U.S. patent application number 11/198188 was filed with the patent office on 2005-12-15 for power line coupling device and method of using the same.
Invention is credited to Baker, Steven R., Gidge, Brett, Mollenkopf, James D., Pridmore, Charles Franklin JR., Roesch, Joseph C..
Application Number | 20050275495 11/198188 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 29734157 |
Filed Date | 2005-12-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050275495 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Pridmore, Charles Franklin JR. ;
et al. |
December 15, 2005 |
Power line coupling device and method of using the same
Abstract
The coupling device of the present invention includes a housing,
a first fastening member attached to said housing and coupled to
the power line, a second fastening member attached to the housing
and coupled to the power line, an inductor providing an impedance
to data transmissions between the first fastening member and the
second fastening member; a first conductor having a first end
electrically coupled to the first fastening member; and a second
conductor having a first end electrically coupled to the second
fastening member. The second ends of the first conductor and second
conductor providing data signals to a connector. In addition, the
housing may include a transformer secured therein for coupling
power transmissions to the connector.
Inventors: |
Pridmore, Charles Franklin JR.;
(Centreville, MD) ; Roesch, Joseph C.; (Herndon,
VA) ; Mollenkopf, James D.; (Fairfax, VA) ;
Gidge, Brett; (Germantown, MD) ; Baker, Steven
R.; (Terre Haute, IN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MANELLI DENISON & SELTER
2000 M STREET NW SUITE 700
WASHINGTON
DC
20036-3307
US
|
Family ID: |
29734157 |
Appl. No.: |
11/198188 |
Filed: |
August 8, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
11198188 |
Aug 8, 2005 |
|
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|
10176500 |
Jun 21, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
336/174 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04B 2203/5487 20130101;
H04B 3/56 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
336/174 |
International
Class: |
H01F 038/20 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A device for coupling data signals to and from a power line
carrying a power signal, comprising: a housing having a first
portion and second portion configured to mate together in a first
configuration; a passage disposed in said housing to permit passage
of the power line; a power supply; a transceiver configured to
receive power from said power supply; a transformer disposed in
said housing and having a core configured to be coupled to the flux
of the power signal; said transformer having a first winding and a
second winding and wherein said first winding is communicatively
coupled to said power supply to supply power thereto; and wherein
second winding comprises the power line.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein said transceiver is configured to
transmit signals over the power line.
3. The device of claim 1, wherein said first housing portion and
said second housing portion are coupled together by at least one
hinge member.
4. The device of claim 1, further comprising a data signal
conductor communicatively coupled to said transceiver and including
a first end electrically coupled to the power line at a first
location and a second end coupled to a connector.
5. The device of claim 4, further comprising a second data signal
conductor communicatively coupled to said transceiver and having a
first end electrically coupled to the power line at a second
location and a second end coupled to said connector.
6. The device of claim 5, further comprising a magnetically
permeable toroid disposed substantially around the power line
between said first location and said second location.
7. The device of claim 1, wherein said transceiver is configured to
transmit fiber optic signals.
8. The device of claim 1, wherein said transceiver comprises a
fiber optic transceiver.
9. The device of claim 1, wherein said transceiver is configured to
transmit data received via the power line.
10. The device of claim 9, wherein said transceiver comprises a
fiber optic transceiver.
11. The device of claim 1, wherein said transceiver is
communicatively coupled to a non-power line communication medium to
receive data therefrom.
12. The device of claim 11, wherein said transceiver is configured
to transmit data received via the non-power line communication
medium over the power line.
13. The device of claim 11, wherein said transceiver is configured
to transmit data signals via the power line.
14. A device for coupling data signals to a power line, comprising:
a housing; a passage disposed in said housing to permit passage of
the power line; a transformer disposed in said housing, said
transformer comprising a winding and a core, said core configured
to be disposed adjacent the power line extending through said
passage; said housing including a first housing portion and a
second housing portion coupled together via a hinge, said housing
having an open configuration and a closed configuration; and a
transceiver configured to receive power from said winding.
15. The device of claim 14, wherein said transceiver receives power
from said winding via a power supply.
16. The device of claim 14, wherein said transceiver comprises a
fiber optic transceiver.
17. The device of claim 14, where said transceiver is disposed in
said housing.
18. A method of coupling data signals to and from a power line,
comprising: providing a housing having an open and a closed
configuration; positioning said housing on the power line;
configuring said housing in the closed configuration; inductively
coupling power from the power line; providing the inductively
coupled power to a transceiver; receiving first data from the power
line; and transmitting the first data with the transceiver.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein said inductively coupled power
is supplied to the transceiver via a power supply.
20. The method of claim 18, further comprising transmitting second
data over the power line with the transceiver.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation and claims priority to of
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/176,500 filed Jun. 21, 2002
(CRNT-0081), which is incorporated herein by reference in its
entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention generally relates to data
communication over a power distribution system and more
particularly, to a device for coupling to a power line to provide
data communications through the power line and method of using the
same.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Well-established power distribution systems exist throughout
most of the United States, and other countries, which provide power
to customers via power lines. With some modification, the
infrastructure of the existing power distribution systems can be
used to provide data communication in addition to power delivery,
thereby forming a power distribution communication system. In other
words, existing power lines, that already have been run to many
homes and offices, can be used to carry data signals to and from
the homes and offices. These data signals are communicated on and
off the power lines at various points in the power distribution
communication system, such as, for example, near homes, offices,
Internet service providers, and the like.
