Inclination Sensor for Downed Power Conductor Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power transmission conductors and structures can fail due to hardware or insulator failure, fires, or conductor failure, leading to hazardous situations where the conductor may fall or hang low, potentially causing electrical hazards or risks to humans and animals, necessitating a sensor to alert utilities for corrective actions.
Innovation Solution
A sensor secured to power transmission conductors or structures, equipped with an accelerometer to measure inclination in three axes, compares the measured inclination to a threshold and alerts utilities if it exceeds the set limit, enabling timely intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional monitoring methods are used, then infrastructure reliability is maintained, but detection capability and response time are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional visual inspection and manual monitoring with an automated electronic sensor system that uses accelerometers and inclinometers to detect conductor position and movement, enabling continuous automated monitoring without human intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor system autonomously monitors conductor position, detects anomalies, and triggers alerts without requiring utility personnel to physically inspect each conductor, allowing the system to self-monitor and self-report issues
2Productivity
If manual inspection methods are used, then device complexity is low, but productivity and response time are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is designed to monitor multiple parameters (position, inclination, movement) across numerous conductors using standardized multi-functional sensors, allowing a single system architecture to handle diverse monitoring needs without requiring separate specialized devices for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces wireless communication modules and centralized processing systems as intermediaries between the physical sensors and utility operators, enabling automated data transmission and analysis without requiring direct human presence at each monitoring point
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 sensor effectively identifies downed or low-hanging conductors, allowing utilities to denergize circuits, deploy repair crews, and inform authorities, thereby mitigating hazards and ensuring safety.
Implementation Method 1
using the sensor to measure inclination of the power transmission conductor or structure
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor and method for identifying a downed power transmission conductor or structure is disclosed. The method includes the steps of securing a sensor to a power transmission conductor or structure, using the sensor to measure inclination of the power transmission conductor or structure, comparing the measured inclination to a set threshold, and alerting a utility if the measured inclination exceeds the set threshold.