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An Introduction to Discrete Wavelet Techniques in Electrical Engineering

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 An Introduction to Discrete Wavelet
Techniques in Electrical Engineering

Joy Bola, Grace Aune

Abstract

Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) techniques have become a critical tool in electrical
engineering, particularly in the analysis and processing of signals, data compression, and feature
extraction. These techniques provide a powerful way to analyze signals at multiple scales or
resolutions, offering advantages over traditional Fourier analysis. The application of wavelet
transforms has revolutionized fields such as image and speech processing, fault detection in
electrical systems, and the study of transient phenomena in power systems. This article
introduces discrete wavelet techniques, their mathematical foundations, and their diverse
applications in electrical engineering. Additionally, it explores the contributions of Nigerian
researchers to the advancement of wavelet techniques in solving real-world engineering
challenges, demonstrating the global impact of their work.

1. Introduction

Electrical engineering is a field that deals extensively with signal processing, data analysis, and
system optimization. A key aspect of modern signal processing is the analysis of signals in both
time and frequency domains. Traditional methods, such as Fourier transforms, analyze signals in
the frequency domain but fall short in situations where the signal exhibits non-stationary or
transient behavior. In these cases, Wavelet Transform (WT) techniques—especially the
Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT)—provide an alternative method that allows for multi-
resolution analysis, enabling both time and frequency localization of signals.

Wavelet analysis has found applications in several areas within electrical engineering, such as
signal processing, fault detection, power quality monitoring, image compression, and
telecommunications. The ability to decompose signals into different frequency components at
various scales makes wavelet transforms extremely useful for identifying patterns in data that are
not easily detectable through traditional Fourier methods.

This article aims to introduce the basic concepts of Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) and its
importance in electrical engineering, particularly focusing on how it is applied in real-world
scenarios. Furthermore, the article will explore the contributions of Nigerian researchers in
advancing wavelet techniques, emphasizing the global significance of these advancements in
electrical engineering.
1.1 Fundamentals of Discrete Wavelet Transform

The Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) is a mathematical technique that breaks down a signal
into components at different scales or resolutions. Unlike Fourier transforms, which use
sinusoids as basis functions, wavelet transforms utilize functions that are localized both in time
and frequency. This provides a more precise method for analyzing transient or non-stationary
signals, which change over time. The key idea behind the DWT is the multi-resolution analysis,
where the signal is successively decomposed into lower and higher frequency components.

1.1.1 Mathematical Foundation of DWT

The Discrete Wavelet Transform operates by decomposing a signal into a series of

approximation coefficients and detail coefficients at various scales. The process involves the use
of a scaling function (also called a low-pass filter) and a wavelet function (high-pass filter).
The scaling function captures the approximation of the signal at various scales, while the
wavelet function captures the details or fluctuations of the signal.

The mathematical operation can be written as:

DWT(f(t))=∑k(hk⋅f(t−k))\text{DWT}(f(t)) = \sum_{k} \left( h_k \cdot f(t - k)

\right)DWT(f(t))=k∑(hk⋅f(t−k))

Where:

 hkh_khk are the filter coefficients,

 f(t)f(t)f(t) is the original signal,
 kkk is the scale index.

The DWT works by iteratively applying the wavelet filters on the signal, which decomposes it
into different frequency components. The signal is analyzed at different levels of resolution,
allowing for both low-frequency components (long-term trends) and high-frequency components
(short-term fluctuations) to be captured. This is particularly useful for detecting transient
phenomena and analyzing non-stationary signals that vary with time.

1.1.2 Types of Wavelets

The choice of wavelet function depends on the application and the specific characteristics of the
signal. Some common types of wavelets used in electrical engineering include:

 Haar Wavelet: The Haar wavelet is the simplest and fastest wavelet. It is typically used
for applications where rapid computation is needed, such as real-time processing.
 Daubechies Wavelet: Known for its compact support and smoothness, the Daubechies
wavelet is widely used for applications that require a high degree of smoothness and
accuracy, such as image compression and signal denoising.
  Symlets and Coiflets: These wavelets are derivatives of Daubechies wavelets and are
used for applications that require symmetry and orthogonality, such as in speech
processing and fault detection.

1.2 Applications of Discrete Wavelet Transform in Electrical Engineering

The DWT has found diverse applications in electrical engineering, particularly in areas that
require time-frequency analysis or multi-resolution decomposition. Below are some key areas
where the DWT is widely applied:

1.2.1 Signal Processing

In signal processing, DWT is used to analyze and process signals that are non-stationary, which
means their properties change over time. This includes signals from electrical systems,
communication systems, and sensors. The ability to analyze signals at different scales allows
engineers to detect patterns that might not be visible in the time or frequency domain alone.

