US Patent 11435390 Ion-density detection system for an aerial device

A dielectric alert system and method for an aerial device including a boom having both insulative and conductive members is disclosed. Specifically, an ion-density detection system measures the potential for a dielectric breakdown in the environment of an insulative aerial system. The ion-density detection device can be a UV sensor or a UV camera. If data is received indicating the possibility of dielectric breakdown of the insulative portion, warnings are issued to an operator, crew, or any other interested party.