Description:FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of non-contact voltage detection apparatus and method for determining the live or dead status of screened cables and touch-proof terminations in high-tension (HT) and extra-high-voltage (EHV) systems
[0002] The present disclosure is particularly applicable to preventive maintenance (PM), breakdown maintenance (BM), and safety inspections in power transmission, distribution, railways, oil & gas, and industrial settings where conventional voltage detection tools fail due to shielding limitations.
[0003] Further, the present disclosure relates to an apparatus and a method for determining the live or dead status of screened cables and touch-proof terminations in high-tension (HT) and extra-high-voltage (EHV) cable systems using a magnetic field sensor.
DEFINITIONS
[0004] Screened Cable: A cable with an outer conductive layer (shield) designed to reduce electromagnetic interference and improve safety by containing electric fields.
[0005] Adaptive Gain Amplifier: A type of amplifier that dynamically adjusts its sensitivity based on environmental conditions to optimize signal detection.
[0006] High-Tension (HT) System: An electrical system that operates at voltage levels typically ranging from 1 kV to 33 kV. HT systems are commonly used in industrial, commercial, and medium-scale power distribution networks.
[0007] Extra-High-Voltage (EHV) System : An electrical system that operates at voltage levels above 33 kV, typically between 66 kV and 765 kV. EHV systems are primarily used in power transmission networks to efficiently transfer electricity over long distances with minimal losses.
BACKGROUND
[0008] The background information herein below relates to the present disclosure but is not necessarily prior art.
[0009] Conventional voltage detection tools, such as neon testers, rely on sensing electric fields generated by energized conductors. These testers are ineffective on touch-proof cable terminations and screened cables (common in HT/EHV systems) due to conductive shielding that blocks electric fields. This limitation poses critical safety risks during maintenance, as technicians cannot verify voltage presence without direct contact, increasing the risk of electric shocks. Existing alternatives, such as capacitive voltage detectors (CVDs) or insulation-piercing testers, either share similar limitations or risk damaging cables.
[00010] High-tension (HT) and extra-high-voltage (EHV) cable systems are widely used in power transmission and distribution networks. Safety concerns arise when maintenance personnel need to determine whether a cable or termination is live before handling it. Traditional methods involve direct-contact voltage testers, which pose a significant risk of electrical shock, insulation damage, or incorrect readings due to capacitive coupling.
[00011] Non-contact voltage detectors available today primarily cater to low- and medium-voltage applications. However, these devices often struggle with shielded or screened cables due to the Faraday cage effect, which interferes with electric field detection. Hence, there is a need for an improved, reliable, and non-contact detection mechanism specifically designed for HT and EHV cable systems.
OBJECT
[00012] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies, are as follows:
[00013] An object of the present disclosure is to determine the presence of voltage in screened cables and touch-proof terminations.
[00014] An object of the present disclosure is to utilize magnetic field detection rather than electric field sensing to overcome shielding effects.
[00015] An object of the present disclosure is to provide audible and visual alerts upon detecting voltage presence.
[00016] An object of the present disclosure is to ensure user safety through electrical insulation and non-contact operation.
[00017] Another object of the present disclosure is to incorporate advanced signal conditioning to eliminate electromagnetic interference.
[00018] Another object of the present disclosure is to operate efficiently with a battery-powered system, offering portability and durability.
[00019] Other objects and advantages of the present disclosure will be more apparent from the following description, which is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
SUMMARY
[00020] The present disclosure envisages a non-contact voltage detection apparatus for determining the live or dead status of screened cables and touch-proof terminations in high-tension (HT) and extra-high-voltage (EHV) cable systems. The apparatus includes a magnetic field sensor configured to detect the magnetic field generated by an electrical current flowing through a conductor within a screened cable or touch-proof termination; and a signal conditioning module operatively coupled to the magnetic field sensor. The signal conditioning module includes an amplifier circuit to amplify the detected magnetic field signal and filter noise; a processing unit configured to receive the amplified signal from the signal conditioning module and determine the voltage presence based on predefined threshold criteria; a switching module operatively coupled to the processing unit and configured to activate an output indicator upon confirmation of voltage presence; and an output indicator unit including a light-emitting diode (LED) indicator configured to provide a visual indication of voltage presence; and an audible buzzer configured to provide an auditory indication of voltage presence.
