Fiber Optic Boom Alerts for Low-Power Voltage Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current alert systems for aerial devices working near energized parts require high power supply and often rely on primitive methods like visual inspection or wireless sensors, which are inefficient and prone to power issues, posing safety risks to workers.
Innovation Solution
A device and method that converts digital signals from voltage and current sensors into fiber optic signals, allowing for low-power communication that bypasses dielectric gaps and alerts users of proximity to energized parts, preventing movement of the aerial device when thresholds are exceeded.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wireless sensor systems are used for voltage detection, then detection capability is improved, but power consumption increases requiring frequent battery changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces wireless electromagnetic communication with fiber optic communication. Instead of using wireless sensors that transmit data through electromagnetic waves (consuming significant power), the system uses fiber optic cables to transmit detection signals. This substitution of communication mechanism dramatically reduces power consumption while maintaining reliable voltage detection capability throughout the aerial device operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces fiber optic cables as an intermediary medium for signal transmission. Rather than direct wireless communication between sensors and receivers, the fiber optic cable serves as a physical intermediary that carries detection signals with minimal power requirements, enabling reliable voltage monitoring without the high energy demands of wireless systems.
2Reliability
If insulated boom is used to prevent electrocution, then safety is improved, but electrical signaling via wire between base and boom tip becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses fiber optic cables as an intermediary that can transmit signals through the insulated boom structure. The fiber optic material acts as a mediator that is electrically isolated from the conductive boom yet can carry detection signals from sensors on the boom tip back to the base, solving the signaling problem created by insulation without compromising safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional electrical wiring with fiber optic cabling for signal transmission through the insulated boom. This substitution allows signals to pass through the non-conductive boom structure without requiring electrical contact, maintaining both the insulation's protective function and the ability to transmit sensor data from remote locations on the boom.
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 significantly reduces power requirements, extends the operating life of the alert system, and enhances safety by providing reliable alerts and preventing electrocution risks through efficient communication of voltage and current proximity.
Implementation Method 1
a first fiber optic cable configured to transmit the voltage detection signal from the boom to the base
Data Source
AI summary
A voltage and current alert system and method for an aerial vehicle including an extendable boom member is disclosed. The system and method include voltage and current sensors disposed throughout the aerial vehicle. The system and method further include components for conversion of the alert signal from a digital signal to a fiber optic signal, therein decreasing the power requirements of the system as well as allowing the signal to bypass a dielectric gap. The system further may shutdown operation of the aerial vehicle upon a detection event.