[0004] While the concept may sound simple, there are many
challenges to overcome in order to use power lines for data
communication. Power distribution systems include numerous
sections, which transmit power at different voltages. The
transition from one section to another typically is accomplished
with a transformer. The sections of the power line distribution
system that are connected to the customers typically are low
voltage (LV) sections having a voltage between 100 volts and 240
volts, depending on the system. In the United States, the low
voltage section typically is about 120 volts (120V). The sections
of the power distribution system that provide the power to the low
voltage sections are referred to as the medium voltage (MV)
sections. The voltage of the MV section is in the range of 1,000
Volts to 100,000 volts. The transition from the MV section to the
LV section of the power distribution system typically is
accomplished with a distribution transformer, which converts the
higher voltage of the MV section to the lower voltage of the LV
section.
[0005] Power system transformers are one obstacle to using power
distribution lines for data communication. Transformers act as a
low-pass filter, passing the low frequency signals (e.g., the 50 or
60 Hz power signals) and impeding high frequency signals (e.g.,
frequencies typically used for data communication) from passing
through the transformer. As such, power distribution communication
systems face the challenge of passing the data signals around the
distribution transformers.
[0006] To bypass the distribution transformer, the bypassing system
needs a method of coupling data to and from the medium voltage
power line. As discussed, medium voltage power lines can operate
from about 1000 V to about 100 kV, and often have high current
flows. Consequently, coupling to a medium voltage power line gives
rise to safety concerns for the user installing the coupling
device. In addition, the coupling device should be designed to
operate to provide safe and reliable communication of data signals
with a medium voltage power line--carrying high power--in all
outdoor environments such as extreme heat, cold, humidity, rain,
high shock, and high vibration. Also, coupling around the
transformer raises concern that dangerous MV voltage levels may be
provided to the customer premises on the data line.
[0007] In addition, a coupling device should be designed so that is
does not significantly compromise the signal-to-noise ratio or data
transfer rate and facilitates bi-directional communication.
Furthermore, the coupling device is preferably designed so that it
can be installed without disrupting power to customers. These and
other advantages are provided by various embodiments of the present
invention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] One objective of the invention is to provide a coupling
device for coupling to a power line to facilitate data
communications through the power line and method of using the
same.
[0009] Another objective of the invention is to provide a coupling
device for coupling to a power line to conduct communications
signals to and from the power line.
[0010] Still another objective of the present invention is to
provide a coupling device that can be installed on an uninsulated
power line carrying power, thereby alleviating the need to
disconnect power from the power line and disrupt power to power
customers.
[0011] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a
coupling device that does not require modification of the existing
power line.
[0012] Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide
a coupling device that is reliable and economic to manufacture.
[0013] These and other objectives are achieved by one embodiment of
the present invention comprising a housing, a first fastening
member attached to said housing and coupled to the power line, a
second fastening member attached to the housing and coupled to the
power line, an inductor providing an impedance to data
transmissions between the first fastening member and the second
fastening member; a first conductor having a first end electrically
coupled to the first fastening member; and a second conductor
having a first end electrically coupled to the second fastening
member. The second ends of the first conductor and second conductor
providing data signals to a connector. In addition, the housing is
comprised of a first housing portion and second housing portion
that are pivotally coupled to each other to allow transition
between an open configuration and a closed configuration. Finally,
the housing may include a transformer secured therein for coupling
power to the connector.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] The invention is further described in the detailed
description that follows, by reference to the noted drawings by way
of non-limiting illustrative embodiments of the invention, in which
like reference numerals represent similar parts throughout the
drawings. As should be understood, however, the invention is not
limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown. In
the drawings:
[0015] FIG. 1 is a schematic representation illustrating a portion
of an example data communication system in which the present
invention may be used;
[0016] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating the partial
assembly of an example embodiment of a coupling device according to
the present invention mounted on a power line;
[0017] FIG. 3 is a side assembly view illustrating an example
embodiment of a coupling device according to the present invention
mounted on a power line;
[0018] FIG. 4 is a side view illustrating a portion of a housing
assembly of an example embodiment of a coupling device according to
the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 5 is a side view illustrating a portion of a housing of
an example embodiment of a coupling device according to the present
invention;
[0020] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a pair of clamp brackets of
an example embodiment of a coupling device according to the present
invention;
[0021] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a tube portion of an example
embodiment of a coupling device according to the present
invention;
[0022] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a core portion of an example
embodiment of a coupling device according to the present
invention;
[0023] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an inductor portion of an
example embodiment of a coupling device according to the present
invention;
[0024] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a handle assembly of an
example embodiment of a coupling device according to the present
invention;
[0025] FIG. 11 is a side view of illustrating an example embodiment
of a coupling device according to the present invention in the open
configuration;
[0026] FIG. 12 is a schematical representation of an example
embodiment of a coupling device according to the present
invention;
[0027] FIG. 13 is a side view illustrating an alternate example
embodiment of a coupling device according to the present invention;
and
[0028] FIG. 14 is a partial cross-sectional view of another handle
assembly of an example embodiment of a coupling device according to
the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS
[0029] Power distribution systems include components for power
generation, power transmission, and power delivery. A transmission
substation is typically used to increase the voltage from power
generation source to high voltage (HV) levels for long distance
transmission on high voltage transmission lines to a substation.
Typical voltages found on high voltage transmission lines range
from 69 to in excess of 800 kilovolts (kV).