[00021] In an embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a power supply unit including a 9V battery configured to power the apparatus.
[00022] In an embodiment, wherein upon detection of a magnetic field by the sensor, the processing unit analyzes the signal, and if the voltage is present, the switching module activates the LED indicator and the buzzer to alert the user.
[00023] In an embodiment, the magnetic field sensor is a Hall Effect sensor..
[00024] In an embodiment, the magnetic field sensor is a Rogowski Coil.
[00025] In an embodiment, the signal conditioning module further comprises a low-noise filter to eliminate unwanted electromagnetic interference.
[00026] In an embodiment, the processing unit comprises a microcontroller configured to execute a voltage detection algorithm.
[00027] In an embodiment, the switching module is an electronic relay switch that controls the activation of the LED indicator and the buzzer.
[00028] In an embodiment, the LED indicator is configured to emit a red light for voltage presence and a green light for voltage absence.
[00029] In an embodiment, the buzzer emits an intermittent beep when voltage is present and remains silent when no voltage is detected..
[00030] In an embodiment, the power supply unit is configured with a low-battery indicator to alert the user of insufficient battery power.
[00031] In an embodiment, the apparatus is enclosed in an electrically insulated casing to ensure user safety.
[00032] The present disclosure further envisages a method for detecting the live or dead status of screened cables and touch-proof terminations in high-tension (HT) and extra-high-voltage (EHV) cable systems using a non-contact voltage detection apparatus, the method comprising positioning the non-contact voltage detection apparatus in proximity to a screened cable or touch-proof termination; detecting a magnetic field generated by an electrical current within the conductor by a magnetic field sensor; amplifying and filtering the detected magnetic signal by a signal conditioning module; processing the amplified signal by a processing unit to determine the presence of voltage based on predefined threshold criteria; activating an output indicator by a switching module when voltage presence is confirmed; providing a visual indication of voltage presence via an LED indicator and providing an audible alert of voltage presence via a buzzer .
[00033] In an embodiment, the method further comprises comprises powering the apparatus via a 9V battery.
[00034] In an embodiment, the method further comprises magnetic field sensor is a Hall Effect sensor or a Rogowski coil.
[00035] In an embodiment, the method further comprises signal conditioning module comprises an adaptive gain amplifier to dynamically adjust the sensitivity of the sensor based on ambient magnetic field conditions.
[00036] In an embodiment, the processing unit implements an AI-based anomaly detection algorithm to distinguish between true voltage presence and transient electromagnetic noise.
[00037] In an embodiment, the LED indicator flashes at different rates corresponding to different voltage levels detected.
[00038] In an embodiment, the buzzer emits varying tones based on voltage intensity.
[00039] In an embodiment, the apparatus automatically shuts off after a predefined period of inactivity to conserve battery life.
[00040] In an embodiment, the apparatus comprises a self-diagnostic mode, wherein the apparatus tests its components at startup to ensure proper functionality.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWING
[00041] A non-contact voltage detection apparatus and a method for determining the live or dead status of screened cables and touch-proof terminations in high-tension (HT) and extra-high-voltage (EHV) cable systems, will now be described with the help of the accompanying drawing, in which:
[00042] Figure 1 illustrates a block diagram representing different functional modules of the apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[00043] Figure 2 illustrates another block diagram of a module of the apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[00044] Figure 3 illustrates a flowchart of a method depicting the voltage detection method, covering the sequence of magnetic field sensing, signal amplification, processing, and indication, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;and
[00045] Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of the apparatus enclosed in an electrically insulated casing for user safety.
LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS USED IN DETAILED DESCRIPTION AND DRAWING
100 Non-contact voltage detection apparatus
110 Magnetic field sensor
120 Signal conditioning module
122 Amplifier circuit
130 Processing unit
140 Switching module
150 Output indicator unit
152 LED indicator
154 Audible buzzer
160 Power supply unit
162 9V battery
300 Method
400 Apparatus
402 Magnetic Field
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[00046] Embodiments, of the present disclosure, will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawing.
[00047] Embodiments are provided so as to thoroughly and fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to the person skilled in the art. Numerous details are set forth relating to specific components, and methods, to provide a complete understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to the person skilled in the art that the details provided in the embodiments should not be construed to limit the scope of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, well-known processes, well-known apparatus structures, and well-known techniques are not described in detail.
