Control device for at least one power system component, mobile device and method of controlling operation of the control device

Abstract

A control device (20) for at least one power system component (11) includes at least one control circuit (30) configured to be coupled to a communication interface (21) and the at least one power system component (11). The at least one control circuit (30) is further configured to receive data from the communication interface (21), set the control device (20) to a local control mode based on the received data when a user of a mobile device is located at a first location (16) local to the control device (20), and set the control device (20) to a remote control mode in response to a request by the user of the mobile device from a second location remote with respect to the control device (20). A mobile device configured to interact with the control device (20) is also provided.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Embodiments of the invention relate to control devices for at least one power system component and devices, systems and methods associated with such control devices. Embodiments of the invention particularly relate to control devices for at least one power system component having different control modes, mobile devices configured to interact with such control devices, and methods of controlling the operation of such control devices. BACKGROUND

[0002] Power systems are important infrastructure components. Power systems, such as power generation systems, power transmission systems and / or power distribution systems, comprise power system components. Switchgear, such as switches or circuit breakers, are a typical representative of power system components in primary systems.

[0003] Modern systems employ control devices to operate power system components. Intelligent electronic devices (IEDs) are one embodiment of such control devices.

[0004] Control devices can have different control modes. Providing such different control modes is useful to safeguard engineers that can have to be dispatched to the location of the control device to perform work, such as maintenance work. The different control modes can prevent the control device from being remotely controlled when an engineer of the control device sets the control device in a local control mode.

[0005] Changing the control mode can be achieved through mechanisms that require physical interaction of an engineer with the control device. Using a physical key that can be engaged with the control device or entering a code by pressing user interface elements of the control device are examples of such techniques that require physical interaction of an engineer with the control device.

[0006] There are several drawbacks to mechanisms that require physical interaction of an engineer with the control device to change its control mode. In case of a malfunction of the control device or of the power system substation in which the control device is arranged, the requirement of physical interaction can put the engineer at risk. The requirement of physical interaction also makes it more cumbersome to restore the control device to a remote control mode in case the engineer inadvertently left it in a local control mode when leaving the site where the control device is located. SUMMARY

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus, a system and a method that address one or more of the above disadvantages. It is a further optional object of the present invention to provide a control device and a mobile device configured to interact with the control device that provides enhanced safety for engineers. It is a further optional object of the present invention to provide a control device and a mobile device configured to interact with the control device that facilitates setting the control device into a remote control mode even if the engineer is no longer on site.

[0008] A control device, a mobile device and a method are provided as recited in the independent claims. The dependent claims define preferred embodiments.

[0009] According to an embodiment, a control device for at least one power system component is provided. The control device comprises at least one control circuit configured to be coupled to a communication interface and the at least one power system component. The at least one control circuit is further configured to receive data from the communication interface; set the control device into a local control mode based on the received data if a user of a mobile device is located in a first location local to the control device; and set the control device into a remote control mode in response to a request by the user of the mobile device from a second location remote to the control device.

[0010] This control device provides a variety of effects. The at least one control circuit is configured to set the control device into a local control mode based on data received from a communication interface without necessarily requiring the user of the mobile device to physically interact with the control device. The at least one control circuit is configured to set the control device into a remote control mode even when the user of the mobile device is located in a second location remote to the control device. It is no longer required to be physically located at the control device to set the control device into a remote control mode as long as the request originates from the user of the mobile device.

[0011] The communication interface can comprise a wireless interface.

[0012] This enables the control device to interact with the user via the mobile device without requiring physical interaction with the control device.

[0013] The control device can be configured to receive data via a wireless interface.

[0014] This allows the user of the mobile device to trigger a change in control mode over a wireless connection without requiring physical interaction with the control device.

[0015] The at least one control circuit can be configured to authenticate the user of the mobile device based on the received data to set the control device into a local control mode.

[0016] Security is further enhanced by the authentication. Information about the identity of the user can be gathered during the authentication process and stored for later use, e.g. to ensure that the control device is set to the remote control mode by the same user that initiated the movement of the control device to the local control mode based on a request of the at least one control circuit.

[0017] The received data can comprise an authentication key. The at least one control circuit can be configured to authenticate the user of the mobile device based on the received data to set the control device to the local control mode.

[0018] Security is further enhanced by the authentication.

[0019] The at least one control circuit can be configured to perform a further authentication of the user based on user information stored on the control device and to set the control device to the remote control mode based on the further authentication.

[0020] Security is further enhanced by the further authentication. The control device can be configured to perform the further authentication to ensure that the control device is set to the remote control mode by the same user that initiated the movement of the control device to the local control mode via the at least one control circuit.

[0021] The control device can be configured to set the control device to the local control mode after a successful biometric authentication of the user. The at least one control circuit can be configured to determine based on the data that a biometric authentication of the user has been successfully performed. The control device can be configured to interface with the mobile device via the at least one communication interface for the biometric authentication. The biometric authentication can comprise facial recognition, fingerprint recognition and / or iris feature recognition.

[0022] Security is further enhanced thereby. Biometric authentication techniques can be employed to check whether the user of the mobile device is authenticated to trigger the change of the control mode and to determine the identity of the user of the mobile device.

[0023] The control device can be configured to generate and output a code comprising at least one of a parameter of the communication channel via which the data is received and a unique control device identifier.

[0024] Thereby, the control device can provide the mobile device with the information required to generate the data and / or the request.

[0025] The code can comprise both a parameter of the communication channel via which the data is received and a unique control device identifier.

[0026] Thereby, the control device can provide the mobile device with the information required to generate the data and the request.

[0027] The code can comprise a wireless security key and a control device identifier. The code can be configured to enable the mobile device and the control device to establish a communication channel via which the control device receives data. The communication channel can be a temporary point-to-point wireless connection between the mobile device and the control device.

[0028] Thereby, the control device can provide the mobile device with information required for generating data and requesting.

[0029] The code can comprise a visual code.

[0030] Thereby, the control device can provide the mobile device with information required for generating data and / or requesting, while ensuring that the mobile device has to be within visual distance.

[0031] The code can comprise a graphical code. The graphical code can comprise a two-dimensional graphical code and / or a barcode. The graphical code can comprise a two-dimensional barcode.

[0032] Thereby, the control device can provide the mobile device with information required for generating data and / or requesting, while ensuring that the mobile device has to be within visual distance.

[0033] The control device can comprise an output interface configured to output the code. The output interface can comprise a display. The at least one control circuit can be configured to control the output interface to output the code.

[0034] Thereby, the control device can provide the mobile device with information required for generating data and / or requesting, while ensuring that the mobile device has to be within visual distance.

[0035] The control device can be configured to store information comprised in the code in the non-volatile control device storage in association with a user identifier and / or remotely in a monitoring system. The stored information can comprise an authentication key comprised in the data and the code generated by the control device to enable the control device and the mobile device to establish a communication channel.

[0036] Thereby, the control device can ensure that the request to set the control device into remote control mode originates from a mobile device user using the mobile device in a situation where the control device is set into local control mode.

[0037] The at least one control circuit can be configured to set the control device into remote control mode in response to the request satisfying a time condition.

[0038] Providing such a time condition (which is checked by the at least one control circuit before setting the control device into remote control mode) can further enhance security. The risk of unintentionally changing the control mode is reduced.

[0039] The at least one control circuit can be configured to set the control device to the remote control mode in response to a request when the request is received within a certain time period after the control device is set to the local control mode. The at least one control circuit can be configured to monitor the time elapsed since the control device is set to the local control mode and determine whether a request is received before a timeout value is reached for said time.

[0040] Providing such a time-based criterion (which is checked by the at least one control circuit before setting the control device to the remote control mode) can further enhance security. The risk of unintentionally changing the control mode is reduced.

[0041] The at least one control circuit can be configured to adjust the timeout value.

[0042] Thus, the control device can be adapted to different deployment scenarios and use cases.

[0043] The at least one control circuit can be configured such that the timeout value can be adjusted during configuration and / or commissioning of the control device. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one control circuit can be configured to adjust the timeout value in response to a command.

[0044] Thereby, the configuration of the control device can be properly adapted to the deployment scenario of the control device, e.g. depending on the configuration of the power system substation in which the control device is deployed.

[0045] The at least one control circuit can be further configured to set the control device to the remote control mode based on a further request from the user of the mobile device in case the user of the mobile device is located at a first location locally to the control device.

[0046] This allows setting the control device to the remote control mode by a request which can be received in case the user of the mobile device is located at a second location remotely with respect to the control device, or by a further request which can be received in case the user of the mobile device is located at the first location locally to the control device. By providing various options to set the control device to the remote control mode, the versatility is enhanced.

[0047] The control device can be configured to receive data via a wireless communication channel.

[0048] Thereby, the interaction of the user of the mobile device with the control device is facilitated. The need for the user to physically interact with the control device is reduced.

[0049] The control device can be configured to receive data via a wireless point-to-point communication channel.

[0050] Thereby, the interaction of the user of the mobile device with the control device is facilitated. The need for the user to physically interact with the control device is reduced.

