GERALD T HOMCE
Engineers in Pittsburgh, PA
License number
Pennsylvania PE039862E
Category
Engineers
Type
Professional Engineer
Address
Address
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
Professional information
Alarm System For Detecting Hazards Due To Power Transmission Lines
US Patent:
6600426, Jul 29, 2003
Filed:
Sep 25, 2000
Appl. No.:
09/669435
Inventors:
H. Kenneth Sacks - McMurray PA
Michael R. Yenchek - Bethel Park PA
Gerald T. Homce - Pittsburgh PA
James C. Cawley - Venetia PA
Michael R. Yenchek - Bethel Park PA
Gerald T. Homce - Pittsburgh PA
James C. Cawley - Venetia PA
Assignee:
The United States of America as represented by the Department of Health and Human Services - Washington DC
International Classification:
G08B 2100
US Classification:
340664, 340684, 340685
Abstract:
An alarm system for detecting and warning of the risk of shock and electrocution is provided. The alarm system is adapted for use with mobile construction equipment, e. g. , cranes, trucks, etc. , that can be used around overhead power transmission lines. The present alarm system has a sensor that detects the presence of outside power at the equipment where current is flowing therethrough to ground. The sensor preferably includes a conductor and an inductive sensor such as a current transformer which limits the output signal on its low side that is sent to an alarm unit. In this manner, the system herein continues to properly function despite the presence of large voltages at the equipment such as when the equipment contacts a high voltage power transmission line. The sensor can include a cable that provides a path of least resistance for current flowing through the equipment which can be detected by the sensor. Preferably, the cable is attached across a moving joint of the equipment where potential differences readily can be found.