[0030] In addition to high voltage transmission lines, power
distribution systems include medium voltage power lines and low
voltage power line. As discussed, medium voltage typically is from
about 1000 V to about 100 kV and low voltage is typically from
about 100 V to about 240 V. Transformers typically are used to
convert between the respective voltage portions, e.g., between the
high voltage section and the medium voltage section and between the
medium voltage section and the low voltage section. Transformers
have a primary side for connection to a first voltage (e.g., the MV
section) and a secondary side for outputting another (usually
lower) voltage (e.g., the LV section). Such transformers are often
referred to as a step down transformers because they typically
"step down" the voltage to some lower voltage. Transformers,
therefore, provide voltage conversion for the power distribution
system. Thus, power is carried from substation transformer to a
distribution transformer over one or more medium voltage power
lines. Power is carried from the distribution transformer to the
customer premises via one or more low voltage lines.
[0031] In addition, a distribution transformer may function to
distribute one, two, three, or more phase currents to the customer
premises, depending upon the demands of the user. In the United
States, for example, these local distribution transformers
typically feed anywhere from one to ten homes, depending upon the
concentration of the customer premises in a particular area.
[0032] Distribution transformers may be pole-top transformers
located on a utility pole, pad-mounted transformers located on the
ground, or transformers located under ground level.
[0033] The coupling device of the present invention is designed to
be used as part of a power line coupler 10, which, together with
and a power line bridge 50, form the bypass system to communicate
data signals around the transformer that would otherwise filter
such data signals, preventing them from passing through the
transformer. FIG. 1 is a schematic representation illustrating such
a bypass system having a power line coupler 10 and power line
bridge 50.
[0034] The power line coupler 10 interfaces data signals to medium
voltage power lines on the primary side of the transformer 25 and
the power line bridge 50 interfaces data signals to low voltage
power lines on the secondary side of the transformer 25. The power
line coupler 10 provides electrical isolation between the
transformer primary side (e.g., the MV section) and secondary side
(e.g., LV section), thereby preventing substantial power flow
through the power line coupler and the power line bridge. It should
be appreciated that the functionality of the power line coupler 10
and the power line bridge 50 can be included in one device or
distributed in more than one device.
[0035] The power line coupler 10 includes a power line coupling
device that conducts data signals to and from the power line. The
power line coupler 10 may include additional circuitry to condition
the data signal, to handle bidirectional signal transfer, to enable
the use of an electrical isolator, to provide operational power
from the power line, to convert data signals to a different format
(e.g., for transmission to the user premises), and may be designed
to be self-contained.
[0036] The power line coupler 10 and power line bridge 50
communicate with each other, thereby allowing data signals to
bypass the transformer, thus avoiding the filtering of the high
frequency data signal that otherwise would occur in the transformer
25. Lower frequency power signals continue to flow from medium
voltage power lines to low voltage power lines through the
transformer 25. As discussed, the power line coupler 10 provides
electrical isolation between the medium voltage power line and low
voltage power lines by substantially preventing power from flowing
through the bypass system.
[0037] The electrical isolation may include a non-electrical signal
path (i.e., for transmission of a signal that is non-electrical). A
non-electrical signal may be a light signal, a radio frequency
signal, a microwave signal, and the like. The power line coupler 10
transmits the signal over the non-electrical signal path (or other
path). The power line bridge 50 receives the non-electrical signal
and conditions the signal for communication to the customer
premises over the low voltage power lines or through another
communication medium such over a telephone line, coaxial cable,
fiber optic cable, or wirelessly.
[0038] As discussed, the power line coupler 10 includes a coupling
device for conducting data signals to and from the power line.
FIGS. 2-5, and 12 illustrate an example embodiment of a coupling
device 100 according to the present invention. The coupling device
100 of this example embodiment is designed to couple with a medium
voltage power line that is not insulated, such as the overhead
transmission lines of the United Stated that typically include two
or more wires running parallel to each other with an air gap
between them acting as a dielectric.
[0039] The coupling device 100 in this example embodiment includes
a housing 101 having a front housing portion 103 and a back housing
portion 102 that are mechanically coupled to each other by a pair
of hinges 205. Each housing portion 102, 103 may be milled from a
block of Noryl.TM., which is a commercially available elastomer
manufactured by General Electric. However, the housing portions
102, 103 may also be created with injection molding or through
other means.
[0040] The hinges 205 permit the front and back housing portions
103, 102 to pivot from an open configuration to a closed
configuration. Clamp brackets 210, shown in detail in FIG. 6, are
mounted to the ends of the back housing portion 102 with mounting
screws (not shown) that are received by mounting holes in the ends
of the back housing portion 102.
[0041] A hot wire clamp 220 is attached to each clamp bracket 210
with screws that extend through mounting holes in the clamp bracket
210 and into the hot wire clamp 220. As will be discussed in more
detail below, the hot wire clamps 220 are used for attaching the
coupling device 100 to the power line. Suitable hot wire clamps for
the example embodiment may be product number AH4GPXB, manufactured
by Hubbell Power Systems of Centralia, Mo., and may be modified to
mate with the clamp brackets 210 as will be evident to those
skilled in the art. In this example embodiment, the hot wire clamps
220 are modified to have mounting holes and a dove tail groove. The
dove tail groove is designed to receive the dove tail extension 211
of the respective clamp bracket 210 to which it is mounted. Other
hot wire clamps and other types of fastening members may used to
accommodate other housing structures and wire sizes/types.
