Transmission line measuring device and method for connectivity.

(54) Title: DEVICE FOR MEASURING TRANSMISSION LINES AND METHOD FOR CONNECTIVITY.

(54) Title: TRANSMISSION LINE MEASURING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR CONNECTIVITY.

(57) Summary

The present invention describes a suspension clamp connection assembly. The suspension clamp connection assembly includes a clamping unit, a support member, and a crown ring. The clamping unit includes a base section, extension arms and contact parts of the clamp. The extension arms are between the contact parts of the gripper and the base section. The clamping unit is configured to clamp onto a clamping clip. The support member has a first end and a second end. The first end of the support member connects to the base section. The support member is configured to support an electronic circuit box. The crown ring connects to the second end of the support member.

(57) Abstract

Disclosed herein ¡sa suspension clamp connecting assembly. The suspension clamp connecting assembly includes a clamping unit, a support member, and a corona ring. The clamping unit includes a base section, extending arms, and clamp contact portions. The extending arms are between the clamp contact portions and the base section. The clamping unit is configured to clamp on to a suspension clamp. The support member has a first end and a second end. The first end of the support member is connected to the base section. The support member is configured to support an electronics housing. The corona ring is connected to the second end of the support member.

[Μ ΡI <- PATENT TITLE No. 348685

Headlines): HUBBELLINCORPORATED

Address: 40 Waterview Drive, Shelton, Connecticut, 06484-1000, USA

<td>D nomination:</td><td>DEVICE FOR MEASURING TRANSMISSION LINES AND METHOD FOR CONNECTIVITY.</td>

<td>Classification:</td><td>CIP: F16B2 / 10; F16M13 / 02; H04M3 / 22. CPC: F16B2 / 10; H01T19 / 02; H02G7 / 05</td>

<td>Inventors):</td><td>IVANHOE P. CHAPUT; BERNARD C. CRUTCHER</td>

REQUEST

Number:

MX / a / 2015/001294

Country:

US

Validity: Twenty years

Presentation date

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of Eneró de ¿015

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Date:

January 2014

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Expiration Date: January 27, 2035

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Date of Issue: June 26, 2017 '. TO '

The reference patent is "granted on the basis of articles 1^or, 2 'fraction V, fraed # lll, and 59 of the Industrial Property Law.

In accordance with Article 23 of the Law, give the Property4ndtia «naya gj» «before a powerful vigencat of twenty years, which can be extended, counted from the date of presentation of the application and will be subject to the payment of the rights parwtwntenteMngeotes.

Whoever subscribes this title makes it based on the provisions of articles β, sections III and 7 »bis.2 of the Industrial Property Law (Official Gazette of the Federation (0.0 F.) 06/27/1991, amended on 02 / 08/1994, ¢ / 10/199% 26/12/199 ?, 1X05 / 1999, 26/01/2004, 16/06/2005. 25/01/2006, 06/05 / 2009,06 / 01/2010 , 18Λ6 / 2910, 28/06/2010, 27/01/2012 and 09/84 / 201¾. «Meato * 1 ° í ° f» ot ^ ¥ (ndiso a), 4^or and 12th sections I and III of the Regulations of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (DO F 14/12/199% amended on 0f / Q7 / ®0Q2, 07/18/2004, 07/28/2004 and 09/07 / 2007); Articles 1, 3, 4, 5 fraction V subsection a), 18 fractions I yilll and 30 of the Organic Statute of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (DOF 12/27/1999, amended on 10/10/2002, 07/29/2004, 08/04/2004 and 13CW20 (J7), 1 »,« 9 v S * bl0MMr «d * Acardo who delegates powers to the Directors Deputy Generals, Coordinator, DivMrionate Directors ·; Heads of the Regional Offices, Divisional Deputy Directors, Departmental Coordinators and other subordinates of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property ^ ®.O: F 12/15/1999, amended on 02/04/2000, 07/29/2004, 04 / 08/2004 and 13/09/2007).

This document is signed with an advanced electronic signature (FIEL), based on articles 7 BIS 2 of the Industrial Property Law; 3 of its Regulations, and 1 section III, 2 section V, 26 BIS and 26 TER of the Agreement establishing the guidelines for the use of the Payment and Electronic Services Portal (PASE) of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property, in the procedures indicated.

THE DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OF PATENTS

NAHANNY CANAL REYES

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Digital stamp:

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IObJvlSkAVkb27xkVCpdiel6qlogGJmvvA4COvfhkllmU2wdc8jrtqlneJifi9SssDcP66VtR / 5WgwnuCu43Ge57vC r d6OWmfDPrj1j5OTGRoq53jnptxXISteJhXISBSuU5Q5VqrQbNT4wWc2EwQraíZdmOIU4jckrPmqFD7QnvNHFHbFmlz D2JHLWys / 0JEu15XThaehmxGvP9hlSX2wFXu6y3ax¡MZLz6wGDcu4MP97bkWVZ75rlacekaw ==

Arenal No, 550 Floor 1, Pueblo Sarita Mana íe-pepan. Xochimílco, 16020, Mexico City.

(55) 53340700 www.gob.mx/iinpi

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MX / 2017/50248 f₀!5(

INSTITUTO MEXICANO DtlAFRONEDAL INOUSTUAl

DEVICE FOR. MEASURE TRANSMISSION LINES AND METHOD FOR CONNECTIVITY

ANTECEDENT

Technical field

The present application relates to data collection and, more particularly, to a connector (eg, the data acquisition suspension clamp) for an electrical conductor or other transmission line (eg. , an electrical transmission line, a communication line, a gas line, a water line, an oil line, railways, a highway, among others that are deployed over geographical distances) which collect data and report the conditions measurements of the conductor or transmission line to a monitoring device or systems. However, the illustrated embodiments of the present invention need not be restricted to use as part of a clamp. For example, embodiments of the present invention can be practiced in a location close to a clamp or practiced without relying on any clamp or other device.

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Antecedent

Electrical networks

Figs. 1-4 show related art described in US Patent No. 8,002,592. Fig. 1 shows a transmission tower 200 that is used to suspend the power transmission lines 202 above the ground. Tower 200 has cantilevered arms 204. Isolators 206 extend downwardly from arms 204. One or more suspension clips 208 are positioned at the lower ends of isolators 206. Lines 202 are connected to suspension clips. Clips 208 support power transmission lines 202 on insulator 206.

Figs. 2-4 show an exemplary embodiment of suspension clip 208 that generally consists of an upper section 210 and a lower support section 212. These two sections 210, 212 each contain a body 214, 216 that forms a lining of the suspension. Each of the bodies 214, 216 contains a longitudinal channel (or area that receives the conductor) 215, 217 that allows the transmission conductor 202 to be seated securely within the two sections and when the two sections are secured with bolt (or hold) together using threaded fasteners 201 (not

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IMPR instituto meijcanc '&lt;W LA MrtüaAD INDUSTRIAL shown). This encapsulates the transmission conductor 202 between the two bodies to securely contain the transmission conductor 202 on the clamp 208. Threaded fasteners are not required and any other suitable clamping configuration can be provided.

The two bodies 214, 216 connected together are suspended through a metal bracket 218 that is attached to the lower body 216 at points through bolt hardware 220.

The lower body, or lower body section, 216 consists of a first end 219 and a second end 221. The area that receives the conductor (or conductor contact surface) 217 ​​extends from the first end 219 to the second end 221 to along an upper side of the lower body 216. The area that receives the lead 217 forms a lower slit portion for contacting a lower half of the lead 202. A general slit shape is not required, and any suitable configuration can be provided.

In one embodiment, each of the upper and lower sections 210, 212 have embedded within their

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bodies 214, 216 respective one half of a current transformer 222, 224 which is commonly referred to in the industry as a split core current transformer. When these components 222, 224 are joined together, they form an electromagnetic circuit that allows, in some applications, the detection of the current passing through the conductor 202. In one execution, the current transformer is used for energy sensing, data collection, data analysis, and data formatting devices. In some embodiments the current transformer may be located outside the clamp or similar device or, in some embodiments, the power may be provided by other means.

The body 214 of the upper section 210 contains a first element 232 and a second element 234 that form a cover plate. The first element 232 consists of a first end 233, a second end 235, and a midsection 237 between the first end 233 and the second end 235. The area that receives the conductor (or conductor contact surface) 215 extends from the first end 233 to second end 235 along a bottom side of first element 232. The area that receives conductor 215 forms a part

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IMPI fWTTTUTD M BUCARO

ROUTE OF THE industrial upper slit for contacting the upper half of the conductor 202. A general slit shape is not required, and any suitable configuration can be provided. In one embodiment, the first element 232 further consists of a recessed cavity 226 in the midsection 237 that effectively contains an electronic circuit 228. In this embodiment, the electronic circuit 228 is designed to accept inputs from various sensing components. This cavity 226 can be surrounded by a Faraday cage 230 to effectively nullify the effects of the high voltage EMF influence of conductor 202 on circuitry 228. The Faraday cage can also surround current transformer 222. The cover plate, or Cover plate element 234 may cover the upper opening of the cavity 226 to retain the electronic circuit within the body, or the upper body section, 214. The electronic circuits can be housed in a plastic or metal container, surrounded by the aforementioned Faraday cage and the entire assembly can be hermetically sealed, such as with epoxy for example.

Electronic circuit 228 can meaningfully accept and quantify various inputs for

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IMPI mkicand institute of LA MOHUjAT industrial monitor various parameters of the driver 202 and the surrounding environment. The inputs can also be derived from externally mounted reference electronic devices / components. The inputs may include, for example: 1) Line voltage reference (as derived from Faraday cage 230 or other means); 2) Line Current Reference (as derived from current transformer 222, 224 or other means); 3) Barometric pressure and temperature references - internal and ambient (as derived from external and internal thermocouples 236, 238 or other means); 4) Driver vibration references (as derived from accelerometer 240, such as a 10-50 KHz vibration sensor for example, or other means); and 5) Optical references (as derived from photo transistor 242 in a fiber optic tube or other medium). The optical reference part may, for example, allow the clamp to look for and see flashes of light from the corona if the insulator begins to fail, or lighten the storm activity of indications, and / or pull references (as shown It is derived from the tension set device 244, which may be included in certain embodiments. The tensile references of the tensile indicators 244 can, for example, provide information indicating that ice was formed at

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as the driver's weight increases due to ice build-up.

Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) in general refers to an industrial control system such as a computer system that monitors and controls a process. Information derived by electrical / electronic circuitry can exit circuit 228 through non-conductive fiber optic cable 246 and can be provided up and on transmission tower 200 and finally at the base of the tower and fed into the system. User SCADA to allow the end user to access and view electrical and environmental conditions in that view, or the information can be transmitted to a remote or central site. This execution, however, has proven to be problematic. For example, routing fiber to a clamp that is operating at very high voltage creates a voltage creep path that can cause an arc even though fiberglass and plastic sleeves are provided as insulators. The arcs are formed along the boundary between the air and the solid insulation. If the insulator were just a simple rod, it would have to be 3 times as long. Suspension clamp or other sensing device can be configured so that

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alternative for transmitting information wirelessly from electronic circuit 228 to a receiving system. However, this execution in the same way has been problematic due to the complexity of the software that is needed to accommodate the distances over which the clamps are used and the number of clamps they are monitoring.

