UAV Power Line Diameter Measurement With Dielectric Suspension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Measuring the diameter of live power lines is challenging due to safety concerns and the difficulty in approaching high-voltage lines, which is essential for verifying load capacity and utility asset recordkeeping.
Innovation Solution
A Nonconductive Payload System (NPS) integrated with an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) carrying a power line measurement device, such as a modified digital caliper or linear sensor, that can safely attach to and measure the diameter of live power lines using adjustable attachment lines and weighted guide rods to stabilize the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional manual inspection methods are used to measure power line diameter, then measurement accuracy can be achieved, but human safety is compromised due to high voltage exposure risk
Solution Approach 1:
An unmanned aerial system (UAS) is introduced as an intermediary carrier to transport the measurement device to the power line. The UAS flies close to the high voltage line without human operators being exposed, while the measurement device attached to the UAS performs contactless or minimal-contact measurement of the power line diameter, thus achieving accurate measurement without human safety risk.
2Measurement precision
If contact measurement devices are used on live power lines, then accurate diameter measurement is obtained, but device stability and safety are compromised due to electrical interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical contact measurement systems with electromagnetic field-based measurement techniques. Sensors on the UAS detect the power line's electromagnetic field characteristics to infer diameter without direct physical contact, eliminating electrical interference risks while maintaining measurement accuracy.
3Extent of automation
If specialized UAS-designed products are used for power line measurement, then safety and automation are improved, but compatibility with existing T&D industry products is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement device is designed with universal adaptability to work with both UAS platforms and traditional T&D industry equipment. It can be mounted on UAS for automated aerial inspection while also being compatible with ground-based hot stick equipment and existing power line inspection workflows, allowing seamless integration across different operational contexts.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus, system, or method for performing work on electrical power lines and/or splices on electrical power lines that may include an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), a power line measurement device, a support frame selectively releasably attached to the UAV, and a plurality of flexible dielectric attachment lines attaching the power line device to the support frame. The power line measurement device configured to determine measurement data by measuring a width of a live electrical power line and/or a splice on the electrical power line. Each of the attachment lines may be attached to a corresponding attachment point on the support frame and a corresponding attachment point on the power line measurement device.