[0042] Also mounted to the housing 101 is a handle assembly 301, a
connector 401 for providing an electrical connection to the
coupling device 100, and a pair of twist clamps 130 for securing
the housing 101 in the closed configuration. Suitable hinges for
use in this example embodiment include the commercially available
hinges from SouthCo, Inc. of Concordville, Pa., identified by part
number E6-10-301-20. Likewise, suitable twist clamps for use in
this example embodiment include part number K2-3005-51, also
manufactured by SouthCo Inc. of Concordville, Pa. These
commercially available twist clamps have been modified to include
an aperture in the gripping portion that is sized to receive the
end of an electric utility safety stick (or bang stick). A suitable
connector for use in this embodiment is available from Conxall
Corp. of Villa Park, Ill. as part number 14180-7SG-300.
[0043] When the housing 101 is in the closed configuration, a
cylindrical opening 105 through the housing 101 allows the power
line to pass through the housing. Thus, each of the back housing
portion 102 and the front housing portion 103 includes a
substantially semicircular recess extending longitudinally along
its entire length. A tube portion 101, shown in FIG. 7, is mounted
in the semicircular recess of the back housing portion 102 and the
front housing portion 103. The tube portions 110 are semicircular
in shape, may be manufactured from aluminum, and sized to mate with
the semicircular recesses of the back housing portion 102 and front
housing portion 103. The tube portions 110 are mounted to the back
housing portion 102 and front housing portion 103 with ten mounting
screws that extend through the ten mounting apertures of the tube
portions 110 and into the corresponding mounting holes designed to
receive the mounting screws in the back housing portion 102 and
front housing portion 103. Although FIG. 7 provides one example of
such a tube portion, it should be appreciated that other
configurations also are contemplated.
[0044] Thus, in this embodiment, when the housing 101 is in the
closed configuration, the tube portions 110 of the back housing
portion 102 and front housing portion 103 form the cylindrical
opening 105, which acts as a power line passage permitting passage
of the power line through the housing of the coupling device 100.
In this embodiment, the power line does not contact the passage
(i.e., the inside of the tube portions 110), although other
embodiments may permit the power line to contact the components
defining the passage.
[0045] The back housing portion 102 and front housing portion 103
(housing portions 102, 103) are nearly identical internally.
Consequently, the following descriptions of the back housing
portion 102 apply equally well to the front housing portion 103
[0046] The housing portions 102, 103 combine to form first and
second core chambers 120a-b, which are separated by a center
partition 125. Center partition 125 is disposed along the lateral
center line of the housing 101 so that core chamber 120a is
adjacent one side of the center line and core chamber 120b is
adjacent the other side of the center line.
[0047] The core chambers 120a-b are designed to receive and retain
the core portions, which in this embodiment form part of one or
more transformers. In this example embodiment, only one core 501 is
included, which is disposed in core chamber 120b. Other
embodiments, however, may include another core disposed in core
chamber 120a.
[0048] The core 501 is substantially toroidal in shape and formed
by two core portions 501a which are shaped substantially as a half
of a toroid as shown in FIG. 8. A suitable part, from which the
core 501 of this example embodiment may be created, is part number
CRAZ-1038-A, available from National-Arnold Magnetic Inc. of
Adelanto Calif., which is cut in half to form core portions 501a.
Each core portion 501a includes a first mating surface 505 and a
second mating surface 506. The mating surfaces 505, 506, in this
example embodiment, are sealed with a coating of Parylene.TM. that
will inhibit corrosion of the mating surfaces 505, 506. The inner
radius of the core 501 is designed to be slightly larger than the
exterior radius of the tube portion 110. In this example
embodiment, the core 501 has approximate dimensions of a 0.8 inch
inner radius, 1.5 inch outer radius, and 2.0 inch width.
[0049] A core portion 501a resides in the core chamber 120b of the
back housing portion 102 and of front housing portion 103. When the
housing 101 is in the closed configuration, the mating surfaces 505
of each core portion 501a are urged into contact with each other
and the mating surfaces 506 of each core portion 501a are urged
into contact with each other thereby forming a complete toroid.
[0050] The housing 101 also includes one or more urging members
(not shown). The urging members urge the core portions 501a against
the tube portions 110 (with a synthetic rubber gasket, such as
Neoprene.TM., there between) and towards each other when the
housing is in the closed configuration. In this example embodiment,
the urging member is a multi-layered synthetic rubber gasket (not
shown) attached to the back surface of core chambers 120a-b and is
approximately one half inch in thickness. The thickness and other
characteristics of the urging member of this embodiment are such
that when the housing is in the open configuration, the ends of the
core portions 501a (adjacent mating surfaces 505, 506) extend
slightly from the back housing portion 102 and front housing
portion 103.
[0051] The urging member is an elastic device that resists
deformation. During assembly, each core portion 501a is placed in
the core chamber 120a of its respective housing portion 102, 103
(on top of the gasket) and then tubing portions 110 are mounted to
the respective housing portion 102, 103. Mounting of the tubing
portions 110 forces each core portion 501a rearward, against the
urging member of the core chamber 120b. Thus, when the tubing
portions 110 are fully mounted, each core portion 501a is fixed in
place because it is forced against the tube portion 110 (with a
gasket there between) by the pressure exerted against the rear
surface 502 of the core portion 501a by the urging member.
[0052] When the housing 101 is in the closed configuration, the
rear surface 502 of each core portion 501a is pressed against the
urging member (e.g., the gasket). Although the urging member
deforms, it resists deformation and urges core portion 501a toward
the mating core portion 501a (and vice versa) so that the mating
faces 505, 506 of the core portions 501a are pressed tightly
together, thereby forming a friction fit and resisting movement
with respect to each other.
