DC Grid Arc Detection Using Voltage Noise and Impedance Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing arc detection methods in DC grids face challenges due to the absence of zero-crossing points in DC arc currents, interference from switching harmonics, and noise susceptibility, making it difficult to reliably detect arcs in complex DC networks without bulky current transformers.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that measure arc noise voltage superimposed on the DC grid voltage, ensuring a minimum impedance range in a predefined frequency range for connected electrical devices, using electrical fitting units like series inductors to transform arc noise current into voltage for detection, without direct current measurement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional current measurement methods are used for arc detection in DC grids, then arc detection can be performed, but bulky current transformers are required and the system becomes complex and costly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvearc detection capabilityVSAvoidcurrent transformer size

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces direct current measurement (which would require bulky current transformers) with voltage measurement of arc noise superimposed on DC grid voltage. This substitution uses electrical fitting units with series inductors to transform arc noise current into detectable voltage signals, eliminating the need for large current transformers while maintaining arc detection capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces electrical fitting units with series inductors as intermediary components. These inductors transform arc noise current into voltage signals that can be measured without requiring direct current measurement. The series inductor acts as a mediator that converts the measurement problem from current domain to voltage domain, enabling detection without bulky current transformers

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If power electronics are used in DC micro grids, then flexible operation and power quality are improved, but switching harmonics are generated that interfere with arc detection

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperation flexibilityVSAvoidswitching harmonics

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by ensuring that electrical devices connected to the DC grid have a minimum impedance range in a predefined frequency range. This localized impedance requirement at specific frequency points allows arc detection signals to be distinguished from switching harmonics, enabling power electronics to operate flexibly while maintaining arc detection capability through frequency-selective measurement

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

3Reliability

If arc detection sensitivity is increased to detect weak arcs, then detection reliability improves, but noise susceptibility increases making detection more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvearc detection reliabilityVSAvoidnoise susceptibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs frequency domain analysis to detect arc noise within a predefined frequency range. By focusing measurement on specific frequency bands where arc noise occurs, the system achieves reliable arc detection while filtering out broadband noise and switching harmonics. The periodic nature of switching harmonics allows them to be distinguished from the characteristic frequency signature of arc noise

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

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 reliable and cost-effective arc detection in complex DC grids, allowing for selective branch isolation and improved safety by preventing arc propagation, while reducing electromagnetic interference and maintaining grid operation.

Implementation Method 1

electrical fitting units like series inductors to transform arc noise current into voltage for detection

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20260029456A1Method and system for detecting arcs in a DC grid

Publication Date: 2026.01.29 VLAAMSE INSTELLING VOOR TECHNOLOGISCH ONDERZOEK NV (VITO)

AI summary

A method and system for detecting an occurrence of an arc in a DC grid, wherein electrical devices are connectable to the DC grid, wherein the method includes providing at least one detector unit in the DC grid, the detector unit being configured to measure arc noise voltage superimposed on a DC grid voltage without a direct measurement of the current flowing through the arc itself, wherein the arc noise voltage is associated to the occurrence of an arc in the DC grid, and wherein a minimum impedance range in a predefined frequency range is ensured for each of the electrical devices connected to the DC grid.