[00048] The terminology used, in the present disclosure, is only for the purpose of explaining a particular embodiment and such terminology shall not be considered to limit the scope of the present disclosure. As used in the present disclosure, the forms "a,” "an," and "the" may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly suggests otherwise. The terms "comprises," "comprising," “including,” and “having,” are open ended transitional phrases and therefore specify the presence of stated features, operations, elements, modules, units and/or components, but do not forbid the presence or addition of one or more other features, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.
[00049] When an element is referred to as being "connected to" or "coupled to" another element, it may be directly on, connected or coupled to the other element. As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more
[00050] The present disclosure envisages a non-contact voltage detection apparatus designed to determine the live or dead status of screened cables and touch-proof terminations in HT and EHV cable systems. The apparatus operates based on magnetic field sensing rather than conventional electric field-based methods, and is explained with respect to Figure 1, Figure 2, Figure 3, and Figure 4.
[00051] Figure 1 illustrates a block diagram of the non-contact voltage detection apparatus 100 comprising a magnetic field sensor 110 that detects the magnetic field generated by current flow in a conductor within a screened cable or touch-proof termination. The sensor 110 is implemented as a Hall Effect sensor or Rogowski Coil. Further, the apparatus 100 has a Signal Conditioning Module 120 that amplifies and filters the detected magnetic signal to enhance sensitivity and eliminate noise and includes an amplifier circuit 122 and a low-noise filter. A processing unit 130 analyzes the conditioned signal using predefined threshold criteria and may implement an AI-based anomaly detection algorithm to distinguish voltage presence from transient electromagnetic noise. A switching module 140 along with an electronic relay switch activates the output indicators based on the processing unit’s output. An LED indicator emits 152 red light to indicate voltage presence and green light for voltage absence. An audible buzzer 154 emits an intermittent beep when voltage is present and remains silent otherwise.
[00052] In an embodiment, the magnetic field sensor 110 is the apparatus’s primary sensing component, responsible for detecting the magnetic field generated by the electrical current flowing through a conductor within a screened cable or touch-proof termination. This sensor 110 operates on the principle that a current-carrying conductor generates a proportional magnetic field around it (as per Ampère’s Law). The sensor can be implemented as either a Hall Effect sensor or a Rogowski Coil. Both technologies are non-contact and sensitive to magnetic fields, making them ideal for detecting voltage in shielded systems where conventional electric-field-based tools fail. Unlike traditional voltage detectors that rely on electric field sensing and are blocked by conductive shielding, this sensor works through shielding, enabling voltage detection in touch-proof terminations. The sensor 110 feeds the detected magnetic signal to the signal conditioning module 120 for amplification and filtering.
[00053] The signal conditioning module 120 processes the raw magnetic signal detected by the sensor 110 to enhance its clarity and usability. The signal conditioning module 120 module performs two critical tasks of amplification and noise filtering. The amplifier circuit 122 boosts the weak magnetic signal to a level suitable for analysis by the processing unit. This ensures that even low-current signals are detectable. A low-noise filter eliminates unwanted electromagnetic interference (EMI) and transient noise, ensuring that the processed signal is accurate and reliable. The signal conditioning module 120 may include an adaptive gain amplifier that dynamically adjusts the sensor’s sensitivity based on ambient magnetic conditions. This may ensure consistent performance in varying environments. The conditioned signal is sent to the processing unit 130 for further analysis.
[00054] The processing unit 130 analyzes the conditioned signal and determines the presence of voltage based on predefined threshold criteria. A microcontroller executes a voltage detection algorithm to evaluate the signal’s amplitude and frequency against pre-set thresholds. The processing unit 130 may implement an AI-based anomaly detection algorithm to distinguish between true voltage presence and transient electromagnetic noise. This ensures high accuracy and reduces false alarms. If the signal meets the threshold criteria, the processing unit triggers the switching module 140 to activate the output indicators. The processing unit 130 communicates with the switching module 140 to control the activation of the output indicators150.
[00055] The switching module 140 acts as an intermediary between the processing unit 130 and the output indicators 150. Based on the processing unit’s output, an electronic relay switch energizes the output indicators (LED and buzzer) to alert the user of voltage presence. The switching module 140 ensures that the indicators are activated only when the processing unit confirms voltage presence, preventing false alerts. The switching module 140 receives commands from the processing unit 130 and controls the output indicator unit 150.