[0053] The back housing portion 102 and front housing portion 103
also combine to form first and second inductor chambers 140a-b. The
following description of inductor chamber 140a is also applicable
to inductor chamber 140b, as will be evident to one skilled in the
art, and is therefore not repeated here.
[0054] Each inductor chamber 140 includes an outer inductor chamber
150 and an inner inductor chamber 160, which are separated by an
inductor partition 170. Each inductor chamber 140 is adapted to
receive one or more inductors. In this example embodiment, the
inductor in each chamber is comprised of two ferrite toroids (for a
total of eight in the coupling device 100), which act as inductors
when the coupling device 100 is installed on the power line. A
ferrite toroid suitable for modification and use in this example
embodiment is Type 43 Ferrite Core, Part No. 5943003801,
manufactured by Kreger Components, Inc., of Roanoke, Va. The total
combined inductance of the eight ferrite toroids may be
substantially equivalent to an inductor having an inductance in the
range of about 0.1 microHenries to 5.0 microHenries. Alternate
embodiments, however, may include one or more inductors with values
outside of this range.
[0055] Because all of the ferrite inductors in this example
embodiment are the same, only one will be described herein.
However, it should be appreciated that other embodiments
contemplated by the invention may include ferrite inductors having
varying sizes and shapes. The inductor is substantially toroidal in
shape and formed by two inductor portions 602, which are shaped
substantially as a half of a toroid, as shown in FIG. 9. Each
inductor portion 602 includes a first mating face 605 and second
mating face 606. An inductor portion 602 is disposed in the
inductor chambers 140 in both the back housing portion 102 and
front housing portion 103. When the housing 101 is in the closed
configuration, the mating faces 605 and 606 of each inductor
portion 602 in the back housing portion 102 contact with the
corresponding inductor portion 602 in the other front portion 103
forming a complete toroid that acts as inductor and provides an
impedance to data transmissions.
[0056] As is well known to those skilled in the art, manufacturing
tolerances sometimes allow components intended to align, to be out
of alignment. To ensure that the mating surfaces 605, 606 of the
inductor portions 602 mate together properly when the housing is in
the closed configuration, a synthetic rubber gasket is disposed on
the outer side of the outer inductor chamber 150. The synthetic
rubber gasket resists deformation (although it deforms) to urge the
inductor portion 602 of the inductor in the outer inductor chamber
150 toward the inductor partition 170. Likewise, a synthetic rubber
gasket is positioned on the inner side of inner inductor chamber
160 to urge the inductor portion 602 in the inner inductor chamber
160 toward the inductor partition 170. Thus, the inductors disposed
in the inner inductor chamber 160 and outer inductor chamber 150
are both urged toward the inductor partition 170 to ensure that the
mating faces 605,606 of the inductor portions 602 are in alignment
when the housing 101 is in the closed configuration.
[0057] In addition, this example embodiment also includes an urging
member in the inductor chambers, as described with respect to the
core, to urge the inductor portions 602 together when the coupling
device is in the closed configuration and against the tube portions
110 (with a gasket there between). Thus, when the coupling device
100 is installed on the line, the inductor extends around the
circumference of the power line so that at least a portion of the
inductor is coupled to the flux of the power line extending through
the power line passage.
[0058] The handle assembly 301 is adapted to receive a bang stick
to install the coupling device 100. As is well-known in the
industry, a bang stick is an instrument used by electric utility
personnel to handle and install devices on power lines. Referring
to FIGS. 2, 10, and 11, the handle assembly 301 includes a first
handle portion 310 and a second handle portion 320. The first
handle portion 310 is mounted to the back housing portion 102 and
the second handle portion 320 is mounted to the front housing
portion 103. Mounting screws through the handle portions 310, 320
are received in screw holes in their respective housing portions to
fixedly attach the handles portions 310, 320, to the housing
portions 102, 103.
[0059] The first handle portion 310 includes a base 311, a gripping
portion 312, and a control member 313. The control member 313
includes an aperture 314 therethrough that is sized to receive and
engage the end of the bang stick. The gripping portion 312 extends
upward substantially perpendicular to the top surface 104 of the
back housing portion 102. The second handle portion 320 includes a
base 321, a gripping portion 322, and a control member 323. The
control member 323 includes an aperture 324 therethrough that is
sized to receive and engage the end of the bang stick. The gripping
portion 322 of the second handle portion 320 extends upward at an
angle that is thirty degrees from perpendicular to the top surface
105 of the front housing portion 102. Thus, the angle between the
first handle portion 310 and the second handle portion 320 is
approximately thirty degrees when the coupling device 101 is in the
closed configuration.
[0060] The gripping portion 320 of the second handle portion 320 is
slightly shorter in length than the gripping portion 312 of the
first handle portion 310 and is shorter by a magnitude
substantially equal to the thickness of the control member 313 of
the first handle portion 310.
[0061] When the twist clamps 130 are unlocked, gripping the handle
assembly 301 urges the second handle portion 320 toward the first
handle portion 310 to open the coupling device 100. In the open
configuration, the first handle portion 310 and the second handle
portion 320 both extend upward perpendicular to the top surface 104
of the back housing portion 102, as best shown in FIG. 11. In
addition, the rear side of the gripping portion 322 of the second
handle portion 320 is adjacent the front side of the gripping
portion 312 of the first handle portion 310. Likewise, in the open
configuration the top surface of the control member 323 of the
second handle portion 320 is adjacent the bottom surface of the
control member 313 of the first handle portion 310. Thus, in the
open configuration, the gripping portions 312, 322 of the handle
portions 310, 320 coextend to form a handle that is sized to be
gripped by the human hand to hold the coupling device in the open
configuration.
