Power Scavenging Device for Distribution Equipment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power systems for electrical distribution equipment rely on line currents, which are disrupted during downstream faults, necessitating the use of expensive batteries for backup power in devices like reclosers, fault indicators, and wireless transmitters, as these devices require continuous power supply.
Innovation Solution
A power scavenging device with a non-conducting outer body and a voltage divider comprising capacitors connected in series, which extracts power from adjacent overhead power cables and converts it into a regulated supply using a voltage source converter, ensuring continuous power even during faults.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If scavenged power from line currents is used to power electrical distribution devices, then the power source is eliminated when a downstream fault occurs, but using batteries to maintain power during faults increases cost and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a voltage divider circuit as an intermediary component that extracts voltage from the power line to provide power to the recloser. This voltage divider acts as a mediator between the power line and the recloser, enabling power extraction without requiring batteries or complex power management systems. The voltage divider comprises resistive elements that divide the line voltage to provide appropriate voltage levels for the recloser's operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the power line itself as the power source, allowing the recloser to draw power directly from the line it is protecting. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external battery systems or complex power supply infrastructure. The recloser essentially serves itself by extracting the necessary power from the same line that requires protection.
2Reliability
If batteries are used to supply power during faults, then continuous power is maintained, but the cost and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive, long-life batteries with a simple, inexpensive voltage divider circuit that can be easily manufactured and installed. The voltage divider uses basic resistive elements that are far cheaper than battery systems, making the overall power supply system more cost-effective despite the shorter operational lifespan compared to battery systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts power directly from the power line using a voltage divider, removing the need for separate battery systems. This extraction approach simplifies the overall system by taking the necessary power directly from the available source (the power line) rather than requiring additional power storage devices.
3Device complexity
If reclosers rely on line current for power, then the system is simple and cost-effective, but the recloser cannot operate when the line is open due to downstream faults
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage divider is pre-configured to extract voltage from the power line under all operating conditions, including fault conditions. This preliminary setup ensures that the recloser has continuous voltage availability without requiring complex switching or power management. The system is prepared in advance to handle fault conditions by maintaining the voltage extraction path through the voltage divider.
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 solution provides a reliable and cost-effective means to power electrical distribution devices by harnessing residual voltage potential in power cables during faults, eliminating the need for internal batteries and ensuring uninterrupted operation.
Implementation Method 1
harnessing residual voltage potential in power cables during faults
Data Source
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AI summary
A power scavenging device attaches to an overhead power cable and a support pole. The power scavenging device includes a non¬ conducting outer body and a first capacitor and a second capacitor that are connected in series forming a voltage divider. A voltage source converter is electrically connected to the output of the power scavenging device. The voltage source converter outputs a regulated power.