Photogrammetric Measurement of Electrical Equipment Protective Covers
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for protecting electrical power transmission systems from bird and animal-induced short circuits are costly and inefficient, requiring costly on-site measurements and downtime for accurate fitting of protective covers, which can be delayed due to scheduling and expertise issues.
Innovation Solution
A photogrammetric method that allows for remote measurement of electrical equipment dimensions using imaging and analysis with a photogrammetry algorithm, enabling the selection and placement of protective covers without powering down the system, using a reference object of known dimensions to ensure accurate fitting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If on-site physical measurement is performed for accurate fitting of protective covers, then manufacturing precision is improved, but loss of time and productivity deteriorate due to required downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical mechanical measurement methods with photogrammetric imaging and computational analysis. Multiple images of the electrical equipment are captured from different angles, and photogrammetric algorithms compute three-dimensional coordinates and dimensions digitally, eliminating the need for physical contact measurement and system downtime.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital photogrammetric model (copy) of the electrical equipment based on captured images. This virtual replica contains all necessary dimensional information for fabricating protective covers, eliminating the need to physically measure the actual equipment during downtime.
2Manufacturing precision
If on-site physical measurement is performed for accurate fitting of protective covers, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity and cost deteriorate due to specialized equipment and expertise requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal photogrammetric measurement system that can measure various types of electrical equipment (transformers, switchgear, insulators) using the same imaging and computational approach. Standard digital cameras and photogrammetric software serve multiple measurement functions, reducing the need for specialized measurement devices and expert knowledge.
3Measurement precision
If scheduled downtime is used for measurement, then measurement precision can be maintained, but productivity deteriorates due to scheduling constraints and regulatory authority control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous operation of the electrical system during the measurement process. Photogrammetric imaging can be performed while the equipment remains energized and operational, with images captured during brief maintenance windows or even during normal operation, eliminating the need to schedule dedicated measurement downtime.
4Manufacturing precision
If custom molds are made for each component variation, then manufacturing precision is improved, but loss of substance and cost deteriorate due to material waste and fabrication expense
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses photogrammetric parameters (three-dimensional coordinates, dimensions, and geometric features) extracted from images to directly guide protective cover fabrication. This parameter-based approach allows for precise manufacturing without requiring physical custom molds, reducing material waste from mold fabrication and enabling more efficient production methods.
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
This method reduces costs and downtime by enabling precise measurement and fitting of protective covers on energized equipment from a safe distance, improving grid performance and reducing delays in deploying protective measures.
Implementation Method 1
imaging a feature of a component of an electrical power transmission system to produce one or more images
Implementation Method 2
analyzing the one or more images with a photogrammetry algorithm to measure the feature of the component
Data Source
AI summary
A method is disclosed comprising: imaging a feature of a component of an electrical power transmission system for example in combination with a reference component or feature of known dimensions, the reference component or feature comprising a reference, to produce one or more images; analyzing the one or more images with a photogrammetry algorithm to measure the feature of the component; and placing a protector at least partially over the component, the protector being selected to fit the component based on the measurement of the feature. In some embodiments the method may further comprise making the protector based on the measurement of the feature. A method is also disclosed comprising: remotely placing a reference object into a position that is inside a safe Limit of Approach and in the vicinity of a feature of a component of an energized live electrical power transmission system, the reference object comprising a reference; imaging a combination of the reference and the feature of the component to produce one or more images; and analyzing the one or more images with a photogrammetry algorithm to measure the feature of the component.