Generator Flux Probe Data Streamer Using Self-Calibrating Audio Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for monitoring magnetic flux in power plants are costly and complex due to the need for additional hardware and custom software to continuously log and analyze data from flux probes, especially when detecting interturn short circuits in rotor windings.
Innovation Solution
A self-configuring calibration circuit connected between a flux probe and a computer via cables measures resistance and voltage to determine a suitable gain, allowing magnetic flux data to be streamed directly to a computer using existing audio software and hardware, eliminating the need for expensive A/D converters and network adapters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a data acquisition system with A/D converter, network adapter, and fiber optic network is used to continuously log and analyze flux probe data, then data acquisition capability is improved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential function of continuous data acquisition from the complex data acquisition system and implements it using a simple audio interface and software. The flux probe signal is routed directly to the computer's audio input, eliminating the need for A/D converters, network adapters, and fiber optic infrastructure while maintaining continuous monitoring capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive, specialized hardware components with inexpensive, readily available consumer electronics. The audio interface and standard computer hardware substitute for costly industrial data acquisition systems, achieving the same functional outcome at a fraction of the cost using off-the-shelf components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional expensive hardware components (A/D converter, network adapter, media converters) are added to the system, then data transmission capability is improved, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the universal capabilities of standard computer hardware, particularly the audio interface, to perform data acquisition and transmission functions. The computer's existing audio processing and network capabilities are utilized, eliminating the need for specialized hardware while maintaining versatility in data handling and transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple separate hardware functions into a single integrated approach using the computer's audio interface. The flux probe signal, audio processing, data logging, and network transmission are combined into a unified system using standard computer components, reducing the total quantity of hardware required and lowering overall system cost.
3Measurement precision
If custom software and hardware are used for flux probe data acquisition, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-configuring calibration circuit that automatically determines the appropriate gain settings for the flux probe signal. The system performs self-calibration by measuring the signal characteristics and adjusting the gain accordingly, eliminating the need for manual calibration procedures and reducing operational complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts the gain parameter of the signal processing based on the measured flux probe signal characteristics. The calibration circuit measures the signal voltage and automatically sets the appropriate gain level, allowing the system to adapt to different signal conditions and maintain optimal measurement precision without requiring manual intervention or complex configuration.
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 solution reduces costs and complexity by enabling continuous, cost-effective data acquisition and analysis of magnetic flux data using standard computer interfaces and software, allowing for real-time monitoring and archiving without the need for custom hardware.
Implementation Method 1
The calibration circuit measures a resistance of the second cable
Implementation Method 2
The calibration circuit measures a voltage of the flux probe
Implementation Method 3
a sensor, such as a known flux probe, is affixed to a stator wedge in an air gap between the rotor and stator to measure the magnetic flux
Data Source
AI summary
A device for streaming magnetic flux data generated by an electrical generator for a power plant. The device includes a flux probe located on the generator to enable detection of a magnetic flux of the generator. The device also includes a computer having an interface, wherein the computer includes an analog-to-digital converter. In addition, the device includes a calibration circuit attached to the flux probe by a first cable and the interface by a second cable. The calibration circuit measures a resistance of the second cable and a voltage of the flux probe wherein ends of the second cable are shorted when measuring the cable resistance and the flux probe voltage. A gain is determined based on the cable resistance and flux probe voltage to provide a suitable input voltage at the interface to deliver the magnetic flux data to the computer.