Enhancing control of substation in grid monitoring and control device

Abstract

A device (1) for controlling and monitoring a substation (2) configured to convert medium-voltage electrical energy in a medium-voltage electrical network (MV) into low-voltage electrical energy in a low-voltage electrical network (LV) comprises: at least one control unit (10) provided with a data bus (100); and acquisition means (15) for acquiring information from the at least one peripheral unit (P). The control unit (10) is configured to: generate a virtual copy (R1) of a concentrator configured to obtain consumption data from each energy meter (4); generating a virtual copy (R2) of at least one component (C) for collecting network data associated with the low voltage network (LV) and / or the medium voltage network (MV); and allowing the information and / or the consumption data and / or the network data to be exchanged between each virtual copy (R1, R2) and the at least one peripheral unit (P) via the data bus (100) in order to optimize the efficiency of the medium-voltage network (MV) and / or the low-voltage network (LV).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Example aspects herein relate to monitoring of a medium voltage power grid and / or a low voltage power grid, and more particularly to an apparatus and method for controlling and monitoring a substation, a system for controlling, and a substation. Background Art

[0002] Electrical energy in a medium voltage grid, generally defined as having a voltage in the range of 2.4 kVAC to 69 kVAC, is converted to low voltage electricity and provided to a low voltage grid for distribution to consumers.

[0003] The conversion of electrical energy is performed by a substation, which includes an enclosed box or housing for components such as transformers used to convert electrical energy; components that interface with the medium-voltage and / or low-voltage grids; and components for monitoring and controlling the grid connections and the proper operation of the various components of the substation.

[0004] Substation operation can be improved by implementing new functions for monitoring, controlling, or efficiently converting electrical energy. However, the limited physical space of a substation can make it difficult to install new physical components each time the substation is to implement a new function.

[0005] Additionally, managing components (eg, installing new components, updating, maintaining, or replacing existing components, etc.) requires physical visits to the substation by human technicians.

[0006] This makes it difficult to maintain a grid that may often include thousands of substations.

[0007] Additionally, substations may require specific equipment based on their location within the grid, their geographic location, any functions they are supposed to perform, and so on.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need for improved management of substations and components within substations. Summary of the Invention

[0009] According to a first exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an apparatus for controlling and monitoring a substation, wherein the substation is configured to convert medium-voltage electric energy in a medium-voltage power grid into low-voltage electric energy in a low-voltage power grid, wherein the low-voltage power grid is provided with a plurality of electric energy meters, each electric energy meter being associated with a corresponding electric energy user for measuring electric energy consumed by the electric energy user.

[0010] Wherein, the device for controlling and monitoring comprises:

[0011] - at least one control unit provided with a data bus,

[0012] - acquisition means for acquiring information from at least one peripheral unit,

[0013] Wherein, the at least one control unit is configured to:

[0014] - generating a virtual copy of a concentrator configured to acquire consumption data from each energy meter,

[0015] - generating a virtual copy of at least one component for collecting network data associated with the low-voltage power grid and / or the medium-voltage power grid, and

[0016] - enabling the exchange of said information and / or said consumption data and / or said network data between each virtual replica and said at least one peripheral unit via said data bus in order to optimize the efficiency of said medium voltage grid and / or low voltage grid.

[0017] The term "virtual replica" is used herein to define any computer program running on a processor(s) (e.g., on a general-purpose processing computer) that is configured to perform the same functions as a virtually replicated component (including a concentrator), including receiving input data or signals from the other components, processing the data, and / or causing data / signals to be generated for provision to other components within or external to the substation. Thus, the virtual replica may be executed on a processor of a device and may communicate with other components within or external to the substation via the device's interfaces.

[0018] A peripheral unit may be any unit that provides information related to the operation of a component connected to a power grid or a component of a substation. This information may indicate the amount of electrical energy flowing through the component, the state of the component (e.g., an indication of an abnormality in the component, the level of use / wear of the component), or the environment in which the component operates (e.g., meteorological conditions such as temperature, ambient humidity, etc.). The information collected from the peripheral unit(s) may be used to identify the state of the power grid(s) and / or substation, and to reduce the risk of abnormalities / faults that would result in loss of electrical energy, damage to the component(s), all of which would affect the efficiency of the power grid(s), which indicates the amount of electrical energy provided to users.

