Development of an Active Optical Lens for Arc Flashing Detection

Abstract

This paper contains the design of active optical lenses used for the detection of arc flashing emissions. The phenomenon of an arc flashing emission and its characteristics were contemplated. Methods of preventing these emissions in electric power systems were discussed as well. The article also includes a comparison of commercially available detectors. An analysis of the material properties of fluorescent optical fiber UV-VIS-detecting sensors constitutes a major part of the paper. The main purpose of the work was to make an active lens using photoluminescent materials, which can convert ultraviolet radiation into visible light. As part of the work, active lenses with materials such as Poly(methyl 2-methylpropenoate) (PMMA) and phosphate glass doped with lanthanides, such as terbium (Tb3+) and europium (Eu3+) ions, were analyzed. These lenses were used to make optical sensors, which were supported by commercially available sensors in their construction.

Modelling Inductive Sensors for Arc Fault Detection in Aviation

“…This method consists on capturing the flash emitted by the arc with photosensitive sensors, especially in the ultraviolet band, to obtain an electrical output that could trigger the control to open the endangered circuit [ 22 , 23 ]. The main disadvantage of optical methods is the need to measure close to the arc and, as a consequence, the great amount of devices required for cover the network onboard, making this solution hard to implement in aircraft.…”