ACTIVE 4D® is a complete system that combines lightning protection with detection and monitoring. It operates in constant communication with the user.

The product integrates three functions into a single unit:

1. Lightning Protection

Its operating principle is the same as ACTIVE 2D® — it uses a dual device. The impulse device stores electrostatic energy from the atmosphere as a storm cloud approaches. The power device collects and stores solar energy in power capacitors.

This ensures that ACTIVE 4D® is continuously charged and can uninterruptedly support the propagation of the upward leader.

When a storm cloud approaches, the integrated sensor measures the electric field and triggers the impulse device. The innovation of this lightning arrester is a second sensor that measures the intensity of the electrical discharge current. When the downward leader enters the protection zone, the measured current rapidly increases; as soon as the current exceeds the 1 A threshold, the power capacitors discharge, releasing the energy required for the propagation of the upward leader.

In this configuration, the lightning arrester head acts as a capture element and is electrically isolated from the ground.

2. Integrated Lightning Counter

ACTIVE 4D® independently records lightning strikes. The counter integrated into the body stores each captured strike with a timestamp:

• Number of strikes
• Date and time of each strike
• Value, waveform, and energy of the lightning current

Data is transmitted via radio link to the Activ'Control® unit. The operator accesses this data and views the lightning current curves through the LMS (Lightning Monitoring System) software.

The counter complies with the regulation of July 19, 2011 and the NF EN 62561-6 standard.

3. Integrated Storm Detector

ACTIVE 4D® can predict storms. Detection is performed by an integrated sensor that precisely measures the electrostatic field value. The product also has a second sensor that measures the electromagnetic field.

When the recorded value indicates an imminent lightning risk, an audible alarm (siren) and/or visual alarm (flasher) is activated via the Activ'Control® dry contact unit.

The detection radius is approximately 30 kilometers. The alarm threshold is set via software installed on a computer.

The LMS software, continuously connected to Activ'Control®, allows visual monitoring of risk development.

Patented innovation: combining protection with prevention.

The system has been tested in an independent laboratory with COFRAC accreditation, in accordance with the NF C 17-102 (September 2011) standard.