[0019] By generating a virtual copy of the concentrator and a virtual copy of at least one component for collecting network data, the device can avoid installing separate components to provide the substation with all required functions. In addition, these virtual copies can help avoid an increase in the physical space required in the substation.

[0020] The use of a data bus facilitates the direct exchange of information between multiple virtual components and allows data to be transmitted to multiple components (e.g., multicast or broadcast) without the need for additional cables or communication links between each component. Component virtualization allows the device to receive information from all sources that will be connected to the virtualized components. Therefore, component virtualization and the use of a data bus also enhance monitoring / control of the substation because each virtualized component can receive and process information in parallel with each other and from more sources.

[0021] Therefore, management of components can be facilitated while enhancing monitoring / control of the substation.

[0022] Preferably, the control unit comprises at least one of the following: one or more processors, one or more working memories and one or more non-volatile instruction storages.

[0023] Preferably, the one or more non-volatile instruction stores are configured to store instructions which, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to implement one or more operating systems.

[0024] Preferably, the at least one component comprises a detection device configured to detect a fault and / or an operational anomaly of the substation and / or the medium voltage power grid, wherein the virtual copy comprises a virtual copy of the detection device.

[0025] Substations may include one or more detection devices (sometimes called directional fault detectors) on the medium-voltage side to acquire data measured by sensor(s) at the medium-voltage terminal (i.e., the connection between the medium-voltage grid and substation components, such as transformers, that convert electrical energy into low-voltage energy). The detection devices may also provide protection functions when a malfunction or fault is detected from the sensor data.

[0026] Thus, utilizing the virtual replicas of detection devices generated by the control unit, the device can enable the substation to perform safety functions upon detecting an anomaly, such as interrupting the flow of power or isolating specific components from power. The use of virtual replicas of additional components further facilitates the management of components within the substation and improves the exchange of information between components. This can also help avoid an increase in the amount of physical space required within the substation.

[0027] Furthermore, sensor data from the medium voltage terminal may be provided to other virtual copies and / or other functions (eg applications, as explained below) executed by the device, in particular by the control unit.

[0028] Preferably, the at least one component comprises a monitoring device configured to monitor an operating parameter of the medium voltage grid and / or the low voltage grid, wherein the virtual copy comprises a virtual copy of the monitoring device.

[0029] A substation may include one or more monitoring devices for monitoring operational parameters of the power grid (e.g., parameters related to medium-voltage / low-voltage conversion). These monitoring devices may also control components (e.g., switches, circuit breakers) on the medium-voltage side and / or the low-voltage side of the power conversion process to control the power conversion.

[0030] By monitoring the virtual replicas of the equipment, the control unit can obtain information about the monitored operating parameters and allow this information to be shared with the virtual replicas of other components or other functions performed by the device, thereby enhancing the monitoring and control of the substation and facilitating the management of the components within the substation. In addition, when an anomaly is detected, the device can, for example, control components on the medium-voltage side and / or the low-voltage side of the power conversion to enable the substation to perform safety functions, such as interrupting the flow of current or isolating specific components.

[0031] Preferably, the device for controlling and monitoring comprises a first connection means for connecting the device for controlling and monitoring to a remote control unit, wherein the at least one component comprises a router configured to allow the control unit to communicate with the remote control unit via the first connection means, and wherein the virtual copy comprises a virtual copy of the router.

[0032] The first connection tool may interface with the remote control unit directly or via a network and may comprise any suitable means for exchanging (sending and / or receiving) data with the remote control unit.

[0033] Using the first connection means, the control unit can exchange information with a remote control unit, thereby allowing centralized monitoring and control of the substation. Additionally, using the virtual replica of the router, the device can control information exchange with components external to the substation, remote devices, or components within the substation (whether virtual replicas or physical components within the substation), thereby allowing the device to oversee all information exchange related to the substation to enhance control / monitoring of the substation.

[0034] Preferably, the control unit is further configured to:

[0035] - associating each virtual copy with a corresponding category of operations relative to each virtual copy,

[0036] - Prioritize each category, and

[0037] - Managing the execution priority of each virtual copy based on the priority.

[0038] The classification can be based on whether the virtual replica's operation is related to substation safety, power conversion, substation monitoring, etc. The classification of the virtual replica can be fixed, or it can change based on what operation the virtual replica is performing or based on one or more operating parameters that indicate the state of the substation. In particular, depending on the operation performed by the virtual replica, the classification can be defined as "real-time" or "batch" operation.

