Flexible X-ray Detector for Cast Resin Transformer Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cast resin transformers in power transmission systems are difficult to inspect due to their outdoor and tubular structure, which is filled with internal electronics, making conventional X-ray imaging impractical and potentially damaging.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray radiation imaging system with a flexible X-ray detector and source device that can be positioned to irradiate and image cast resin transformers without disassembly, using a carrier layer with X-ray sensing segments and an image extraction device to generate images and detect defects within the transformers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional X-ray imaging is used on cast resin transformers, then imaging capability is achieved, but the transformer must be disassembled which increases complexity and risk of damage
Solution Approach 1:
The X-ray detector is nested within the tubular structure of the cast resin transformer, specifically positioned inside the transformer housing. This allows the detector to be placed in proximity to the internal electronics without requiring disassembly of the transformer, thereby achieving imaging capability while maintaining the integrity of the transformer structure.
Solution Approach 2:
A flexible carrier layer is introduced as an intermediary component that holds the X-ray sensing segments. This carrier layer enables the detector to conform to the internal geometry of the transformer and facilitates positioning of the detector within the tubular structure without direct contact with or damage to the internal electronics.
2Ease of operation
If the X-ray detector is positioned inside the tubular structure, then non-invasive imaging is achieved, but the detector design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The detector is divided into multiple X-ray sensing segments that are arranged in a circular array around the tubular structure. Each segment can be independently positioned and secured to the carrier layer, allowing the detector to conform to the internal geometry of the transformer while maintaining a relatively simple design for each individual segment.
Solution Approach 2:
A flexible carrier layer is used to support the X-ray sensing segments. This flexible film allows the detector assembly to conform to the curved internal surface of the tubular transformer structure without requiring complex rigid mounting mechanisms, thereby simplifying the overall detector design while enabling non-invasive positioning.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple sensing segments are used to image the transformer, then imaging coverage is improved, but data processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple X-ray sensing segments are arranged in a circular array and their individual images are merged by an image extraction device to create a complete cross-sectional view of the transformer internals. This combining approach allows comprehensive imaging coverage of the entire transformer cross-section while using standard image processing techniques to integrate the data from multiple segments.
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 non-invasive and effective imaging and defect detection of cast resin transformers, reducing the risk of failure by allowing for regular inspection and identifying manufacturing defects before they cause operational issues.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray source device configured to irradiate the object with X-ray radiation
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of X-ray sensing segments carried by the at least one carrier layer and defining a sensing array. The plurality of X-ray sensing segments may receive the X-ray radiation through the object
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray radiation imaging system is for imaging an object. The X-ray radiation imaging system may include an X-ray source device configured to irradiate the object with X-ray radiation, an X-ray detector to be positioned adjacent the object and having a carrier layer, and X-ray sensing segments carried by the carrier layer and defining a sensing array. The X-ray sensing segments may receive the X-ray radiation through the object. The X-ray radiation imaging system may include an image extraction device configured to generate an image of the object based upon the X-ray detector.