[0062] In addition, in the open configuration the aperture 324 of
the second handle portion 320 is in alignment with the aperture 314
of the first handle portion 310. The alignment of the apertures
314, 324 permit insertion of a bang stick though the apertures 314,
324, which thereby holds the control members 323, 313 of the handle
assembly together and the coupling device 100 in the open
configuration permitting release of the gripping portions 312, 322
of the handle assembly. In the open configuration, the housing
portions 102, 103 are held open at a thirty degree angle permitting
installation onto a power line.
[0063] The coupling device 100 also includes conductors for
communicating data signals to and from the power line. Referring to
FIG. 4, data signal wire 703 is attached to hot clamp 220 so that
when the hot clamp 220 is coupled to the power line, the data
signal wire 703 is electrically coupled to the power line.
Likewise, data signal wire 704 is attached to the other hot clamp
220 so that when that hot clamp 220 is coupled to the power line,
the data signal wire 704 is electrically coupled to the power line.
Each data signal wire 703, 704 enters the housing 101 through an
aperture on the end of the back housing portion 102. The wires 703,
704 are disposed in grooves 115 in the partitions of the back
housing portion 102, which allow the wires 703, 704 to traverse
across the partitions that separate various chambers in the back
housing portion 102. The wires 703, 704 are coupled to separate
connection terminals of the connector 401.
[0064] The core 501, which couples to the flux of the power line
passing through the power line passage, forms part of a transformer
that provides a power signal to the connector 401. The power line
through the core 501 acts as a single turn primary. A conductor is
wound around the core 501 a plurality of turns to provide a
secondary winding. The first and second ends of the secondary
winding of the core 501 provide first and second power conductors
503, 504 that are coupled to separate connection terminals of
connector 401. Thus, connector 401 provides a pathway for the
signals carried by the data wires 703 and 704 and power conductors
503 and 504 into and out of the housing 101.
[0065] To install the coupling device 100 on the power line, the
user unlocks the twist clamps 130 and grips the first handle
portion 310 and second handle portion 320 to urge them together,
which transitions the coupling device 100 to the open
configuration. Next, the user inserts the bang stick through
apertures 314, 324 of the handle assembly 301, which maintains the
coupling device 100 in the open configuration when the user
releases his or her grip from the handle assembly 301. Next, using
the bang stick, the user places the coupling device 100 on the
power line with the hinges 205 above the power line so that
clamping portions 222 of the hot clamps 220 extend around the power
line. The user then removes the bang stick from the handle assembly
301. When the bang stick is removed from the handle assembly 301,
the coupling device 100 is supported by the clamping portions 222
of the hot clamps 220, which rest on the power line. In addition,
when the bang stick is removed from the handle assembly 301, the
first handle portion 310 and second handle portion 320 are no
longer held together. Consequently, the weight of the housing
portions 102,103 causes them to pivot downward around the hinges
205 to a partially open configuration. In the partially open
configuration, the housing portions 102, 103 are nearly closed and
held open by gaskets and/or the core portions 501a, which extend
slightly form the inside planar surfaces of the housing portions
102, 103.
[0066] Next, the lineman then uses the bang stick to tighten the
hot clamps 220 onto the power line. As is known in the art, the hot
clamps 220 are tightened onto the power line by rotating the clamp
bolt 223. Next, the twist clamps 130 are closed by latching the
twist clamp 130 onto the front housing portion 103 and twisting the
handle of the twist clamp 130, which is preferably performed with
the bang stick by inserting it into an aperture (which may be added
after manufacture) in the handle of the twist clamp 130 and turning
the handle. As the handle of the twist clamp 130 is twisted, the
back housing portion 102 and the front housing portion 103 are
forced closer together. As discussed above, urging the back housing
portion 102 and the front housing portion 103 together results in
the mating faces 505, 506 of the core portions 501a coming into
contact with each other. The urging member, in the form of
synthetic rubber gasket (or rubber spring) in this example
embodiment, behind the core portions 501a resist deformation and
therefore, resist closure of the housing once the core portions
501a are in contact with each other. Once the coupling device 100
is in the closed configuration, the core portions 501a of the core
are pressed tightly together at their mating surfaces 505, 506 and
resist movement.
[0067] Once the coupling device 100 is installed on the power line,
a mating connector (not shown) is coupled to the connector 401. As
discussed, the connector 401 provides a pathway for data and power
transmissions into and out of the coupling device. FIG. 12 is a
schematical representation of the power coupling device 100 when
coupled onto the power line as well as other portions of an example
power line coupler 10. Connection nodes 114a and 114b represent the
connection points at which the hot clamps 220 are connected to the
power line 114.
[0068] As shown in FIG. 12, from an electrical perspective the
coupling device 100 includes a radio frequency (RF) filter or RF
choke 705 in series with the medium voltage power line 114 and
disposed between the connection nodes. The RF choke 705 is an
impedance provided by the eight ferrite inductors disposed in the
inductor chambers 140. Inductances may range from about 0.1
microHenries to 5.0 microHenries.
