Cable Tension Sensor System for Remote Surveillance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surveillance systems for static cable systems under tension lack efficient remote monitoring and predictive failure detection, requiring frequent human inspections and lacking real-time data analysis for proactive maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A device and system comprising processors, tension sensors, and wireless communication modules attached to cables, which measure and transmit tension data to a central monitoring system for real-time analysis, enabling predictive failure detection and remote surveillance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional surveillance systems are used for static cable systems, then human inspections are required, but this increases loss of time and reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The cable monitoring system performs self-monitoring through automated tension sensors and processing units that continuously measure and analyze cable tension without requiring human intervention. The system serves itself by detecting, measuring, and reporting tension deviations automatically, eliminating the need for manual inspections and significantly improving productivity while reducing time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical inspection systems with automated electronic sensing and processing systems. Tension sensors, processing units, and communication modules substitute for human inspectors, enabling continuous automated monitoring that improves productivity and eliminates time loss associated with periodic manual inspections.
2Reliability
If real-time monitoring is implemented, then predictive failure detection is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system is segmented into distinct functional modules: tension sensors for measurement, processing units for data analysis, and communication modules for data transmission. This segmentation enables predictive failure detection through specialized components while managing complexity by dividing the system into independent, manageable units that can be implemented progressively.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing unit performs multiple functions including receiving tension data, determining deviations from normal tension, identifying potential failures, and communicating alerts. This multi-functionality consolidates several operations into a single component, enabling reliable failure prediction without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
3Productivity
If automated monitoring systems are deployed, then human inspections are reduced, but initial investment and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service monitoring where automated sensors and processing units continuously track cable tension and detect anomalies without human intervention. This self-service capability improves maintenance efficiency by enabling proactive fault detection while the modular architecture manages complexity through standardized, interchangeable components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where tension measurements are continuously compared against normal ranges, and alerts are generated when deviations indicate potential failures. This feedback loop automates the monitoring process, improving productivity through continuous surveillance while managing complexity through straightforward threshold-based detection algorithms.
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
Enables continuous, automated monitoring and predictive failure analysis of static cable systems, reducing the need for human inspections and allowing for timely maintenance, applicable to various structures with cable systems under tension.
Implementation Method 1
a tension sensor configured to measure tension in a cable or wire to which it is attached
Implementation Method 2
a communications module for wireless bi-directional communication with a central monitoring system
Implementation Method 3
the device may further be configured to attach to a power transmission line and receive power via electromagnetic induction from the power transmission line
Data Source
AI summary
A device, system and method to provide remote surveillance of static cable systems under tension, for prediction and/or notification of tower or cable failure. The device includes a one or more processors and memory in a controller; a cable tension sensor; and a communications module for wireless bi-directional communication with a central monitoring system. The system includes a plurality of the devices and a central monitoring system for processing data and communicating with the device and outside entities.