Sub-sea Cable Termination Using Non-linear Resistive Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
High voltage power transmission in deep sea environments poses challenges due to harsh conditions and the incompatibility of existing AC connectors for DC power transmission, leading to connector failure and increased maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
An electrical connector system with non-linear resistive layers and deflectors is used to control DC and AC electric fields in cable termination chambers, minimizing stress on components and preventing water ingress, while employing Faraday cages and stress grading layers to optimize electric field distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If AC connectors are used for DC power transmission, then existing connector infrastructure can be utilized, but the connectors may fail due to special field distribution properties under DC
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the electrical parameters of the connector by introducing non-linear resistive layers and deflectors that change their electrical characteristics based on the applied voltage, enabling the same connector structure to safely handle both AC and DC field distributions
Solution Approach 2:
The non-linear resistive layer acts as an intermediary element between the conductor and insulation, controlling the electric field distribution in a way that is compatible with both AC and DC operating conditions, thereby preventing connector failure
2Length of moving object
If high voltage power cables are used for long distance power transmission in deep sea, then power can be supplied to remote electrical components, but the capacitive load of the cables increases and transmission efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from AC to DC power transmission, fundamentally changing the electrical parameter of the power supply system. DC transmission eliminates the capacitive charging current problem that plagues long AC cable transmissions, thereby reducing energy loss and enabling efficient power transmission over extended distances
3Ease of operation
If sub-sea connectors are used for underwater electrical connections, then power can be transmitted to submerged equipment, but the connectors are subjected to harsh environments including varying sea water pressure and sea water ingression which may damage the connectors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates non-linear resistive layers and deflectors that are pre-installed in the connector to cushion and control the electric field stress before it can cause damage to the connector components under harsh underwater conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The non-linear resistive layer acts as a sacrificial protective element that can be designed to fail first, protecting the more expensive and critical connector components from environmental damage
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 reduces stress on components and prevents damage by uniformly distributing electric fields, enabling reliable HVDC power transmission and reducing maintenance costs.
Implementation Method 1
a first non-linear resistive layer configured to be coupled to a portion of the first conductor unsheathed by at least the first insulation screen layer and configured to control a direct current electric field generated in the first cable termination chamber
Implementation Method 2
a first deflector configured to be coupled to the first power cable and control an alternating current electric field generated in the first cable termination chamber
Data Source
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AI summary
An electrical connector 100 is presented. The electrical connector includes a first cable termination chamber 106 configured to receive a first power cable 128 comprising at least a first conductor 186 sheathed at least in part by a first insulating layer 190 and a first insulation screen layer 192. Also, the electrical connector includes a first non-linear resistive layer 158 configured to be coupled to a portion of the first conductor unsheathed by at least the first insulation screen layer and configured to control a direct current electric field generated in the first cable termination chamber. In addition, the electrical connector includes a first deflector 166 configured to be coupled to the first power cable and control an alternating current electric field generated in the first cable termination chamber.