Integrated Conductor Temperature Sensing for Connector Overheating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Faulty connectors and conductors in electrical systems can cause overheating, leading to potential fires, especially in renewable power systems like photovoltaic and wind-power systems, where arc detection circuits may not always trigger effectively, and detecting overheating in areas without adjacent sensors is challenging.
Innovation Solution
Deploying temperature sensors at strategic distances from potential overheating points, using thermocouple or linear heat detection cables integrated with standard conductors to detect excessive heat, and configuring systems to trigger preventative actions such as disconnecting elements or alerting maintenance personnel when temperature thresholds are exceeded.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If temperature sensors are placed close to connection points to detect overheating, then detection precision is improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines temperature sensing capability with existing conductor infrastructure by integrating thermocouple cables or LHD cables into the conductor assembly. This merging approach allows overheating detection without adding separate sensor placement infrastructure, thus improving detection precision while avoiding increased device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses thermocouple cables or LHD cables as intermediary elements that run alongside conductors to detect temperature changes. These intermediary sensing elements transmit thermal information from distant connection points to monitoring systems, enabling precise overheating detection without placing sensors directly at difficult-to-reach connection points
2Length of stationary object
If thermocouple or LHD cables are integrated with standard conductors to detect heat at longer distances, then detection range is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal cable assemblies that can serve both as electrical conductors and as temperature sensing elements. The thermocouple or LHD cables are designed to perform dual functions: carrying electrical current and detecting temperature, thereby extending detection range while simplifying manufacturing by eliminating the need for separate sensing infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the conductor system by incorporating materials with specific thermal properties (thermocouple wires or LHD cable insulation) that respond to temperature changes. This parameter change enables the conductor assembly to function as a temperature sensor, extending detection range without requiring complex integrated manufacturing
3Quantity of substance
If temperature sensors are deployed at strategic distances from overheating points, then system cost is reduced, but detection precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses thermocouple cables or LHD cables as thermal intermediaries that conduct temperature information from distant connection points to monitoring locations. These intermediary elements allow sensors to be positioned at strategic distances where installation is easier and costs are lower, while maintaining detection precision through the thermal conduction properties of the cable assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the temperature detection function across multiple cable sections rather than requiring a single sensor at each connection point. By distributing thermocouple or LHD cable segments along conductor runs, the system achieves comprehensive temperature monitoring with fewer discrete sensor units, reducing overall system cost while maintaining precision
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
Effectively detects and prevents overheating in electrical systems, reducing the risk of fires by allowing for early intervention and maintaining system safety even in areas without adjacent sensors, thereby enhancing the reliability and safety of renewable energy infrastructure.
Implementation Method 1
combine thermocouple (TC) or linear heat detection (LHD) cables with the standard system conductors to allow detection of excessive heat at longer distances
Implementation Method 2
Since heat may dissipate rapidly when traveling through a physical medium, the system may be designed for placement of sensors close enough to susceptible points to measure an increase in temperature
Data Source
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AI summary
Various implementations described herein are directed to a method for detecting, by a device, an increase in temperature at certain parts of an electrical system, and taking appropriate responsive action. The method may include measuring temperatures at certain locations within the system and estimating temperatures at other locations based on the measurements. Some embodiments disclosed herein include an integrated cable combining electrical conduction and heat-detection capabilities.