[0051] The control device can be configured to receive the request at the at least one communication interface via a monitoring system, such as a supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system and / or a fleet management (FLM) system.

[0052] Thereby, further enhanced security is provided. The control device can receive the request via a communication interface of the at least one communication interface, the control device receiving commands from the monitoring system, such as a SCADA and / or FLM system, at the communication interface.

[0053] The communication interface can comprise a first communication interface and a second communication interface. The control device can be configured to receive data at the first communication interface and to receive the request at the second communication interface.

[0054] Thereby, different interface implementations can be provided to set the control device into the local control mode and the remote control mode.

[0055] The first communication interface can comprise or can be a first wireless interface. The first wireless communication can be configured to receive data via a wireless point-to-point link.

[0056] Thereby, further enhanced security is provided. Parameters of the wireless point-to-point link can be provided locally by the control device to determine that the user of the mobile device is located in the first location locally to the control device when setting the control device into the local control mode.

[0057] The second communication interface can comprise or can be a second wired or wireless interface. The second communication interface can be configured to communicate according to IEC 61850. The second communication interface can be compatible with IEC 61850-7 and / or IEC TR 61850-90.

[0058] Thereby, setting the control device into the remote control mode can be initiated via a communication technology providing the required reliability and responsiveness of the power system.

[0059] The at least one control circuit can be configured to operate the at least one power system component.

[0060] Thereby, the control device can be configured to perform control functions in the power system, e.g. in a substation automation (SA) system or other industrial automation and control system (IACS).

[0061] The at least one control circuit can be configured such that, in case the control device is in the local control mode, the at least one control circuit is configured to locally operate the at least one power system component, e.g. in response to an input performed at the control device or an input received from the mobile device at the at least one communication interface when the user of the mobile device is located in the first location.

[0062] Thereby, at least one power system component can be operated by an engineer at the site of the installation where the control device is provided. This ensures that the engineer can visually control what happens in the primary system and further enhances safety.

[0063] The at least one control circuit can be configured such that, when the control device is in the local control mode, the at least one control circuit is configured such that it reduces or eliminates the possibility that the at least one power system component is operated remotely (e.g. in response to a command received via the monitoring system).

[0064] Thereby, safety is further enhanced.

[0065] The at least one control circuit can be configured such that, in case the control device is in the remote control mode, the at least one control circuit is configured to operate the at least one power system component remotely (e.g. in response to a command received from the monitoring system).

[0066] Thereby, the at least one power system component can be operated via the monitoring system when in the remote control mode.

[0067] The at least one control circuit can be configured such that, when the control device is in the remote control mode, the at least one control circuit is configured such that it reduces or eliminates the possibility that the at least one power system component is operated locally (e.g. by a command received from the mobile device via the wireless point-to-point connection).

[0068] Thereby, the at least one power system component can be operated via the monitoring system when in the remote control mode.

[0069] The at least one control circuit can be configured to trip the switching device.

[0070] Thereby, the control device can be implemented as a control device for a switching device such as a circuit breaker (CB), a switch or other switching device of a power system’s generation system, distribution system and / or transmission system.

[0071] The at least one control circuit can be configured to generate an operation signal or operation command for operating the at least one power system component.

[0072] Thereby, the control device can be implemented as a component of a SA system or other IACS.

[0073] The operation signal or operation command can comprise a trip signal or trip command.

[0074] Thereby, the control device can be implemented as a control device for a switching device such as a CB, a switch or other switching device of a power system’s generation system, distribution system and / or transmission system.

[0075] The at least one control circuit can be configured to output an operation signal or an operation command to the at least one power system component.

[0076] Thereby, the control device can be implemented as a device separate from but coupled to the power system component.

[0077] The control device can be or can comprise an intelligent electronic device (IED). The IED can be configured to operate in accordance with IEC 61850.

[0078] According to another embodiment, a mobile device is provided, configured to interact with a control device for at least one power system component. The mobile device comprises: a mobile device communication interface; and at least one mobile device circuit configured to send data to the control device via the mobile device communication interface if a user of the mobile device is located in a first location local to the control device, to cause the control device to be set to a local control mode, and to enable the user of the mobile device to set the control device to a remote control mode from a second location remote with respect to the control device.

[0079] Such a mobile device is configured to enable a user to interface with the control device without the user having to physically interact with the control device. Thereby, safety is enhanced. The mobile device further enables the user of the mobile device to set the control device to the remote control mode from the second location remote with respect to the control device, thereby providing greater versatility for setting the control device back to the remote control mode. To illustrate, the user of the mobile device does not have to be physically present at the control device to set the control device to the remote control mode.

[0080] The at least one mobile device circuit can be configured to provide user authentication data to the control device.

[0081] Thereby, the mobile device is configured to interface a user of the mobile device with the control device.

[0082] The at least one mobile device circuit can be configured to provide the user authentication data based on a biometric authentication of the user by the mobile device.

[0083] Thereby, the mobile device can be configured as an authentication device to interface with the control device. Safety is enhanced by using biometric authentication.

[0084] The biometric authentication can comprise facial recognition, fingerprint recognition, and / or iris feature recognition. The mobile device can comprise a photoelectric sensor, such as a camera sensor, to capture an image of the user, and the at least one mobile device circuit can be configured to process the image of the user to perform the biometric authentication.

[0085] The security is enhanced by determining the identity of the user using facial recognition, fingerprint recognition and / or iris feature recognition.

[0086] The authentication data can comprise an authentication key required by the control device to authenticate a user of the mobile device.

[0087] Thereby, the mobile device can be configured to unlock the function of changing the control mode in the control device while ensuring authentication without the need for the user to physically interact with the control device.

[0088] The mobile device can comprise a non-volatile storage. The at least one mobile device circuitry can be configured to identify and retrieve authentication data stored in the non-volatile storage based on the biometric authentication to provide the authentication data to the control device.

[0089] The mobile device interface can comprise a mobile device wireless interface configured to provide the data.

[0090] Thereby, the data can be provided via a wireless communication channel, further reducing the need for physical interaction with the control device.

[0091] The mobile device can further comprise a sensor configured to capture a code output by the control device, the at least one mobile device circuitry being further configured to send the data to the control device based on the code.

[0092] Thereby, the mobile device can capture the information required to generate the data and / or the request.

[0093] The code can comprise both a parameter of the communication channel via which the data is sent and a unique control device identifier.

[0094] Thereby, the mobile device can capture the information required to generate the data and the request.

[0095] The code can comprise a wireless security key and a control device identifier. The code can be configured to enable the mobile device and the control device to establish a communication channel via which the control device receives the data. The communication channel can be a temporary point-to-point wireless connection between the mobile device and the control device.

[0096] Thereby, the mobile device can capture the information required to generate the data and the request.

[0097] The code can comprise a visual code.

[0098] Thereby, the mobile device can capture the information required to generate the data and / or the request to the mobile device while ensuring the mobile device.

[0099] The code may include a graphic code. The graphic code may include a two-dimensional graphic code and / or a barcode. The graphic code may include a two-dimensional barcode.

[0100] Thus, mobile devices can capture the information needed to generate data and / or request data from mobile devices, while ensuring the mobile device's security.

[0101] The sensor configured to capture a code may include a photoelectric sensor. The photoelectric sensor may also be configured to capture an image of the user to perform biometric authentication. At least two photoelectric sensors may be provided and configured to capture a code and an image of the user.

[0102] Therefore, one or more photoelectric sensors (such as one or more cameras) can be used to efficiently capture the information needed to send data and generate requests.

[0103] Mobile devices can be configured to store information included in the code in association with the user's identifier (such as authentication data) in a non-volatile mobile device storage device. The stored information may include authentication keys included in the data and codes captured by the mobile device.

[0104] Therefore, the mobile device can store information identifying the control device and the user to generate a request. The mobile device can retrieve this stored information to use as a token, indicating that the request to set the control device to remote control mode originated from a mobile device user who was using the mobile device when the control device was set to local control mode.

[0105] Mobile devices can be configured to receive user identifiers (such as authentication data) via a mobile device communication interface.

[0106] Therefore, if the control device confirms that the user has been authenticated by the control device, the mobile device can selectively store information that identifies the control device and the user.

[0107] Mobile devices may include mobile device output interfaces configured to output information identifying control devices and users. Mobile device output interfaces may include mobile device wireless interfaces and / or mobile device displays.

[0108] Therefore, when the control device is set to remote control mode, the mobile device can output information as a token to verify the identity of both the user and the control device. The token relies on both the user and the control device, thus allowing the same user who set the control device to local control mode from a first location to set it back to remote control mode from a second location, thereby enhancing security.

[0109] Mobile devices can be configured to send data via wireless peer-to-peer communication channels.

[0110] Thereby, the user of the mobile device is facilitated to interact with the control device. The need for the user to physically interact with the control device is reduced.

[0111] According to another embodiment, a monitoring system device for a power system is provided. The monitoring system device comprises or is configured to be coupled to a capturing device configured to capture information output by a mobile device, wherein the information comprises a control device identifier and a user identifier. The monitoring system device comprises at least one monitoring system device circuitry configured to generate, based on the captured information, a request causing a control device identified by the control device identifier to be set in a remote control mode.

