Modeling branched wiring networks using inversion

A network algorithm is developed to analyze a branched wire network to determine the branch and fault topology of the network, using an array of hand-held (EM) electro-magnetic field sensors in conjunction with a SSTDR (Spread-Spectrum Time Domain Reflectometry) wire tester. The algorithm provides an analysis of the convolved reflectometry data collected at multiple data points along a test wire by the field sensors. The faults are located using a reconstruction of forward and backward traveling waveforms created from a mathematical inversion of a collection of convolved reflectometry data. The methods and algorithms developed to model the topology of the test wires are described. The topology refers to the locations of the major reflection points within a branched network, and the lengths and connections of the segments of wire that exist between reflectors. Simulations are developed to determine the effectiveness of the algorithm without the limitations of the test hardware. Tests are performed in a controlled lab environment to assess the abilities of the developed algorithms.