Self-adjusting Voltage Sensor Using Capacitive Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current groundless voltage sensors are inaccurate due to their reliance on infinity as a reference point, making them susceptible to external electrical fields and calibration difficulties, and they lack precise measurement capabilities, whereas grounded sensors pose safety hazards and are costly to maintain in high-voltage environments.
Innovation Solution
A voltage sensing apparatus comprising a signal generator, conducting layers, and a meter that applies a second voltage to a conductive element, allowing for accurate measurement of the first voltage by isolating the conductive element with an insulating layer and using a conductive ring to quantify charge induced on the power line, thereby minimizing external interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If groundless voltage sensors are used, then safety hazards are reduced and device size is minimized, but measurement precision deteriorates due to reliance on infinity reference and susceptibility to external electrical fields
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary conductive element (ring or sphere) that mediates between the power line and the measurement system. This intermediary carries induced charge that can be accurately measured, serving as a bridge that eliminates the need for ground connections while providing a stable reference for measurement, thus resolving the contradiction between safety and measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional electrical ground reference system with a capacitive coupling system. Instead of relying on electrical ground (which creates safety hazards), the system uses a conductive element coupled to the power line through capacitance, allowing voltage measurement without ground connections while maintaining measurement accuracy through the induced charge on the conductive element.
2Measurement precision
If grounded voltage sensors are used, then measurement precision is improved through stable reference, but safety hazards increase and device complexity increases due to creepage paths and arcing prevention requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive element (ring or sphere) acts as an intermediary that couples capacitively to the power line, providing a stable reference for measurement without creating direct ground paths. This intermediary approach maintains measurement precision while eliminating the safety hazards associated with traditional grounded sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of reference from electrical ground (0V) to a capacitive coupling reference. By measuring the induced charge on the conductive element rather than voltage relative to ground, the system maintains a stable reference framework while eliminating ground-related safety issues and creepage paths.
3Measurement precision
If grounded voltage sensors are used in high-voltage environments, then measurement capability is provided, but device complexity and cost increase due to extensive branching and maintenance requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential measurement function from the complex grounded sensor structure. By using a simple conductive element (ring or sphere) that couples capacitively to the power line, the system isolates the measurement capability from the ground reference system, eliminating the need for extensive branching and complex ground management while maintaining voltage measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the complex mechanical ground reference system with a simple capacitive coupling mechanism. The conductive element coupled to the power line through capacitance provides the necessary reference without requiring the extensive branching and ground management infrastructure of traditional grounded sensors, significantly reducing device complexity.
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 more accurate and safer method for voltage sensing in high-voltage environments by isolating the measurement from external electric fields and reducing the risk of safety hazards, while maintaining a compact and easy-to-maintain design.
Implementation Method 1
The signal generator is adapted to superimpose a second voltage to the first voltage
Implementation Method 2
The first conducting layer is separated from the conductive element by an insulating layer
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a voltage sensing apparatus comprising a signal generator coupled to a first conducting layer and a conductive element having a first voltage, the signal generator configured to superimpose a second voltage to the first voltage. The voltage sensing apparatus also comprises a meter disposed between the first conducting layer and a second conducting layer or between the signal generator and the second conducting layer. An output parameter of the meter is a function of one or more of the group consisting of: the first voltage and the second voltage. The output parameter and the second voltage can be used to adjust a determination of the first voltage.