[00056] The output indicator unit 150 provides real-time feedback to the user about voltage presence using both visual and auditory alerts. The LED indicator 152 emits a red light to indicate voltage presence and a green light for voltage absence. Further, the indicator unit 150 may flash at varying rates to represent different voltage levels offering nuanced feedback. Further, the audible buzzer 154 emits an intermittent beep when voltage is present and remains silent otherwise. The tone frequency may vary based on voltage intensity. The dual-alert system ensures that the user receives clear feedback in any environment, enhancing safety and usability. The output indicator unit 150 is activated by the switching module 140 upon confirmation of voltage presence.
[00057] The power supply unit 160 provides the necessary electrical power to operate the apparatus. A standard 9V battery powers the apparatus, ensuring portability and ease of use. The power supply unit 160 includes a low-battery indicator to alert the user when the battery’s charge is insufficient, preventing unexpected shutdowns during critical operations. The apparatus 100 is designed to minimize power consumption, extending battery life and reducing the need for frequent replacements. The power supply unit 160 distributes power to all components of the apparatus.
[00058] In another embodiment, the apparatus 100 comprises the magnetic field sensor 110 that detects the magnetic field generated by current flow in a conductor within a screened cable. This sensor 110 may be implemented as either a Hall Effect sensor or a Rogowski Coil, allowing for effective non-contact voltage detection. The signal conditioning module 120 processes the detected signal by amplifying and filtering it to enhance sensitivity and eliminate unwanted noise. This signal conditioning module 120 includes an amplifier circuit 122 and a low-noise filter to reject electromagnetic interference, ensuring accurate readings.
[00059] The processing unit 130 includes a microcontroller that analyzes the conditioned signal using predefined threshold criteria to determine voltage presence. Additionally, the processing unit 130 may implement an AI-based anomaly detection algorithm to distinguish between actual voltage presence and transient noise. Upon confirmation of voltage presence, the switching module 140 which consists of an electronic relay switch, activates the output indicators.
[00060] The output indicator unit 150 provides both visual and auditory alerts to the user. The LED indicator 152 emits a red light when voltage is present and a green light when no voltage is detected. Simultaneously, the audible buzzer 154 emits an intermittent beep to signal the presence of voltage, ensuring clear notifications even in noisy environments.
[00061] The apparatus 100 is powered by the power supply unit 160, which comprises a 9V battery 162. To ensure uninterrupted operation, the power supply 160 includes a low-battery indicator that alerts the user when battery power is insufficient. Together, these modules enable the non-contact voltage detection apparatus 100 to reliably determine the live or dead status of high-tension (HT) and extra-high-voltage (EHV) cable systems while ensuring safety and operational efficiency.
[00062] Figure 2 illustrates the output indicator unit 150 of the non-contact voltage detection apparatus 100 for providing visual and auditory alerts to the user upon detecting voltage presence. The unit consists of two main components: an LED indicator 152 and an audible buzzer 154. The LED indicator 152 emits a red light when voltage is detected and a green light when no voltage is present, ensuring a clear visual indication of the cable’s status. Below the LED indicator, the audible buzzer 154 is positioned to provide an intermittent beep when voltage is detected, offering an additional layer of notification, especially useful in noisy environments. The overall design of the output indicator unit 150 ensures that users receive immediate and unambiguous feedback regarding voltage presence, enhancing safety and efficiency in high-tension (HT) and extra-high-voltage (EHV) cable systems.
[00063] Figure 3 illustrates a step-by-step method 300 for detecting the live or dead status of screened cables and touch-proof terminations in high-tension (HT) and extra-high-voltage (EHV) cable systems using a non-contact voltage detection apparatus. The method consists of the following sequential steps:
[00064] In step 302, the method involves placing the non-contact voltage detection apparatus in proximity to a screened cable or touch-proof termination. This ensures that the apparatus can effectively sense the electromagnetic field generated by the electrical current flowing through the conductor without making direct contact, thereby enhancing safety.
