UV Sensor 3D Localization for Corona Discharge Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods struggle to automatically and reliably detect corona discharges in systems, particularly in mobile platforms like helicopters or drones, due to the unpredictable motion paths and lack of effective 3D localization, leading to high false alarm rates and inefficient maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A method using UV cameras with daylight filters and image intensifiers, combined with 3D projection and spatial statistics, to distinguish corona discharges from noise by analyzing their temporal and spatial occurrence, aided by GPS and IMU/INS for precise localization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If UV cameras with daylight filters and image intensifiers are used to detect corona discharges, then detection sensitivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple detection components (UV camera, daylight filter, image intensifier) into an integrated sensor system mounted on a mobile platform. This merging approach enables the system to achieve high detection sensitivity while managing complexity through unified design and coordinated operation of all components together rather than as separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an image intensifier as an intermediary component between the UV camera and the corona discharge phenomenon. This intermediary amplifies the weak UV signals from corona discharges, enabling detection without requiring direct high-sensitivity camera hardware, thus improving detection sensitivity while managing system complexity through the use of a specialized intermediary device.
2Measurement precision
If manual evaluation of corona discharges is performed, then detection accuracy is improved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automated evaluation system that performs corona discharge detection and analysis without requiring manual intervention. The system uses algorithms to automatically process UV images, identify corona discharge patterns, and generate detection results. This self-service approach maintains high detection accuracy while dramatically improving productivity by eliminating time-consuming manual evaluation processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical evaluation process with an automated computational system. Instead of human experts manually analyzing UV images, the system uses computer-based image processing algorithms and pattern recognition to automatically detect and evaluate corona discharges, substituting human labor with automated mechanical/computational processes that maintain accuracy while improving productivity.
3Measurement precision
If 3D projection and spatial statistics are used for corona discharge localization, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-calculating and storing spatial reference data, camera positioning information, and projection geometry parameters before actual corona discharge detection. This preliminary preparation enables the system to quickly perform 3D localization during operation without requiring time-consuming real-time calculations, thus improving measurement precision while minimizing time loss during actual detection and processing.
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
Enables accurate, automated detection and localization of corona discharges in 3D space, reducing false alarms and facilitating timely maintenance by establishing precise positions for repair.
Implementation Method 1
cameras for the ultraviolet (UV) frequency range are used, such as the DAYCOR product from OFIL
Implementation Method 2
Such cameras are equipped with an image intensifier that can make individual light quanta visible
Implementation Method 3
A daylight blocking filter is also installed to minimize the influence of daylight
Implementation Method 4
a position-determining device for determining a three-dimensional position of the vehicle and of the sensor arrangement
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a method and a corresponding assembly for detecting corona discharges of a system comprising equipment. According to the method, - a sensor assembly (18) is guided along the system (17) comprising equipment (2, 3) by means of a vehicle (16), - a first camera (20) for detecting UV radiation is used with a daylight filter (21) for blocking daylight for the sensor assembly (18), and - images of the system (17) are captured by means of the sensor assembly (18), wherein - the captured images of the camera (20) are characterized with a three-dimensional position using an analysis device (22), - possible corona discharges (5-15) are detected in each individual image using the analysis device (22) and are transferred into a single three-dimensional space using the respective three-dimensional position, and - a spatial statistic regarding the frequency of possible current discharges is generated using the analysis device (22), and the spatial statistic is used to detect actual corona discharges (5-8, 10, 13-15) as occurring frequently and at a fixed location in contrast to random noise.