Certain problems can occur in electrical power networks

Transmission lines face numerous problems. The wind causes vibration, which can gradually crack the wire OR destroy it completely. Excessive heat can cause lines to sag into trees or traffic. Corroded wires will generate more heat when current passes through them, but there is no way to tell the extent of any corrosion since it is usually inside the wire. Corona is a type of electrical discharge that will corrode wire, insulators, and anything else in the vicinity. Ice buildup can break wire due to weight. Trees can naturally fall onto wires and pose a hazard if not cut. Natural and man-made disasters such as earthquakes and forest fires can

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IMPI INSSTtTUTO MUUCANC DE LA MIOPIIDAD INDUSTRIAL damage the power transmission lines. In addition, wildlife, and squirrels in particular, can become charred when they slide into certain components of a power grid, thereby causing an interruption in the transmission of electrical energy through power transmission lines. Optimizing the line to boost capacity is temperature dependent and can only be done through conservative estimates of local conditions.

Network monitoring

In conventional electrical grids, current and voltage are measured in substations. The current capacity of a line is estimated based on wire diameter, wire age, ambient temperature, and wind speed. However, due to many variables, it is a well-founded conjecture. Also, there is no early warning regarding ice buildup and ice is detected when a wire breaks during frost. Vibration dampers are routinely attached to power lines to reduce vibration; however, its effectiveness is only estimated by the number of lines that break due to vibration stress, rather than the dampers that are present. Power lines

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IMPIí tNsrmrro mbicam;

DE LA FROHIDAI industrial can generate crowns that can be heard as a screeching sound and can also be viewed using special cameras that can see the ultraviolet spectrum. However, those cameras are big and expensive. Cameras are generally shipped to places where someone has heard a screeching sound or where an insulator appears to have been corroded but cannot be effective because corona can be intermittent and is affected by many environmental conditions such as humidity and air pressure. Furthermore, most of the devices proposed for telemonitoring require battery power. The battery power is not adequate in these applications that are elevated from the ground and distributed over large geographic areas, making their maintenance unsustainable. In addition to the energy challenges, there are monitoring devices that are relatively expensive and large, limiting their use to occasional applications or installation to limited sites. As a result, there is no opportunity to compile widely disseminated data and make determinations such as location of discharge through triangulation or real-time energy carrying capacity based on the weather conditions of the entire transmission line.

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Repair or service to a transmission line Initially, one must locate where a power transmission line broke. However, power transmission lines can run hundreds of thousands between substations and the only information generally available is that one substation is supplying power and the next is not receiving the power supplied. Accessibility to power transmission lines can vary. In some cases, power transmission lines may be accessible by motorized vehicles on land. In other cases, the lines may only be accessible by helicopter, where a service technician must hang below the helicopter to service or repair a line. Those repairs or maintenance can be very expensive.

Communication problems

In order to retrieve information about the system, fast and secure communication is necessary. Radio communication via Ethernet is an option. However, organizing an Ethernet network requires the use of devices known as routers or switches. Each router or switch will search for an Ethernet information packet and note the address of the

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source and destination address as the packet arrives at a port. If the destination is known, the packet is only sent to a port that is known to be connected to that destination device. If the address is not known, it is repeated to all ports except the port where it arrives. When the destination device responds, the source address will appear in a packet on a single port that allows the router or switch to know where to send the next payment with that particular destination address.

There are specific protocols that optimize the route to deliver a packet and eliminate the opportunity for a packet to loop through the network. Some of the more common protocols are Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) and Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol.

A popular radio protocol for packet-based transmission is Zigbee, which is described in the IEEE 802.15.4 standard. It is proposed for relatively small radio networks in a small geographical area. It is very suitable for a single building or a multi-acre property. However, when the radii become numerous and scattered over a large area, the system becomes

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becomes unviable. Most distant radio messages must be repeated by coordinating elements (eg, a more capable radio) until the destination is reached. Because there is a time limit for a response, the physical dimensions of the network are limited.

Although there are devices for monitoring transmission lines, they address the power, diagnostic and communication challenges noted above. There is a need for a system that allows rapid analyzes for any actual or potential repair problems and power optimization capabilities along transmission lines (e.g., to allow, for example, increased peak loads based on the actual operating conditions versus conservative estimates based on worst-case weather), with lower repair costs, better preventive maintenance and faster restoration times. Furthermore, there is a need for a simple form of communication and collection of the considerable amount of data that can be accumulated by the widespread installation of detection devices over large geographical areas.

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Short description

Various aspects of the examples of the invention are set forth in the claims.

In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a suspension clip connection assembly is described. The suspension clamp connection assembly includes a clamp unit with a base section, extension arms, and clamp contact portions. The extension arms are between the contact parts of the gripper and the base section. The clamping unit is configured to be clamped to a suspension clamp. The support member has a first end and a second end. The first end of the support member is connected to the base section. The support member is configured to support an electronic circuit box. The crown ring is connected to the second end of the support member.

According to another aspect of the invention, a clamping unit is described. The clamping unit has a base section, extension arms, and gripper contact parts. The extension arms are between the contact parts of the gripper and the base section. The clamping unit is configured to be clamped to a clamp of

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suspension so that a part of the main body of the suspension clamp is between the extension arms.

According to another aspect of the invention, a method is described. A clamping unit is provided having a base section, extension arms, and clamp contact parts. The extension arms are between the contact parts of the gripper and the base section. The clamping unit is configured to be clamped to a suspension clamp. A support element is attached to the suspension clip. The support member has a first end and a second end. The first end of the support member is connected to the base station. The support member is configured to support an electronic circuit box. A crown ring is connected to the second end of the support member.

Brief description of the drawings

The above aspects and other characteristics of the invention are explained in the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, where:

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a transmission tower supporting the transmission lines connected through the suspension clips;

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Fig. 2 is a clear perspective view of the suspension clips shown in Fig. 1;

Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the suspension clip shown in Fig. 2;

Fig. 4 is a perspective view of a first member of the suspension clip shown in Fig. 2;

Fig. 5 is a perspective view of a smart gripper constructed in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 6 is a plotted perspective view of the smart gripper of Fig. 5;

Fig. 7 is a top view of the gripper body of the smart gripper of Fig. 5;

Fig. 8 is a bottom view of the smart gripper of Fig. 5;

Fig. 9 is a perspective view of the smart gripper of Fig. 5 showing the contents of the

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IMPI Mexican institute MIA RON EDA D INDUSTRIA!

electronic circuit box and various sensors in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 10 shows various components of a smart gripper constructed in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

Figs. lia and 11b are, respectively, a top view and a side view of the electronic circuit box for a smart gripper in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a main board of a smart gripper in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

Figs. 13a and 13b show a communication network consisting of data acquisition devices, eg, several of the smart clamps of Fig. 5) in radio communication in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

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Fig. 14 shows a more complex example of a communication network than that shown in Fig. 13a or

13b;

Fig. 15 shows a communication network with more than one adapter in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention; Y

Figs. 16 and 17 are screenshots generated by an administrative system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 18 is a perspective view of a suspension clamp connection assembly (attached to a transmission line suspension clamp) incorporating features of the invention;

Fig. 19 is another perspective view of the hanger clip connection assembly shown in Fig. 18;

Fig. 20 is a side view of the hanger clip connection assembly shown in Fig. 18;

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Fig. 21 is another side view of the hanger clip connection assembly shown in Fig. 18;

Fig. 22 is a front view of the hanger clip connection assembly shown in Fig. 18;

Fig. 23 is a top view of the hanger clip connection assembly shown in Fig. 18;

Fig. 24 is a perspective view of the hanger clip connection assembly shown in Fig. 18 (with the clamp unit in a closed position);

Fig. 25 is a perspective view of the hanger clip connection assembly shown in Fig. 18 (with the clamp unit in an open position);

Fig. 26 is a top view of the clamping unit and the support member (with the clamping unit in an open position);

Fig. 27 is a side view of the clamping unit and the support element;

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Fig. 28 is a front view of the clamping unit and the support member (with the clamping unit in an open position);

Fig. 29 is a perspective view of the clamping unit and the support member (with the clamping unit in a closed position);

Fig. 30 is a perspective view of the clamping unit and the support member (with the clamping unit in an open position);

Fig. 31 is a perspective view of the hanger clip connection assembly shown in Fig. 18 (with the clamp unit in an open position);

Fig. 32 is a front view of the suspension clamp connection assembly shown in Fig. 18 (attached to a transmission line suspension clamp); Y

Fig. 33 is a side view of another embodiment of a suspension clip connection assembly (attached to the

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transmission line suspension clamp) that incorporates features of the invention.

Throughout the drawings, it will be understood that the 5 like reference numerals refer to like elements, features and structures.

Detailed description

This description is provided to aid in a better understanding of the illustrative embodiments of the present invention described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications can be made to the illustrative embodiments described herein without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. Also, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions are omitted for clarity and conciseness. Likewise, certain naming, labeling and term conventions that are used in the context of the present disclosure are, as those skilled in the art may understand, not limiting and are provided for illustrative purposes only to facilitate understanding of certain illustrative executions of the embodiments of the present invention.

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Summary of the data acquisition device Figs. 5-17 show illustrative embodiments of the present invention that provide a method, system, and apparatus for an intelligent electrical grid consisting of network data acquisition devices that monitor transmission lines or conductors. The smart grid is shown using power transmission lines; however, it will be understood that data acquisition devices can be configured to monitor other types of transmission lines or conductors deployed over long geographic distances (eg. , a communications line, a gas line, a water line, an oil line, some railways, a road, among others), and it needs not to be restricted to be used only with connectors or clamps, according to the modalities illustrative of the present invention. A data acquisition device is shown using a suspension clamp (eg, on a power transmission line) hereinafter referred to as "smart clamp". Data acquisition devices, however, are understood to be any smart connector or smart accessories or related devices for network monitoring and data acquisition.

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With reference to Figs. 5-9, a smart clamp 1 is shown in Fig. 5. The smart clamp assembly has a clamp body 110, a retaining body (clamp) 310 that rests on the clamp body 110, a box of electronic circuits 50 and a heat shield 70 that protects the electronic components in the electronic circuit box 50. Also shown is illustrative clip hanger hardware 20 for attaching clip 1 to a power line or other conductor 30, for example, and a high temperature cable 80 for connecting a power source (eg, a power supply). energy consisting of a current transformer 330) to the electronic circuits of the electronic circuit box 50 as described below.

As shown in Figs. 5, 6 and 7, the clamp body 110 has a central depression or channel 112 along its length over which a power line / wire 30 is to be placed. The retention body 310 likewise has a central trough or channel 312 along its longitudinal length to accommodate power line 30 so that when retaining body 310 and clamp body 110 are attached, power line 30 is secured between the two

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- - ,,, bodies 110, 310. Illustrative hardware for securing retention body 310 and caliper body 110 together may have, but is not limited to, a U-shaped bolt 210 inserted into the holes of the bolt 214 and secured through nuts 216. A similar configuration of two bolt holes 214 and nuts 216 for a U-shaped bolt 210 can be provided at opposite ends of collet 1.

