Transformer Winding Voltage Sensing for Transient Overvoltage Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Transformers face challenges in coping with transient phenomena such as overvoltages, which can lead to degradation and potential failure, making it difficult to predict and mitigate these issues effectively.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a voltage sensor system that uses capacitive coupling to monitor voltages in transformer windings, enabling the detection of transient phenomena in real-time and allowing for predictive measures to prevent damage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional transformer operation without monitoring is used, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to inability to detect transient phenomena

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransformer reliabilityVSAvoidmonitoring system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces voltage sensors as intermediary devices that indirectly measure transient phenomena through capacitive coupling to the windings. These sensors act as mediators between the high-voltage transformer components and the monitoring system, enabling detection without direct electrical contact and thus improving reliability while maintaining manageable system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional direct electrical connection methods with capacitive coupling for voltage sensing. This substitution eliminates the need for direct galvanic contact between sensors and windings, reducing interference and improving reliability while keeping the monitoring system complexity acceptable through non-invasive measurement

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If voltage sensors are added to detect transient phenomena, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransient voltage detection precisionVSAvoidsensor system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Capacitive coupling serves as an intermediary mechanism that enables precise voltage measurement without direct electrical contact. The capacitive interface provides accurate transient phenomenon detection while isolating the sensing system from high-voltage interference, achieving measurement precision without proportionally increasing system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The voltage sensors perform multiple functions: detecting transient overvoltages, monitoring operational voltages, and providing isolation between high-voltage and low-voltage circuits. This multi-functionality improves measurement precision while justifying the added complexity through consolidated monitoring capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If transformer operates without transient protection, then operating costs are reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to undetected failures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransformer reliabilityVSAvoidoperating efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The monitoring system performs preliminary detection of transient phenomena and potential failures before they cause actual damage. By identifying issues early through continuous voltage monitoring, the system enables preventive maintenance actions that improve reliability while minimizing disruptions to operational productivity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system provides continuous feedback about transformer voltage conditions and transient events. This feedback mechanism enables real-time monitoring and early warning of potential failures, improving reliability through timely intervention while maintaining operating efficiency by avoiding unexpected breakdowns and extended downtime

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

This solution enhances the transformer's ability to detect and respond to transient phenomena, reducing the risk of failure, improving reliability, and minimizing operational costs associated with maintenance and repairs.

Implementation Method 1

at least one sensor, in particular at least one voltage sensor, configured and arranged to sense at least one signal, in particular at least one voltage, from the at least one first winding and/or at least one signal, in particular at least one voltage, from the at least one second winding, in particular by capacitive coupling

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitive coupling: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentUS20250172635A1System comprising a transformer
Publication Date: 2025.05.29 HITACHI ENERGY LTD
  • US20250172635A1 patent drawing
  • US20250172635A1 patent drawing
  • US20250172635A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a system including a transformer which includes at least one first winding wound around at least one core and at least one second winding wound around the at least one first winding. The system further includes at least one voltage sensor configured and arranged to sense a voltage through the at least one second winding by capacitive coupling.