[0112] Thereby, the control device can be remotely set in the remote control mode via the monitoring system.

[0113] The monitoring system device can comprise a supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system and / or a fleet management (FLM) system device.

[0114] The capturing device can comprise an optoelectronic sensor, such as a camera, configured to capture information from a mobile device display.

[0115] Thereby, it can be ensured that the user and his mobile device are located within a visual distance of the monitoring system device to generate the request.

[0116] The monitoring system device can be configured to receive reference information from the control device dependent on the control device identifier and the user identifier. The monitoring system device can be configured to generate the request based on a comparison of the reference information and the captured information.

[0117] Thereby, it can be ensured that a user setting the control device in the local control mode remotely sets the control device in the remote control mode.

[0118] The monitoring system device can be configured to determine the control device based on the captured information. The monitoring system device can be configured to provide the user identifier to the control device based on the information.

[0119] Thereby, it can be ensured that a user setting the control device in the local control mode remotely sets the control device in the remote control mode.

[0120] The system according to an embodiment comprises a control device according to an embodiment and a mobile device according to an embodiment and / or at least one power system component.

[0121] The system can be an electric power system. The at least one electric power system component can be or can comprise a primary electric power system component. The at least one electric power system component can be or can comprise a switching device such as a circuit breaker (CB), a switch, a disconnector or other component configured to open and close an electric power connection.

[0122] The electric power system can be or can comprise a medium voltage or high voltage electric power system, but is not limited thereto. The electric power system can be or can comprise a renewable electric power system or a distributed energy resource (DER) system, but is not limited thereto.

[0123] The system can comprise a supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system and / or a fleet management (FLM) system comprising a supervisory system device according to embodiments.

[0124] A method of controlling operation of a control device for an electric power system component. The method comprises receiving, by the control device, data from a mobile device; setting the control device to a local control mode based on the received data if a user of the mobile device is located in a first location local to the control device; and setting the control device to a remote control mode in response to an action by the user of the mobile device from a second location remote relative to the control device.

[0125] This control method provides a number of effects. The control device is set to a local control mode based on data received from a communication interface without necessarily requiring physical interaction by the user of the mobile device with the control device. The control device can be set to a remote control mode even when the user of the mobile device is located in a second location remote relative to the control device. There is no longer a requirement to be physically located at the control device to set the control device to a remote control mode, as long as the request originates from the user of the mobile device.

[0126] The method can be performed by a control device according to embodiments.

[0127] Optional features of the method of controlling operation of a control device and effects achieved thereby correspond to features described in more detail with reference to the control device.

[0128] According to another embodiment, there is provided a method of altering a control mode of a control device for at least one electric power system component by a mobile device configured to interact with the control device. The method comprises sending, via a mobile device communication interface, data to the control device to cause the control device to be set to a local control mode if a user of the mobile device is located in a first location local to the control device. The method comprises enabling the user of the mobile device to set the control device to a remote control mode from a second location remote relative to the control device.

[0129] This method enables a user to interface with the control device without the need for the user to physically interact with the control device. This enhances security. The method also enables a user of the mobile device to set the control device in remote control mode from a second location remote with respect to the control device, thereby providing greater versatility for returning the control device to remote control mode. To illustrate, a user of the mobile device need not be physically present at the control device to set the control device in remote control mode.

[0130] The method can be performed by a mobile device according to an embodiment.

[0131] Optional features of the method of changing control mode of a control device, and effects achieved thereby, correspond to features described in more detail with reference to the mobile device.

[0132] According to another embodiment, there is provided a method of changing control mode of a control device by a monitoring system device of a power system. The method comprises capturing information output by a mobile device, wherein the information comprises a control device identifier and a user identifier. The method comprises generating a request based on the captured information for setting a control device identified by the control device identifier in remote control mode.

[0133] An effect of the method is that a control device can be set in remote control mode remotely via a monitoring system.

[0134] The method can be performed by a monitoring system device according to an embodiment.

[0135] Optional features of the method of changing control mode of a control device, and effects achieved thereby, correspond to features described in more detail with reference to the monitoring system device and / or the monitoring system.

[0136] According to a further embodiment, there is provided machine readable instruction code which, if executed by at least one programmable circuit, causes the programmable circuit to perform a method according to an embodiment.

[0137] According to a further embodiment, there is provided a non-transitory storage medium having stored thereon machine readable instruction code which, if executed by at least one programmable circuit, causes the programmable circuit to perform a method according to an embodiment.

[0138] A list of embodiments is provided below:

[0139] Example 1 : A control device for at least one power system component, the control device comprising: at least one control circuit configured to be coupled to a communication interface and the at least one power system component, the at least one control circuit further configured to: receive data from the communication interface; set the control device to a local control mode based on the received data if a user of a mobile device is located in a first location local to the control device; and set the control device to a remote control mode in response to a request by the user of the mobile device from a second location that is remote relative to the control device.

[0140] Example 2: The control device of Example 1, wherein the communication interface comprises a wireless interface.

[0141] Example 3: The control device of Example 1 or Example 2, wherein the at least one control circuit is configured to authenticate the user of the mobile device based on the received data to set the control device to the local control mode.

[0142] Example 4: The control device of Example 3, wherein the at least one control circuit is configured to perform another authentication of the user based on user information gathered by the control device and to set the control device to the remote control mode based on the other authentication.

[0143] Example 5: The control device of any of the preceding Examples, wherein the control device is configured to generate and output a code comprising at least one of: a parameter of a communication channel via which the data is received; and a unique control device identifier.

[0144] Example 6: The control device of Example 5, wherein the code comprises a graphical code, optionally wherein the graphical code comprises a two-dimensional graphical code, and / or optionally wherein the graphical code comprises a bar code.

[0145] Example 7: The control device of any of the preceding Examples, wherein the control device is configured to receive the request at the at least one communication interface via a SCADA system.

[0146] Example 8: The control device of any of the preceding Examples, wherein the at least one control circuit is configured to operate the at least one power system component, optionally wherein the at least one control circuit is configured to generate an operation signal or command and output the operation signal or command to the at least one power system component, further optionally wherein the operation signal or command comprises a trip signal or command.

[0147] Example 9: A mobile device configured to interact with a control device for at least one power system component, the mobile device comprising: a mobile device communication interface; and at least one mobile device circuit configured to: send data to the control device via the mobile device communication interface to cause the control device to be set to a local control mode if a user of the mobile device is in a first location local to the control device; and enable the user of the mobile device to set the control device to a remote control mode from a second location remote relative to the control device.

[0148] Example 10: The mobile device of Example 9, wherein the at least one mobile device circuit is configured to provide user authentication data to the control device.

[0149] Example 11: The mobile device of Example 10, wherein the at least one mobile device circuit is configured to provide the user authentication data based on biometric authentication of the user by the mobile device.

[0150] Example 12: The mobile device of any of Examples 9-11, further comprising a sensor configured to capture a code output by the control device, the at least one mobile device circuit further configured to send the data to the control device based on the code.

[0151] Example 13: A power system comprising: the control device of any of Examples 1-8; and the mobile device of any of Examples 9-12.

[0152] Example 14: A method of controlling operation of a control device for a power system component, the method comprising: receiving, by the control device, data from a mobile device; based on the received data, setting the control device to a local control mode if a user of the mobile device is in a first location local to the control device; and in response to an action by the user of the mobile device from a second location remote relative to the control device, setting the control device to a remote control mode.

[0153] Example 15: The method of Example 14, performed by the control device of any of Examples 1-8.

[0154] Embodiments of the invention achieve various effects and advantages. To illustrate, the apparatuses, systems, and methods according to embodiments allow a control device to be set to a local control mode without necessarily requiring a user (e.g., a maintenance engineer) to physically touch the control device. Safety is thereby enhanced. The apparatuses, systems, and methods according to embodiments also provide a mechanism to set a control device to a remote control mode from a location remote from the control device. The need for a user (e.g., a maintenance engineer) to be physically located at the control device is thereby reduced, further enhancing efficiency and safety. The apparatuses, systems, and methods according to embodiments can also allow a control device to be set to a remote control mode from a first location, thereby providing enhanced versatility in the manner in which a mobile device user can interact with a control device.

[0155] The apparatuses, systems, and methods can be used to change the control mode of a control device of an IACS, such as a SA system, but are not limited thereto. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0156] Embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like or similar elements are referred to with like or similar reference numerals, and in which the configuration and / or function of like or similar elements is not necessarily repeated in detail for each of the embodiments.

[0157] Figure 1 is a block diagram of a control device for at least one power system component.

[0158] Figure 2 is a block diagram of a control device for at least one power system component.

[0159] Figure 3 is a block diagram of a control device for at least one power system component.

[0160] Figure 4 is a block diagram of a control device for at least one power system component.

[0161] Figure 5 is a flowchart of a method performed by a control device.

[0162] Figure 6 is a flowchart of a method performed by a control device.