The retaining body 310 has a cooling chimney III as shown in Figs. 5 and 6 to allow air to circulate and cool Smart Gripper 1. The retaining body assembly consists of the retaining body 310, springs 320, and a top 331 of the transformer 330. Likewise, as shown in Fig. 7, the gripper body 110 also has a cooling chimney lll which also facilitates air circulation to cool down the smart gripper 1. Consequently, the gripper body assembly consists of the gripper body 110 and the part bottom 332 of transformer 330. The upper and lower parts 331 and 332 of the transformer 330 in the power supply may be provided with depressions or channels similar to channel 1ΓΖ in the body of the clamp (e.g., as shown in part

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bottom 332 of the transformer shown in Fig. 7) to accommodate a conductor 30 and are positioned and secured in their respective holding body 310 and clamp body 110 to be aligned with each other. When the clamp body 110 and the retaining body 310 are secured together, the springs 320 are charged or compressed by the upper and lower portions of the transformer 330. The adjustment of the spring from the current transformer 330 to the retaining body 310 allows the conductor 30 to float within ranges to prevent overpressure of the conductor while providing good sealing and minimizing vibrations. Although the embodiments shown depict the power supply assembly with the current transformer 330 having the parts 331 and 332 provided within the holding body 310 and the clamp body 110 respectively, it will be understood that the current transformer 330 can be deployed elsewhere in relation to clamp 1. For example, parts 331 and 332 of transformer 330 may be attached to the conductor through a clamp at a location adjacent to clamp 1. The lower part of the clamp body 110 is shown in Fig. 8 and provides another view. of the high-temperature conductor 80 extending from the power supply consisting of

KSTITUTO MEXICANO H INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY current transformer 330 to electronic circuit box 50. The power supply consists of an electronic circuit board (not shown) configured to condition the AC voltage of current transformer 330 and convert it to voltage DC that is to be supplied to main electronic circuit board 500 through wire 80.

Power for the Data Acquisition and Technical Problem Solving Device

Although it does not seem reasonable, conventional systems have had difficulty obtaining a few watts of power (eg, to power a processor or sensors) from a power line that carries a million watts of power. The present invention overcomes these difficulties, that is, the smart clamp 1 is capable of extracting a small amount of energy from a power line or wire 30 to which it is secured in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention.

A practical means of extracting energy from the power line is a current transformer; however, to accommodate a current range of conductor 30

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IMPI iNsmvro mk¡canc DE u INDUSTRIAL cold from 3 amps (A) to 3000 A, this transformer becomes a sizable piece of iron (eg, about 4 pounds) with copper windings (eg, about 9000 turns) They draw energy from the magnetic fields surrounding the main conductor 30 created by the flow of electrons in them. For example, a conventional split square current transformer can be used (eg, a Model CTS-1250-300A current transformer available from Continental Control Systems LLC, Boulder, Colorado). One side can be separated to allow clamping of transformer 330 on conductor 30. The extracted energy is used to power the Smart Gripper 1 and its various sensors, data analysis components and communication equipment, which consume at most 10 watts. As an alternative to the energy extracted (eg. , through a power supply assembly with the current transformer 330) the batteries and solar cells can also be used to power the electronic circuits of the clamp 1, among other sources of energy for the electronic circuits.

As mentioned above, the smart clamp 1 uses the power supply assembly with the current transformer 330 to draw power from the

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ΙΜΤΠυϊΟ MEXICAN DE LA MOHEDA · INDUSTRIAL

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magnetic field generated by current passing through main conductor 30 which current transformer 330 surrounds. Transformer 330 may be a split transformer having an upper part 331 and a lower part 332 that can be clamped around the line or power wire 30 as described below in connection with Figs. 6, 7 and 8. As mentioned above, a high temperature wire 80 extends from an outlet of the power supply assembly to an inlet of the electronic circuit box 50 to provide power to the electronic circuits therein. An energy storage device can be optionally provided on smart clamp 1 (eg, a capacitor on main board 500 as shown in Figs. 9 and 12) to allow the smart clamp 1 to operate long enough to send one last message (eg, to a base station or other network monitoring device) before power is lost.

The conductor 30 enclosed by the clamp body 110 and the retaining body 310 can become quite hot due to the very large amount of current carried by the conductor. Commonly, the older style wire is allowed to reach approximately

IMPI 'ΙΝϊΤΠνΤΟ MtXICANG

OF THE INDUSTRIAL FROHtDAIJ

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75 ° C before becoming soft and starting to hang. The newer style wire is starting to unfold, which can reach 250 ° C before starting to get soft and start to hang. Electronic circuits will generally not tolerate this temperature, and therefore the electronic circuit box 50 is positioned next to and separated from the main body of the smart gripper by a heat shield 70. Heat shield 70 can be connected to the clamp 1 side (eg, with spacers 72 for thermal insulation) and electronic circuit box 50 can be connected to heat shield 70, for example. The heat shield is constructed of aluminum. The electronic circuit box 50 may be made of a non-metallic material to facilitate the operation of the radio 540 and the GPS unit 510.

Current transformer 330 surrounds the main conductor in order to harvest the energy and, in some embodiments, current transformer 330 will not tolerate temperatures above 85 ° C. The cooling holes or stacks 111 in the holding body 310 and the clamp body 110 of the smart clamp 1 allow air to flow to cool the transformer 330. Alternatively, as mentioned

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Previously, the power supply assembly with the parts 331 and 332 of the transformer 330 can be attached to the conductor 30 through a clamp at a location adjacent to the clamp 1. Furthermore, the smart clamp 1 itself acts as a heat sink to reduce the temperature. Transformer 330 may be encapsulated in the thermal insulating material to provide additional protection.

Sensors And Electronic Components Of The Data Acquisition Device

The smart clamp 1 has various sensors in or near the electronic circuit box 50, which is isolated from heat by heat shield 70 as described above.

Referring to Fig. 9, electronic circuit box 50 is shown with a separate cover to expose a main board 500 mounted within in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 5, the electronic circuit box 50 has a section 52 that extends from a main section 51. The parallel sections of the box 54 are connected at sides

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INDUSTRIAL STANDARD MEXICAN IMPI rnsmuro contrary to section 52 and extend contrary to each other and parallel to the longitudinal axis of conductor 30 and clamp 1. Main board 500 is secured in section 51. Additional sensor circuits to measure the wind speed and ambient temperature (eg, generally indicated at 610 and 620 in Figs. 9 and as shown in Figs. 11A and 12) are electrically connected to main board 500 (eg, via a ribbon cable) and extend therefrom for deployment in parallel sections 54 as described in detail below.

Continuing with reference to Fig. 9, the main board 500 supports and processes inputs from a number of sensors and measuring devices including, but not limited to, a Global Positioning Device (GPS) 510, a sensor 520 to measure the temperature of the conductor 30, a current sensor 530 from conductor 30, wind speed detector 610, vibration detector 630, corona audio detector 640, room temperature sensor 620, and at least one camera 550 and its interface 504. Additional sensors such as additional cameras may be included. The sensors are described in detail later.

IMPI

ΙΝΓΠΤυΤΌ MWCANO μ la nonsDAD • «nUSTKIAL

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In addition, the main board 500 encrypted 540 and encrypted web access 560. These communication devices are described in detail below. The main board 500 consists of a central processing unit (CPU) 505 and associated memory device 502 (e.g., a non-volatile memory such as a flash disk) and program code for processing data from the sensors and communications. In another embodiment, the electronic circuitry may be located outside the clamp or transmission line in an external box that may or may not have a Faraday cage. This arrangement may be suitable, for example, for a gas pipeline as well as for certain electrical transmission lines.

As shown in FIG. 11A, electronic circuit box 50 can also be provided with connectors 501 and 508 for power and fiber optics, respectively. As shown in Fig. 12, a connector 501 is electronically connected to a power subsystem on the main board 500 so that when the high-temperature wire 80 carrying DC power is connected to the connector 508, the main board 500 can provide power to the sensors and other electronic devices it supports.

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IMPI Mexican wrrnvro de u feofieuad INDUSTIIAI

Figs. 11A and 12 show a main board 500 and other components in accordance with illustrative embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 11A is a front view of a main board 500 in an electronic circuit box 50. The main board may be connected to a camera 550 having a lens installed in an opening provided in the electronic circuit box 50 as shown. on one side of box 50 shown in Fig. 11B. The other side (not shown) of box 50 and main board 500 may also have another camera installed (i.e., with the lens mounted in the opening of box 50) to allow images to be taken along the sections of conductor 30 extending from both sides of the clamp 1.

An illustrative small camera 550 operates in the range of -40 ° C to + 85 ° C, and with the focus fixed down to two feet, for example. The head is 8mm x 5.6mm. The 550 cameras can capture still images of line 30 conditions such as ice, drape, charred trash, and so on. Video images can also be provided as the communication bandwidth allows. As described below, representing each smart clamp 1 with its own web page, 'the respective web pages for the smart clamps can present users with convenient information regarding various line conditions such as ice images and the like, and list of measured parameters such as temperature, wind, among others and if they are in selected intervals or not or meet the selected thresholds.

There are no practical, cost-effective means of directly sensing voltage from power line 30, at present, without relying on a ground system. Although current can be sensed by a second current transformer, a 530 Hall Effect sensor integrated circuit (IC), which is smaller and less expensive, can be used in Smart Clamp 1 (e.g., in the main board 500). The current sensor 530 can be based on the Hall effect instead of the more traditional Rogowski coil, where the harmonic distortion of the sine wave of the current is measured by a distortion that can be caused by unusual loads, a transformer saturated, or a generator that is malfunctioning.

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The conductor temperature can also be measured with an IC. For example, the smart clamp 1 may be provided with a jumper 520 between the conductor or transmission line to an electronic component on the main board 500 that can empirically determine the temperature of the transmission line.

The smart clamp 1 may include the detectors 610, 620 and 630 to measure the sensor of wind speed, ambient temperature and driver vibration, respectively, as shown in Fig. 9. The wind speed detector 610 is advantageous because it runs without any moving parts. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the wind speed is detected by a heated element extended from the body of the gripper 1. For example, two wind sensing devices are located close to the electronic circuit box 50 and on the same axis as the conductor or transmission line 30 coupled to the smart clamp 1. The difference between the predicted temperature of the element in air Fixed and the temperature drop in the other element caused by the wind can be used to calculate the wind speed.

<img file="MX348685B_D0038.tif" />

IMPI /

Mexican INSTITUTE

OF INDUSTRIAL PROBITY

More specifically, as mentioned above, electronic circuit box 50 has parallel box sections 54 that extend parallel to the longitudinal axis of conductor 30 and clamp 1 and in which sensors 610 and 620 are deployed to measure velocity. wind and ambient temperature. As shown in Figs. HA and 12, a main board 500 may have a main section 506 and at least one section 507 extending from there (eg, through the ribbon cable or other conductor). Section 507 supports at least the wind sensor 610 and the ambient temperature sensor. Wind speed detector 610 generally operates using the same principle as a hot wire anemometer in that it contains one of the parallel sections 54 (eg, see 503a in Figs. 11A and 12), which were heated by an element (not shown). As the wind blows onto the gripper 1 including the parallel sections 54, the heated section 503a cools. The other section 54 (eg, see 503b in Figs. 11A and 12) is provided with the ambient temperature sensor 620. The CPU 505 is programmed to determine the wind speed based on the difference between the measured ambient temperature and the measured temperature of the heated section 503a. The 620 room temperature sensor

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INDUSTRIAL TREATMENT MUTUAL IMPI is positioned in section 503b opposite heated section 503a so that its measurement of ambient temperature is not skewed by the heating element for heated section 503a. CPU 505 can be programmed to determine wind speed in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of conductor 30 (ie, a parameter frequently sought after by utility companies) using various calculations based on geometry.

