HVDC Distribution Fault Detection via Wavelet Test Signal Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
High voltage DC distribution networks in aircraft are susceptible to faults such as partial discharge, series arc, and parallel arc faults, which are difficult to detect, posing a risk to sensitive components and operational reliability.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of high frequency sensors that inject alternating current test signals into the DC distribution network, using continuous wavelet transforms and machine learning models to analyze the signals and determine faults by comparing them to a normal operation profile, allowing for quick identification of fault types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of stationary object
If high voltage DC distribution networks are used in aircraft, then power supply simplification and weight savings are achieved, but the networks become more susceptible to faults that are difficult to detect
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by continuously injecting test signals into the HVDC network and comparing received signals against expected patterns before faults can cause damage. The controller proactively monitors impedance changes and detects anomalies such as partial discharge, series arcs, and parallel arcs before they escalate into serious failures, enabling preventive maintenance rather than reactive response.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing test signals as a mediator to indirectly detect faults. Instead of directly measuring fault conditions, the system injects known test signals through the network and analyzes how these signals are affected by potential faults. The comparison between transmitted and received signal patterns reveals the presence and type of faults without requiring direct contact with fault sources.
2Device complexity
If traditional fault detection methods are used in HVDC networks, then device complexity is reduced, but fault detection speed and accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic action by continuously and repeatedly injecting test signals at regular intervals throughout the operation of the HVDC network. The controller periodically transmits test signals and compares the received signals against stored patterns, ensuring continuous monitoring without requiring complex real-time analysis infrastructure. This periodic testing approach enables rapid fault detection while maintaining relatively simple system architecture.
3Device complexity
If simple monitoring systems are used, then device complexity is minimized, but measurement precision and fault identification accuracy are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by analyzing specific local characteristics of the received test signals rather than attempting comprehensive system-wide analysis. The controller compares local features of the received signal pattern against corresponding local features of expected patterns stored in memory. This focused comparison of specific signal characteristics enables precise fault detection and classification while keeping the monitoring system relatively simple.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for health monitoring and fault detection in power distribution networks are provided. Aspects include providing a first power supply coupled to a power channel, providing a load coupled to the power channel, providing a transmitting sensor coupled to the power channel between the first power supply and the load, providing a receiving sensor coupled to the power channel between the transmitting sensor and the load, operating the transmitting sensor to provide an AC test signal to the power channel, the AC test signal comprises a predefined test signal pattern, operating the receiving sensor to sense, from the power channel, a continuous power signal including the AC test signal, analyzing, by the controller, the AC test signal to determine a fault of the power channel based on comparing the predefined test signal pattern with a predefined nominal probe signal pattern corresponding to a specific network configuration.