Quantum sensing and computing for power cable detection
Problem
Detection of cables above ground and selection of the right cable in an open ditch is hard and time-consuming. Delays and the damaging of cables can be the result, additional to dangers being associated to cutting the wrong cable. Current devices cannot distinguish between medium-voltage and low-voltage cables, cannot detect current above ground, and always need an additional signal to do cable selection or detection.
Solution
Quantum sensors may help in tackling these challenges. They are extremely sensitive and can combine several measurement modalities such as DC/AC magnetic fields, vector magnetic fields, temperature and electric field.
Benefit
The project helped Alliander to gain a better understanding of the magnetic signatures of their cables, which is needed for better identification. Additionally, a field test is being planned to address on of the current shortcomings in cable selection/detection.