It should be understood that the wind speed detector 610 may be implemented using other configurations in accordance with other illustrative embodiments of the present invention than those shown in Figs. 9, 11 and 12. For example, as shown in Fig. 10, a clamp 1 can be provided with a protrusion from its housing 50 to accommodate a hot wire anemometer 612, and optionally a radio antenna 542 to a radio interface 540 described later.

The vibration sensor 630 can be implemented in a number of different ways. For example, a tensiometer with adequate bandwidth (128Hz) can be used to measure vibration. If no

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ΙΜΡΙ IHSTnVTO MÜtlCAÍ * for the FIONtuAU INDUSTRIAL large tensiometer, then an accelerometer of - * 3 'axis? smaller can be installed 1 or 2 feet away from Gripper 1, or a similar device can be integrated into Smart Gripper 1 itself. If an external sensor is used, motion can be measured and provided to the main gripper via four wires (i.e. two for power and two for communication), for example for the interface of the 500 board and its CPU 505.

More specifically, measuring the tension in a 30-wire conductor can generally be performed using a device (e.g., a Quick Balance tensiometer available from Dillon, an Avery Weigh-Tronix company in Fairmont, MN, that is installed on or near of the clamp 1 and is clamped on the conductor 30) which deflects the wire 30 a little and measures the force that the wire exerts in an attempt to be straight. The CPU 505 can use geometry-based calculations to provide a scaling factor between the force in the device and the tension in the wire 30. Measuring the tension can also be performed using an external sensor such as a cell under load with a mechanical handicap to bring in the 10,000 Ibs. maximum tension at 100-200 Ibs. , as shown in Fig. 10, which can be detected. Vibration can also be detected

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detecting the variation in voltage or measured with an IC accelerometer attached to the line at a short distance from the clamp 1.

As mentioned above, the clamp 1 also has a corona detector 640. The corona or isolators are not in the visible spectrum. Are on the spectrum deep ultra violet (eg, about 280 nm). Cameras that can image the ultraviolet flares are prohibitively expensive, particularly when one takes into account that the corona is sporadic, intermittent, and is significantly affected by air pressure, humidity, and other dynamic conditions. Silicon sensors are not very sensitive to this range, that is, they are about 10% efficient compared to sensitivity to visible light. A very good filter is required to separate visible light, even at night. During the day, the sensor will be overwhelmed with visible light even with the filter. Visible light cameras generally do not survive the extreme temperatures around the monitored line 30 environment, even if the cameras are turned off. In accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, a method for corona detection is provided that employs audio detection of the corona.

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MEXICAN IMTTWTO

DELANOfEDAr tNOUSTRIAL

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(eg, by storing an audio signature of the corona and using the sensors to detect audio noise and making comparisons with the signature to detect the corona). The corona detected with audio can be tagged 5 with time and its duration recorded, among other parameters.

Continuing with reference to FIG. 9, the corona 640 audio detector may consist of a microphone and digital signal processor (DSP) (not shown) to obtain and process an audio signature (hissing sound) from the crown. Samples of frequently mastered crown sounds can be stored as signatures. The microphone output can be sampled 15 continuously or periodically via the DSP. The DSP then compares the signature samples or otherwise the process samples against the characteristics of the selected threshold to determine whether to generate an alert that a corona event has occurred. An alert can be sent, for example, each time a corona event is detected, or after a selected number of detected corona events have occurred to help calibrate the DSP to more accurately characterize sounds as corona events.

IMPI

Frrnvrt hmucaxo ociAnenuMB INUW1UAL

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One or more smart clamps 1 can detect a lightning event. The smart clamp system uses a GPS 510 unit to precisely locate the positions of the smart clamps 1. Using GPS also allows the measurement of precise time information to measure one or more events detected by the smart clamps 1 ( e.g. phase angle). An antenna is provided on the 500 main board. A 300 kHz bandwidth filter is also provided to detect surges from an electrical discharge. It is not necessary for the electric shock to hit the line to detect the shock. For example, electrical discharge within a few miles from a smart clamp can be detected and time recorded. The shared geometry between three co-located smart clamps 1 allows triangulation of the discharge site.

In addition, the smart clamp 1 can be configured to take the voltage measurement from the power line. At present, it is very expensive to measure HOkv at 765kv, which is common for a power transmission line. Regardless, the voltage with respect to ground can be measured using an external voltage detector communicating over the same radio links (not shown).

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IMPI urnuro mbucamc r DELA MOHEDAL, INDUSTRIAL i

In accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, a short-interval radio network (eg. , 2 km) in the smart grid system considering that smart clamps 1 or other data acquisition devices can jump data along the transmission line 30 until the aggregated data can be brought to a remote terminal, which can interface to public or private terrestrial transmissions as described in connection with Figs. 1315.

With reference to Fig. 9, a clamp 1 is provided with a radio (eg, an encrypted radio) 540. For example, the radio 540 may be a common, FCC-approved, digital radio with a data rate of 250 kbps and AES128 encryption, which is low cost, robust to the environment, and also saves development cost and minimizes deployment cost. One such radios is a Synapse RF Engine ZigBee Radio Board (RFET) radio available from Synapse Wireless Inc., Huntsville, AL. Having the dimensions of approximately 1.33 per side, it can be provided on the main board 500 in the electronic circuit box 50, as shown in Figs. 9 and 12. With an antenna of 5, as shown

<img file="MX348685B_D0045.tif" />

IMPI

IIWBTUTO MBUCANC

K THE INDUSTRIAL NJOPIEDAl shown in Fig. 11A, the radio 540 has an interval of approximately 2-3 km.

For interface with public or private terrestrial transmission, an optional illustrative optical interface 600 can be provided to a main board of the data acquisition device 500 which operates as the Media Independent Interface (Mil) of the 100 Mbps Ethernet standard lOOBaseFx to the processor. main board 500 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention.

Figs. 10 and 11A depict an optional optical interface 600 installed on the main board 500 in accordance with another illustrative embodiment of the present invention. Optical cables 602 can be provided with strain relief. Optical splitters / combiners are generally indicated by the 604. The optical interface 600 may consist of a dual, small form factor pluggable (SFP) to support linear fiber drop and continuous topology.

An optical connector 606 (eg, a weather-tight fiber optic connector) may be provided in the electronic circuit box 50, in addition to a connector

IMPI

MEXICAN IRSTTTUTO

M INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY

<img file="MX348685B_D0046.tif" />

608 for power cable 80. Optical interface 600 is useful at ground level or in lower voltage applications when the optical cable does not derive the effect of high voltage insulators. Alternatively, the main board 500 can be reused as a 710 radio to Ethernet adapter at certain sites and includes, for convenience, a standard RJ45 electrical O / OOBaseT interface as well or in place of the OOBaseFX optical interface.

The low energy radio 540 in each of the smart tweezers 1 in the smart tweezers system includes powerful encryption and is used to communicate back to a central location 700, as will be described in connection with Figs. 13-15. For a large power transmission line 30, there could be hundreds of smart clamps 1 and thus hundreds of spoke hops that would be required to reach a switch node 700. Illustrative embodiments of the present invention implement large hop number encryption between data acquisition devices over long distances and thus accommodate transmission delays that remain a problem for existing radio technology.

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IMPI

INSTITUTE M «UCA» «

Say THE INDUSTRIAL EFFECTIVENESS

For ease of use and in accordance with an illustrative, advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the smart clamp system may require little or no knowledge of communication protocols, radio technology, or other technologies that are not currently familiar to power companies. they would use the smart clamp system. As soon as the clamps 1 are installed within their radio range, they will communicate with the main computer system (eg, a central monitoring location 700) after installation. Once installed, clamp 1 starts to operate automatically. Power is automatically supplied to electronic circuits 500, sensors automatically begin to detect conditions in real time, GPS 510 determines clamp location, radio 540 detects neighboring clamps and 710 substation adapters and communications begin . Therefore, this mode is superior to existing technology that requires programming a central database to organize remote detection devices or the need to program individual nodes with cell phone numbers or IP addresses to manage a network. of sensors.

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IMPI INSTITUTO MEXICANO DI LA FNDFIEDAD INDUSTRIA!

In accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, each smart clamp 1 is configured to operate as an internet web server. The communication can be installed over a private network so that there is no connection to the public Internet, to improve security. The smart clamp 1 may include an encrypted web access unit 560 to allow secure access to the Internet, as shown in Fig. 9, for e-mail alerts (e-mail) and for browsing the electrical network (that is, browsing web pages created for each clamp 1 to obtain measured parameters and other information).

When a fault is detected, Smart Clamp 1 is configured (eg, through firmware provided to the CPU 505) to send a message (eg, in the form of an e-mail) to an address programmable with a short message to indicate the problem and the location. An arrangement may include measures to limit or coordinate the number of those messages to minimize the overload of a central monitoring point 700. The messages are then communicated over a radio communication link to an adapter 710, for example, for aggregation and optionally to other monitoring ground stations 700 (e.g., via ground communications) if they are not. co-located with the 710 adapter.

The 540 radios used by the smart clamps 1 can be adapted to the Ethernet standard very easily and tied to a common local area network. A user is able to access the smart clamp devices 1 by entering the addresses of the respective web pages and thereby searching or consulting the electrical network. It will be appreciated that conventional monitoring systems require a highly specialized and very expensive central computer system and software to compile the measurements. The simplicity of expanding the system and the ability to access it from many sites can be well established, and the system can be easily implemented using the inexpensive and readily available Ethernet equipment.

Radio problems

Today, the Zigbee radio is a low-energy, packet-based radio standard proposed to provide communication within a building or just over a few acres. However, it does include AES128 encryption that is currently considered

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IMPI iNimvro mixicano 'DE U HOHIDAO

INDUSTRIAL effective. However, in 5 years, that encryption can be considered to be inadequate. It is noted that all Zigbee radios on a network must use the same encryption key. If the key changes, all radios must be updated at the same time. For approximately 20 radii on a property, this can be considered to be acceptable; however, for tens of thousands of radios spread over a power grid or other network of data acquisition devices as proposed in accordance with the embodiments of the present invention, using conventional Zigbee radios in a network would not be a good idea. system. For example, breaking just one encryption key would make the entire system vulnerable. Additionally, the Zigbee standard sets a limit on the response delay that is reasonable for 10 or 20 radio hops, but cannot accommodate, for example, 500 hops, as would be needed for a power line or other application. geographically expansive application contemplated by the illustrative embodiments of the present invention.

The Zigbee standard describes two classes of radios: a coordinator and a peripheral. The coordinators are responsible for repeating the messages so that they reach the

<img file="MX348685B_D0050.tif" />

IMPI tBSTnvro nDUCamc Di LA INDUÍTIIAL nOHÍTY Desired destination if a repeat is needed. Provision of either a coordinating or peripheral radio is a manual installation operation that needs to be avoided based on the potential deployment of tens of thousands of smart clamps 1. In accordance with illustrative embodiments of the present invention, for simplicity and ease of use, a technician can install the clamp 1 with a ratchet nut and complete the installation without knowing anything about communication protocols or network architecture.

