Optical Fiber Lightning Strike Detection Using Vibration Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lightning strike detection systems for overhead power transmission lines require complex configurations with special devices installed on individual steel towers, complicating the system setup.
Innovation Solution
A lightning strike detection system utilizing an optical fiber network for detecting sensing information, specifically using vibration patterns in optical signals to identify lightning strikes without the need for additional devices on steel towers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If special devices (accident detection device, impact application device, standardization device) are installed on individual steel towers to detect lightning strikes, then detection capability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling the optical fiber network to serve dual purposes: its original communication function and lightning strike detection function. The optical fiber cable already installed on steel towers is reused for sensing vibrations caused by lightning strikes, eliminating the need for separate dedicated detection devices and reducing system complexity while maintaining detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies self-service by using the optical fiber network's own physical properties (vibration characteristics when struck by lightning) to detect lightning strikes. The system leverages the inherent response of the optical fiber to mechanical disturbances without requiring additional active sensing components on the towers, allowing the infrastructure to detect events affecting it
2Measurement precision
If multiple devices are installed on each steel tower for accident and lightning detection, then detection precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The optical fiber network performs both communication and detection functions, reducing the number of devices that need to be installed and maintained on each tower. This multi-functionality simplifies operational procedures while maintaining the precision needed for lightning strike location through vibration pattern analysis
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses vibration patterns as an intermediary to detect lightning strikes. Instead of directly detecting electrical discharge, the system measures mechanical vibrations transmitted through the optical fiber, which serves as a mediator between the lightning event and the detection system, simplifying the measurement process while maintaining accuracy
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 detection of lightning strikes with a simplified system configuration by leveraging existing optical fiber infrastructure, allowing remote detection of strike occurrence and position without additional tower-mounted equipment.
Implementation Method 1
an optical signal reception means for receiving an optical signal including sensing information from an optical fiber network that detects the sensing information; and a lightning strike detection means for detecting occurrence of a lightning strike in the optical fiber network by using the sensing information included in the optical signal, wherein the sensing information indicates at least a vibration pattern of the lightning strike
Data Source
AI summary
A lightning strike detection device includes at least one memory configured to store instructions; and at least one processor configured to execute the instructions to: receive an optical signal including sensing information from an optical fiber network configured for communication, the optical fiber network detecting the sensing information; and detect an occurrence of a lightning strike in the optical fiber network by using the sensing information included in the optical signal. The sensing information indicates at least a vibration pattern of the lightning strike. The at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to: detect the occurrence of the lightning strike, based on the vibration pattern; detect presence or absence of the occurrence of the lightning strike; and detect an occurrence place of the lightning strike in the optical fiber network.