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A Low Cost Electromagnetic Induction Ground Fault Detector

Award Information
Agency: Department of Defense
Branch: Navy
Contract: N00024-12-P-4004
Agency Tracking Number: N112-133-0625
Amount: $149,923.00
Phase: Phase I
Program: SBIR
Solicitation Topic Code: N112-133
Solicitation Number: 2011.2
Timeline
Solicitation Year: 2011
Award Year: 2012
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): 2011-10-28
Award End Date (Contract End Date): 2013-09-05
Small Business Information
P.O. Box 71
Hanover, NH -
United States
DUNS: 072021041
HUBZone Owned: No
Woman Owned: No
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: No
Principal Investigator
 Bruce Pilvelait
 Principal Investigator
 (603) 643-3800
 brp@creare.com
Business Contact
 James Barry
Title: President
Phone: (603) 643-3800
Email: contractsmgr@creare.com
Research Institution
 Stub
Abstract

Cabling faults can be difficult to identify and locate when a large number of interconnections are used such as in the shipboard Machinery Control System. Ungrounded systems further complicate diagnosis, since signal voltages and currents are small amplitude. It often takes a considerable amount of time to identify and locate the fault, and the equipment capability can be substantially reduced while troubleshooting occurs. We propose to develop a low-cost ground fault detector and locator which dramatically reduces time required to identify and locate the problem. Our concept has been developed specifically for ungrounded systems, and this method allows rapid isolation and convergence to the exact nature and location of the problem. This method can be implemented either as a low-cost handheld diagnostic tool, or as part of an integrated continuous real-time health monitoring system. Operational costs will be reduced by (1) quickly identifying which cable has the problem, (2) locating the exact location of the problem, and (3) prompt remediation. In Phase I we will develop a prototype to demonstrate feasibility, and during Phase II we will fabricate systems for further evaluation. Data will be correlated with inspection results to determine the effectiveness of the approach.

* Information listed above is at the time of submission. *

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