirelessly with a control system to de-energize fallen conductors and prevent re-energization attempts that could lead to hazardous conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing detection methods are used, then detection capability is provided, but accuracy in distinguishing transient conditions from permanent conductor failures is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is segmented into multiple independent sensor components (accelerometer, orientation sensor, vibration sensor) that each measure different physical aspects of conductor behavior. This segmentation allows the system to analyze multiple parameters simultaneously and distinguish between transient disturbances and permanent failures more accurately.
Solution Approach 2:
The system monitors changes in multiple physical parameters (acceleration, orientation angle, vibration frequency) over time and compares them against threshold values. By tracking parameter changes rather than single static values, the system can differentiate between temporary fluctuations and actual conductor breaks, improving detection accuracy while reducing false alarms.
2Reliability
If detectors are affixed to conductors near pylons, then detection coverage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sensor functions (acceleration sensing, orientation detection, vibration monitoring) are merged into a single integrated detector unit that is affixed to the conductor. This consolidation provides comprehensive detection coverage while managing complexity by combining multiple measurement capabilities in one device rather than using separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The detector system is designed to autonomously monitor conductor conditions and automatically distinguish between transient and permanent failures without requiring external intervention or complex centralized control systems. The detector performs self-diagnosis and decision-making, simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining high reliability.
3Loss of information
If wireless communication is implemented, then real-time monitoring capability is achieved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detector transmits data wirelessly using periodic communication intervals rather than continuous transmission. The system monitors conductor conditions continuously but transmits information at scheduled intervals or only when threshold violations occur, reducing energy consumption while maintaining effective real-time monitoring capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless communication system implements feedback mechanisms where the detector transmits status information to a central system, which then provides acknowledgment or control commands back to the detector. This feedback loop enables efficient energy management by allowing the central system to optimize communication intervals based on actual conductor conditions and detector battery status.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution effectively reduces the risk of injuries and property damage by accurately detecting broken conductors and preventing electrical arcing and fires, ensuring timely repair and maintaining electrical service reliability.
Implementation Method 1
determine a plurality of vectors reflecting an orientation of the broken conductor detector, wherein the plurality of vectors includes a first vector reflecting a rest position of the broken conductor detector and a second vector reflecting a change in position of the broken conductor detector
Implementation Method 2
determine an acceleration of the broken conductor detector based on the change in position; determine whether the acceleration exceeds a threshold indicative of a free-fall condition
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure pertains to detection of a broken conductor in an electric power system. In one embodiment, a broken conductor detector may be configured to be mounted to an electrical conductor and may comprise a communication subsystem configured to transmit a signal configured to indicate that the conductor is broken. A sensor may determine a plurality of vectors. A processing subsystem may be configured to receive the plurality of vectors from the sensor and to identify when the vector is outside of a range defined by a threshold value. The processing subsystem may determine that the conductor is falling based on the plurality of vectors remaining outside of the threshold for a period of time determined by the timer subsystem. A signal may be transmitted by the communication subsystem to indicate that the conductor is falling.