[00065] In step 304, once positioned, the apparatus detects the magnetic field generated by an electrical current within the conductor using a magnetic field sensor. This sensor can be either a Hall Effect sensor or a Rogowski coil, both of which are capable of detecting variations in the electromagnetic field caused by the presence of electrical voltage.
[00066] In step 306, the detected magnetic signal is often weak and susceptible to external noise. Therefore, the signal conditioning module amplifies and filters the detected signal to enhance sensitivity while eliminating unwanted electromagnetic interference. The module includes an amplifier circuit to boost the signal strength and a low-noise filter to ensure that only relevant signals are processed further.
[00067] In step 308, after conditioning, the processed signal is analyzed by a microcontroller within the processing unit to determine voltage presence. The processing unit applies predefined threshold criteria to differentiate between an active and inactive cable. Additionally, an AI-based anomaly detection algorithm may be implemented to filter out transient noise and prevent false detections.
[00068] In step 310, if the processing unit confirms the presence of voltage, it sends a signal to the switching module, which then activates the output indicators. The switching module typically consists of an electronic relay switch, which controls the functioning of the visual and auditory alert systems.
[00069] In step 312, upon activation, the LED indicator emits a specific light color based on voltage presence. The LED indicator glows red when voltage is detected and green when no voltage is present, providing an immediate and clear visual indication to the user.
[00070] In step 314, in addition to the visual indication, the apparatus activates an audible buzzer to alert the user to voltage presence. The buzzer emits an intermittent beep when voltage is detected, ensuring that users receive the warning even in environments where visual cues might be difficult to notice.
[00071] Figure 4 illustrates the electromagnetic field distribution around a high-tension (HT) or extra-high-voltage (EHV) screened cable and touch-proof termination, which is a critical aspect of the non-contact voltage detection apparatus. The red concentric lines in Figure 4 represent the magnetic field generated by the electrical current flowing through the conductor within the screened cable. This magnetic field is detected by the magnetic field sensor 110, which may be implemented as a Hall Effect sensor or a Rogowski coil. The signal conditioning module 120 processes this detected signal by amplifying it and filtering out electromagnetic noise, ensuring accurate voltage detection. The processing unit 130 then determines the presence of voltage based on predefined threshold criteria, activating the output indicator unit 150, which includes an LED indicator 152 and an audible buzzer 154. This detects the presence of voltage without direct electrical contact, thereby enhancing safety in HT and EHV cable systems.
[00072] The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Individual components of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, are interchangeable. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the present disclosure, and all such modifications are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure.
TECHNICAL ADVANCEMENTS AND ECONOMIC SIGNIFICANCE
[00073] The present disclosure described herein above has several technical advantages including, but not limited to, a non-contact voltage detection apparatus and a method for determining the live or dead status of screened cables and touch-proof terminations in high-tension (HT) and extra-high-voltage (EHV) cable systems, which are listed below:
[00074] Non-contact voltage detection: Eliminates the need for direct electrical contact, significantly enhancing user safety. By detecting voltage through magnetic field sensing rather than physical connection, the apparatus reduces the risk of electric shocks and accidents during maintenance operations. This is particularly crucial in high-voltage environments where direct contact with live conductors can be fatal. The non-contact approach also preserves the integrity of the cables and terminations, as there is no risk of damaging the insulation or conductive shielding. This method ensures that technicians can perform voltage checks quickly and safely, even in challenging or confined spaces.
[00075] Overcomes shielding effects: Unlike conventional voltage detectors that rely on electric field sensing and fail on shielded cables, this apparatus proposed herein operates using magnetic field detection. The conductive shielding in touch-proof cable terminations and screened cables block electric fields, rendering traditional tools ineffective. However, the magnetic field generated by current flow penetrates shielding, allowing the apparatus to detect voltage presence accurately. This capability is critical for maintaining safety in high-voltage systems where shielding is a standard design feature. By overcoming shielding limitations, the apparatus ensures reliable voltage detection across a wide range of applications, from preventive maintenance to emergency repairs.
[00076] Advanced signal processing: The apparatus incorporates advanced signal processing techniques to enhance detection accuracy. The signal conditioning module amplifies weak magnetic signals and filters out unwanted electromagnetic interference (EMI) using a low-noise filter. This ensures that the processed signal is clear and reliable, reducing the likelihood of false alarms. Additionally, an adaptive gain amplifier dynamically adjusts the sensor’s sensitivity based on ambient magnetic conditions, ensuring optimal performance in varying environments. These features enable the apparatus to distinguish between true voltage presence and transient noise, providing precise and dependable results even in noisy industrial settings.