[0163] Figure 7 is a flowchart of a method performed by a control device.

[0164] Figure 8 is a block diagram of a mobile device.

[0165] Figure 9 is a block diagram of a mobile device.

[0166] Figure 10 is a block diagram of a mobile device.

[0167] Figure 11 is a flowchart of a method performed by a mobile device.

[0168] Figure 12 is a flowchart of a method performed by a mobile device.

[0169] Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a system.

[0170] Figure 14 is a system view when the user is located in a first location local to the control device.

[0171] Figure 15 is a system view when the user is located in a second location remote with respect to the control device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0172] Embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, like or similar elements are referred to with like or similar reference numerals.

[0173] Although embodiments will be described in connection with a control device configured to control a switching device, embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0174] Features of embodiments can be combined with each other unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0175] Figure 1 A control device 20 for at least one power system component is shown. The control device 20 comprises at least one control circuit 30. The at least one control circuit 30 is configured to be coupled to a communication interface 21. The at least one control circuit 30 is configured to be coupled to the at least one power system component.

[0176] The control device 20 has different control modes. The different control modes can comprise a local control mode and a remote control mode.

[0177] The at least one control circuit 30 is configured to perform a transition between the different control modes of the control device 20. The at least one control circuit 30 is configured to receive data from the communication interface 21 and to set the control device 20 in the local control mode based on the received data if a user of a mobile device is located in a first location local to the control device 20.

[0178] The at least one control circuit 30 is further configured to set the control device in the remote control mode in response to a request of the user of the mobile device from a second location remote with respect to the control device 20.

[0179] The at least one control circuit 30 can also be configured to set the control device 20 to the remote control mode in response to a request by a user of the mobile device from a first location local to the control device 20. Thus, the at least one control circuit 30 can be configured to set the control device 20 to the remote control mode in response to a request from a user of the mobile device, which can be generated at a first location local to the control device or at a second location remote to the control device.

[0180] The at least one control circuit 30 can include any one or any combination of an integrated circuit, an integrated semiconductor circuit, a processor, a controller, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a circuit(s) including a qubit and / or a quantum gate, but is not limited thereto.

[0181] The at least one control circuit 30 can include a control mode transition circuit 31 configured to control a transition between control modes of the control device 20. The change in control mode can be performed based on determining that a user of the mobile device interacting with the control device 20 is authenticated to trigger the change in control mode. In the case where a request to set the control device 20 to the remote control mode is received from the second location remote to the control device 20, the at least one control circuit 30 can perform additional authentication operations. These additional authentication operations can be performed to ensure that the user setting the control device 20 to the local control mode from the first location local to the control device 20 also sets the control device 20 to the remote control mode from the second location remote to the control device 20.

[0182] Depending on the control mode of the control device 20, the control device 20 can be configured to perform different actions to operate the at least one power system component. To illustrate, and as will be explained in greater detail below, depending on whether the control device 20 is in the local control mode or the remote control mode, the control device 20 can be configured to react differently to an incoming signal, data, command, or request.

[0183] Figure 2 The control device 20 is shown. Reference is made to Figure 1 Features and components described are denoted by the same reference numerals as Figure 1 in the above detailed description.

[0184] The control device 20 also includes a power system component interface 22 configured to communicatively couple to the at least one power system component.

[0185] The control device 20 can further be configured to generate and output an operation signal or operation command to operate at least one power system component. The operation signal or operation command can cause a switching device of the at least one power system component to trip. To illustrate, the control device 20 can cause a circuit breaker (CB), switch or other switching device to trip.

[0186] The at least one control circuit 30 can comprise an operation signal generation circuit 35 configured to generate an operation signal or operation command for output via the power system component interface 22.

[0187] The at least one control circuit 30 can be configured such that, in case the control device 20 is in the local control mode, the operation signal generation circuit 35 operates the at least one power system component in response to a signal or command from a first location in the vicinity of the control device 20. The first location can comprise or be a substation in which the control device 20 is installed.

[0188] The at least one control circuit 30 can be configured such that, when the control device 20 is in the remote control mode, the operation signal generation circuit 35 operates the at least one power system component in response to a signal or command from a second location that is remote with respect to the control device. The second location can be arranged outside the substation in which the control device 20 is installed. To illustrate, the second location can be at a control center, or another location in which a monitoring system of the power system allows a user to interface with the monitoring system.

[0189] Figure 3 The control device 20 is shown. Reference is made to Figure 1 and Figure 2 Features and components described are denoted with the same reference signs as in Figure 1 and Figure 2 .

[0190] The control device 20 can further comprise an authentication circuit 32. The authentication circuit 32 can be configured to determine, based on data received at the at least one communication interface 21, whether data or a request received at the at least one communication interface 21 originates from a user that is authorized to trigger a control mode change.

[0191] The authentication circuit 32 can be configured to process data received at the at least one communication interface 21 from the mobile device to retrieve authentication keys or other authentication data therefrom. The authentication circuit 32 can be configured to compare the received authentication data with authentication data stored in a non-volatile manner in the storage means 24 of the control device 20. If the authentication circuit 32 determines that the user of the mobile device is authorized to set the control device 20 in the local control mode, the control device 20 can be configured so that the at least one control circuit 30 sets the control device 20 in the local control mode based on said data. The authentication circuit 32 can also be configured to process a request that can be received from the monitoring system to determine whether said request originates from the user of the mobile device, whether it is to result in the control device 20 being set in the local control mode.

[0192] The authentication circuit 32 can be configured to store the authentication data in the non-volatile control device storage means 24 for later use when the identity of the user needs to be determined. To illustrate, the authentication circuit 32 can store the authentication data received from the mobile device in the storage means 24. In the case where the user is located in a second location remote from the control device 20, the authentication circuit 32 can retrieve the stored authentication data when processing a received request.

[0193] The control device 20 can also be configured so that it limits the possibility of setting the control device 20 in the remote control mode from a second location remote with respect to the control device 20. The control device 20 can use various criteria such as, but not limited to, time-based criteria for limiting the possibility of setting the control device 20 in the remote control mode from the second location. The control device 20 can comprise a time condition verification circuit 33 configured to check whether a request is received within a given time interval following the setting of the control device 20 in the local control mode. The time condition verification circuit 33 can comprise a timer that is started in the case where the control device 20 is set in the local control mode based on received data. When a request is received, the time condition verification circuit 33 can be configured to compare the time elapsed since the control device was set in the local control mode with the given time interval. If the request is received within the given time interval, the control circuit 30 is configured to set the control device 20 in the remote control mode based on said request.

[0194] The control device 20 can be configured so that the duration of the given time interval is adjustable. The duration of the given time interval can be set when the control device 20 is configured or commissioned. The duration of the given time interval can be adjusted by an operator of the power system during the field use of the control device 20.

[0195] Figure 4 The control device 20 is shown. Reference is made to Figures 1 to 3The described features and components are designated with the same reference numerals in Figures 1 to 3 the middle.

[0196] The control device 20 can further comprise a code generation circuit 34. The code generation circuit 34 can be configured to generate and output a code comprising at least one parameter of a communication channel for receiving data from the mobile device. The code can comprise both the parameter of the communication channel via which the data is received and a unique control device identifier. The code can comprise a wireless security key and an identifier of the control device 20. The code can be configured to enable the mobile device and the control device to establish a communication channel via which the control device 20 receives data. The control device 20 can be configured such that the code defines the parameter of the communication channel via which the communication channel is a temporary point-to-point wireless connection between the mobile device and the control device 20. Thereby, the control device 20 can provide the mobile device with the information required to generate the data and request.

[0197] The code can comprise a visual code. The control device 20 can further comprise an optical output interface 25 configured to output the code. Thereby, the control device 20 can provide the mobile device with the information required to generate the data and / or request while ensuring that the mobile device has to be located in a first location (e.g. within visual distance of the control device 20). The optical output interface 25 can be a control device display arranged within a housing of the control device 20 to expose a display area for reading the code.

[0198] The code generation circuit 34 and the optical output interface 25 can be configured such that the code comprises a graphical code. The graphical code can comprise a two- dimensional graphical code and / or a barcode. The graphical code can comprise a two- dimensional barcode.

[0199] The at least one communication interface of the control device 20 can comprise more than one communication interface. For illustration, the control device 20 can have a first communication interface 21 and a second communication interface 24. The first communication interface 21 can be configured to receive data from the mobile device via a wireless communication channel. The wireless communication channel can be a communication channel of a wireless point-to-point connection. The control device 20 can be configured to send an acknowledgement data to the mobile device via the first communication interface 24 in case the mobile device is located in a first location locally to the control device 20.

[0200] The second communication interface 24 can, but need not, be configured to receive data directly from the mobile device. The second communication interface 24 can be configured to interface the control device 20 communicatively with a monitoring system such as a supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system and / or a fleet management (FLM) system. The second communication interface 24 can be a wired interface.