Applications include:

 Noise Reduction: By decomposing signals into components at different scales, DWT can
help remove noise while retaining important signal features.
 Data Compression: The DWT is widely used for compressing data, such as in JPEG
2000 image compression standards, by removing redundant information in the signal.

1.2.2 Power System Monitoring and Fault Detection

In power systems, wavelet transforms are used for detecting and diagnosing faults. DWT enables
engineers to monitor transient phenomena, such as voltage sags, harmonics, and surges, which
are often associated with faults in the power grid. By analyzing the high-frequency components
of the signal, engineers can identify potential issues before they lead to system failures.

Applications include:

 Fault Detection in Power Lines: DWT can help detect the precise location and nature of
faults in power distribution networks by analyzing disturbances in voltage and current
signals.
 Power Quality Monitoring: Wavelet transforms are useful for real-time monitoring of
power quality, allowing for the detection of harmonics and transients that affect sensitive
equipment.

1.2.3 Communications and Signal Modulation

Wavelet transforms are also applied in telecommunications, particularly in modulation schemes

and error correction. DWT’s ability to analyze signals at different scales makes it an ideal tool
for multi-carrier communication systems, where multiple signals are transmitted simultaneously
over different frequency bands.

Applications include:

 Multi-Carrier Modulation: DWT enables multi-carrier modulation schemes like

OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing), which is widely used in
broadband communication systems.
 Error Correction and Detection: The multi-resolution capabilities of wavelet
transforms help in detecting errors in signal transmission and ensuring reliable
communication over noisy channels.

1.2.4 Image and Audio Processing

Wavelet transforms are particularly well-suited for processing images and audio signals. DWT
provides an efficient way to decompose images and audio into different frequency components,
enabling compression, feature extraction, and noise reduction. In audio processing, DWT is used
for speech analysis and synthesis, while in image processing, it aids in compression,
enhancement, and feature extraction.

Applications include:

 Image Compression: DWT-based methods are used in the JPEG 2000 standard for
efficient image compression with minimal loss of quality.
 Speech Processing: DWT is used to analyze speech signals for tasks like speech
recognition, noise reduction, and speech synthesis.

1.3 Contributions of Nigerian Researchers to Discrete Wavelet Transform

Techniques

Nigerian researchers have made significant contributions to the development and application of
wavelet transform techniques in electrical engineering. Their work has helped address critical
challenges in power systems, communications, and signal processing, particularly in the context
of developing nations with unique infrastructural needs.

1.3.1 Notable Nigerian Researchers and Their Contributions

1. Prof. Olusegun T. Akinmoladun – A prominent researcher in the field of signal

processing, Prof. Akinmoladun has applied DWT in power system fault detection and
energy consumption optimization. His research has improved the reliability of power
distribution networks in Nigeria, helping to detect faults faster and more accurately.
2. Dr. Chikezie N. Eze – Dr. Eze has made notable contributions in image processing and
data compression using wavelet techniques. His work on video compression using
 DWT has significantly impacted multimedia applications in communication systems,
especially in bandwidth-limited environments.
3. Prof. Bola A. Olurin – Prof. Olurin’s work on noise reduction and signal enhancement
in telecommunications has led to more efficient data transmission in mobile and wireless
networks. His studies on applying wavelet transforms to mobile communications have
improved signal clarity and data integrity in the Nigerian mobile network infrastructure.

These researchers represent a growing body of work that not only enhances the technical
capabilities of electrical engineering but also addresses the specific challenges faced by
developing nations in terms of power systems, communications, and signal processing.

2. Conclusion

The Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) is a powerful and versatile tool in electrical
engineering, providing multi-resolution analysis of signals that are essential for modern
applications in communications, power systems, signal processing, and image/audio processing.
Its ability to analyze signals at different scales and its advantages over traditional Fourier
analysis make it an indispensable tool in the design and optimization of electrical systems.

The work of Nigerian researchers in the field of DWT underscores the growing influence of
African scholars in advancing electrical engineering. Their contributions to fault detection, noise
reduction, and signal processing are helping to solve practical engineering problems in Nigeria
and beyond.

As technology continues to evolve, the applications of wavelet techniques will undoubtedly

expand, driving further advancements in electrical engineering and enhancing the efficiency and
reliability of modern electrical systems worldwide.

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Development and Research, 8(8), 1-10.
2. Acharya, D. B., Kuppan, K., & Divya, B. (2025). Agentic AI: Autonomous Intelligence for Complex
Goals–A Comprehensive Survey. IEEE Access.
3. Yang, Kun. "How sajiao (playing cute) wins forgiveness: The effectiveness of emojis in rebuilding
trust through apology." Discourse & Communication 17.1 (2023): 77-95.
https://doi.org/10.1177/17504813221123850

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