[0039] For example, a virtual copy of a component having operations related to monitoring of a substation and operations related to logging of data may have different categories associated with it depending on whether it is performing a logging operation or a monitoring operation. As another example, an operational parameter may indicate that a particular component of the substation should be prioritized, such as if the value of the operational parameter(s) indicates that the particular component is at risk of malfunctioning (e.g., if the particular component is operating near the limits of its operating range).

[0040] The category may be determined automatically by the control unit based on information related to the virtual copy or component, or the category may be indicated by an external entity (eg, by a remote control unit) or an operator.

[0041] The control unit can manage priorities by allocating resources (e.g., computing resources such as memory, processing resources, or bandwidth for sending / receiving data) proportionally to their priorities. For example, a virtual priority with a higher priority can have guaranteed resources to ensure the correct and timely execution of its functions.

[0042] Thus, the device can ensure that any virtual copies associated with functions (or operations) that are critical to safe operation (e.g., safe operation of a substation, its components, or a coupled power grid) can be prioritized and allocated sufficient resources for proper execution, particularly when particular types of resources are limited.

[0043] Preferably, the control unit is configured to monitor the operating status of each virtual copy, and if the control unit detects a malfunction of any virtual copy, generate another virtual copy to replace the virtual copy detected to have a malfunction.

[0044] Thus, the control unit may ensure or improve the operational continuity of each virtual copy and, therefore, the operational continuity of the substation.

[0045] Preferably, the control unit is configured to execute at least one application for controlling and / or monitoring at least one of the substation, the medium voltage grid and the low voltage grid.

[0046] By executing each application, the control unit may perform additional functions or operations to ensure that the substation and its components (whether virtual copies or physical components) operate correctly.

[0047] An application can be a device that monitors a specific aspect of a substation, a virtual counterpart, or another application for controlling and monitoring a device. For example, an application can monitor information processed, received, and / or output by another application or virtual counterpart and, in some cases, detect a functional anomaly if the monitored information includes a value that deviates from a predicted (or predetermined) value. An application can also perform control functions, such as by causing a control unit to send a signal for controlling the status of a device and / or a component in the substation, such as to correct any detected functional malfunction of the control device (e.g., by interrupting the conversion of electrical energy, by disconnecting a component of the substation, etc.).

[0048] In addition to providing information to the virtual replica, the application may also receive and process information from data sources (e.g., sensing units coupled to the substation) such that the monitoring functions of the application are complementary to those performed by the virtual replica.

[0049] Thus, by means of at least one application, the apparatus can perform additional functions or operations to enhance monitoring and control of the substation, for example to meet specific requirements of the local grid and network provider. Preferably, the apparatus for controlling and monitoring comprises first connection means for connecting the apparatus for controlling and monitoring to a remote control unit, and the control unit is further configured to receive first code data via the first connection means and to execute the at least one application with the aid of the first code data.

[0050] The first code data may include instructions (eg, computer-readable instructions) that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to execute the at least one application.

[0051] Thus, a device located in a substation may be used to perform new functions for controlling and / or monitoring the substation or a power grid coupled to the substation, or by improving existing functions (eg, if the application is replacing an existing program).

[0052] For example, the remote control unit may control / monitor a plurality of substations, each of which is equipped with the control and monitoring apparatus as described above. Code data for the application(s) may be provided by the remote control unit to the plurality of substations, thereby ensuring that they each perform the same function.

[0053] This also allows for a centralized determination of which applications should be performed by each substation, which can be based on the type, location, or function of the substation. For example, substations can be categorized into various types based on the characteristics of the electrical energy being converted (e.g., the operating voltage of the network coupled to the substation, the amount of electrical energy being converted, the type of transformer or components used to convert the electrical energy), where each type will require different applications. As another example, the location of a substation in a given geographic area can indicate that the substation may be at a particular risk that needs to be monitored, such as potential natural disasters that may affect the substation (floods, earthquakes, mudslides, etc.). As another example, some substations may provide additional functions beyond converting electrical energy, such as relaying communications between elements of the power grid (e.g., between substations, network terminals, centralized control equipment, etc.).

[0054] Thus, the application provided to the devices in such a substation may relate to additional functionalities provided by the substation.