[0201] The control device 20 can be configured to receive data from the mobile device via the first communication interface 21. If the request is generated remotely from the control device 20, the control device 20 can be configured to receive the request to set the control device 20 to the remote control mode via the second communication interface 24. If the request is generated locally from the control device 20, the control device 20 can also be configured to receive the request to set the control device 20 to the remote control mode via the first communication interface 21.

[0202] Figure 5 is a flowchart of a method 40 of operating a control device for at least one power system component. The method 40 can be performed automatically by the control device 20.

[0203] In process block 41, at least one control circuit of the control device receives data from a communication interface. The data can be received at the communication interface via a wireless communication channel, such as a wireless point-to-point connection.

[0204] In process block 42, the at least one control circuit sets the control device to a local control mode based on the received data. Setting the control device to the local control mode can include authenticating a user of the mobile device based on the received data. Information about the identity of the user, such as authentication data or a unique user identifier for the user, can be stored in the control device for later use.

[0205] In process block 43, the control device receives a request to set the control device to a remote control mode. The request can, but need not, be received via the wireless interface. The request can come from a SCADA or FLM system.

[0206] In process block 44, the at least one control circuit sets the control device to the remote control mode based on the received request. Setting the control device to the remote control mode can include verifying that the request originated from the user of the mobile device that caused the data received in process block 41 to be sent to the control device.

[0207] While the request in process block 43 can originate from a second location that is remote with respect to the control device, the control device can be configured to also set the control device to the remote control mode using a request that originates from a first location that is local to the control device, e.g., within a substation in which the control device is installed.

[0208] Figure 6 is a flowchart of a method 50 of operating a control device for at least one power system component. The method 50 can be performed automatically by the control device 20. The method 50 can be performed to set the control device to a local control mode. The method 50 can be performed to implement process block 42 of the method 40.

[0209] In process block 51, the control device generates and outputs a code. The code can include both parameters of a communication channel via which data is received and a unique control device identifier. The code can include a wireless security key and a control device identifier. The code can be configured to enable the mobile device and the control device to establish a communication channel via which the control device receives data. The control device can be configured such that the code defines parameters for a communication channel that is a temporary point-to-point wireless connection between the mobile device and the control device. Thereby, the control device can provide the mobile device with information needed to generate data and make requests.

[0210] The code can include a visual code. Outputting the code can include outputting the visual code via a display of the control device. The visual code can include a graphical code. The graphical code can include a two-dimensional graphical code and / or a barcode. The graphical code can include a two-dimensional barcode.

[0211] In process block 52, the control device obtains information about the identity of a user of the mobile device located at a first location local to the control device. Obtaining information about the identity of the user can include retrieving authentication data based on data received at an interface of the control device. The data received at the interface can be data transmitted by the mobile device in accordance with communication parameters specified in the code generated and output in process block 51.

[0212] In process block 53, it is determined whether the user is authenticated to change the control mode of the control device. Determining whether the user is authenticated to change the control mode can include determining, based on the received data, whether authentication data included in the received data matches authentication data initiated locally to the control device.

[0213] In process block 54, if the user is authenticated to change the control mode, the information about the identity of the user is stored in the control device for subsequent use. The control mode is set to the local control mode.

[0214] In process block 55, if it is determined that the user is not authorized to change the control mode, the control mode can be maintained as the remote control mode.

[0215] Thereby, the control device can provide the mobile device with information needed to generate data and / or make requests while ensuring that the mobile device must be within a visual distance.

[0216] The control device can be configured to store information included in the code in non-volatile control device storage in association with a user identifier and / or remotely in a monitoring system. The stored information can include authentication keys included in the data and the code generated by the control device to enable the control device and the mobile device to establish a communication channel.

[0217] Therefore, the control device can ensure that requests to set the control device to remote control mode originate from mobile device users who are using mobile devices when the control device is set to local control mode.

[0218] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of a method 60 for operating a control device for at least one component of a power system. Method 60 can be executed automatically by the control device 20. Method 60 can be executed to set the control device to a remote control mode. Method 60 may include performing another user authentication before setting the control device to the remote control mode. Method 60 can be executed to implement process block 44 of method 40.

[0219] In process block 61, the control device determines the user's identity based on a received request. The request may be a request to set the control device to remote control mode. The request may be received from a second location remotely relative to the control device. The request may be received from a monitoring system device remotely located (e.g., located outside the substation where the control device is located). Authentication data may be retrieved from the request. Authentication data may be uniquely assigned to a user.

[0220] In process block 62, the control device determines whether the determined user identity matches a previously stored user identity. The previously stored user identity may include data uniquely identifying the mobile device user who triggered the setting of the control device to local control mode. The previously stored user identity may be stored locally on the control device or in a location remote from the control device, such as in a monitoring system.

[0221] In process block 63, if the determined user identity matches the stored user identity, the control device may optionally determine whether a time-based criterion is met. The time-based criterion may include a timeout criterion. The time-based criterion may include checking whether the time elapsed since the control device switched to local control mode (e.g., since receiving data from a communication interface or since at least one control circuit set the control device to local control mode) is less than a threshold value at the time the request was received. This threshold value may be settable. The time-based criterion reduces the risk of unintentionally changing the control mode.

[0222] In process block 64, if the determined user identity matches the stored user identity and if the time-based criteria are met, the control device is set to remote control mode.

[0223] In process block 65, if the determined user identity does not match the stored user identity or if the time-based criteria are not met, the local control mode of the control device is maintained. In this case, the user of the mobile device can set the control device to remote control mode by going to the first location on the control device.

[0224] according to Figures 1 to 4 Any one of them can be executed Figures 5 to 7 The control device 20 of any of the methods can be an intelligent electronic device (IED). The control device 20 can be configured to interface with a data acquisition unit, such as a merging unit (MU), to operate at least one power system component. The control device 20 can be configured to interface with a monitoring system, such as a SCADA or FLM system. The control device 20 can be configured to operate switching devices, such as CBs or switches. The control device 20 can be installed in a substation of a power system, such as a substation of a high-voltage or medium-voltage power system or a DER system. The control device 20 can be an IED configured to operate in a manner compatible with IEC 61850.

[0225] Control device 20 is configured to interface with mobile devices in a communicative manner. (Refer to...) Figures 8 to 12 A more detailed explanation of the configuration and operation of mobile devices.

[0226] Figure 8 A mobile device 70 is shown. The mobile device 70 is configured to interact with a control device (such as a reference device) for at least one power system component. Figures 1 to 4 Interact with any of the control devices described in the text 20).

[0227] The mobile device 70 includes a mobile device communication interface 71. The mobile device 70 includes at least one mobile device circuit 72.

[0228] The mobile device circuit 72 is configured to send data to the control device via the mobile device communication interface 71 if the user of the mobile device 70 is located at a first location local to the control device, so as to set the control device to local control mode.

[0229] The mobile device circuit 72 is configured to enable a user of the mobile device 70 to set the control device to a remote control mode from a second position relative to the control device.

[0230] Therefore, the mobile device 70 is configured to allow the control device to be set to a local control mode, while reducing the need for direct physical contact between the user and the control device in the first location. The mobile device 70 can act as an interface device configured to connect the user to the control device.

[0231] Mobile device 70 is configured to allow the control device to be set to remote control mode without the user of the mobile device being present at a first location local to the control device. Mobile device 70 may be configured as a token providing the data or other information required to set the control device to remote control mode from a second location. For illustration, mobile device 70 is configured to enable the control device to be set to remote control mode from a monitoring system device installed outside the substation where the control device is installed or at another location remote from the control device.

[0232] The mobile device 70 can also be configured to generate and send a request to set the control device to local control mode when the mobile device 70 is located in a first position local to the control device.

[0233] Mobile device 70 may include mode control circuitry 73 configured to generate data that sets the local device to a remote control mode. Mobile device 70 may be configured to transmit the generated data via at least one mobile device communication interface 71. Mobile device 70 may be configured to control a mobile device wireless interface of at least one mobile device communication interface 71 to transmit data via a wireless peer-to-peer connection.

[0234] The mode control circuit 73 can be configured to generate and provide information that enables the control device to be set to a remote control mode. This information may, but does not need to, be output via at least one mobile device communication interface 71. Information that enables the generation of a request to set the control device to remote control mode can be output via the mobile device's interface under the control of the mobile device control circuit 72 via an interface different from at least one mobile device communication interface 71 (such as a graphical user interface (GUI)).

[0235] The mobile device 70 can be configured to perform biometric authentication on the user before generating and sending data that sets the control device to remote control mode and / or before providing information that enables the control device to be set to remote control mode.

[0236] Figure 9 A mobile device 70 is shown. (Reference) Figure 8 The described features and components adopt the same Figure 8 The same reference numerals are used in the accompanying drawings.

[0237] Mobile device 70 includes a biometric authentication circuit 74 configured to perform biometric authentication for a user. The biometric authentication circuit 74 may be coupled to a biometric sensor 77. The biometric sensor 77 may include a photoelectric sensor, such as the camera sensor of mobile device 70. The biometric sensor 77 may be configured to capture an image of the user of mobile device 70. The biometric authentication circuit 74 may perform biometric authentication based on facial recognition processing and / or iris feature recognition processing of the captured image. Other biometric authentication components, such as a fingerprint sensor, may be used.

