Hall Sensor Array for Cable Defect Detection via Magnetic Field

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Solution Overview

Problem

The manufacturing process of rare-earth barium copper oxides (REBCOs) can result in defects that constrict current flow, and handling stresses exacerbate these defects, leading to current distribution anomalies.

Innovation Solution

An array of Hall sensors is disposed in proximity to the cable to detect anomalies in current distribution by measuring changes in the radial magnetic field produced by current redistribution, allowing for the identification of defects.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If Hall sensors are used to detect current distribution anomalies, then defect detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedefect detection capabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the cable into multiple measurement sections along its length, with Hall sensors positioned at different locations to independently measure current distribution in each section. This segmentation allows comprehensive defect detection while maintaining manageable system complexity by processing measurements section by section.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Hall sensors serve as intermediary devices that indirectly detect defects by measuring magnetic field changes caused by current redistribution, rather than directly observing the defects themselves. This intermediary approach enables non-contact, non-invasive defect detection while preserving cable integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Area of stationary object

If the array of Hall sensors scans the entire cable length, then measurement coverage is improved, but measurement time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement coverageVSAvoidmeasurement time
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system pre-positions multiple Hall sensors at predetermined locations along the cable before measurement begins. This preliminary arrangement allows simultaneous or sequential measurement across the entire cable length without requiring time-consuming sensor relocation, thereby reducing total measurement time while maintaining comprehensive coverage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Measurement precision

If current redistribution occurs due to defects, then defect detection accuracy is improved, but magnetic field imbalance increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedefect detection accuracyVSAvoidmagnetic field imbalance
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously monitors current distribution and magnetic field conditions, using the detected anomalies as feedback to identify defect locations. By detecting the natural current redistribution that occurs due to defects rather than intentionally creating it, the system achieves high detection accuracy without deliberately inducing harmful magnetic field imbalances.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 effectively detects defects in cables, such as CORC cables, by identifying anomalies in current distribution, which can prevent imbalances in the magnetic field and reduce the risk of quenches or energy releases.

Implementation Method 1

measuring, by the array of Hall sensors during step b), changes in a radial magnetic field produced by current redistribution

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHall effect: Hall Effect

Data Source

PatentUS20250076362A1Systems and methods for detecting defects in cables
Publication Date: 2025.03.06 FLORIDA STATE UNIV RES FOUND INC
  • US20250076362A1 patent drawing
  • US20250076362A1 patent drawing
  • US20250076362A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods for detecting anomalies in current distribution in cables are provided An array of Hall sensors can be disposed in proximity to a cable to be examined for defects. The array of Hall sensors can scan along a length of the cable to measure changes in the radial magnetic field produced by current redistribution. If an anomaly in the current distribution is detected in the cable, this can be indicative of a defect.