[0055] Preferably, the information acquired by the acquisition tool from the at least one peripheral unit is information based on data generated by a sensing unit installed at the substation, wherein the application is configured to process information based on the data generated by the sensing unit.

[0056] The sensing unit may comprise any suitable sensor to sense data related to the operation of the substation, the medium voltage grid and / or the low voltage grid. The sensing unit is installed at the substation (i.e., within, on or near the substation to allow communication with the device's acquisition tool).

[0057] A sensing unit can be distinct from any unit from which concentrators, detection devices, and monitoring devices acquire data, and can be configured to interact with an associated application. In other words, the application and sensing unit can be associated with each other by being configured together to exchange information in a defined manner. For example, a sensing unit to be coupled to a substation can be selected based on the substation's type, location, or function, and the application associated with the sensing unit can be executed by a device for control and monitoring within the substation.

[0058] For example, the sensing unit may be a unit that provides environmental data (e.g., meteorological data, earthquake data, etc.) on the environment in which the substation is located, and the application may be configured to monitor the environmental data to detect whether environmental condition risks cause functional abnormalities in the substation.

[0059] Preferably, the collection tool is configured to collect meter data from the at least one electric energy meter, and the virtual copy of the concentrator obtains the meter data including the consumption data via the collection tool.

[0060] Preferably, each of the at least one electric energy meter is a smart meter. As used herein, an electric energy meter is configured to indicate (e.g., via a visual device) the instantaneous and / or cumulative electric energy consumption values ​​of a corresponding user, while a smart meter indicates a device including at least one additional function, such as data related to an operating condition of the smart meter (e.g., the temperature of the smart meter or the temperature of the environment surrounding the smart meter), recording and / or transmitting the consumption data or the data related to the operating condition of the smart meter in a computer-readable format, for example, displaying the data (e.g., the consumption data or the data related to the operating condition of the smart meter) on a display coupled to the smart meter or on a display of a device of the corresponding user (e.g., a smartphone) or causing an external device to display the data (e.g., the consumption data or the data related to the operating condition of the smart meter). It should be understood that in order to perform the above-mentioned functions, the smart meter may include at least one of the following: one or more sensors, a memory, a communication interface, a data processing device, and a display.

[0061] Preferably, the collection tool is configured to obtain data from one or more balancing meters and / or one or more sensors provided in the substation to monitor the conversion of electrical energy. Preferably, the virtual copy of the concentrator obtains the meter data including the consumption data via the collection tool.

[0062] Preferably, the acquisition tool is configured to exchange (receive and / or send) data with the at least one peripheral unit, the at least one energy meter, the one or more balance meters and / or the one or more sensors via one or both of power line communication and wireless (radio) communication.

[0063] Preferably, the data is exchanged in the form of one or more signals.

[0064] Preferably, the control unit is configured to acquire data from the acquisition tool via the radio communication and / or via the power line communication.

[0065] Preferably, the harvesting tool comprises one or more circuit boards, each circuit board having one or more components of the harvesting tool located thereon.

[0066] As used herein, a circuit board (which may be referred to as electronics, wiring, printed wiring, or printed circuit board) is to be understood as an electronic device comprising electronic components located on a substrate (e.g., a silicone-based substrate), and wherein the electronic components are connected to each other via one or more lines of conductive material, which may be printed or deposited on the substrate. The circuit board may have one or more interfaces to mechanically and / or electrically couple with electrical / electronic components external to the circuit board, thereby enabling elements of the circuit board and external components.

[0067] Preferably, the acquisition tool comprises at least one first circuit board configured to manage receiving data from the at least one energy meter and sending the received data to the control unit. Preferably, the at least one first circuit board forms a meter management unit, and more preferably forms an intelligent meter management unit.

[0068] Preferably, the acquisition tool includes at least one measurement acquisition unit, each measurement acquisition unit configured to acquire measurement data from at least one of the medium-voltage power grid and the low-voltage power grid. Preferably, each of the at least one measurement acquisition unit is implemented on at least one circuit board. Preferably, the at least one measurement acquisition unit is implemented on the same circuit board.

[0069] Preferably, the acquisition tool comprises at least one environmental unit, each environmental unit being configured to acquire data indicative of the environment in which the component operates (e.g., a meteorological environment such as temperature, ambient humidity, or the like). Preferably, each of the at least one environmental unit is implemented on at least one circuit board. Preferably, the at least one environmental unit is implemented on the same circuit board. Preferably, the control unit is further configured to allow direct exchange of information between the at least one peripheral unit and the at least one application via the data bus.