[0238] Mobile device 70 can be configured to selectively send data to a control device based on successful biometric authentication of a user. Mobile device 70 can be configured such that the data content of the sent data (such as authentication data included in the sent data) depends on the output of biometric authentication circuit 74.

[0239] Mobile device 70 can be configured to selectively provide information that enables the control device to be set to local control mode based on another successful biometric authentication of the user. Mobile device 70 can be configured such that at least a number of pieces of information (such as the device identifier of the control device and / or the user identifier of the user) depend on the output of biometric authentication circuit 74.

[0240] For illustration, mobile device 70 can be configured to identify the user of mobile device 70 based on another biometric authentication. Mobile device 70 can be configured to retrieve a unique identifier of a control device previously set to local control mode by the identified user. Mobile device 70 can provide information depending on both the retrieved unique identifier of the control device and the identified user, enabling the control device to be set to remote control mode.

[0241] At least one mobile device circuit 72 can be configured to generate data based on biometric authentication and send the data to a control device. At least one mobile device circuit 72 can be configured to provide user authentication data based on biometric authentication of a user by the mobile device 70. The authentication data may include an authentication key required by the control device to authenticate the user of the mobile device 70. The mobile device may include a non-volatile storage device. At least one mobile device circuit 72 can be configured to identify and retrieve authentication data stored in the non-volatile storage device based on biometric authentication, in order to provide the authentication data to the control device.

[0242] Figure 10 A mobile device 70 is shown. (Reference) Figure 8 and Figure 9 The described features and components adopt the same Figure 8 and Figure 9 The same reference numerals are used in the accompanying drawings.

[0243] Mobile device 70 also includes a code capture sensor 78. Code capture sensor 78 may include another photoelectric sensor, such as another camera sensor. Biometric sensor 77 and code capture sensor 78 may be integrated into the same camera chip or may be separate camera sensors. For illustration, code capture sensor 78 may include a first camera sensor of mobile device 70 facing a first viewing direction (such as a front-facing camera sensor). Biometric sensor 77 may include a second camera sensor of mobile device 70 facing a second viewing direction different from the first viewing direction (such as a user-facing camera sensor).

[0244] The code capture sensor 78 can be configured to capture codes output by the control device. At least one mobile device circuit 72 may also include a graphic code processing circuit 75 configured to transmit data to the control device based on the captured code. The code may include parameters of a communication channel through which data is transmitted. The parameters of the communication channel may include parameters of a wireless peer-to-peer communication channel through which data is transmitted. The parameters may include a wireless security key. The code can be configured to enable the mobile device 70 to establish a communication channel with the control device to transmit data to the control device. The communication channel may be a temporary peer-to-peer wireless connection between the mobile device 70 and the control device.

[0245] The code may include visual code that can be captured by code-capturing sensor 78, which includes another photoelectric sensor. The code may also be embodied in other ways, such as signals transmitted via wired or wireless means.

[0246] The code may include a graphic code. The graphic code may include a two-dimensional graphic code and / or a barcode. The graphic code may include a two-dimensional barcode. The graphic code processing circuitry 75 may be configured to process the graphic code to determine parameters of a communication channel through which data is transmitted.

[0247] The code may also include a unique identifier for the control device. Graphical code processing circuitry 75 may be configured to process the graphical code to determine the unique identifier for the control device. The unique identifier for the control device may be stored in a non-volatile mobile device storage device 76 for maintaining a dataset that defines, in a user-specific manner, which control devices are set to local control mode using the mobile device 70.

[0248] Mobile device 70 can be configured to store information included in the code in association with a user's identifier (such as authentication data) in a non-volatile mobile device storage device 76. The stored information may include the user's authentication key (such as an authentication key stored back in mobile device 70 in response to confirmation from control device 20) and the code captured by the mobile device.

[0249] The mobile device may include a mobile device output interface. The mobile device output interface may include a GUI 79. The GUI can be configured to output information identifying the control device and the user. By providing information identifying the control device and the user, the mobile device 70 is configured to secure tokens that authenticate the user and the control device when the control device is set to remote control mode. The mobile device 70 can be configured in such a way that it enables the control device to be set to remote control mode from a second location remotely relative to the control device.

[0250] Mobile device 70 can be configured to maintain records in non-volatile mobile device storage device 76 indicating to each user which control device or control devices have been set to local control mode by the corresponding user of the mobile device. Information about the control device or control devices can be output via the mobile device's GUI 79.

[0251] Following biometric authentication, GUI 79 allows the user to select one of the control devices recorded as having been set to local control mode by the user. Mobile device 70 can be configured to generate and output information based on the selection, enabling the selected control device to be set to local control mode when the user is in a second location remotely relative to the control device. Mobile device 70 can also be configured to generate and send a request to the selected control device based on the selection, enabling the control device to be set to local control mode while the user is still in a first location local to the control device.

[0252] Figures 8 to 10 Any of the mobile devices 70 can be a portable device. Mobile device 70 can be a handheld device. Mobile device 70 can be a terminal of a cellular communication network.

[0253] Figure 11 This is a flowchart of method 80. Method 80 can be derived from... Figures 8 to 10 Execute on any of the mobile devices 70.

[0254] In process block 81, when the user of the mobile device is located at a first location local to the control device (e.g., at or within a substation where the control device is installed), the mobile device sends data to the control device for at least one power system component to set the control device to local control mode. The data may include the user's authentication data. Parameters of the communication channel captured by the mobile device from the control device can be used to send the data.

[0255] In process block 82, when the user of the mobile device is located in a second location that is remote relative to the control device (e.g., at a monitoring system device in a substation where the control device is installed), the mobile device provides information that enables the control device to be set to remote control mode.

[0256] The information may be provided via a mobile device's display or other optical output device.

[0257] The information provided in process block 82 can depend on both the user of the control device and the mobile device to be set to remote control mode. This enables a check to be performed to ensure that the control device is set to remote control mode from a remote location by the same user who set the control device to local control mode in the first location.

[0258] Figure 12 This is a flowchart of method 90. Method 90 can be derived from... Figures 8 to 10 Execute on any of the mobile devices 70.

[0259] In process frame 91, the mobile device performs biometric authentication on the user of the mobile device. Biometric authentication may include facial recognition, fingerprint recognition, and / or iris recognition. Subsequent process frames are executed based on successful biometric authentication, indicating that the user of the mobile device has been authenticated by the mobile device, to initiate a change in the control mode of the control device for at least one power system component.

[0260] In process block 92, the mobile device captures a code from the control device. The code may be a visual code captured using the mobile device's photoelectric sensors. The code may include graphic codes, barcodes, and / or two-dimensional barcodes. The code may include parameters of a communication channel through which the mobile device can send data to and optionally receive data from the control device. Process block 92 is executed when the user is located at a first location local to the control device (e.g., at or within a substation where the control device is installed).

[0261] In process block 93, with the user of the mobile device located at a first position local to the control device, the mobile device sends data to the control device to set the control device to local control mode. The data may include the user's authentication data. The data can be sent using parameters of the communication channel captured by the mobile device from the control device in process block 92.

[0262] In process block 94, the mobile device stores the control device identifier. The mobile device may store the control device identifier in association with the identifier of the user authenticated in process block 91. The mobile device may also store the control device identifier locally on the mobile device.

[0263] In process frame 95, the mobile device performs another biometric authentication for its user. This other biometric authentication may include another facial recognition, another fingerprint recognition, and / or another iris recognition. Subsequent process frames are executed based on the other biometric authentication indicating that the mobile device user has been authenticated by the mobile device in order to initiate a change in the control mode of the control device.

[0264] In process block 96, the mobile device retrieves the control device identifier. The mobile device may retrieve the control device identifier based on the user identity determined in another biometric authentication in process block 95.

[0265] In process block 97, when the user of the mobile device is located in a second location that is remote relative to the control device (e.g., at a monitoring system device in a substation where the control device is installed), the mobile device provides information that enables the control device to be set to remote control mode.

[0266] In process block 97, information can be provided via a display of a mobile device or other optical output device for acquisition by acquisition devices of a monitoring system (such as SCADA or FLM system).

[0267] The information provided in process block 97 can depend on both the user of the control device and the mobile device to be set to remote control mode. This enables the execution of checks to ensure that the control device is set to remote control mode from a remote location by the same user who set it to local control mode in the first location.

[0268] Figure 13 This is a diagram of a system including control device 20 and mobile device 70. Control device 20 may have a combination of... Figures 1 to 7 Any publicly disclosed configuration and functionality. The mobile device 70 can have a combination of... Figures 8 to 12 Any publicly available configurations and features.

[0269] In step 101, control device 20 generates and outputs code. This code can be output via a control device display or other optical output device of control device 20. The code may include communication parameters of a communication channel through which control device 20 can receive data from mobile device 70.

