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Optical voltage sensor based on a piezoelectric thin film for grid applications
Optics Express
|November 23, 2021
Summary
A new millimeter-sized optical voltage sensor using aluminum nitride (AlN) thin film offers a cost-effective solution for continuous power grid monitoring. This compact sensor overcomes the limitations of traditional instrument transformers in microgrids and distributed sensing.
Area of Science:
- Electrical Engineering
- Materials Science
- Optoelectronics
Background:
- Continuous voltage monitoring is crucial for power grid applications.
- Traditional instrument transformers are bulky, expensive, and unsuitable for microgrids.
- There is a need for compact, cost-effective voltage sensors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a millimeter-sized optical voltage sensor for AC voltage measurements.
- To overcome the limitations of conventional instrument transformers.
- To enable distributed sensing and control in power grids.
Main Methods:
- Utilized piezoelectric aluminum nitride (AlN) thin film.
- Designed a millimeter-sized optical sensor.
- Employed capacitive division for AC voltage measurements up to 350kVrms.
- Used a low-cost LED for optical power.
Main Results:
- Achieved a resolution of 170mVrms with 110μW optical power.
- Demonstrated low second harmonic distortion (0.04%) and gain deviation (+/-0.2% over ~20-60°C).
- Sensor has a breakdown voltage of 100V and comparable/superior lifetime to instrument transformers below 70kVrms.
Conclusions:
- The AlN-based optical voltage sensor offers a promising alternative to instrument transformers.
- The sensor's small size and low cost facilitate microgrid and distributed sensing.
- This technology can reduce grid monitoring costs and enable enhanced grid control.
