Power Line Arc Detection Using Device Operation Status
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing arc detection systems frequently result in false detections of arc faults, particularly due to transient events like chattering during device attachment or detachment, leading to user inconvenience and unnecessary power interruptions.
Innovation Solution
An arc detection system that incorporates a first obtainment unit for current measurement, a second obtainment unit for operation information, and a determination unit that considers communication status changes and duration of arc occurrence to differentiate between transient arcs and actual faults, thereby reducing false detections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If arc detection is performed using related art methods, then arc detection capability is provided, but detection accuracy deteriorates when the degree of arc exposure to the camera is small
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the parameter of image processing by applying multiple types of filtering (Gaussian filter, median filter, bilateral filter) and adaptive thresholding to enhance the visibility and detectability of arcs in low-exposure conditions, transforming the detection parameters to improve accuracy when arc exposure is limited
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary image processing unit that processes the captured image through multiple filtering stages and thresholding operations before arc detection, acting as a mediator between the raw image and the detection algorithm to enhance detection accuracy in challenging exposure conditions
2Measurement precision
If multiple types of filtering and adaptive thresholding are applied, then detection accuracy is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies filtering operations in a structured sequence with specific patterns (Gaussian followed by median, then bilateral filter conditionally), creating a periodic and optimized processing flow that balances accuracy improvement with time management through systematic operation cycles
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies filtering operations selectively based on image characteristics - the bilateral filter is applied conditionally only when needed, representing partial action that optimizes processing time by avoiding unnecessary operations while maintaining detection accuracy when required
3Reliability
If arc detection is performed in welding automation, then welding quality is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a single camera unit that performs multiple functions - capturing images, processing them through various filters, detecting arcs, and providing feedback for welding control, eliminating the need for separate specialized sensors and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining welding quality
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges image capture, image processing, and arc detection functions into an integrated detection unit, combining multiple operations that could be separate into a unified system, thereby reducing device complexity while improving reliability through coordinated operation
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
The system effectively prevents false alarms by distinguishing between arcs caused by device attachment/detachment and those resulting from disconnections or partial disconnections, ensuring timely and accurate fault detection.
Implementation Method 1
a camera 14 that captures images of the workpiece W based on reflected visible light
Implementation Method 2
a band-pass filter 15 that transmits light within a specific wavelength range
Implementation Method 3
an arc occurs between the electrode E and the workpiece W... emits light in the visible spectrum
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3
AI summary
An arc detection system (100) includes a first obtainment unit (11), a second obtainment unit (12), and a determination unit (13). The first obtainment unit (11) obtains a measurement result of current (I1) flowing in a power line (L1) to which power is supplied from a power supply (2) or a measurement result of voltage (V1) in the power line (L1). The second obtainment unit (12) obtains operation information about operation of a device (3) connected to the power line (L1). The determination unit (13) determines whether or not an arc fault has occurred in the power line (L1) based on the measurement result obtained by the first obtainment unit (11) and the operation information obtained by the second obtainment unit (12).