Fault Detection in Electrical Circuits Using Phase-Shifted Test Signals

The patent applies preliminary action by continuously injecting test signals into the circuit under test before actual faults occur. These test signals are processed through the signal path and monitored continuously, enabling the system to detect faults as they develop rather than after they occur, thereby reducing fault response time while maintaining continuous operation.

The patent implements continuity of useful action by maintaining continuous injection of test signals and continuous monitoring of signal characteristics throughout the circuit operation. This continuous testing approach allows the system to detect faults in real-time without interrupting normal circuit function, eliminating the trade-off between detection capability and operational disruption.

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the test signal into multiple distinct components, each with unique characteristics (different frequencies, phases, or codes). These segmented test signals are injected into different portions of the circuit or at different times, allowing the system to isolate and identify individual faults even when multiple faults coexist, as each fault affects only the specific test signal segment it intercepts.

The patent utilizes asymmetry by employing test signals with non-uniform characteristics (different frequencies, phases, or modulation patterns) for different circuit segments. This asymmetric signaling approach creates distinct fault signatures for each circuit section, enabling the system to differentiate between multiple simultaneous faults and accurately isolate their locations despite the increased system complexity.