Non-Contact Reflectometry Using Capacitive Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reflectometry techniques require direct physical contact with signal paths, causing damage, incompatibility with live testing, and increased risk of faults due to repeated disconnect/connect cycles and exposure to high voltages.
Innovation Solution
Non-contact reflectometry method using capacitive coupling to inject and extract test signals from signal paths, allowing remote detection and measurement of wire faults without direct electrical connection, employing capacitive couplers and amplification to compensate for frequency response effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If direct connection is made to the signal path by removing insulation or disconnecting connectors, then electrical connection for testing is achieved, but damage to the wire or connector and risk of signal path failure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary coupling mechanism (capacitive or inductive coupling) that allows test signal injection without direct electrical contact with the signal path. This mediator enables testing while maintaining isolation from the high-voltage operational signals, thus preserving signal path integrity while achieving testing accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical direct-contact connection system with a non-contact electromagnetic coupling system. Instead of physically connecting probes to conductors through insulation removal or connector disconnection, the system uses electromagnetic fields to couple test signals into the signal path, eliminating mechanical damage risks.
2Adaptability or versatility
If direct connection is made for reflectometry testing, then test signal injection is enabled, but live testing becomes incompatible due to safety hazards and system operational disruption
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism serves as an intermediary that isolates the test equipment from high-voltage operational signals while still allowing test signal injection. This enables live testing by mediating between the low-voltage test equipment and the high-voltage operational system, eliminating safety hazards.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the testing function from direct electrical connection by using electromagnetic coupling. This segmentation allows the test signal path to be separate from the operational signal path, enabling simultaneous operation of the system under test and the testing equipment without electrical interference or safety hazards.
3Productivity
If repeated disconnect/connect cycles are performed for direct connection testing, then retesting is enabled, but connector damage and additional failures increase
Solution Approach 1:
The non-contact coupling mechanism serves as a permanent intermediary that eliminates the need for repeated disconnect/connect cycles. Once the coupling is established, multiple tests can be performed without breaking the connection, thus maintaining connector integrity while enabling efficient retesting.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies excessive action by establishing a more robust connection than minimum required - using electromagnetic coupling that remains stable for multiple measurements. This excessive connection stability prevents connector wear while enabling repeated testing operations.
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 safe, live testing with reduced risk of signal path damage, improved testing efficiency, and compatibility with operational systems, providing accurate fault detection and measurement while avoiding insulation removal and connector disconnection.
Implementation Method 1
capacitively coupling the test signal into the signal path at a first point, capacitively coupling a response signal out of the signal path at a second point
Data Source
AI summary
Non-contact reflectometry for testing a signal path is described. The technique includes using capacitive coupling to inject a test signal into the signal path and extract a response signal from the signal path. Reflectometry techniques are used to determine characteristics of the signal path from the response signal. The technique is compatible with performing testing of a signal path carrying an operational signal.