[0069] The RF choke 705 operates as a low pass filter. In other
words, low frequency signals (e.g., a power signal having a
frequency of 50 or 60 Hz) pass through the RF choke 705 relatively
unimpeded (i.e., RF choke 705 can be modeled as a short circuit to
low frequency signals). High frequency signals (e.g., a data
signal), however, do not pass through RF choke 705; rather, they
are absorbed in RF choke 705 (i.e., RF choke 705 can be modeled as
an open circuit to high frequency signals). As such, the voltage
across RF choke 705 includes data signals but substantially no
power signals. This voltage (i.e., the voltage across RF choke 705)
is applied to transformer 720 via capacitors 710 to receive data
signals from medium voltage power line 120. To transmit data
signals to medium voltage power line 114, a data signal is applied
to transformer 720, which in turn communicates the data signal to
RF choke 705 through capacitors 710.
[0070] The desired inductance of the RF choke 705, and therefore
the number, size, permeability, and other characteristics of the
ferrite inductors, depends on the characteristics of the power
line, the power signal, and the data signal, including, but not
limited to, the frequency band of the data signals. This example
embodiment is designed to operate on a one and a quarter inch
medium voltage power line in which data is transmitted in the
thirty to fifty Megahertz range. In this example embodiment the
impedance is in the range of four hundred to six hundred ohms over
the 30 MHz to 50 MHz range. Other embodiments may include ferrites
having different characteristics or may use other methods of
conducting data signals to and from the power line, which may or
may not be inductive.
[0071] Power line coupling device 100 also includes the core 501,
which couples to the flux of the power line and provides a source
of power to a power supply 682. The voltage provided by the core
501 is dependent on the core characteristics (e.g., permeability,
size, and other parameters), the number of windings around the
core, the amount of current (or change in current) through the
power line, and other factors well known to those skilled in the
art.
[0072] FIG. 12 also shows other components of the power line
coupler 10 including transmit circuitry 610, receive circuitry 612,
transmit optoelectronic device 620, and receive optoelectronic
device 622.
[0073] Capacitors 710 provide some electrical isolation between
medium voltage power line 114 and transformer 720. Capacitors 710
further provide filtering of stray power signals. That is, the data
signal passes across capacitors 710 while any lower frequency power
signals are substantially prevented from passing across capacitors
710. Such filtering can be implemented elsewhere within the system
or not implemented at all.
[0074] Transformer 720 may operate as a differential transceiver.
That is, transformer 720 may operate to repeat data signals
received from RF choke 705 to receive circuitry 612 and to repeat
data signals received from transmit circuitry 610 to RF choke 705.
Transformer 720 also provides some electrical isolation between
medium voltage power line 114 and low voltage power line.
Transformer 720 also permits RF signals, such as data signals, to
pass through and travel on down the power line.
[0075] Capacitors 606 are electrically connected between transmit
circuitry 610 and receive circuitry 612 and transformer 720.
Transmit circuitry 610 and receive circuitry 612 are electrically
connected to transmit optoelectronic device 620 and receive
optoelectronic device 622, respectively. Transmit optoelectronic
device 620 and receive optoelectronic device 622 are in
communication with communication medium 630.
[0076] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12, the communication
medium 630 is a fiber optic cable that provides electrical power
isolation between medium voltage power line 114 and low voltage
power line. Other communication media may be used to provide such
electrical power isolation.
[0077] The present invention may be practiced in numerous
alternatives to the example embodiment described herein. For
example, the connector 401 may be an external connector, a
connector on a circuit board attached to, or within, the housing
101. In addition, the data signal wires 703 and 704 may be
connected to the connector via a capacitor, or other filtering
device. Furthermore, in other embodiments the conductors (data
and/or power) may not traverse inside the housing, but may simply
extend away from the housing or connection point individually or
together in a cable. Similarly, the connection points with the
power line, which provide signals to and from data signal wires
703, 704, may be inside the housing in other embodiments.
[0078] FIG. 13 illustrates another embodiment for implementing the
present invention. In this embodiment, the connector 402 includes a
base portion 403 and a extending portion 404. The extending portion
404 of the connector 402 is a receptacle for receiving a fiber
optic cable connector. The base portion 403 is disposed inside the
housing 101 and includes a fiber optic transceiver. The fiber optic
transceiver receives data signals transmitted over the power line
from at least one of the data signal wires 703, 704 and converts
the signals to fiber optic signals for transmission to the power
line bridge 50 via the fiber optic cable. Likewise, the fiber optic
transceiver receives fiber optic signals from the fiber optic
cable, converts them to an electrical data signal for transmission
over the power line, and transmits the converted data signals
through at least one of the data signal wires 703, 704 for
transmission of the power line.
[0079] The base portion 403 also includes a power supply (such as
power supply 682) for receiving power transmissions from the power
conductors 503, 504. In other words, the secondary winding of the
core 501 is coupled to the power supply, which in turn provides
power to the optic transceiver and other circuitry in the connector
402. Thus, in this embodiment, essentially all of the elements
shown in FIG. 12 are disposed inside the housing 101 of the
coupling device 100. A fiber optic connector 402 described herein
is further discussed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/176,501
(Attorney Docket No. CRNT-0069), filed Jun. 21, 2002, and entitled
"Fiber Optic Connection System and Method of Using the Same," which
is incorporated herein by reference.
[0080] FIG. 14 illustrates an alternate handle assembly 301 that
can be used as part of the coupling device 100 with slight
modifications. The handle assembly 301 includes a first portion 330
mounted to the back housing portion 102 and a second portion 350
mounted to the front housing portion 103. The first portion 330 of
the handle assembly 301 includes an extending portion 331 having an
aperture 332 therethrough. An adjusting member 335 is pivotally
mounted to the first portion 330 of the handle 301 inside the
aperture 332 of the extending portion 331. In this embodiment, the
adjusting member 335 is tubular in shape with a threaded annular
inside surface.
