Detecting DC Components in Inductive Devices via Acoustic Analysis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for detecting direct current components in inductive devices are complex, requiring internal measuring devices and expert evaluation, and are not practical for identifying the source of disruptive noises in AC voltage energy supply networks.

Innovation Solution

A method using a computer to record and analyze oscillation signals, determining the frequency spectrum, comparing odd and even frequencies, and assessing the difference to automatically detect direct current components without internal measuring devices or expert intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If internal measuring devices are used to detect direct current components, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoidmeasurement system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex electrical measurement devices with acoustic measurement. A microphone records sound emissions from the inductive device, and signal processing extracts frequency components to detect direct current. This substitutes mechanical/acoustic measurement for electrical measurement, simplifying the system while maintaining detection capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces acoustic waves as an intermediary between the direct current component and the measurement system. The direct current causes magnetic flux density changes that produce acoustic emissions, which are then captured and analyzed. This intermediary enables indirect detection without requiring internal electrical sensors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If expert evaluation is used to assess acoustic measurement series, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassessment accuracyVSAvoidoperational simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements automated signal processing that performs the evaluation function previously requiring expert intervention. The system automatically records acoustic signals, processes them through frequency analysis, compares odd and even harmonics, and determines the presence of direct current components without human involvement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transforms the evaluation process from qualitative expert assessment to quantitative automated analysis. By converting acoustic measurements into frequency domain parameters and applying predefined comparison criteria, the system achieves expert-level accuracy through algorithmic processing rather than human judgment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Measurement precision

If complex measuring devices are installed in inductive devices, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection capabilityVSAvoidretrofit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the measurement function from the inductive device itself and performs it externally. Instead of installing sensors inside the transformer or inductor, the system measures acoustic emissions from the outside, eliminating the need for internal modifications and simplifying both initial manufacturing and retrofits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

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 the detection of direct current components in inductive devices through a fully automated process, reducing the need for internal measuring devices and expert evaluation, and providing a probabilistic assessment of the presence of direct current components based on predefined criteria.

Implementation Method 1

recording an oscillation signal, either of the sound emitted by the device or of the mechanical oscillation of the device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic oscillation to acoustic conversion:

Data Source

PatentUS12044710B2Detection of a direct current component in an inductive device
Publication Date: 2024.07.23 SIEMENS ENERGY GLOBAL GMBH & CO KG

AI summary

A method for detecting a direct current component in an inductive device, for example in a transformer or choke, includes using a computer for recording an oscillation signal, either of sound emitted from the device or of mechanical oscillation of the device, determining the frequency range of the oscillation signal, determining the value of at least one odd frequency in the frequency range, comparing the value of the odd frequency with the value of at least one even frequency in the frequency range, and determining a direct current component when the value of the odd frequency differs from the even frequency by a predefined amount. The method can be carried out without measuring equipment in the interior of an inductive device and without the involvement of an expert. A computer program product for carrying out the method is also provided.