[0270] In step 102, mobile device 70 performs biometric authentication on the user of the mobile device and captures a code. Biometric authentication may include facial recognition, fingerprint recognition, and / or iris recognition. Mobile device 70 generates data based on the result of biometric authentication to be sent to control device 20. For illustration, the generated data may include authentication keys or other authentication data, which are stored in the mobile device of the user identified by biometric authentication. The data may also depend on communication parameters in the captured code, for example, when the communication parameters include a security key to be used to generate the data.

[0271] In step 103, mobile device 70 sends data 103 to set the control device to local control mode. Modulating data 103 into a signal may also depend on communication parameters included in the code output by control device 20 in step 101. This data may include the user's authentication key or other authentication data to authenticate the user of the mobile device via control device 20.

[0272] In step 104, the control device performs user authentication. The authentication in step 104 differs from the biometric authentication in step 102. The authentication in step 104 can be performed based on data 103. The authentication in step 104 can be performed based on the mobile device user's authentication key or other authentication data included in data 103.

[0273] In 105, the control device stores user information for the mobile device user. The user information can be any unique identifier for the user, such as the authentication key or other authentication data included in data 103. The control device can store the user information locally on the control device or in a monitoring system.

[0274] At step 106, the control device outputs confirmation data. This confirmation data can indicate that the user has been authenticated not only by the mobile device 70 but also by the control device 20. The confirmation data may include the user's unique identifier, which can then be stored back in the mobile device 70.

[0275] In step 107, the control device is set to local control mode. The control device 20 can respond to data 103 or further transmissions from the mobile device 70 if the user has been authenticated by the control device. Figure 13 (Not shown in the image) is set to local control mode.

[0276] In step 108, the mobile device can store a unique control device identifier that controls the device. This unique control device identifier can be included in the code captured in step 102. The unique control device identifier can be stored in association with the user identified in the biometric authentication process in step 102.

[0277] In step 109, the mobile device provides information that enables the control device to be set to remote control mode. The provision of this information may depend on whether the mobile device is used by the same user as in process block 102. Mobile device 70 may perform further biometric authentication to determine the identity of the mobile device user. The provision of information may include output information (e.g., via the mobile device display) for acquisition and use by the monitoring system.

[0278] In step 110, the control device receives a request 110 to set the control device to remote control mode. Request 110 may, but does not need to, be generated by the mobile device 70. For illustration, the mobile device may output the information in step 109 via its display for the monitoring system to collect. The monitoring system device can then generate request 110. Request 110 may include the user's authentication key or other authentication data.

[0279] In step 111, control device 20 can perform another user authentication. Further user authentication can be performed based on the user's authentication key or other authentication data included in request 110. This additional user authentication may include checking, based on request 110, whether the user of the mobile device providing information in 109 has been authenticated by control device 20 to request a change in control mode. This additional user authentication may also include verifying, based on the user's authentication key or other authentication data included in request 110, whether the mobile device user providing information in 109 is the same user who caused control device 20 to be set to local control mode and whose identity is stored in 105.

[0280] In step 112, control device 20 may optionally check whether a time-based criterion is met. For illustration, request 110 may be selectively processed based on whether it was received within a given time period after data 103 was received or after local control mode operation was initiated in step 107.

[0281] In step 113, if the other user authentication in step 111 and the time-based standard in step 112 are both successful, then the control device 20 is set to remote control mode.

[0282] Figure 14 and Figure 15System 10 is shown. System 10 includes at least one power system component 11. At least one power system component 11 may include switching devices, such as CB, switches, or disconnectors. Switching devices may include, but are not limited to, switching devices for high-voltage or medium-voltage power systems or DER systems.

[0283] System 10 includes a control device 20 configured to operate at least one power system component 11 by issuing an operation signal or command 12. The control device 20 may have a combination of... Figures 1 to 7 or Figure 13 The configuration and functionality described in any of the above.

[0284] System 10 includes a mobile device 70 configured to interact with control device 20. The mobile device 70 can also be configured to interact with a monitoring system. The mobile device 70 may have a combination of... Figures 8 to 13 The configuration and functionality described in any of the above.

[0285] System 10 includes a monitoring system with monitoring system equipment 13. Acquisition device 14 (such as a camera) may be included in or coupled to the monitoring system equipment 13.

[0286] Control device 20 and mobile device 70 can be configured such that when user 15 of mobile device 70 is located at a first location 16 local to the control device (e.g., at a substation where control device 20 is installed or at a first location within a substation), user 15 can use mobile device 70 to set control device 20 to local control mode, such as... Figure 14 As shown. Setting the control device 20 to local control mode may involve an authentication process. The authentication process may include a multi-stage authentication process, including biometric authentication of user 15 at mobile device 70 and authentication of user 15 at control device 20 based on authentication data received by control device 20 from mobile device 70.

[0287] The control device 20 and the mobile device 70 can be configured such that when the user 15 of the mobile device 70 is located at a second location 17 remotely relative to the control device (e.g., at a monitoring system device 13 outside the substation where the control device 20 is installed), the user 15 can use the mobile device 70 to set the control device 20 to a remote control mode, such as... Figure 15As shown. Setting control device 20 to remote control mode may involve an authentication process. This authentication process may include a multi-stage authentication process, including further biometric authentication of user 15 at mobile device 70, and authentication of user 15 at control device 20 based on authentication data received by control device 20 from monitoring system device 13. Monitoring system device 13 may be configured to process information output by mobile device and collected by acquisition device 14. Monitoring system device 13 may be configured to determine the user's identity and a unique control device identifier based on the information output by mobile device and collected by acquisition device 14, in order to generate a request that causes control device 20 to be set to remote control mode.

[0288] Setting the control device 20 to remote control mode from the second position 17 can be selectively implemented based on whether a time-based criterion is met. For illustration, setting the control device 20 to remote control mode from the second position 17 can be selectively implemented for a period of time after the control device is set to local control mode. This time period can be fixed or configured, for example, during power system commissioning or configuration.

[0289] Control device 20 and mobile device 70 may optionally be configured such that when user 15 of mobile device 70 is located at a first location 16 local to control device 20 (e.g., at a substation where control device 20 is installed or at a first location within a substation), user 15 can use mobile device 70 to set control device 20 to remote control mode, such as... Figure 14 As shown. When user 15 is in the first position 16, the communication channel (such as a wireless point-to-point communication channel) established between mobile device 70 and control device 20 for setting control device 20 to local control mode can be re-established to use mobile device 70 to set control device 20 to remote control mode.

[0290] The monitoring system device 13 includes or is coupled to the acquisition device 14. The acquisition device 14 is configured to capture information output by the mobile device 70, wherein the output information includes a control device identifier and a user identifier. The monitoring system device 13 includes at least one monitoring system device circuitry configured to generate a request based on the acquired information to set the control device 20, identified by the control device identifier, to a remote control mode. The monitoring system device 13 may include a SCADA or FLM system device.

[0291] Acquisition device 14 may include a photoelectric sensor, such as a camera, configured to capture information from the mobile device display of mobile device 70. Monitoring system device 13 may be configured to receive reference information from control device 20, depending on a control device identifier and a user identifier. Monitoring system device 13 may be configured to generate a request based on a comparison of the reference information with the acquired information.

[0292] The monitoring system device 13 can be configured to determine the control device 20 based on the collected information. The monitoring system device 13 can be configured to provide a user identifier to the control device 20 based on the information.

[0293] If you have already referred to Figures 1 to 15 The disclosed devices, systems, and methods allow for setting control modes for control devices used in at least one power system component. The devices, systems, and methods reduce the need for physical contact between the user 15 and the control device 20. The devices, systems, and methods provide enhanced versatility in setting control modes for the control device 20.

[0294] To ensure safety requirements are met when user 15 is controlling the device 20 from location 17, the device, system, and method allow user 15 to be authenticated at the second location 17 to change the control mode of the control device 20 from the second location 17. The device, system, and method are configured to ensure that the user setting the IED to local control mode is the same user who can set the IED to remote control mode from the second location 17 or optionally from the first location 16. The device, system, and method are configured to provide an authentication scheme that ensures the person changing the control mode to local control mode can set the control mode to remote control mode.

[0295] User 15 can set control device 20 to local control mode by establishing a wireless connection from mobile device 70 to control device 20. On mobile device 70, biometric authentication may be required to grant user 15 access to the data needed to set the control mode of control device 20. Biometric authentication may include facial recognition, fingerprint recognition, and / or iris recognition, which are unique identifiers for the user.

[0296] The connection to control device 20 can be configured as a temporary wireless connection, which can be performed as follows: Control device 20 can generate and display a code (such as a barcode) containing encoded connection parameters, including an identifier of control device 20. Mobile device 70 can read the code. A peer-to-peer connection can be established between mobile device 70 and control device 20. The connection can be established based on whether the person identified on mobile device 70's authentication system matches the authentication on control device 20. This means that user authentication has been provided on control device 20. If successful, mobile device 70 again shares the authentication code with control device 20. After matching with control device 20, mobile device 70 can configure control device 20 to local control mode.

