Wireless Proximity Monitoring Around Energized Grid Equipment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing safety measures for electrical transmission and distribution networks are inadequate in preventing accidental exposure to energized components, necessitating improved workplace safety techniques.
Innovation Solution
A monitoring system utilizing short-range wireless transceivers and controllers to detect portable devices within predetermined alert zones around equipment, generating alerts or de-energizing the equipment when personnel approach too close, and optionally integrating with central control systems for tracking and coordination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional safety measures (physical barriers, warning signs, personal protective equipment) are used, then basic safety protection is provided, but the risk of accidental exposure to energized components cannot be sufficiently reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical/physical safety measures (barriers, signs, PPE) with an electronic monitoring system using wireless transceivers, portable devices, and automated alert mechanisms. This substitution enables real-time proximity detection and automated safety interventions, significantly improving reliability in preventing exposure to energized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback by monitoring the location of portable devices relative to equipment devices, comparing actual positions against predefined alert zones, and providing real-time alerts or automated responses when safety thresholds are breached. This closed-loop feedback mechanism dynamically adjusts safety measures based on actual conditions.
2Reliability
If real-time monitoring of personnel proximity to equipment is implemented, then accident prevention is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The portable device serves multiple functions: it acts as a location transmitter, a receiver for alert signals, and potentially a communication interface. Similarly, the transceiver system performs both proximity detection and alert generation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby managing system complexity while maintaining comprehensive monitoring capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces wireless communication as an intermediary between the monitoring system and personnel. Instead of complex direct connections or physical interfaces, the wireless transceiver system mediates the interaction, simplifying the overall system architecture while enabling real-time monitoring and communication.
3Measurement precision
If alert zones are made irregular or asymmetric to precisely match equipment hazard patterns, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alert zone configuration is made dynamic and adaptable rather than fixed. The system allows alert zones to be defined as irregular or asymmetric shapes that precisely match the hazard patterns of specific equipment. This dynamic configuration capability enables high measurement precision while managing complexity through software-based flexibility rather than rigid structural design.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameters of alert zones based on specific equipment characteristics and hazard patterns. Different equipment can have different alert zone shapes, sizes, and configurations, allowing precise tailoring to each situation. This parameter-based approach enables high precision without requiring fundamentally different system architectures for different scenarios.
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
Enhances workplace safety by precisely detecting proximity to hazardous equipment, providing timely alerts, and ensuring equipment de-energization, thus reducing the risk of accidents and fatalities.
Implementation Method 1
a short-range wireless transceiver... configured to receive a signal from a portable device
Data Source
AI summary
A monitoring system for an electrical transmission and/or distribution network is disclosed. The system comprises a short-range wireless transceiver arranged at a predetermined position relative to an equipment device and configured to receive a signal from a portable device, and a controller configured to determine a location of the portable device based at least partially on the received signal. The controller is further configured to verify if the determined location is within a predetermined alert zone at least partly surrounding the equipment device, and to generate an alert signal in case the determined location is verified to be within the alert zone.