[0070] By direct exchange of information this means that information is passed from the at least one peripheral unit to the application (and / or vice versa) without being processed by a virtual counterpart or one of the other applications connected to the data bus.

[0071] Thus, an additional peripheral (e.g., sensing) unit can be installed at a substation with a specific risk or parameter to be monitored, and a device in the substation can execute an application associated with the additional peripheral unit to monitor the specific risk or parameter. This allows for the installation of customized peripheral units and the processing of data from the customized peripheral units to enhance the control and monitoring of the substation.

[0072] Preferably, the control unit is configured to generate a virtual copy of a peripheral (eg sensing) unit.

[0073] Thus, information exchange between the sensing unit and the application can be performed similarly to information exchange with any other virtual replica. Information from the peripheral unit can also be distributed to additional virtual replicas and / or applications via the data bus to enhance their respective monitoring or control functionality.

[0074] Preferably, one or more of said at least one application is configured to perform analysis of data received from at least one of: a virtual replica of said monitoring device, a virtual replica of said detection device, and a virtual replica of said concentrator.

[0075] By analyzing the data of the virtual replica (e.g., data received by the virtual replica, output by the virtual replica, or data processed by the virtual replica), it is possible to detect any inconsistencies between different virtual replicas or detect any functional anomalies of the virtual replicas. In addition, an application can perform an operation evaluation function and / or a network diagnostic function based on the data exchanged with the virtual replica of the monitoring device, the virtual replica of the detection device, and the virtual replica of the concentrator, thereby providing control data that allows enhanced management of the substation and network to an operator and / or a remote control unit.

[0076] Preferably, the control unit is further configured to:

[0077] - associating each of the at least one application with a respective category of operation relative to each application;

[0078] - Prioritize each category, and

[0079] -Managing the execution priority of each application based on the priority.

[0080] As explained above in conjunction with virtual copies, prioritization allows the device to ensure that any application related to functions (or operations) that are critical to safe operation (e.g., safe operation of a substation, safe operation of its components, or safe operation of a coupled power grid) can be prioritized and allocated sufficient resources for proper execution, particularly when particular types of resources are limited.

[0081] In some cases, the priorities of the virtual copies and at least one application can be combined (i.e., each category of virtual copies and each category of applications are given a defined order of priority). This can help the device ensure that the virtual copies and / or applications are executed correctly, especially when they compete for the same resources to perform their functions. In one embodiment, a priority is associated with each virtual copy and each application executed (or generated) by the control unit. This allows all software modules run by the device to be sorted and the corresponding resource allocation to be optimized, while ensuring the continuity / execution of the most critical functions.

[0082] Preferably, the control unit may be configured to receive, via the first connection means, association information indicating an association between a category and an application. The association information may be sent together with the code data for the application (e.g., as metadata in the code data), or sent separately (e.g., as information associating one or more applications with corresponding categories).

[0083] Thus, prioritization of resources can be determined centrally and one or more substations can be remotely controlled to operate in the same manner.

[0084] Preferably, the control unit is further configured to execute message-oriented middleware for communicating between the at least one application and at least one further application, between the at least one application and each of the virtual copies, and / or between each of the virtual copies.

[0085] Thus, information may be exchanged between applications and / or virtual copies while reducing the risk that a malfunction in the execution of one application and / or virtual copy affects the execution of another application and / or virtual copy.

[0086] Preferably, the message-oriented middleware uses an asynchronous messaging system, a messaging system with a public API, and / or an open source messaging system.

[0087] Thus, information exchange can occur even between applications developed independently of each other (eg, applications developed by different sources or in different environments (eg, operating systems)), thereby improving the interoperability of the applications executed by the control unit.

[0088] Preferably, the control unit is further configured to allow asynchronous communication between the at least one application and at least one further application via Neural Automatic Transfer System (NATS) messages.

[0089] Being open source, the asynchronous messaging system using NATS messages leads to the advantages mentioned above.

[0090] Preferably, each application is a containerized type application, preferably based on a Snap or Docker package.

[0091] Therefore, the control unit can execute programs in different environments (e.g., operating systems), thereby improving the interoperability of application programs executed by the control unit and reducing the risk that a malfunction in the execution of one application program affects the execution of another application program.

