CT Connectivity Detection Using Signal Pattern Recognition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional load center controllers waste energy and receive false measurements due to the inability to quickly detect disconnections or new connections of current transformers (CTs), as existing CT detection subsystems rely on power-wasting voltage dividers and infrequent checks.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing pattern recognition on signal patterns at terminals to quickly determine CT connectivity, allowing the controller to save power while maintaining timely detection, by comparing signals to a defined signal envelope and using a countdown timer to identify disconnected CTs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If voltage dividers are used for CT detection, then CT connectivity can be detected, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the CT detection function from the traditional voltage divider approach and implements it through pattern recognition of existing signal terminals. Instead of adding a separate detection subsystem that consumes power, the system utilizes the existing signal terminals to detect CT connectivity by analyzing signal patterns, thereby eliminating the need for power-wasting voltage dividers while maintaining detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The signal terminals serve dual purposes: they are used for both normal signal processing and for CT connectivity detection. By making the detection subsystem universal and integrating it into the existing signal path, the patent eliminates the need for separate detection hardware that would consume additional power, while still providing reliable CT connectivity detection
2Use of energy by moving object
If infrequent checks are used for CT detection, then power consumption is reduced, but detection timeliness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic pattern recognition checks on the signal terminals to detect CT connectivity changes. By using periodic action with the countdown timer mechanism, the system can quickly identify when a CT becomes disconnected or newly connected, achieving timely detection without requiring continuous monitoring that would consume excessive power
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the signal terminal patterns to trigger immediate detection responses. When signal patterns indicate a potential CT connectivity change, the countdown timer and pattern recognition mechanism provide feedback that initiates timely detection, ensuring rapid identification of CT disconnections or new connections while maintaining energy efficiency
3Reliability
If separate CT detection subsystems are added, then detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the CT detection function with the existing signal processing system by using the same signal terminals for both purposes. Instead of adding a separate detection subsystem, the detection capability is integrated into the existing architecture through pattern recognition, thereby improving CT detection capability while avoiding increased device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The existing signal terminals are made universal to serve both normal signal processing and CT connectivity detection functions. This multi-functionality approach eliminates the need for separate detection hardware, improving detection capability while maintaining simple system architecture without adding complexity
4Loss of time
If continuous monitoring is implemented, then detection timeliness is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic pattern recognition monitoring of signal terminals rather than continuous monitoring. The countdown timer mechanism enables timely detection of CT connectivity changes by periodically checking signal patterns, achieving fast detection response without the excessive power consumption associated with continuous monitoring
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses self-service pattern recognition where the existing signal terminals provide their own detection functionality. By analyzing the natural signal patterns at the terminals without requiring active probing or additional power-consuming components, the system achieves timely CT connectivity detection while maintaining energy efficiency
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 approach enables efficient energy management by reducing power consumption and minimizing skewed measurements, allowing for rapid identification of CT connections and disconnections without the need for separate detection subsystems.
Implementation Method 1
A CT may be used to measure current in a branch by producing a reduced current signal, proportionate to the current in the branch
Data Source
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AI summary
According to one aspect, embodiments of the invention provide a system monitor for a load center comprising a current sensor configured to be coupled to a circuit branch within the load center and to produce a measurement signal having a level related to a current level of the circuit branch, a sensor circuit coupled to the current sensor and removably coupled to a terminal, the sensor circuit configured to provide the measurement signal to the terminal, and a controller coupled to the terminal and configured to monitor signals at the terminal, wherein the controller is further configured to detect disconnection of the current sensor from the terminal based on a signal level at the terminal.