[0081] The first portion 330 is mechanically coupled to the second
portion 350 with an opening member 370. In this example embodiment
of the alternate handle assembly, the opening member 335 includes a
threaded portion 372 and an operating member 375 having an aperture
sized to receive the end of a bang stick. The opening member 370
also includes a coupling member 374 at its first end 371. The
coupling member 374 is rotatably coupled to the threaded portion
372 of the opening member 370 so that the threaded portion is free
to rotate. The coupling member 374 is also pivotally coupled to the
pivot member 351 of the second portion 350 of the handle assembly
301.
[0082] The threaded portion 372 of the opening member 370 extends
through the adjusting member 335 and engages the threads on the
annular inside surface of the adjusting member 335. The engagement
of the threads of the threaded portion 372 with the threads on the
annular inside surface of the adjusting member 335 causes the
opening member 370 to move longitudinally and relative to the
adjusting member 335 (and relative to the extended portion 331 of
the first portion 330 of the handle assembly 301) when the
operating member 375 of the opening member 370 is rotated. Because
the coupling member 374 at the first end 371 of the opening member
370 is pivotally fixed to pivot member 351 of the second portion
350, longitudinal movement of the opening member 370 causes the
pivot member 351 to move longitudinally with respect to the
extending portion 331 of the first portion 330 of the handle
assembly 301 as well. In addition, the pivot member 351 rotates
about the hinges 205, which act as a pivot point around which the
front housing portion 103 pivots open and closed.
[0083] The user rotates the opening member 370 in a first direction
to transition the coupling device 100 to the open configuration and
rotates the opening member 370 in a second direction to transition
the coupling device in the closed configuration.
[0084] While the present example embodiment is designed to couple
to a medium voltage line, other embodiments of the present
invention may be coupled to low voltage or high voltage power
lines. Likewise, the overhead power lines with which the above
example embodiment is designed to operate have characteristic
impedance that is typically in the range of three hundred to five
hundred ohms, and extremely low loss. Other embodiments of the
present invention may be designed to have differing characteristics
(such as a differing inductance) for use with other types of power
lines or overhead power lines having differing characteristics.
[0085] In another embodiment, the inductor toroids (which are
formed by the ferrites) are octagonal-shaped toroids. In this
alternate embodiment, the inner radius of the inductor is circular
in shape. The outer radius is that of an octagon, which provides a
greater surface area to abut against the urging member. Similarly,
the core 501 (or cores if more than one is used) may be
octagonal-shaped as well. In addition, instead of including a pair
of inductors (or ferrites) in the outer chamber 150 and inner
chamber 140, a larger ferrite may be constructed so that it is
sized fill each chamber. In addition, the larger ferrite may
include a groove along its external radial surface (preferably
centered between the ends) that mates with a protrusion in the
chamber to assist in holding the ferrite in place.
[0086] Furthermore, other alternate embodiments may include a
single inductor in each chamber 140, which is sized and shaped to
provide the desired inductance. Still other embodiments may include
a single inductor, which may be a single ferrite toroid.
Furthermore, inductors may be formed of other shapes and of
materials other than ferrite.
[0087] In the above described embodiment, the core 501 is
positioned between the connection points, which are at the hot
clamps 220, to the power line. Other embodiments may include a core
positioned outside the connection points to the power line or omit
the core altogether. Likewise, the position of the inductors in
other embodiments may be contiguous or have any other suitable
position or placement for ease of packaging. To achieve the
electrical characteristics of FIG. 13, the coupling device
disclosed in the above example includes an inductor between the
connection points (the hot clamps 220) to the power line. However,
the mechanics of the coupling device may used for other types of
coupling means--such as inductive or capacitive--which may provide
other electrical characteristics and may or may not include any
inductive elements such that the coupling device does not include
any inductor (or ferrites) such as in a capacitive coupling device.
In other embodiments, such as those providing inductive coupling,
the inductor may include one or more windings to couple data
signals to and/or from the power line and the fastening members may
or may not include conductors coupled thereto.
[0088] In addition, the housing and other components of the
coupling device are coated and otherwise manufactured for use in
outdoor environments. In addition, proper manufacturing tolerances
and gaskets may be used to prevent water from entering the housing
when in the closed configuration. Specifically, the gasket is
disposed along the exterior edge and along the tubing portion of
one of the two housing portions.
[0089] Finally, the type of data signal coupled by the coupling
device may be any suitable type of data signal. The type of signal
modulation used can be any suitable signal modulation used in
communications (Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Time Division
Multiple Access (TDMA), Frequency Division Multiplex (FDM),
Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplex (OFDM), and the like).
Typically, OFDM is used on both the low and medium voltage
portions. A modulation producing a wideband signal such as CDMA
that is relatively flat in the spectral domain may be used to
reduce radiated interference to other systems while still
delivering high data communication rates.
[0090] It is to be understood that the foregoing illustrative
embodiments have been provided merely for the purpose of
explanation and are in no way to be construed as limiting of the
invention. Words which have been used herein are words of
description and illustration, rather than words of limitation. In
addition, the advantages and objectives described herein may not be
realized by each and every embodiment practicing the present
invention. Further, although the invention has been described
herein with reference to particular structure, materials and/or
embodiments, the invention is not intended to be limited to the
particulars disclosed herein. Rather, the invention extends to all
functionally equivalent structures, methods and uses, such as are
within the scope of the appended claims. Those skilled in the art,
having the benefit of the teachings of this specification, may
affect numerous modifications thereto and changes may be made
without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.
* * * * *