[0092] Preferably, the one or more non-volatile instruction stores are configured to store instructions which, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to implement one or more functions, optionally each function being implemented as an application program.

[0093] Preferably, the control unit comprises at least one circuit board, each circuit board having one or more components of the control unit located thereon.

[0094] Preferably, the apparatus comprises a remote terminal unit comprising at least one interface for connecting to an input / output device. Preferably, the remote terminal unit comprises at least one circuit board.

[0095] Preferably, the device comprises at least one universal input / output unit, each universal input / output unit comprising one or both of an inlet device and an outlet device, wherein each inlet device is configured to receive digital and / or analog data and each outlet device is configured to send digital and / or analog data.

[0096] Preferably, the apparatus comprises at least one communication unit, wherein each communication unit comprises at least one of: an encoder / decoder, a modulator / demodulator (modem), one or more input / output ports and a switching fabric.

[0097] Preferably, the device comprises at least one protection unit.

[0098] Preferably, the arrangement comprises at least one first protection unit configured to exchange (receive and / or send) sensor data related to protection functions of the medium voltage network.

[0099] Preferably, at least one of the first connection means and the acquisition means is configured to exchange (receive and / or transmit) data with at least one remote unit via the power line communication.

[0100] Preferably, the first connection tool comprises one or more circuit boards, each circuit board having one or more components of the first connection tool located thereon. Preferably, the control unit is further configured to allow asynchronous communication between the virtual copy of the concentrator and the virtual copy of at least one component for collecting network data and / or any additional applications via NATS messages.

[0101] Preferably, at least one or all of the virtual copies are containerized type applications, preferably based on Snap or Docker packages.

[0102] That is, at least one or all of the virtual copy of the concentrator, the virtual copy of at least one component for collecting network data, and the virtual copy of the peripheral unit (eg, sensing unit) are containerized type applications.

[0103] Preferably, the control unit is further configured to receive second code data via the first connection means and to execute at least one of the virtual copies by means of the second code data.

[0104] As with the first code data, the second code data may include instructions (eg, computer-readable instructions) that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to execute the at least one application.

[0105] Thus, virtual copies of these components can be provided to the device to enable the substation to perform new functions, or replace existing functions (eg, upgrade functions, or correct faulty functions).

[0106] Preferably, the control unit is configured to communicate between the at least one application using a data bus.

[0107] Preferably, the control unit is configured to monitor an operating state of each of the at least one application, and if the control unit detects a malfunction in any application, generate another application from the received code data to replace the application in which the malfunction is detected.

[0108] The control unit can thus ensure or improve operational continuity for each application.

[0109] Preferably, the means for controlling and monitoring further comprises:

[0110] second connecting means for connecting the device for controlling and monitoring to at least one first switching portion of the substation, the at least one first switching portion being connected to the medium-voltage grid and being configured to switch from a first position allowing the flow of medium-voltage electrical energy between the medium-voltage grid and the substation to a second position interrupting the flow of medium-voltage electrical energy, and

[0111] a third connection means for connecting said device for controlling and monitoring to at least one second switching part of the substation, said at least one second switching part being connected to said low-voltage power grid and being configured to switch from a first position allowing the flow of low-voltage electrical energy between the low-voltage power grid (LV) and the substation to a second position interrupting the flow of low-voltage electrical energy.

[0112] Each switching portion may include any suitable device for selectively interrupting the flow of electrical energy, such as a circuit breaker (eg, a mechanical or electrical circuit breaker), a switch, or the like.

[0113] Thus, when a functional anomaly associated with the medium-voltage power grid is detected, the device can communicate with the first switching portion(s) via the second connection means to cause the first switching portion(s) to interrupt the flow of medium-voltage power toward the substation. Similarly, when a functional anomaly associated with the low-voltage power grid is detected, the device can communicate with the second switching portion(s) via the third connection means to cause the second switching portion(s) to interrupt the flow of low-voltage power toward the substation. The functional anomaly may occur in one or more components of the substation interfaced with the power grid, or the functional anomaly may occur in the power grid itself.

[0114] Preferably, the second connection means comprises one or more circuit boards, each circuit board having one or more components of the second connection means located thereon.

[0115] Preferably, the third connection means comprises one or more circuit boards, each circuit board having one or more components of the third connection means located thereon.

