Lightning Charge Estimation via Low-Frequency Magnetic Field
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies are inadequate for estimating the electric charge of lightning strikes across a wide region, as they can only measure charges when an observation facility is struck and are unable to determine charges for various structures, limiting their predictive capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A system that measures the magnetic field generated by a lightning strike in a low-frequency band of 200 Hz or less to determine the current, which is then integrated to estimate the electric charge, allowing for remote observation and reduced installation costs by covering a wide area with fewer observation devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional measurement technologies (shunt resistance, Rogowski coil) are used to estimate electric charge, then measurement precision is improved, but the system can only measure charges when an observation facility is struck and cannot determine charges for various structures in a wide region
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces direct electrical contact measurement methods (shunt resistance, Rogowski coil) with a magnetic field sensing approach. By measuring the magnetic field generated by lightning current through the ground using a magnetometer, the system eliminates the need for physical connection to the struck structure, enabling remote measurement of electric charges for various structures across a wide region while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the ground as an intermediary medium. Instead of measuring current directly at the strike point, the system measures the magnetic field generated by current flowing through the ground. This intermediary approach allows measurement of electric charges for structures that are not directly connected to observation facilities, extending versatility while preserving measurement accuracy
2Measurement precision
If observation facilities are installed to measure lightning strikes, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and installation cost increase due to need for multiple facilities covering wide region
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the magnetometer multi-functional by enabling it to measure both the location and electric charge of lightning strikes through ground current. A single magnetometer can determine strike position by analyzing magnetic field direction and calculate electric charge by integrating the magnetic field signal over time, eliminating the need for separate measurement facilities and reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from direct electrical current to magnetic field intensity. By measuring the magnetic field generated by ground current instead of measuring current directly, the system enables remote observation of lightning strikes across wide regions with fewer facilities, reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision through magnetic field signal processing
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 accurate estimation of electric charges from lightning strikes over a wide region, enhancing prediction and damage assessment capabilities, such as estimating potential damage to power transmission lines.
Implementation Method 1
magnetic field measurement means for measuring a magnetic field generated by a lightning strike
Implementation Method 2
integrating the current to thereby determine an electric charge passed through the earth by the lightning strike
Data Source
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AI summary
Magnetic field measurement means measures a magnetic field generated by a lightning strike in a frequency band that includes frequencies of 200 Hz or less. Electric charge calculation means determines the electric current waveform of the lightning strike on the basis of the waveform of the magnetic field measured by the magnetic field measurement means, and integrates the electric current waveform to determine an electric charge.