Separable Connector Temperature Sensing via Test Point Telemetry
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for temperature diagnostics of separable insulated connectors in medium-high voltage electrical systems pose safety risks to linemen due to the need for physical proximity and direct measurement, which is dangerous at high voltages and currents.
Innovation Solution
A temperature sensor assembly that can be retrofitted to separable insulated connectors, using Bluetooth Low Energy signals for remote temperature monitoring, enabling safe and efficient temperature data transmission without altering the connector's functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If physical proximity and direct measurement methods are used for temperature diagnostics, then measurement accuracy is improved, but safety risks to linemen increase due to high voltage and current exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary wireless temperature sensor assembly that couples to the separable insulated connector through a test point. This intermediary device enables remote temperature measurement without requiring linemen to physically approach the high-voltage equipment, thus maintaining measurement accuracy while eliminating safety risks associated with direct proximity to energized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical approach of direct physical contact measurement with a wireless electronic measurement system. The temperature sensor assembly uses wireless communication circuitry to transmit temperature data remotely, substituting the mechanical system of direct measurement with an electronic field-based system that eliminates the need for physical proximity to hazardous equipment.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If remote temperature monitoring is implemented, then safety risks are reduced, but the complexity of the diagnostic system increases due to additional sensor and communication components
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature sensor assembly is designed to couple with the existing test point infrastructure of separable insulated connectors, utilizing existing electrical pathways for both power/communication and temperature sensing. This multi-functional approach allows the same test point structure to serve both its original purpose and the new temperature monitoring function, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite adding remote monitoring capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The temperature sensor assembly is designed as a compact integrated unit that nests within the existing connector structure. The sensor, communication circuitry, and housing are combined in a nested configuration that minimizes additional space requirements and integrates seamlessly with the existing equipment, reducing the perceived complexity of the overall system.
3Ease of manufacture
If existing test point infrastructure is utilized, then ease of installation is improved, but the ability to perform both voltage sensing and temperature diagnostics simultaneously is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature sensor assembly is designed as a separate, modular unit that couples to the test point rather than requiring modification of the test point structure itself. This segmentation allows the test point infrastructure to maintain its original voltage sensing function while the attached sensor assembly provides additional temperature diagnostics capability, enabling both functions to operate simultaneously without interference.
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
Facilitates safe and efficient remote temperature diagnostics, reducing the need for physical access and minimizing safety hazards while maintaining system functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a temperature sensor configured to couple with a test point of a separable insulated connector in an electrical distribution system and configured to detect a temperature of the separable insulated connector
Implementation Method 2
a communication circuitry electrically coupled with the temperature sensor and configured to transmit the detected temperature to a remote device
Data Source
AI summary
A temperature sensor assembly for remotely diagnosing a temperature of a separable insulated connector in a medium-high voltage electrical distribution system is provided. The temperature sensor assembly includes a temperature sensor configured to couple with a test point of a separable insulated connector in an electrical distribution system and configured to detect a temperature of the separable insulated connector. The temperature sensor assembly further includes a communication circuitry electrically coupled with the temperature sensor and configured to transmit the detected temperature to a remote device.