Dielectric Cover for Power Transmission Protection

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Solution Overview

Problem

High voltage electrical power transmission systems are susceptible to short circuits caused by birds and other animals, leading to equipment damage and power outages, with existing solutions being costly and ineffective in preventing such incidents.

Innovation Solution

A dielectric cover is spray molded to fit around components of the electrical power transmission system, providing insulation and securing with peripheral edges, allowing for easy installation on existing infrastructure while in operation, using a fast-setting polyurethane/polyurea hybrid material for effective insulation and durability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Weight of stationary object

If uninsulated conductors are used in high tension powerlines, then cost and weight are reduced, but susceptibility to bird-caused short circuits increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconductor weightVSAvoidprotection from short circuits

Core Design Contradiction:

Weight of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

A dielectric coating is applied to the conductor surface, forming a thin flexible insulating layer that prevents direct contact between birds and the conductor, thereby eliminating short circuit risks while maintaining the lightweight and cost-effective characteristics of uninsulated conductors

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanical insulation structure (such as traditional insulators or protective housings) is replaced by a dielectric coating application process, which achieves the same insulation function through chemical/physical coating rather than mechanical assembly, reducing complexity and maintaining weight efficiency

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Area of stationary object

If reduced system clearences are used in distribution voltages, then substation size is reduced, but susceptibility to bird or animal caused outages increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesubstation areaVSAvoidbird or animal contact risk

Core Design Contradiction:

Area of stationary objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Dielectric coatings are applied to live power transmission components within the substation, creating an insulating barrier that prevents animals from causing short circuits even when clearences are reduced, allowing compact substation design without compromising safety

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The dielectric coating acts as an intermediary barrier between animals and the electrical components, preventing direct contact and short circuits while allowing the system to maintain reduced clearences and compact footprint

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If dielectric coating is applied to live power transmission components, then protection from short circuits is achieved, but installation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprotection from short circuitsVSAvoidinstallation process complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The dielectric coating material is applied in a manner that allows the system to be protected during normal operation, with the coating process itself being simplified through specialized application equipment that reduces the need for complex installation procedures and system shutdowns

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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

The solution effectively reduces the risk of electrical shorts, enhances power system reliability, and protects both equipment and animals by providing a flexible and cost-effective insulation method that can be retrofitted onto existing structures, accommodating various shapes and orientations.

Implementation Method 1

A dielectric cover is spray molded to fit around components of the electrical power transmission system, providing insulation

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDielectric insulation: Dielectric

Implementation Method 2

using a fast-setting polyurethane/polyurea hybrid material for effective insulation and durability

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPolymerization: Photopolymerisation

Data Source

PatentUS7834269B2Protection of electrical power transmission systems

Publication Date: 2010.11.16 CANTEGA TECH

AI summary

A method and apparatus for protecting electrical power transmissions systems that may or may not be energized. A protector and method for protecting a component of an electrical power transmission system. A dielectric cover is molded to fit around the component. The dielectric cover has a peripheral edge including portions with cooperating mating surfaces that, in use, mate together to secure the dielectric cover on the component. A grip portion, for example the mating surfaces, of the dielectric cover is preferably shaped to receive a hot stick. The dielectric cover may be provided with ventilation openings, and a friction enhancing interior surface, such as a weak adhesive on an interior surface of the dielectric cover.