Apparatus and method for three-dimensional powerline designing
AssigneeCalligraphic Systems Limited
InventorsPhilip G. Thompson, Timothy Pilgrim
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
An apparatus for powerline designing and maintenance which provides assistance for the initial design of overhead powerlines and their maintenance. The apparatus includes a device for measuring the initial ground profile along a proposed route, and for defining the required support structures, taking into account the predicted cost of components together with prevailing safety standards and industry guidelines. Facilities are also provided for ordering fittings and for checking line tension at the construction stage. Previously constructed lines may be monitored by visual inspection of existing fittings for depreciation and damage or by resurvey and the data gathered can then be compared to the original design specifications.
Claims14
A computerized apparatus for erecting and maintaining a powerline having a plurality of conductors, the apparatus comprising:
- means for inputting position and condition data in three dimensions pertaining to a geographical position and a condition of components of the powerline erected at a powerline site;
- and
- computing means for receiving said inputted three-dimensional position and condition data at the powerline site and determining, at the powerline site, in three dimensions, a tension of at least one of the powerline conductors based upon said inputted data and data stored in memory of said computing means relating to characteristics of said powerline conductor.
A method for erecting and maintaining a powerline having a plurality of conductors, the method comprising:
- inputting data in three dimensions pertaining to a geographical position and condition of components of the powerline erected at a powerline site;
- and
- calculating in three dimensions at the powerline site, using a computer, a tension of at least one of the plurality of powerline conductors based upon said inputted three-dimensional position and condition data and data stored in a memory of said computer relating to characteristics of said powerline conductor.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.