Radio protocol for very large networks

Although the conventional Zigbee radio may be a suitable starting point for a simple radio design, it is unsuitable for geographically expansive applications such as those accommodated by the illustrative embodiments of the present invention. An illustrative embodiment of the present invention provides a custom Zigbee radio design that institutes advantageous changes for use with the smart gripper 1 in a smart gripper system. Rather than having an encryption key for all 540 radios in the system, for enhanced security, the keys are provided dynamically (e.g., negotiated on each transaction in a similar way to how

<img file="MX348685B_D0051.tif" />

handle Internet banking transactions). For example, it can be implemented in the Security System (SSL) (Secure Socket Layer) that is part of all web browsers. Furthermore, the tolerance for delay is considerably extended. Instead of a few milliseconds, responses in very long lines could take a minute. If an Ethernet port consisting of 500 smart clamp electronic circuits with both a 540 radio and a 600 electrical or optical Ethernet interface can be installed at the base of a tower in the middle of the long line, the data can be returned empty over leased telecommunications lines or private lines owned by the electricity company. This reduces the maximum number of hops and reduces the response delay. However, the smart clamp communications message path is only designed to be tolerant of the very long delays described to support large networks even if leased telecommunication lines or private lines are not available.

Each smart clamp 1 is configured (eg, via programmed CPU 505, radio 540, and other devices on main board 500) to implement the switch-like message path * ΙΜΡΙ

INSftTUTO M «UCAKO

Dt THE RUOFIEDAD

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Common Ethernet. Some of the same concepts are used, but considerable modifications are provided in accordance with illustrative embodiments of the present invention to accommodate the radio environment as described below.

Smart tweezers 1 according to the illustrative embodiments of the present invention are proposed to be installed, with a life expectancy of approximately 20 years or more. It is noted that telecommunication equipment lasting a similar period, in an external environment, is currently available. As an alternative to using 540 radios, Smart Tweezers 1 can be provided with lasers for optical communications, but their life expectancy may be limited to 5 to 7 years, which is much shorter than 540 radio equipment. On the ground level, where smart clamps 1 that have both a radio 540 and an optical or electrical Ethernet interface 600 can be used to communicate over a conventional telephone company or utility circuit, an optical interface 600 is can easily service you if needed.

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IMPI • WTTTWO ΜβϋΟΑΝΟ MlAfMOntMC waurruAi

Although the hardware of the intelligence clamp 1 can be up to 20 years, the software, encryption, communication protocol and other features of an intelligent clamp 1 are likely to become obsolete over that period of time. The smart clamp 1, however, includes data storage that operates like a disk drive (eg, flash drive 502). Therefore the software can be remotely updated to accommodate most of these changes or updates.

When future requirements simply exceed the capacity of existing hardware, new electronic circuits can be installed without detaching the entire clamp. The side box or electronic circuit box 50 containing the electronic circuits can be replaced separately. This is also an important factor in replacing the faulty or malfunctioning smart clamp 1.

As mentioned above, implementing a radio network for a power transmission line network geographically (eg, a power transmission power network) presents challenges that are not present in a smaller geographic area. The lines

<img file="MX348685B_D0054.tif" />

IMPI ικππντο mbucan · Μ INDUSTRIAL M rtORÍTY transmission 30 are inherently linear covering extremely long distances - up to 500 miles or longer. As highways are frequently monitored mile by mile, it is desirable to monitor transmission lines at least every mile to help accurately identify problems and characterize performance. Although there are cost effective unlicensed radios with a nominal interval of 1 mile, sending a message through those radios from one end of a 500 mile transmission line to the other could require 500 radio repeats in each direction, which you would need a communication protocol that can accommodate very long delays. That is, the maximum response time (before the message can be considered lost) would necessarily be minutes rather than milliseconds.

The 30 long driveline is not the only problem.

The network for monitoring the smart clamps 1 also branches out when several radios 540 are in close proximity (e.g. when the smart clamps 1 are installed to monitor all three phases in a tower or when several transmission lines 30 converge in a substation) . All smart clamps 1 need to be able to be assembled into a communication network

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE

DC LA KOntDAO iMDurrUAi

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consistent without manual intervention in accordance with an advantage of an illustrative embodiment of the present invention.

According to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, a more practical network is obtained by adapting the intelligent electrical network to a more common medium and protocol stack such as Ethernet and TCP / IP. Thus, a 710 optical Ethernet or radio-to-copper adapter is strategically placed around the electrical power grid, for example. Substations are certainly a likely location for that adapter, but there could be convenient points along a transmission line 30 for an adapter as well. The 710 adapter consists of a 540 radio, a standard 712 Ethernet port, and appropriate protocol conversion. The resulting Ethernet interface is therefore suitable for interfacing with public communication lines (teleos), private networks, cable TV modems, and / or other Internet-like access technologies.

As mentioned above, a main board 500 can be used as a radio to Ethernet 710 adapter at certain sites. An example of a main board of the data acquisition device that may be

IMPI

INSTITUTO MUUCANU DE LA PROPERTY INDUSTRIA!

<img file="MX348685B_D0056.tif" />

configured as an adapter 710 is provided in Figs. 10 and 11A. The adapter 710 can be physically different from the line data acquisition device (eg, a smart clamp 1) and have a different function. The 710 adapter can identify itself as a port where messages originate and terminate. It is a local place. An illustrative operation of data acquisition devices (eg smart clamps 1) and network organization is to reach one of these 710 adapters with minimal delay, which is defined as the minimum number of repeats or hops required .

When a packet is received by a data acquisition device (eg, a smart clamp 1), there are three options for the arrangement of the message, for example. If the message is intended to be for the same data acquisition device, the CPU 505 of the data acquisition device processes the message. If the message is not intended to be for this local data acquisition device, the message is repeated, or not repeated because it will be routed by another device. The messages can be images (e.g. still image or video capture by camera 550), parameters measured or detected from the

<img file="MX348685B_D0057.tif" />

IMPI

INSTITUTO M «UCANO oelamiohedad INDUSTRIAL data acquisition device that can be reported in various formats, standardized messages or alerts (eg text, audio or graphics), e-mails, HTML files, among others. The messages are packed by CPU 505, for example. As explained later, messages are aggregated (eg, through a 710 adapter) so that a user can access (eg. , using a web browser and the web address assigned to each 710 adapter).

Each message can include an 8-bit long source address and an 8-byte destination address. These addresses are the Media Access Control (MAC) address that is programmed during manufacture and is unique to each radio. The MAC address is used to route the packets. Although a three-layer protocol, such as an Internet Protocol (IP), may seem more appropriate, some manual installation (which can be time consuming, requires accurate records, and is unfamiliar to the utility technicians who are ensuring the smart clamp or similar accessories instead) the IP address may need to be set. In addition, each of the data acquisition devices 1 is being used as a web server according to the modalities

<img file="MX348685B_D0058.tif" />

IMPI Mexican institute OF INDUSTUIAl ntOFIEOAD illustrative of the present invention. This requires a fixed IP address instead of an IP address that is automatically assigned as might be the case if the Dynamic Guest Control Protocol (DHCP) is used. To avoid this problem, routing is done by data acquisition devices such as an intelligent clamp on layer 2, the middle layer.

With each smart clamp 1 operating as a layer 2 router, each data acquisition device or smart clamp 1 will need to scan thousands of MAC addresses to find out whether or not to repeat a message. This is not practical for a moderately sized 505 CPU. Instead, each data acquisition device can be provided with high-speed memory 502 attached to custom hardware (not shown) on main board 500 that compares a list of known MAC addresses to the destination address on the packet. . After finding a match, the data acquisition device will know if the packet needs to be repeated or just ignored.

In the illustrative execution, the number of MAC addresses is limited to a selected number (e.g., in the

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IMPL Mexican institute DE LA nOHEDAI 'NWI5TRIÁ order of 26,400) which is a compromise of processing speed, packet duration time and power consumption while still maintaining the requirement of thousands of devices * in a single subnet. If required, 5 large numbers of MAC addresses can be supported.

To create the MAC address table in high-speed memory 502, each data acquisition device needs to advertise that it is present. In the simplest case, this starts with a message broadcast from an adapter 710. Each of the data acquisition devices (eg, smart clamp 1) sends the message but increases the hop count 15 within the message. . Each device also replies to the message with the count of minimum hops received. Naturally, each device 1 will see many copies of the message. In most cases, the first message will have the smallest hop count, and the device 20 will reply with that hop count. However, there are somewhat less likely situations where a smaller hop count may be received later in the process. The device will reply to this smaller hop count that appears later. Without

<img file="MX348685B_D0060.tif" />

IMPI muican institute DE LA TRONE LIAD nroumiAL however, will not reply to the 710 adapter with a larger hop count.

During this process, each data acquisition device (eg, smart clamp 1) will become familiar with the devices in the immediate vicinity. Each device will know the hop count to the 710 adapter for its neighbors. In general, the devices with the lowest hop count will be responsible for performing the replay operations for the devices with the largest hop counts. However, each device is configured to perform a repeat or skip even when there appears to be a lower count path available.

Consider a simple linear case, as shown in Figs. 13a and 13b. Data acquisition device # 1 will be hop count 1 from adapter 710. Data acquisition device # 2 will be hop count 2 because device # 2 is not in range for direct connection to adapter 710. Device # 3 is hop count 3 from the adapter.

IMPI

INSTITUTO MEXICANO PE ΙΛ INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY

<img file="MX348685B_D0061.tif" />

The 710 adapter broadcasts the configuration broadcast.

Device # 1 repeats this with a hop count of one. It also replies to the 710 adapter with a hop count of 1. Device # 2 will receive the message in repeated configuration with a hop count of 1 and the reply from Device # 1 with a hop count of 1. Device # 1 it will take the response from Device # 2 and repeat it to the 710 adapter with an increased hop count. Device # 2 repeats the configuration message with a hop count of 2 and also replies to adapter 710 with a hop count of 2. Device # 3 receives the repeatable broadcast from adapter 710 and replies with a count of jumps increased. Device # 2 repeats the response from Device # 3 to the 710 adapter with an increased hop count. $

Device # 1 determines that it can communicate directly with the 710 adapter. It also determines that the reply from Device # 2 does not have a hop count of zero, and thus Device # 2 must depend on Device # 1 to communicate with adapter 1. Device # 1 also determines from the messages that another device is on the network (ie Device # 3) and has an even higher hop count

<img file="MX348685B_D0062.tif" />

ΙΜΡΙ INSTITUTO MEXICANO • r la nopiSAD INDUSTRIA!

big. Consequently, Device # 1 repeats the message to adapter 710 from that device as well.

In a more complex situation, there are multiple valid ways 5 back to the adapter as shown in Fig. 14.

This example assumes that all three phases of a power transmission line 30 are being measured at the same points.

In this case, all A devices (eg, Devices Al, A2, A3) can receive messages from each other and all devices B (eg, Devices Bl, B2, B3) and the 710 adapter. All Devices B can listen to all Devices A, B, and C (eg Devices Al, A2, A3, Bl, B2, B3, Cl, C2, and C3), but not the adapter. All Devices C (Devices Cl, C2, and C3) can listen to Devices B and Devices C. The decision is nothing more than a matter of the only available avenue. A decision factor in this case will be the MAC address. For example, the device with the lowest MAC address will be the repeater. As long as the MAC address is 8 bytes long, short numbers are used that can be handled in this example. Device Bl will have the address 10, B2 is 11, and B3 is 12. The Devices

<img file="MX348685B_D0063.tif" />

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B2 and B3 will be able to receive the response from Device B1 and execute the number of hops considering that the return to adapter 510 is the same as the number of hops they are providing. The MAC address of Device B1 is the lowest so that Device B2 and Device B3 automatically snooze to allow Device B1 to do the replicates for Devices Cl, C2 and C3. The use of the lowest MAC address is arbitrary. The decision can be made using some other fixed relationship between the MAC address such as choosing the highest address or another factor.