[0297] The authentication code and the identifier of control device 20 can be stored back on mobile device 70. This provides a general understanding of which control devices have been set to local control mode by user 15 and remain in local control mode. This information allows control device 20 to be securely set to remote control mode from second location 17. To verify whether the change in control mode from second location 17 was authorized by the same user 15, mobile device 70 can perform another biometric authentication.

[0298] To set control device 20 to remote control mode while user 15 is still in the first position 16, mobile device 70 is configured to allow user 15 to select control device 20 from one or more control devices stored in mobile device 70 that operate in local control mode. Mobile device 70 can re-establish point-to-point wireless communication. Based on another successful authentication of the user, control device 20 can be set to remote control mode.

[0299] To set control device 20 to remote control mode when user 15 is at second location 17, access to control device 20 can be implemented in a manner that ensures user 15 at second location 17 is the same user who previously set control device 20 to local control mode. Mobile device 70 can output another code (which could be another graphical code, such as another barcode). This other code can include a combination of the control device identifier and communication parameters previously captured by mobile device 70 from control device 20. This other code can be scanned by an FLM or SCADA system and grant permission to access control device 20 from second location 17. The status of control device 20 can be set back from local control mode to remote control mode via FLM or SCADA system. Upon success, a status overview can show control device 20 operating in remote control mode. The process of setting control device 20 to remote control mode can be time-limited to reduce the risk of unintentionally setting control device 20 to remote control mode during extended maintenance work.

[0300] Although embodiments have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, modifications and changes may be implemented in other embodiments.

[0301] For the purposes of this illustration, although embodiments of control devices for switching devices have been described, the devices, systems, and methods can be used in conjunction with control devices for power system components other than switching devices.

[0302] Although an embodiment has been described in which the control device outputs a code in graphical form and the mobile device captures the code using a photoelectric sensor, the code including communication channel parameters does not need to be a graphical code. For illustration, the code may include a modulated signal. Although an embodiment has been described in which the mobile device outputs another code in graphical form to authenticate a user from a second location remotely relative to the control device, this other code does not need to be a graphical code. For illustration, this other code may include a modulated signal. Although an embodiment has been described in which the control device stores data required for authenticating a user from a second location remotely relative to the control device, this data may also be stored in a monitoring system.

[0303] The embodiments can be used in conjunction with power system components of a power system, which may include a power grid, such as a medium-voltage grid or a high-voltage grid. The embodiments can be used in conjunction with generation systems, transmission systems, and / or distribution systems, including renewable energy systems (such as DER).

[0304] Embodiments of the present invention achieve various effects and advantages. For illustration, the described apparatus, system, and method reduce the need for physical contact between the user 15 and the control device. The apparatus, system, and method provide enhanced versatility in setting control modes for the control device.

[0305] This specification and accompanying drawings, which illustrate various aspects and embodiments of the invention, should not be considered as limiting the scope of the claims. In other words, although the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the accompanying drawings and the foregoing description, such illustrations and descriptions should be considered illustrative or exemplary, not restrictive. Various mechanical, compositional, structural, electrical, and operational changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this specification and the claims. In some instances, well-known circuits, structures, and techniques have not been shown in detail to avoid obscuring the invention. Therefore, it should be understood that those skilled in the art can make changes and modifications within the scope and spirit of the following claims. In particular, the invention covers further embodiments having any combination of features from the different embodiments described above and below.

[0306] This disclosure also covers all other features shown individually in the accompanying drawings, although these features may not be described in the preceding or following description. Furthermore, single alternatives to the embodiments described in the drawings and specification, and single alternatives to their features, may be excluded from the subject matter of the invention or the disclosed subject matter. This disclosure includes subject matter constituted by the features defined in the claims or exemplary embodiments, as well as subject matter including said features.

[0307] The term "comprising" does not exclude other elements or process blocks, nor do the indefinite articles "a" or "an." A single unit or process block can perform the function of several features recited in the claims. The simple fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not imply that a combination of these measures cannot be used advantageously. Components described as coupled or connected may be directly electrically or mechanically coupled, or they may be indirectly coupled via one or more intermediate components. Any reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

[0308] Machine-readable instruction code may be stored / distributed on a suitable medium (e.g., an optical or solid-state storage medium provided or as part of other hardware), but may also be distributed in other forms (e.g., via a wide area network or other wired or wireless communication system). Furthermore, machine-readable instruction code may also be a data structure product or signal used to embody a particular method (e.g., the method according to this embodiment).

Claims

1. A control device (20) for at least one power system component (11), the control device (20) comprising: At least one control circuit (30) is configured to be coupled to the communication interface (21) and the at least one power system component (11), and the at least one control circuit (30) is further configured to: Receive data (103) from the communication interface (21); If the user (15) of the mobile device (70) is located at a first location (16) local to the control device (20), the control device (20) is set to a local control mode based on the received data, wherein the at least one control circuit (30) is configured such that, when the control device (20) is in the local control mode, the at least one control circuit (30) is configured to reduce or eliminate the possibility that the at least one power system component (11) may be remotely operated in response to commands received via the monitoring system; and In response to a request from the user (15) of the mobile device (70) at a second location (17) remotely relative to the control device (20), the control device (20) is set to a remote control mode, wherein the at least one control circuit (30) is configured such that, when the control device (20) is in the remote control mode, the at least one control circuit (30) is configured to operate the at least one power system component (11) in response to a command received from the monitoring system.

2. The control device (20) as described in claim 1, wherein, The communication interface (21) includes a wireless interface.

3. The control device (20) as described in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, The at least one control circuit (30) is configured to authenticate the user (15) of the mobile device (70) based on the received data to set the control device (20) to the local control mode.

4. The control device (20) as described in claim 3, wherein, The at least one control circuit (30) is configured to perform another authentication on the user (15) based on user information collected by the control device (20), and to set the control device (20) to the remote control mode based on the other authentication.

5. The control device (20) as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The control device (20) is configured to generate and output code that includes at least one of the following: Parameters of the communication channel through which the data (103) is received; and Unique control device identifier.

6. The control device (20) as described in claim 5, wherein, The code includes graphical code.

7. The control device (20) as described in claim 6, wherein, The graphic code includes a two-dimensional graphic code, and / or wherein the graphic code includes a barcode.

8. The control device (20) as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The control device (20) is configured to receive the request at at least one communication interface (21) via a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system (13).

9. The control device (20) as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The at least one control circuit (30) is configured to operate the at least one power system component (11).

10. The control device (20) as described in claim 9. in, The at least one control circuit (30) is configured to generate an operation signal or command (12) and output the operation signal or command (12) to the at least one power system component (11).

11. The control device (20) as described in claim 10. in, The operation signal or command (12) includes a trip signal or command.

12. A mobile device (70) configured to interact with a control device (20) for at least one power system component, the mobile device (70) comprising: Mobile device communication interface (71); as well as At least one mobile device circuit (72), said at least one mobile device circuit being configured to If the user (15) of the mobile device (70) is located at a first location (16) local to the control device (20), and sends data (103) to the control device (20) via the mobile device communication interface (71) to set the control device (20) to a local control mode, wherein the local control mode is the control mode of the control device (20), in which at least one control circuit (30) of the control device (20) is configured to reduce or eliminate the possibility that at least one power system component (11) may be remotely operated in response to a command received via a monitoring system; and This enables the user (15) of the mobile device (70) to set the control device (20) to a remote control mode from a second location (17) remotely relative to the control device (20), wherein the remote control mode is a control mode of the control device (20), in which the at least one control circuit (30) is configured to operate the at least one power system component (11) in response to a command received from the monitoring system.

13. The mobile device of claim 12, wherein, The at least one mobile device circuit (72) is configured to provide user authentication data to the control device (20).

14. The mobile device of claim 13, wherein, At least one mobile device circuit (72) is configured to provide user authentication data based on the biometric authentication of the user (15) by the mobile device (70).

15. The mobile device of any one of claims 12 to 14, further comprising a sensor (78) configured to capture a code output by the control device (20), the at least one mobile device circuit (72) further configured to send the data (103) to the control device (20) based on the code.

16. An electric power system (10), comprising: The control device (20) as described in any one of claims 1 to 11; as well as The mobile device (70) as claimed in any one of claims 12 to 15.

17. A method for controlling the operation of a control device (20) for a power system component (11), the method comprising: The control device (20) receives data (103) from the mobile device (70); If the user of the mobile device (70) is located at a first location (16) local to the control device (20), the control device (20) is set to a local control mode based on the received data (103), wherein at least one control circuit (30) of the control device (20) is configured such that, when the control device (20) is in the local control mode, the at least one control circuit (30) is configured to reduce or eliminate the possibility that the at least one power system component (11) may be remotely operated in response to a command received via the monitoring system; and In response to the action of the user of the mobile device from a second location (17) remotely relative to the control device (20), the control device (20) is set to a remote control mode, wherein at least one control circuit (30) of the control device (20) is configured such that when the control device (20) is in the remote control mode, the at least one control circuit (30) is configured to operate the at least one power system component (11) in response to a command received from the monitoring system.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the method is performed by the control device (20) of any one of claims 1 to 11.

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