[00077] Dual alert system: The apparatus features a dual alert system that provides both visual and auditory notifications of voltage presence. The LED indicator emits red light when voltage is detected and green light when no voltage is present, offering a clear visual cue. The audible buzzer emits an intermittent beep when voltage is present, providing an additional layer of confirmation. This multi-modal alert system improves usability by catering to different user preferences and environmental conditions. For example, in noisy settings, the visual alert may be more effective, while in low-light conditions, the audible alert ensures that the user is aware of voltage presence. This comprehensive feedback mechanism enhances safety and reduces the risk of oversight during inspections.
[00078] AI-based noise filtering: The processing unit of the apparatus may implement an AI-based anomaly detection algorithm to filter out transient noise and false positives. This advanced feature ensures accurate differentiation between true voltage presence and temporary electromagnetic disturbances. By learning from patterns in the detected signals, the AI algorithm adapts to the operating environment, improving detection reliability over time. This is particularly important in complex electrical systems where transient noise can mimic voltage presence, leading to incorrect readings. The AI-based noise filtering enhances the apparatus’s performance, making it a trusted tool for critical maintenance tasks in high-voltage environments.
[00079] Reduces downtime: Quick and accurate voltage determination is essential for efficient maintenance operations. The apparatus provides immediate feedback on voltage presence, allowing technicians to proceed with maintenance tasks without unnecessary delays. By reducing the time required to verify voltage status, the apparatus helps minimize downtime in power systems, ensuring continuity of service. This is particularly beneficial in industries where even short interruptions can result in significant economic losses. The apparatus’s rapid response time and reliable performance contribute to streamlined workflows and improved productivity.
[00080] Enhances safety compliance: Safety compliance is a top priority in electrical maintenance operations. The apparatus helps organizations meet safety standards and regulations by providing a reliable and non-invasive method for voltage detection. By reducing the risk of electrical accidents, the apparatus contributes to a safer work environment, helping organizations avoid liability risks and potential legal issues. The apparatus’s multi-modal alerts and accurate detection capabilities ensure that technicians can perform their duties confidently, knowing that they are using a tool designed with safety in mind. This enhances overall compliance and promotes a culture of safety within the organization.
[00081] Portable and cost-effective: The apparatus is designed for portability and ease of use. Powered by a 9V battery, it is lightweight and compact, allowing technicians to carry it easily to different work sites. The battery-powered design eliminates the need for external power sources, making the apparatus suitable for use in remote or hard-to-reach locations. Additionally, the apparatus is significantly more cost-effective than conventional voltage detection tools for traditional neon testers. This affordability makes it accessible to a wide range of users, from small businesses to large utilities, ensuring that safety and efficiency are not compromised by budget constraints.
[00082] Long operational life: Efficient power management is a key feature of the apparatus, contributing to its long operational life. The apparatus includes a low-battery indicator to alert users when the battery needs replacement, preventing unexpected power failures during critical tasks. The battery-powered design and energy-efficient components minimize power consumption, extending the time between battery replacements. This reduces maintenance costs and ensures that the apparatus remains operational for extended periods, providing reliable performance over its lifespan. The long operational life of the apparatus makes it a cost-effective and sustainable solution for voltage detection needs.
[00083] The foregoing disclosure has been described with reference to the accompanying embodiments which do not limit the scope and ambit of the disclosure. The description provided is purely by way of example and illustration.
[00084] The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained with reference to the non-limiting embodiments in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.
[00085] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments so fully reveals the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the embodiments as described herein.
[00086] Throughout this specification the word “comprise”, or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps.
[00087] The use of the expression “at least” or “at least one” suggests the use of one or more elements or ingredients or quantities, as the use may be in the embodiment of the disclosure to achieve one or more of the desired objects or results.
[00088] The numerical values mentioned for the various physical parameters, dimensions or quantities are only approximations and it is envisaged that the values higher/lower than the numerical values assigned to the parameters, dimensions or quantities fall within the scope of the disclosure, unless there is a statement in the specification specific to the contrary.
