Inductive Operator State Analysis via Acoustic Regression

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for analyzing the state of inductive operating means, such as power transformers, require complex and cumbersome physical measurements directly at the active part, necessitating separation from the mains for assessment.

Innovation Solution

A system that detects acoustic reference and operating variables during a reference period, generates a regression model to describe the acoustic signals, and evaluates the state by comparing productive data sets to modeled values, allowing for continuous and simplified analysis without direct physical measurements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If direct physical measurements are performed at the active part of the inductive operating means, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to the need for separation from the mains and complex measurement procedures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestate analysis accuracyVSAvoidoperational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses acoustic signals as an intermediary to indirectly measure the state of the inductive operating means. Instead of directly measuring electrical parameters at the active part, acoustic emissions are detected and correlated with operational state, enabling measurement without direct contact or separation from the mains

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex electrical measurement systems with acoustic detection. Acoustic sensors detect sound waves generated by the inductive operating means during operation, substituting mechanical/acoustic measurement for electrical measurement, thereby simplifying the measurement process while maintaining diagnostic capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If the inductive operating means is separated from the mains for checking, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity and duration of action worsen due to operational downtime

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestate analysis accuracyVSAvoidoperational continuity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables continuous state monitoring of the inductive operating means during normal operation. Acoustic sensors continuously detect acoustic emissions without requiring shutdown or separation from the mains, maintaining operational continuity while providing ongoing diagnostic information

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary acoustic monitoring during normal operation to detect early signs of degradation. By continuously analyzing acoustic signals, potential issues are identified before they become critical, allowing preventive maintenance without unexpected downtime

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Measurement precision

If complex measurements such as dynamic resistance measurement or FRA are performed, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen due to the complexity of the measurement procedures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestate analysis accuracyVSAvoidmeasurement system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex electrical measurement systems (dynamic resistance measurement, FRA) with acoustic detection. Acoustic sensors and signal processing equipment substitute for complex electrical test equipment, simplifying the measurement system while maintaining diagnostic accuracy through acoustic emission analysis

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

Acoustic signals serve as an intermediary that simplifies the measurement interface. Instead of requiring direct electrical connection and complex measurement setups, the acoustic field mediates between the inductive operating means and the detection system, reducing measurement system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 the evaluation of inductive operating means without complex physical measurements, providing continuous and accurate state assessment through the use of acoustic signals and operating variables, facilitating routine monitoring and potential actions like maintenance or shutdown.

Implementation Method 1

detect an acoustic reference signal and a plurality of operating variables

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAcoustic emission: Acoustic Emission

Data Source

PatentUS11788879B2State analysis of an inductive operating resource
Publication Date: 2023.10.17 MASCHFAB REINHAUSEN GMBH
  • US11788879B2 patent drawing
  • US11788879B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system analyzes a state of an inductive operator. The system includes a measuring device that is configured to: detect an acoustic reference signal and a plurality of operating variables, which can change over time, of the inductive operator or a reference inductive operator during a reference time period; and detect an acoustic signal and the operating variables during a productive time period. The system also includes an evaluating device that is configured to: generate a reference data set from the reference signal and a productive data set from the acoustic signal; perform a regression analysis of the reference data set and thereby create a model for description of the acoustic reference signal by the operating variables; and generate a state evaluation of the inductive operator from a difference between the productive data set and values modelled in accordance with the model.