Robert A Maraio

Title: Innovations by Robert A Maraio

Introduction

Robert A Maraio is an accomplished inventor based in Camillus, NY (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of electrical power monitoring, holding two patents that showcase his innovative spirit and technical expertise.

Latest Patents

One of his latest patents is the "Secondary electrical power line parameter monitoring apparatus and system." This system is designed to unintrusively determine parameters such as current, voltage, and power delivered through a service line to a customer, thereby verifying the accuracy of the customer's entrance meter. The system includes a sensor apparatus for monitoring voltage and current on the power line. A voltage clamp mechanism is integrated within a sensor housing, allowing an insulation-piercing voltage sensor to be manually actuated to pierce the electrical insulation of the power line and contact the conductor. Additionally, the sensor apparatus features a split-core current transformer that minimizes the air gap between the split-core sections when closed around the power line. A pole unit is electrically connected to each sensor apparatus for monitoring voltage and current, calculating power consumed in kilowatt-hours, and storing this data with an appropriate date/time stamp for subsequent retrieval and comparison with the customer's entrance meter readings. Data retrieval is accomplished via a hand-held ground unit, such as a palm-top computer, which communicates via infrared signals with the pole-mounted unit.

Another notable patent is the "Method and detector for identifying insulator flashover." This method and detector monitor electrical strikes along a power transmission distribution system. It identifies the location within the transmission system where an insulator flashover event has occurred. The method involves sensing the magnetic field around the live transmission lines upstream and downstream from each transmission tower and providing signals representative of these magnetic fields. These signals are then compared, and a flashover event signal is generated whenever the signals differ about a tower. This event signal identifies the tower within the system where the insulator flashover occurred.

Career Highlights

Robert A Maraio is currently employed at Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation, where he applies his expertise in electrical engineering and innovation. His work has significantly impacted the efficiency and reliability of power distribution systems.

Collaborations

He has collaborated with notable coworkers, including Richard L Sieron and James W Crimmins, contributing to advancements in electrical monitoring technologies.

Conclusion

Robert A Maraio's innovative patents and contributions to the field of electrical power