In the example above, either device could fail and there would still be a path back to the 710 adapter on the left side. Some reconfiguration may be required. For this reason, the reconfiguration message is broadcast periodically from the adapter 710 (eg, every 15 minutes). If a device can no longer communicate with the 710 adapter, it can issue a request to reconfigure, which all devices will repeat to the adapter

710.

<img file="MX348685B_D0064.tif" />

A network, as shown in Fig. 15, may have more than one adapter 710. For example, another adapter may be representative of a transmission line 30 between two substations where there is one adapter in each substation.

Suppose Device Al has the lowest MAC address among Devices Al, A2 and A3. Device B1 has the lowest MAC address among Devices Bl, B2 and B3. Device Cl has the lowest MAC addresses among Devices Cl, C2, and C3. The shortest number of hops to an adapter for devices A is on the left. The shortest path to an adapter for C devices is to the right adapter. Devices B could reach any adapter with 2 hops. The tiebreaker will be the MAC address of Device Al and Device Cl. Devices B will be used with the lowest MAC address of either Device Al or Device Cl.

A system with three or more adapters can be accommodated with the same algorithm. First, find the closest adapter in terms of the number of hops. Where there is a tie, use the MAC address of the closest repeaters for the tiebreaker.

<img file="MX348685B_D0065.tif" />

Continuing with reference to Figs. 13a and 13b, a 710 adapter may be mounted outside to a wall or pole and preferably within line of sight of a clamp 1. The 710 adapter can be provided with a standard 10 / 100BT RJ45 electrical Ethernet connection for connections of terrestrial network, and use 90VAC to 264vac, 50Hz or 60Hz of power and approximately 2W. Other power connections, such as -48Vdc, can be used. If a telco provides only a TI (often called DS1) or El connection, Ethernet to standard TI or El adapters can be used to convert the Ethernet signal from the 710 adapter to the Ti telco or El interface to establish a private Ti or El line from the adapter site to the remote surveillance site 700. If neither a private IT or El line nor a fully private network is used for the circuit between the 710 adapter and the remote surveillance site or central station 700, a VPN network can be used to secure restricted access. The 710 adapter includes sophisticated encryption to address other security concerns. In Fig. 13b, the transfer from the intermediate public service to the telco VPN can be IT, El, DSL, cable modem, microwave hopping to another site, among other methods. If the adapted connects the electrical network or network to a remote surveillance point or

<img file="MX348685B_D0066.tif" />

IMPL

INDUSTRIAL central station 700 through the Internet, you can use a gateway, firewall and VPN connection for security reasons.

Each 710 adapter in clamp 1 has an integral web page server 560. One IP address is assigned to the remote surveillance point or central station 700 for each 710 adapter. For example, only one IP address needs to be assigned per adapter 710, 10 whereas an IP address for each clamp 1 does not need to be assigned. This IP address is programmed into the one or two 710 adapters on a network. The adapters 710 then automatically discover both the central station connection or remote monitoring point 15 and all clips 1 on the network as described above.

Surveillance personnel can then be provided with a browser address to access the 710 remote adapter. Once the browser address is entered, a private web page appears providing access to data for each clamp 1, length, and latitude for each clamp that can be linked to a map, means to rename the clamps (Route 23 and Highway 22, for example), means to

IMPI

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adjusting thresholds (vibration, temperature, etc.), and means of entering email addresses that will be used to notify specific personnel if thresholds are crossed. The directions can be clamp-specific in case the lines cover several maintenance reqiones. The number of email alerts that are sent may be limited.

Thus, in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, an administrative system is provided to facilitate the monitoring and processing of collected data received from various data acquisition devices (eg, a clamp 1). The administrative system can be implemented in processing devices used to aggregate and analyze the collected data, such as an adapter 710, the central monitoring point 700, or a computing device with Internet connectivity provided in a base station or others. places. The administration system may use sieves or web pages and web servers, which can be accumulated. Firmware is provided to the data acquisition devices. Thus, no external software is required.

IMPI

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<img file="MX348685B_D0068.tif" />

Figs. 16 and 17 are illustrative web pages generated through the administrative system. A user (eg, the monitoring network administrator) is provided with an assigned Internet Protocol (IP) 5 address, which is typed into a web browser (eg, Internet Explorer, Foxfire and the like. ) to navigate to the home page shown in Fig. 16. The home page provides a number of options for managing the individual data acquisition devices 10 and networks of the data acquisition devices, that is, by selecting one of the options, a user can view the system conditions as well as the provision of your devices and / or networks. In the embodiment shown, the data acquisition devices 15 are clamps 1 and are referred to as Suspension Clamps of

Data Acquisition (DASCs). The IP address can be assigned to a base station, for example. One base station can be provided for each isolated network. For example, selecting the DASC List option causes a screen or web page (not shown) to be provided to the user that lists the DASCs by device identifiers. The user can then select one of the listed DASCs to navigate to a data page for that DASC as shown in Fig. 17.

<img file="MX348685B_D0069.tif" />

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With reference to Fig. 17, the data page indicates the parameters for the selected DASC (eg, clamp 1) and their corresponding dates / times or measurements that have been communicated to an aggregation device (eg, adapter 710) via the multi-hop radio communication system described above in connection with Figs. 13-15. Parameters can be, but are not limited to, maximum and minimum ambient temperatures, maximum and minimum wind speeds, maximum and minimum current, maximum and minimum vibration, and maximum and minimum wire temperatures, among others. Data page 7 can also indicate events such as corona events and tilted events (e.g., number and duration of those events as determined by deviations from conditions at installation time or following a reset command to a particular smart clamp) and surge and impulse event numbers, among others. Historical event logs can be created based on this data, allowing a user to select the Logs option on the page depicted in Fig. 16 to view the event history.

<img file="MX348685B_D0070.tif" />

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Referring to Fig. 6, a user can select a DASC Samples option to navigate to a page (not shown) that lists a number of available databases. For example, a user can get a CSV file (that is, comma separated values) after selecting one of the listed items.

Continuing to refer to Fig. 16, by selecting the DASC Map option on the home page, a user can be provided with a map showing the locations of data acquisition devices within a designated geographic area. The coordinates of the place can be collected through the administrative system and the corresponding database either dynamically using the GPS 510 device provided in each of the data acquisition devices (eg, via message) or pre -configured the moment the devices are installed or otherwise deployed.

For example, the integral GPS 510 system inside each clamp 1 reports back its precise longitude and latitude. This data can be linked, for example, to maps based on public services or, if the safety devices cut fire and walkway

<img file="MX348685B_D0071.tif" />

appropriate are in place, to Google maps. A common Google map will display a pin for each location on clamp 1, including an ability to enlarge, and generally provides an ability to retrieve stored satellite images for the terrain in the vicinity of each clamp. If there is no direct connection between a smart grid and Google maps. longitude and latitude information can be entered into Google maps manually in a separate network and information used to establish a meaningful name for each clamp 1. Alternatively, the location can be entered into a proprietary mapping system already In use.

GPS positioning and self-learning function 15 can be provided in each data acquisition device 1 to allow DASC networks to evolve automatically. For example, a DASC 1 can be configured to obtain its position information and generate a location alert to a base station 700 and / or adapter 710 at startup and / or periodically, in addition to sending the parameter measurement. In this way, each new DASC 1 can be automatically recognized by a base station 700 and / or adapter 710 with its location automatically determined so that the corresponding accumulation of 25 data and the report start in a timely manner.

<img file="MX348685B_D0072.tif" />

IMPI

INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA FROMEPAD INDUSTRIAL immediate and automatic after an initial deployment or reboot. The delivery system shown in connection with Figs. 16 and 17 is advantageous in that it provides a comprehensive view of transmission line conditions to allow safe dynamic line assessments (e.g., to assist in steering peak and emergency demand), immediate and accurate identification of line failures, proactive maintenance, diagnosis of recurring problems. The grippers 1 themselves communicate with each other, allowing self-learning and awareness of long-term trends to aid predictive maintenance.

By selecting an Alerts option on the home page depicted in Fig. 16, a user can access e-mail alerts that are automatically generated by data acquisition devices 1 and transmitted to the base station. 700 and / or 710 adapter or other device that implements the administrative system. As mentioned above, the data acquisition devices 1 can be configured to send alerts (eg. , e-mail messages or other type of transmitted signal alert) when the measured parameters are out of

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<img file="MX348685B_D0073.tif" />

a selected range or vary from a selected threshold by a selected amount. The configuration option on the home page (Fig. 16) provides one or more pages (not shown) that allow a user to provision the devices and / or device networks. For example, configuration pages can be provided to allow adjustment of threshold deviations from the parameter required for automated alerts (e.g. a parameter greater than a threshold is a selected quantity or an event has occurred a number of selected times within a selected period of time. Determination of those deviations can be done in data acquisition devices (eg, via CPU 505 on main board 500 in accordance with firmware). Alternatively, the data acquisition devices can only report the parameter measurements to the base station or other monitoring location 710, 700, which makes the determination instead.

It should be understood that other options and web pages are available. For example, the data page (Fig. 17) and / or home page (Fig. 16) may provide a link or navigation option to another page or a menu.

<img file="MX348685B_D0074.tif" />

popup on the same page that provides the live camera view for a selected DASC. For example, one or both views of the cameras in a clamp 1 (eg, the respective views of the sections extending contrary to the monitored line 30) may be provided to allow a user to make a visual assessment, whether dangling or galloping, occurring or otherwise assessing damage to a line (eg, frost, mechanical failure of the line or tower, and so on). Image processing can also be provided (eg. , at the base station or other monitoring stations) to automatically evaluate the images provided by the cameras (e.g., comparing different images) to determine if certain conditions are present (e.g., pendant) and to automatically generate alerts as need.

As described above and in accordance with illustrative embodiments of the present invention, a clamp 1 or other configuration of the data acquisition device may be provided with one or more sensors to monitor the conditions of the selected transmission line 30 including, but not limited to not limited to ambient temperature, conductor temperature,

IMPI

<img file="MX348685B_D0075.tif" />

wind perpendicular to the line (e.g. measurement is done without moving parts to ensure quality and long-term reliability), vibration, current amplitude, current quality (e.g. 5th harmonic distortion) over voltage of current, accurate location via GPS, accurate timing via GPS, transient or surge location via accurate time recording and automatic communications clamp to clamp, crown, inclination changes 10 (e.g., as measured by the caliper's three-axis accelerometer), dangling changes (e.g., deployed by a pair of integral caliper 1 cameras that look down in both directions of line 30), galloping (e.g., as 15 detected by the vibration sensor and viewed from cameras), local conditions (e.g., through fixed visual images in both directions of line 30 to help detect ice or mechanical failure of the line or tower, internal operation through continuous self-diagnosis 20 (eg, as programmed in CPU 505), operating conditions of neighboring clamps or other phases, and so on.

