Overhead Line Loadability via Thermal Sensor Data

The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement systems with optical/infrared temperature sensing. The sensor system uses non-contact temperature measurement (likely infrared) to determine conductor temperature, which is then fed into a data processing system that calculates electrical loadability using thermal models. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity while improving measurement accuracy and enabling continuous monitoring.

The system utilizes naturally occurring thermal radiation from the power line conductors for temperature measurement. The conductors emit infrared radiation proportional to their temperature, and the sensor system passively detects this radiation without requiring active heating or complex interaction with the conductors. The data processing system then self-calculates loadability parameters based on measured temperature and standard thermal models.

The system implements periodic temperature measurement at optimized time intervals rather than truly continuous monitoring. The data processing system determines when measurements are necessary based on changing load conditions, ambient temperature variations, and wind conditions. This periodic sampling approach maintains reliability for detecting significant temperature changes while minimizing energy consumption by keeping sensors in low-power states between measurements.

The system uses feedback from temperature measurements and load data to dynamically adjust monitoring intensity. When temperatures approach critical thresholds or load conditions change significantly, the system increases measurement frequency. During stable operating conditions with comfortable temperature margins, monitoring frequency is reduced. This adaptive feedback control ensures reliability when needed while minimizing energy consumption during normal operation.