Dynamic Input Impedance for Switchgear Noise Immunity

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Solution Overview

Problem

In electrical power distribution networks, existing technologies face challenges in accurately monitoring and controlling switchgear operations due to noise and moisture-related issues in long cables, leading to suboptimal performance and potential failures.

Innovation Solution

A system with an input apparatus that includes impedance modules and leakage current detection modules, capable of adjusting input impedance based on the state of contact switches and detecting moisture presence through leakage current analysis, thereby improving noise immunity and reducing failure rates.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of stationary object

If long cables are used to connect switchgear and control systems, then the monitoring and control coverage is extended, but noise and moisture interference increase leading to suboptimal performance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecable lengthVSAvoidsignal quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The input impedance is dynamically adjusted based on the operational state of the contact switch. When the contact switch is detected to be open, the input impedance is increased to prevent false triggering from leakage current. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by maintaining signal quality reliability over extended cable lengths without requiring shorter cables.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the electrical parameter (input impedance) in response to detected conditions. By monitoring contact switch state and adjusting input impedance accordingly, the system compensates for noise and moisture interference that increases with cable length, thereby maintaining signal integrity over longer distances.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Device complexity

If traditional fixed input impedance is used in monitoring systems, then the device complexity is reduced, but false triggering occurs due to leakage current when contact switches are open

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimpedance control mechanismVSAvoidfalse triggering rate
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The input impedance transitions from a fixed value to a dynamic value that changes based on contact switch state. This dynamic behavior eliminates false triggering caused by leakage current while the switch is open, significantly improving reliability without adding excessive complexity through the use of state-based control logic.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback by monitoring the contact switch state and using this information to adjust the input impedance. This closed-loop control prevents false triggering by adapting the impedance to the current operational condition, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If moisture ingress is not detected, then the system operation continues uninterrupted, but performance degrades and failures occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem uptimeVSAvoidfailure rate
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary detection of moisture ingress through leakage current analysis before actual failures occur. By detecting early signs of moisture contamination and adjusting operational parameters or alerting operators, the system prevents performance degradation and failures while maintaining uninterrupted operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces physical inspection methods with electrical measurement techniques for detecting moisture ingress. By measuring leakage current through the cable insulation, the system can detect moisture contamination without mechanical intervention, enabling continuous operation while maintaining high reliability through early warning capability.

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

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 system enhances the accuracy of switchgear monitoring, reduces noise interference, and enables early detection of moisture ingress, leading to improved reliability and performance of electrical power distribution networks by providing accurate status indications and predictive maintenance alerts.

Implementation Method 1

a leakage detection current module electrically coupled to the impedance module, the leakage detection current module being configured to provide an indication of an amount of electrical current that flows in the conductor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLeakage current detection: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 2

The input interface is configured to have one of a plurality of input impedances, the plurality of input impedances include at least a first input impedance and a second input impedance that is lower than the first input impedance

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectImpedance matching: Electrical Resistance

Data Source

PatentUS10910825B2Input impedance management and leakage current detection
Publication Date: 2021.02.02 EATON INTELLIGENT POWER LTD
  • US10910825B2 patent drawing
  • US10910825B2 patent drawing
  • US10910825B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for an electrical power distribution network includes an electrical apparatus configured to monitor or control one or more aspects of the electrical power distribution network, the electrical apparatus including a contact switch configured to open and close. The system also includes an input apparatus. The input apparatus includes an impedance module; and an input interface electrically connected to the impedance module and to the contact switch of the electrical apparatus. The input interface is configured to have one of a plurality of input impedances, the plurality of input impedances include at least a first input impedance and a second input impedance that is lower than the first input impedance, and the input interface has the second input impedance when the contact switch of the electrical apparatus is open. The input apparatus may include a plurality of leakage current detection modules.