Insulation Detection Loop for Sensitive Partial Discharge Sensing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing insulation impedance detection technologies in energy storage systems are costly, complex, and lack sensitivity in detecting non-penetrating insulation defects, leading to unreliable insulation state assessments.

Innovation Solution

An insulation detection apparatus and method utilizing a coupling conductor and signal acquisition unit to form an insulation detection loop, which detects electrical signals through partial discharge, dividing parasitic capacitance without adding additional capacitors, thereby reducing cost and interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If insulation impedance detection technology is used, then the overall insulation state can be measured, but the detection sensitivity is low for non-penetrating concentrated insulation defects

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection sensitivityVSAvoidinsulation state assessment reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the insulation detection into two independent loops: a high-impedance loop for detecting weak partial discharge signals and a low-impedance loop for providing stable current. This segmentation allows each loop to be optimized for its specific function, enabling detection of non-penetrating defects that single-loop systems miss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a coupling capacitor as an intermediary element that enables the high-impedance detection loop to capture partial discharge signals while the low-impedance loop maintains stable operating conditions. The coupling capacitor acts as a mediator that isolates the two loops while allowing signal transfer.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If additional capacitor components are added to construct partial discharge detection loop, then detection capability is improved, but the cost and volume increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepartial discharge detection capabilityVSAvoidstructure complexity and cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling conductor serves multiple functions: it acts as an electrode for the high-impedance detection loop, provides a path for the low-impedance loop, and functions as a coupling element between the two loops. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate capacitor components, reducing cost and complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the coupling capacitor function with the coupling conductor, combining two previously separate components into one integrated element. This merging reduces the number of discrete components, simplifies the structure, and lowers overall system cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Measurement precision

If additional capacitor components are added to construct partial discharge detection loop, then detection capability is improved, but the equivalent parasitic capacitance and common-mode interference current increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepartial discharge detection capabilityVSAvoidcommon-mode interference current
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the capacitive function from separate capacitor components and integrates it into the coupling conductor itself. By taking out the need for additional capacitor components, the design eliminates the source of increased parasitic capacitance and common-mode interference current while maintaining detection capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

4Reliability

If insulation impedance detection apparatus is used, then the insulation state can be detected, but the structure and control are complex and costly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinsulation detection reliabilityVSAvoidstructure and control complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the detection system into two simple voltage measurement circuits rather than one complex impedance measurement system. Each segment measures voltage with respect to ground, which is inherently simpler than impedance measurement, while together they provide comprehensive insulation assessment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex impedance measurement mechanisms with simpler voltage measurement mechanisms. By measuring voltages at two points and calculating the difference, the system achieves insulation detection without requiring complex impedance measurement hardware or control circuits.

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

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 solution provides high detection sensitivity and reliable results, detecting weak discharge at the initial stage of partial discharge, reducing system interference, and preventing common-mode interference current increases.

Implementation Method 1

forms the insulation detection loop by the coupling conductor and the signal acquisition unit with the device under test, and detects an electrical signal in the insulation detection loop when partial discharge occurs in the device under test

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPartial discharge: Townsend Discharge

Implementation Method 2

the first conductor, the insulating medium provided between the first conductor and the second conductor, and the second conductor constitute a first parasitic capacitor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectParasitic capacitance: Parasitic Capacitance

Data Source

PatentUS20250277842A1Insulation detection apparatus and method, and energy storage apparatus
Publication Date: 2025.09.04 DELTA ELECTRONICS (SHANGHAI) CO LTD
  • US20250277842A1 patent drawing
  • US20250277842A1 patent drawing
  • US20250277842A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides an insulation detection apparatus and method, and an energy storage apparatus, and relates to the technical field of energy storage safety. The insulation detection apparatus includes: a coupling conductor and a signal acquisition unit, where the coupling conductor and the signal acquisition unit are electrically connected, the coupling conductor and the signal acquisition unit are used to form an insulation detection loop with a device under test, and the signal acquisition unit is further used to detect an electrical signal in the insulation detection loop. The coupling plate and signal acquisition unit used in the present disclosure have a simple structure and low cost. Compared with the existing insulation impedance detection, the present disclosure has a high detection sensitivity and more reliable detection result.