Spring-Loaded Clamp Detector for Overhead Lines

Solution Overview

Problem

The installation and maintenance of fault detectors in overhead electrical distribution networks are difficult and dangerous due to the need for secure fastening to transmission lines, which is time-consuming and operator-dependent, especially when dealing with varying conductor diameters.

Innovation Solution

A detector with a mechanism unit featuring a magnetic toroid and current sensor, anchored by rotatable clamps with a spring-based system that ensures secure fastening and self-powering, allowing for easy installation and continuous measurement without operator intervention, regardless of conductor diameter.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a screw/nut system is used to fasten the detector to the transmission line, then the detector can be securely anchored, but the installation becomes time-consuming and operator-dependent

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure anchoringVSAvoidinstallation time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual screw/nut mechanical fastening system with a spring-loaded clamp mechanism that automatically secures the detector to the transmission line. The spring force provides reliable anchoring without requiring operator intervention to rotate screws, thus eliminating the time-consuming aspect while maintaining secure attachment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The spring-loaded clamp mechanism is designed to automatically adjust and secure itself to the transmission line without operator intervention. Once installed, the spring force self-regulates to maintain secure anchoring, eliminating the need for operators to manually tighten and check fastenings.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If manual tightening by operators is used, then the detector can be fastened to the transmission line, but the process becomes tiresome and potentially dangerous

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefastening qualityVSAvoidoperator effort

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual screw-nut mechanical fastening system with a spring-loaded clamp mechanism that automatically secures the detector to the transmission line. The spring force provides reliable anchoring without requiring operator intervention to rotate screws, thus eliminating the time-consuming aspect while maintaining secure attachment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The spring-loaded clamp mechanism is designed to automatically adjust and secure itself to the transmission line without operator intervention. Once installed, the spring force self-regulates to maintain secure anchoring, eliminating the need for operators to manually tighten and check fastenings.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If traditional clamps are used, then the detector can be anchored to the conductor, but the fastening quality depends on operator tightening skill

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefastening qualityVSAvoidoperator dependency

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The spring-loaded clamp mechanism is designed to automatically adjust and secure itself to the transmission line without operator intervention. Once installed, the spring force self-regulates to maintain secure anchoring, eliminating the need for operators to manually tighten and check fastenings.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The spring-loaded mechanism automatically adjusts the clamping force parameter based on the transmission line diameter, providing consistent fastening quality across different conductor sizes without requiring operator skill variation. The spring force adapts to maintain optimal contact pressure regardless of the specific application conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 secure, efficient, and safe installation process, enabling continuous measurement and communication of electrical parameters, reducing operator fatigue and time, while ensuring reliable anchoring and self-powering of the detector.

Implementation Method 1

the magnetic toroid closes around the electric conductor of the transmission line and it is configured to induce an electric current in the turns of a coil wound around the magnetic toroid

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS9964565B2Detector for overhead network and overhead network comprising such a detector

Publication Date: 2018.05.08 SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC IND SAS

AI summary

A detector for detecting at least one electric quantity in an electric conductor, and an overhead network for distributing electricity. The detector includes a frame on which a mechanism is fixed, the mechanism including a magnetic toroid, divided into two branches rotatable around an axis defined by the frame, between a separated position and a position closed around the electric conductor, a current sensor, divided into two branches rotatable around an axis defined by the frame, between a separated position and a position closed around the electric conductor, the current sensor performing an AC current measurement, a force transmitting element transmitting a rotational force to the magnetic toroid and the current sensor, the element being provided with at least one portion to receive the conductor by bearing, and a first clamp including two clamp arms, and a second clamp including two clamp arms.