In this way, the data acquisition device (e.g., clamp 1) provides seamless ability.

IMPI

ΒΚΤΠυΐ · MEXICAN DIlAfnOPIEDAD

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precedents to integrate the operating conditions of the transmission line in real time. Instead of fragmented visibility in one place or reliance on inferred data such as flexing to estimate line temperature, new Dynamic Line Classification and visibility capabilities are made possible by clamps that deliver accurate mile-by-mile data. mile that can be integrated and used to dynamically vary line 30 load with confidence. The risks associated with relying on a few data points can be drastically reduced and replaced by a Dynamic Line Classification based on (a) determining the precise, real-time wind speed that automatically measures the cooling effect of the wind. wind perpendicular to the line; (b) Accurate total current measurements made along line 30 to uncover varying parasitic losses and other capacity-limiting problems; and (c) real time high bandwidth current measurements. High bandwidth current measurements reveal harmonics that waste energy and increase heating. This real-time data can then be used to optimize grid operation and uncover the stresses associated with those transformer components.

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As mentioned above, another advantage of the data acquisition device (eg, the clamp 1) constructed in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention is that it has its own energy. Clamp 1 has an integral or associated current transformer 330 that provides all necessary power. No batteries or connections to external power are required. Battery-free energy storage is also provided (eg, a capacitor) to support final messages in the event of a line 30 failure. Clamp 1 can therefore continue to operate (eg, for several seconds) to provide final reports.

As described above, wireless communications are established between clamps 1 and between an array of clamps (eg, as shown in Figs. 13-15) and a substation or other convenient ground location 710. The data is collected. they subsequently communicate over a private or public network to the surveillance sites 700. The multi-hop radio communications described herein in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention provide resilient communications. The failure of a clamp 1 for whatever reason is detected and reported by the clamps

<img file="MX348685B_D0078.tif" />

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INSTITUTO MBOCANO. M THE INDUSTRIAL CURRENCY neighbors without interrupting end-to-end communications. Also, communications are secure. Security similar to that used for online banking transactions is used in conjunction with other measures to help ensure the integrity of the network as described above in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention.

The integral 510 GPS provides accurate timing and automatically locates each clamp 1. An integral 560 web browser dramatically simplifies data acquisition through the selection of web page thresholds, alerting email addresses, and comprehensive presentation (eg ., up to 7 days of accumulated data).

There are several ways to use data collected over a network. A few will now be described for illustrative purposes.

Flexible reporting is obtained through reports and images that appear as web pages (ie HTML files). The core files present the collected data in a series of tables on multiple pages. If a presentation or appearance is preferred

<img file="MX348685B_D0079.tif" />

IMPI tnrmuto mixicanc Dt LA «INDUSTRIAL OFFICE different from the data, the system allows new HTML files to be downloaded to each clamp. Each gripper 1 is independently operated and can have its own unique HTML files. This may seem very complicated initially, but larger matrices spanning multiple streaming facilities can benefit from this ability to optimize data presentation to fit various circumstances.

Failure or alarm conditions are immediately reported via e-mail. Each incident can be further investigated through the report and image pages.

A web-based form is provided to set the alarm or caution limits for various parameters such as peak current, surge current, peak conductor temperature, or peak vibration. Local conditions such as the crown can be set to trigger an email or be ignored. The form also allows entry of email addresses for notifications and a means of limiting the number of emails that each clamp 1 can send in one hour.

<img file="MX348685B_D0080.tif" />

IMPI ^ τπνη&gt; mexicanc INDUSTRIAL DIUROHEDAD

When a failure occurs, the network can identify what the problem was and the area where the problem occurred in accordance with the illustrative embodiments of the present invention. Emails can be sent to first responders so that a team can be dispatched (or not) based on real-time site data. Time is saved, crews may be able to bring the appropriate repair kit, repair progress can potentially be witnessed, and repairs can be monitored.

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention also improve after encountering stressed or compromised facilities. Excessive temperature, tilt, and other factors can cause a failure. Knowing that these lines are compromised allows proactive maintenance to prevent blackouts. With regard to finding and monitoring vibration problems, dampers are deployed to limit vibration, although the effectiveness of the damper in the real world has been demonstrated and works well in many applications, the effectiveness in real time based on the wind and Tower conditions can now be monitored to optimize effectiveness and discover unknown or questionable problems.

<img file="MX348685B_D0081.tif" />

Mexican IMPI wrmvro DE LA INDUSTRIAL FROPIEDAD

The illustrative embodiments of the present invention allow capacity to be maximized. Transmission installations have been conventionally designed for the most unfavorable conditions. In some cases, a 25% safety margin has been used to ensure resilience. Knowing the temperature and wind conditions in real time in accordance with illustrative embodiments of the present invention can allow loads to be safely increased during peak periods or when another segment is out of service.

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention provide cascade failure analysis. A cascading failure occurs when one element breaks, causing various other elements in the network to fail unexpectedly. For transmission lines 30, most of the recorded observations are limited to measurements at substations or points of origin. The distributed intelligence available from a network of smart clamps helps to understand that failure, what precipitated it, and how to design improvements for existing and future lines.

<img file="MX348685B_D0082.tif" />

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The illustrative embodiments of the present invention improve network planning. Detailed knowledge of operating conditions allows better planning of transmission line requirements and helps justify new construction.

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention provide an intelligent electrical grid system, method, and apparatus that measures conductor temperature to provide feedback on actual capacity, as well as other information, of a transmission line 30 (eg, a power transmission line) at many points. The power transmission line may be overloaded, but could have more capacity than is currently being used. The illustrative system of the present invention can measure wind speed and ambient temperature to determine conditions along the power transmission line that can be hundreds of thousands in length. Some parts of the power transmission line wire may be hotter than other parts because the power transmission line can run through a valley where there is no wind, for example, or due to other reasons. For example, a

<img file="MX348685B_D0083.tif" />

IMPI ικπτντυ müucanc MIA KOFISBAI 'INDUSTRIAL anemometer that has no moving parts can be used to determine the wind chill effect.

The smart grid system is capable of detecting the corona, even when it is intermittent, using the audio detection of the corona. The smart grid system is capable of measuring the current on the line. If the measured current is determined to be different from the current released in a substation, there is a current leak or fault somewhere. The smart grid system is capable of taking an image of the power transmission line and its surroundings in order to visualize any ice, fallen trees, vegetation and the like that grows on the power transmission line, as well as power lines. overhead transmission, or even wildlife that can damage power transmission lines and smart grids.

The smart grid system can quickly determine if there is an immediate or long-term problem on the power transmission line and communicate it to a user / technician. The smart grid system is easy to install, very robust, simple to manage and does not require regular maintenance, such as

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INSTTNJTO ΜΟΚΑΝ ·

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replenishing or recharging batteries. Furthermore, the system is cost effective and safe. The web server embedded in the smart grid data acquisition device simplifies and reduces the cost of backend software. An improved radio protocol and routing algorithms are provided that are particularly well suited for long runs with modest branches; however, they can be used for more general applications where Zigbee and Zigbee technologies lack range or capacity.

The above-described exemplary embodiments of an apparatus, system, and method in computer-readable media include program instructions for performing various computer-incorporated operations. The media can also include, alone or in combination with program instructions, data files, data structures, and the like. The means and program instructions may be those specially designed and constructed for the purposes of the present invention, or they may be of the sorts well known and available to those who are experienced in computer software techniques. Examples of readable media

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MEXICAN ΙΝΓΓΠνΤο OF INDUSTRIAL NOHETY

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computers include magnetic media such as hard drives, floating drives, and magnetic tape; optical media such as CD ROM and DVD discs; magneto-optical media such as optical discs; and hardware devices that are specially configured to store and execute program instructions, such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), flash memory, and the like. The media can also be a transmission medium such as optical or metallic lines, waveguides and so on and is intended to include carrier wave transmission signals specifying program instructions, data structure and so on. The computer-readable recording medium can also be distributed over computer systems attached to the network so that the computer-readable code is stored and executed in a distributed mode. Examples of program instructions include both machine code, such as that produced by a compiler, as well as files containing higher-level code that can be executed by the computer using an interpreter. The hardware devices described can be configured to act as one or more modules of

<img file="MX348685B_D0086.tif" />

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ΠΜΤβυΤΟ MEXICANO DE LA PROPERTY INDUSTRIAL software in order to execute the operations of the above-described modalities of the present invention.

Referring now also to Figs. 18-23, another exemplary embodiment of the invention will be described. Figs. 18-23 show a hanger clip connection assembly. Similar to the previous embodiments, the suspension clamp connection assembly provides a method, system, and apparatus for an intelligent electrical grid consisting of a network data acquisition device that monitors transmission lines or conductors. However, in this embodiment, the data acquisition device is shown as a connecting joint attached to an existing conventional suspension clip (eg, on a power transmission line).

The suspension clamp connection assembly 810 consists of a clamp unit 812, the electronic circuit box 50 and a crown ring 816. The clamp unit 812 is configured to be clamped to the suspension clamp connected to a transmission tower. The electronic circuit box 50 and the electronic components in it generally operate in the same manner as described above for the clamp.

<img file="MX348685B_D0087.tif" />

smart 1 of the previous mode. The crown ring 816 consists of any suitable type of crown ring and may be attached to the suspension clip connection assembly in any suitable way.

Clamping unit 812 is sized and shaped to fit an existing hanger clip. For example, Figs. 21, 22 show views of a conventional suspension clip 818 connected to a lower end of an insulator 206 that extends downwardly from the cantilever arms 204 of the transmission tower (as shown in Fig.

1) ·

Suspension clamp 818 can be any suitable type of conventional transmission suspension clamp that is common in industry and in widespread use, which is designed to provide only a mechanical means to suspend the transmission conductor (or transmission line) 202 safely and securely to transmission tower 200. The suspension clip can be connected via miscellaneous hardware, commonly called daisy chain hardware, to isolators 206 which in turn are attached to transmission tower 200 (as shown in Fig. 1).

<img file="MX348685B_D0088.tif" />

In accordance with this exemplary embodiment of 'the' invention, electronic circuit detection circuitry is incorporated into the suspension clamp connection assembly to allow utilities to compile key information about environmental and electrical conditions occurring in a remote site. Similar to the previous modalities, the device can operate in a high voltage environment ranging up to 765,000 volts and more. This environment creates electromagnetic and electrical fields that create voltage for sensing electronic circuits. The accessories of this suspension clamp connection assembly can detect and report electrical parameters (Voltage and Current), temperature, optics, traction and vibration that are present in / on and around the conductor / line that is being suspended. These key parameters will allow the user to further diagnose the operating conditions of the line from many miles away.

As shown in Figs. 21, 22, the clamping unit 812 is configured to be clamped over a portion of the suspension clamp 818. The suspension clamp 818 generally consists of an upper section 820 and a lower support section 822. These

<img file="MX348685B_D0089.tif" />

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OF THE INDUSTRIAL PtamOAD two sections 820, 822 may each contain a body having a longitudinal channel (or conductor receiving area) that allows transmission conductor 202 to be securely seated within the two sections and when the two sections are screwed (or fastened) together. This generally sandwiches the transmission conductor 202 between the two bodies to securely contain the transmission conductor 202 in the clamp 818. In the embodiment shown, the clamp unit 812 is clamped to the lower support section 822 (which generally forms a major part of the hanger body) of the hanger clamp 818.

