Fault Location in Electric Links via Electromagnetic Field Variation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for locating faults in electrical energy transmission cables, particularly submarine and underground cables, are not precise, leading to significant location errors due to variations in dielectric loss factors and permittivity with frequency, which affect signal propagation speed.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the measurement of electromagnetic field components along a path above the cable, using a boustrophedon route, and analyzing the variations to pinpoint the fault location, combined with echometry to estimate the fault's position based on signal propagation time and speed models.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If echometry is used to locate faults in electrical cables, then the fault location can be obtained, but the location precision is poor with errors reaching more than one kilometer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by measuring electromagnetic field components (vertical and horizontal) at multiple frequencies and using frequency-dependent analysis to determine fault location. The method transforms the single-parameter time-domain echometry measurement into a multi-parameter frequency-domain electromagnetic field measurement, accounting for frequency-dependent dielectric properties to achieve precise localization.
2Device complexity
If the propagation speed is assumed constant, then the calculation is simple, but the location error increases due to frequency-dependent dielectric properties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter from constant propagation speed to frequency-dependent propagation speed. By measuring electromagnetic field components at multiple frequencies and analyzing the frequency-dependent dielectric loss factor and permittivity, the method determines the actual propagation characteristics without assuming constant speed, thereby improving precision while managing complexity through systematic measurement procedures.
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 provides precise fault location by accounting for frequency-dependent dielectric properties and signal attenuation, reducing location errors and enhancing reliability in fault detection.
Implementation Method 1
detecting, at a second instant, the reception of an echo of this electrical signal
Implementation Method 2
transmitting, at a first instant, an electrical signal at a predetermined speed from one end of the electrical connection
Implementation Method 3
measurement of electromagnetic field components along a path above the cable
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~3b
Figure 4a~4b
AI summary
The method involves measuring a part of components of electromagnetic field near a fault estimating location from a place along an electric connection by a measuring unit. Variation of the part of the components of electromagnetic field is estimated using an estimation unit. A fault location is estimated based on the estimated variation of the part of the components of the electromagnetic field. Measured magnetic field is generated by circulation of predetermined frequency current in the electric connection. An independent claim is also included for a device for locating a fault on an electric connection, comprising a measuring unit.