Power Line Sensor Voltage Divider Phase Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current line sensors in power distribution networks are unable to measure phase voltage and cannot operate continuously with zero line current, limiting their effectiveness in monitoring and detecting abnormalities in power distribution networks.
Innovation Solution
A power line monitoring system comprising voltage divider elements attached to conductors with a processor to continuously sample current and calculate phase-to-phase voltage, along with power harvesting electronics to provide continuous operation, and a design that includes resistive and capacitive voltage dividers for accurate voltage measurement and power supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional line sensors are used to monitor faults on power lines, then fault detection capability is provided, but the sensors cannot measure phase voltage and cannot operate continuously with zero line current
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor device integrates multiple functions into a single unit: it simultaneously measures phase voltage, detects current, and provides fault detection capabilities. The voltage divider network is configured to perform both voltage measurement and current sensing functions, eliminating the need for separate sensors and enabling continuous operation regardless of line current conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary voltage divider network that bridges the gap between the power line conductors and the sensing electronics. This voltage divider configuration enables the sensor to indirectly measure phase voltage and current without direct contact with high-voltage lines, allowing continuous operation even when line current is zero by using the voltage divider to maintain a reference signal.
2Productivity
If line sensors activate only when triggered by overcurrent exceeding a programmed threshold, then simple fault detection is achieved, but continuous monitoring and early detection of abnormalities are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor device enables continuous monitoring by maintaining an active voltage divider network that continuously samples phase voltage and current conditions. The processing system continuously analyzes the signals from the voltage divider, allowing for real-time detection of abnormalities and trends, not just reactive response to threshold violations. This continuous action eliminates dead time between faults and enables proactive maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the processing system continuously receives signals from the voltage divider network, analyzes them against established patterns and thresholds, and provides ongoing monitoring. The feedback loop allows the system to detect gradual degradation and abnormalities before they become critical, improving both continuous monitoring capability and fault detection accuracy through iterative analysis.
3Ease of operation
If passive line sensors are used during normal operation, then energy consumption is minimized, but the sensors cannot provide active monitoring or real-time data processing
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage divider network is configured to generate its own operating signals by dividing the phase voltage, eliminating the need for external power sources or active components during normal operation. The network self-generates the reference signals and monitoring data without requiring additional energy input, allowing the sensor to maintain active monitoring capability while minimizing energy consumption by using the existing power line voltage itself as the power source.
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 continuous monitoring of phase voltage and current, allowing for real-time detection of faults and abnormalities in power distribution networks, improving the reliability and efficiency of power grid management.
Implementation Method 1
a first voltage divider element configured to be attached to a first conductor, a second voltage divider element configured to be attached to a second conductor
Implementation Method 2
a coiled wire connected to the first voltage divider element and the second voltage divider element, the coiled wire configured to adjust a distance between the first voltage divider element and the second voltage divider element
Implementation Method 3
the processor being configured to continuously sample current through the first wire to calculate a phase-to-phase voltage
Implementation Method 4
power harvesting electronics configured to harvest energy from the first or second conductor to provide power to the power line monitoring system
Data Source
AI summary
A power distribution monitoring system is provided that can include a number of features. The system can include a plurality of power line sensing devices configured to attach to individual conductors on a power grid distribution network. The sensing devices can be configured to measure and monitor, among other things, current values and waveforms, phase voltage, conductor current, phase-to-phase voltage, conductor temperatures, ambient temperatures, vibration, wind speed and monitoring device system diagnostics. Methods of installing and protecting the system are also discussed.