Resistive Voltage Divider Sensor for Safer Medium-Voltage Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for measuring high voltage power line voltages are inefficient and pose safety risks due to the use of metal wires, which can break and become hazardous, while existing solutions do not accurately measure electrical properties across power lines without disrupting the power distribution system.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing capacitive or resistive voltage dividers to accurately measure voltage on high-voltage power lines by coupling sensor units to the power lines, allowing for the measurement of multiple electrical properties and providing power to the sensor units, even when current is not flowing, using distributed resistive elements with controlled resistance variations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If metal wires are used to electrically couple voltage sensor to power line, then electrical connection is established, but safety risks increase due to wire breakage and arcing hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a resistive element as an intermediary component between the sensor unit and the power line. This resistive element with distributed resistance (at least 1 MOhm/foot) serves as a safety barrier that limits current flow and reduces arcing hazards while still enabling voltage measurement through voltage division principles
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional metal wire mechanical connections with a resistive coupling system. Instead of direct metallic contact that poses safety risks, the system uses resistive elements to electrically couple the sensor, substituting a safer physical mechanism that maintains electrical connection while minimizing harmful effects
2Measurement precision
If conventional voltage measurement methods are used, then voltage can be measured, but measurement accuracy is insufficient for managing power distribution system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the measurement system into distinct functional segments: the resistive element with distributed resistance for voltage division, the sensor unit for measurement, and the processing system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while achieving high measurement accuracy through the voltage division principle
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor unit is designed with multi-functionality, capable of measuring not only voltage but also current, frequency, harmonics, and power quality parameters. This universal measurement capability improves measurement precision across multiple electrical parameters without proportionally increasing system complexity
3Measurement precision
If sensor unit is coupled to power line, then voltage measurement is enabled, but power consumption may disrupt power distribution system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs high resistance values (at least 1 MOhm/foot) in the resistive element to change the electrical parameters of the coupling system. This high resistance minimizes current draw and power consumption from the power line while still enabling accurate voltage measurements through the voltage division effect
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 enables precise and safe measurement of voltage and current on high-voltage power lines, reducing the risk of arcing and contact hazards, while allowing for continuous monitoring and power harvesting, thereby improving power line management and reducing maintenance costs.
Implementation Method 1
an elongated resistive element comprising a first end configured for connection to the sensor unit and a second end configured for connection to the second wire, the elongated resistive element having a distributed resistance
Implementation Method 2
coupled to the power lines using a capacitive or resistive voltage divider to yield, at a sensor unit, a voltage in a measurable range
Data Source
AI summary
Improved power line management is provided by the systems and methods disclosed herein that accurately measures voltage in a power distribution system. In various embodiments, the system may include one or more sensor units, each coupled to the power lines using a capacitive or resistive voltage divider to yield a voltage at a sensor unit that is within a measurable range. In one aspect, this voltage may also be used to power the sensor unit and/or other devices coupled to it.