[00089] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the components and component parts of the preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that many embodiments can be made and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the disclosure. These and other changes in the preferred embodiment as well as other embodiments of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation.
, Claims:WE CLAIM:
1. A non-contact voltage detection apparatus (100) for determining the live or dead status of screened cables and touch-proof terminations in high-tension (HT) and extra-high-voltage (EHV) cable systems, comprising:
a magnetic field sensor (110) configured to detect the magnetic field generated by an electrical current flowing through a conductor within a screened cable or touch-proof termination;;
a signal conditioning module (120) operatively coupled to the magnetic field sensor (110), the signal conditioning module including an amplifier circuit (122) to amplify the detected magnetic field signal and filter noise;
a processing unit (130) configured to receive the amplified signal from the signal conditioning module (120) and determine the voltage presence based on predefined threshold criteria;
a switching module (140) operatively coupled to the processing unit (130) and configured to activate an output indicator upon confirmation of voltage presence; and
an output indicator unit (150) including:
a light-emitting diode (LED) indicator (152) configured to provide a visual indication of voltage presence; and
an audible buzzer (154) configured to provide an auditory indication of voltage presence.
2. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprises a power supply unit (160) including a 9V battery configured to power the apparatus (100).
3. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein upon detection of a magnetic field by the sensor (110), the processing unit (130) analyzes the signal, and if the voltage is present, the switching module (140) activates the LED indicator (152) and the buzzer (154) to alert the user.
4. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the magnetic field sensor is a Hall Effect sensor.
5. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the magnetic field sensor is a Rogowski Coil.
6. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the signal conditioning module (120) further comprises a low-noise filter to eliminate unwanted electromagnetic interference.
7. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the processing unit (130) comprises a microcontroller configured to execute a voltage detection algorithm.
8. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the switching module (140) is an electronic relay switch that controls the activation of the LED indicator (152) and the buzzer (154).
9. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the LED indicator (152) is configured to emit a red light for voltage presence and a green light for voltage absence.
10. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the buzzer (154) emits an intermittent beep when voltage is present and remains silent when no voltage is detected.
11. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the power supply unit (160) is configured with a low-battery indicator to alert the user of insufficient battery power.
12. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the apparatus (100) is enclosed in an electrically insulated casing to ensure user safety.
13. A method for detecting the live or dead status of screened cables and touch-proof terminations in high-tension (HT) and extra-high-voltage (EHV) cable systems using a non-contact voltage detection apparatus (100), the method comprising:
positioning the non-contact voltage detection apparatus (100) in proximity to a screened cable or touch-proof termination;
detecting a magnetic field generated by an electrical current within the conductor by a magnetic field sensor (110);
amplifying and filtering the detected magnetic signal by a signal conditioning module (120);
processing the amplified signal by a processing unit (130) to determine the presence of voltage based on predefined threshold criteria;
activating an output indicator by a switching module (140) when voltage presence is confirmed;
providing a visual indication of voltage presence via an LED indicator (152); and
providing an audible alert of voltage presence via a buzzer (154).
14. The method as claimed in claim 13, further comprises powering the apparatus (100) via a 9V battery (162).
15. The method as claimed in claim 13, wherein the magnetic field sensor (110) is a Hall Effect sensor or a Rogowski coil.
16. The method as claimed in claim 13, wherein the signal conditioning module (120) comprises an adaptive gain amplifier to dynamically adjust the sensitivity of the sensor based on ambient magnetic field conditions.
17. The method as claimed in claim 13, wherein the processing unit (130) implements an AI-based anomaly detection algorithm to distinguish between true voltage presence and transient electromagnetic noise.
18. The method as claimed in claim 13, wherein the LED indicator (152) flashes at different rates corresponding to different voltage levels detected.
19. The method as claimed in claim 13, wherein the buzzer (154) emits varying tones based on voltage intensity.
20. The method as claimed in claim 13, wherein the apparatus (100) automatically shuts off after a predefined period of inactivity to conserve battery life.
21. The method as claimed in claim 13, further comprises a self-diagnostic mode, wherein the apparatus (100) tests its components at startup to ensure proper functionality.
Dated this 16th Day of June, 2025

_______________________________
MOHAN RAJKUMAR DEWAN, IN/PA – 25
of R.K. DEWAN & CO.
Authorized Agent of Applicant