Referring now also to Figs. 23-31, additional views of the suspension clamp connection assembly 810 are shown. The clamp unit 812 consists of a base section 824, extension arms 825, 826, clamp contact parts 827, 828, and a clamping portion of the clamp 829. The extension arms 825 are movably connected to the base section 824 by fasteners 830, 831. The extension arm 826 is movably connected to the base section 824 by the fasteners 832, 833. The contact parts of the clamp 827 are

<img file="MX348685B_D0090.tif" />

ΙΜΡΙ (Νίτπντο Mexican BE LA NOHEDAD INDUSTRIAL connected so that they can be moved to the extension arm 825 by the fasteners 834, 835. Likewise, the contact parts of the clamp 828 are connected so that they can be moved to the extension arm. 826 extension using clips 836, 837.

The clamp adjustment portion 829 may consist of any suitable configuration that allows adjustment of the extension arms and contact portions of the clamp between an open position (eg, as shown in Fig. 30) and a position. closed (for example as shown in Fig. 29). According to various exemplary embodiments, the adjusting portion of the caliper may have a fastener 838 (such as a threaded eye bolt, for example) and adjusting elements 839, 840. Adjusting element 839 is so attached. movable to arm 825 by fasteners 841, 842. adjuster 840 is movably attached to arm 826 by fasteners 843, 844. Eyebolt 838 is sized and shaped to extend through openings 845, 846 of adjusting elements 839,

840.

<img file="MX348685B_D0091.tif" />

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The adjusting portion of the caliper is configured so that rotation (such as left or right) of eyebolt 838 causes arms 825, 826 to rotate (around fasteners 830, 831, 832, 833) between the open position (Fig. 30) and closed position (Fig. 29). Various exemplary embodiments may include aperture 845 or aperture 846 as a threaded aperture to receive eyebolt 838 and provide relative movement therebetween. According to some embodiments, a clockwise rotation of the eyebolt allows the arms 825, 826 to rotate to the open position, and a counter-clockwise rotation of the eyebolt allows the arms 825, 826 to rotate to the closed position. However, in alternate embodiments, a clockwise rotation of the eyebolt allows the arms 825, 826 to rotate to the closed position, and a counter-clockwise rotation of the eyebolt allows the arms 825, 826 to rotate to the open position.

The contact parts of the clip 827, 828 are sized and shaped to contact an external part of the suspension clip 818. For example in this embodiment, the contact parts 827, 828 extend over the outer upper parts of the

<img file="MX348685B_D0092.tif" />

lower support section of the suspension clip 822, and the contact portions 827, 828 extend downwardly to the lower external parts of the lower support section of the suspension clip 822. This is provided for the curved inner parts 847, 848 of the caliper contact parts 827, 828 to make contact with the upper outer parts of the suspension caliper lower support section 822, and the lower inner surfaces 849, 850 to make contact with the lower outer portions of the hanger clip lower support section (as best shown in Fig. 32), and provide a clip-on connection to suspension clip 818 so that suspension clip connection assembly 810 is movably connected to suspension clip 818. It should be noted that although the figures show the contact parts of the caliper that make contact with the suspension caliper 818 on surfaces 847, 848, 849, 850, in the alternate embodiments, any suitable contact surface, or contact configuration can be provided. Additionally, in some embodiments, the contact portions 828, 829 may further be spring biased to a desired position.

<img file="MX348685B_D0093.tif" />

The electronic circuit box 50 is attached to a support member 851 of the suspension clip connection assembly 810. The electronic circuit box 50 and the electronic components (for example, the main electronic circuit board 500 and so on) in it they generally operate in the same way as described above for the smart gripper 1 of the previous embodiment. However, instead of attaching the box 50 to a heat shield on the side of the smart clamp, in this embodiment the electronic circuit box 50 is mounted on the suspension clamp connection assembly to be attached to a clamp. existing suspension. For example, in some embodiments, electronic circuit box 50 may be attached to support member 851 in openings 852 (see FIG. 27). However, in the alternative embodiments, a suitable configuration can be provided.

Referring now also to FIG. 33, in this embodiment, the electronic circuit box 50 further consists of an attached articulated arm 853. The articulated arm 853 consists of an arm section 854 and a sensor skin section 855. The skin. The sensor can be shaped considerably

IMPI

INSTTTVT »MEXICAN

PE INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY

<img file="MX348685B_D0094.tif" />

cylindrical (with a longitudinal opening 856 to allow installation on the conductor 202) that has an internal surface of adequate size and shape to mount the 857 sensors (such as the vibration sensor, temperature, Hall effect, or other sensors, for example). The spring loaded link arm is generally configured to have a 1-2 Ib downward pressure on the transmission conductor 202 to ensure that the 857 sensors (which are internally mounted and contained in the sensor skin section), remain in place. contact with transmission conductor 202. Arm section 854 consists of insulated / shielded wire 858 that connects sensor jacket section 855 to electronic components in electronic circuit box 50. However, in alternate embodiments, any suitable connection can be provided.

As mentioned above, the electronic circuit box 50 and the electronic components in it generally operate in the same manner as described above for the smart clamp 1 of the above embodiment. However in this embodiment, the electronic circuits in the electronic circuit box 50 are connected to a separate power supply (in

<img file="MX348685B_D0095.tif" />

IMPI

MKICANO INSTITUTE

OF INDUSTRIAL HETHEDAD instead of the current transformer 330). Additionally, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention, various temperature sensors can be eliminated in the suspension clip connection assembly configuration.

Various exemplary embodiments of the invention generally provide a mechanical clamping apparatus that securely retains the electronic data acquisition components (for example in electronic circuit box 50) and the crown ring to an existing power line clamp. (and also serves as an attachment point for spring loaded link arm 853).

It should be understood that the components of the invention may be operably coupled or connected and that there may be any number or combination of intervening elements (including non-intervening elements). The connections can be direct or indirect and additionally they can only have a functional relationship between the components.

Other descriptions of various non-limiting exemplary embodiments are provided below. The

<img file="MX348685B_D0096.tif" />

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE

OF THE CURRENCY !. INDUSTRIAL exemplary modalities described below may be practiced in conjunction with one or more other aspects or exemplary modalities. That is, exemplary embodiments of the invention, such as those described immediately below, may be put into practice, practiced, or used in any combination (eg, any combination that is adequate, practicable, and / or feasible) and are not limited only to those combinations described herein and / or included in the appended claims.

In an exemplary embodiment, a suspension clamp connection assembly consists of: a clamping unit consisting of a base section, extension arms and contact parts of the clamp, wherein the extension arms are between the parts of the clamp. contact of the clamp and the base section and wherein the clamping unit is configured to be clamped to the suspension clamp; a support member having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the support member is connected to the base section, and wherein the support member is configured to support an electronic circuit box; and a crown ring connected to the second end of the support member.

<img file="MX348685B_D0097.tif" />

A suapSisron clamp connection assembly as mentioned above wherein the electronic circuit box is connected to the support member and wherein the electronic circuit box consists of electronic components configured to acquire data from a transmission line.

A suspension clamp connection assembly as mentioned above wherein the electronic components include at least one sensor to determine at least one of a parameter and image associated with the transmission line, a radio interface for communicating with at least one of a monitoring device and at least one neighboring data acquisition device over the radio communication link within a selected interval and a processing device connected to at least one sensor and the radio interface, the processing device being programmed to receive and process the inputs from at least one sensor and to generate the messages for transmission through the radio interface: wherein the processing device is configured to participate in multi-hop communications to through the radio communication link receiving the messages generated by other data acquisition devices, and

IMPI

INSTITUTE M&gt; UCANO

OF THE FtOMEDAL MDU ** IAL

<img file="MX348685B_D0098.tif" />

determining from the information provided in each of the messages which operation to perform between processing the message, repeating the message and ignoring the message.

A suspension clamp connection assembly as mentioned above wherein the electronic circuit box further consists of a spring loaded articulated arm.

A suspension clip connection assembly as mentioned above wherein the spring loaded link arm consists of an arm section and a sensor skin section.

A suspension clamp connection assembly as mentioned above wherein the clamping unit further consists of a clamp adjustment part, wherein the clamp adjustment part is configured to allow adjustment of the extension arms and the contact parts of the clamp between an open position and a closed position.

A suspension clamp connection assembly as mentioned above wherein the contact parts of

<img file="MX348685B_D0099.tif" />

IMPI INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA NOMEDAD B4DUSTRIAL the clamp can be connected so that they can be moved to the extension arms.

A suspension clamp connection assembly as mentioned above wherein the extension arms are connected so that they can be moved to the base section.

A suspension clip connection assembly as mentioned above wherein the contact parts of the clip are configured to contact a main part of the body of the suspension clip.

In another exemplary embodiment a clamping unit consists of: a base section, extension arms and contact parts of the clamp, wherein the extension arms are between the contact parts of the clamp and the base section, and wherein the Clamping unit is configured to be clamped to a suspension clip so that the main part of the body of the suspension clip is between the extension arms.

A clamping unit as mentioned above wherein the clamping unit further consists of a caliper adjusting part, wherein the clamp adjusting part

IMPI

M0UCANO INSTITUTE

M THE INDUSTRIAL CURRENCY

<img file="MX348685B_D0100.tif" />

clamp is configured to allow adjustment of the extension arms and contact parts of the clamp between an open position and a closed position.

A clamping unit as mentioned above wherein the adjusting part of the caliper consists of an eyebolt.

A clamping unit as mentioned above wherein the contact parts of the gripper are movably connected to the extension arms.

A clamping unit as mentioned herein wherein the extension arms are movably connected to the base section.

A clamping unit as mentioned above wherein the contact parts of the clip are configured to contact a main part of the body of the suspension clip.

A clamping unit as mentioned above wherein the clamping unit can be moved between an open position and a closed position.

100

IMPI

INSTITUTO MEXICANO ttt LA NOREDAD INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX348685B_D0101.tif" />

A suspension clamp connection assembly consists of: a clamping unit as mentioned above; and a support member having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the support member is connected to the base section, and wherein the support member is configured to support an electronic circuit box.

A suspension clip connection assembly as mentioned above wherein the electronic circuit box is connected to the support member and wherein the electronic circuit box contains electronic components configured to acquire data from a transmission line.

In another exemplary embodiment one method consists of: providing a clamping unit containing a base section, extension arms and contact parts of the clamp, wherein the extension arms are between the contact parts of the clamp and the base section and wherein the clamping unit is configured to be clamped to the suspension clip; attaching a support member to the clamping unit, the support member has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the support member is connected to

101

IMPI

INSTITUTE M1X1CANO DE LA ROFIEDAD INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX348685B_D0102.tif" />

the base section and wherein the support element is configured to support an electronic circuit box; and connecting a crown ring to the second end of the support member.

A method as mentioned above further consists of: mounting the electronic circuit box to the support element, wherein the electronic circuit box contains electronic components configured to acquire data from a transmission line.

It should be understood that the above description is only illustrative of the invention. Various alternatives and modifications can be planned by those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. Accordingly, the invention is intended to encompass all such alternatives, modifications, and variances that are within the scope of the appended claims.

<img file="MX348685B_D0103.tif" />

ΙΜΡΙ

INSTITUTO mexican · DE LA MtórlEDAD INDUSTRIAL

102