[0116] Preferably, the second connection tool and the third connection tool are located on the same circuit board.

[0117] Preferably, the control unit includes at least one second protection unit configured to exchange (receive and / or transmit) data with the second connection means to operate the at least one first switching part.

[0118] Preferably, the apparatus includes at least one third protection unit configured to exchange (receive and / or transmit) data with the third connection means to operate the at least one second switching part.

[0119] Preferably, the device comprises at least one fourth protection unit for arc flash protection function of the substation.

[0120] Preferably, each of said at least one fourth protection unit comprises at least one inlet device and at least one outlet device for said arc flash protection function.

[0121] Preferably, each of said at least one fourth protection unit is coupled to at least one optical sensor configured to detect an arc flash in said substation.

[0122] Preferably, each of said at least one fourth protection unit comprises at least one contact, each contact controlling a circuit breaker, preferably a high-opening high-speed type circuit breaker.

[0123] Preferably, the at least one application program includes one or more first programs related to a medium voltage protection function.

[0124] Preferably, said at least one application comprises one or more second programs associated with said remote terminal unit.

[0125] Preferably, at least one of the one or more second programs comprises a modular software architecture. Preferably, the modular software architecture comprises one or more modules, each module being associated with a corresponding service.

[0126] Preferably, the substation comprises at least one component operating at the medium voltage, and wherein the at least one application comprises one or more third programs related to arc flash protection functionality for the at least one component of the substation operating at the medium voltage.

[0127] Preferably, the at least one application comprises one or more third programs configured to communicate with one or more smart meters. Preferably, each of the one or more third programs is configured to support one or more communication protocols used by the one or more smart meters.

[0128] Preferably, each of the one or more third programs supports a protocol based on the PRIME communication standard.

[0129] Preferably, each of the one or more third programs supports a protocol based on the G3 communication standard.

[0130] Preferably, said at least one application program comprises one or more fourth programs for a fault detection function in said medium voltage network.

[0131] Preferably, at least one of said one or more fourth programs is used to assist in locating a fault detected in said medium voltage network.

[0132] Preferably, at least one of the one or more fourth programs is used to perform a virtualized phasor measurement function. Preferably, the virtualized phasor measurement function is used to identify and / or locate a fault occurring in the medium voltage grid and / or the low voltage grid.

[0133] Preferably, the at least one application program comprises one or more fifth programs for controlling a variable transformer coupled to the medium voltage grid and / or the low voltage grid.

[0134] Preferably, the at least one application comprises one or more sixth programs for managing environmental sensor data relating to the environment in or near the substation and for sending the environmental sensor data to a centralized data collection system.

[0135] Preferably, said at least one application program comprises one or more seventh programs for remote backup functionality of operating parameters of said apparatus.

[0136] Preferably, such remote backup functionality is used to enable virtualization of devices at remote locations for monitoring devices and / or substations.

[0137] Preferably, at least one of said one or more seventh programs is configured such that backing up of said operating parameters comprises transmitting information indicative of the respective value of each of said operating parameters to a remote location (eg a remote control unit).

[0138] Preferably, at least one of the one or more seventh programs is configured to receive information indicating the value of each of the operating parameters from a remote location (e.g., a remote control unit). Preferably, the receiving is triggered in the event of initialization, restoration, or replacement of the device.

[0139] According to a second exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method for controlling and monitoring a substation by using the apparatus for controlling and monitoring as described in conjunction with the first exemplary aspect above, wherein the method comprises the following steps:

[0140] - generating, by the control unit, a virtual copy of a concentrator, wherein the concentrator is configured to obtain consumption data from each energy meter,

[0141] - generating, by the control unit, a virtual copy of at least one component, wherein the at least one component is used to collect network data associated with the low-voltage power grid and / or the medium-voltage power grid,

[0142] - collecting information from at least one peripheral unit by means of said collecting means,

[0143] - sharing the information and / or the consumption data and / or the network data in the data bus via the data bus to allow the exchange of the information and / or the consumption data and / or the network data between each virtual copy and the at least one peripheral unit in order to optimize the efficiency of the medium-voltage grid and / or the low-voltage grid.

[0144] According to a third exemplary aspect of the present invention, a system for controlling is provided, the system comprising at least one device for controlling and monitoring as described in conjunction with the first exemplary aspect. The system may also comprise a remote control unit as described in conjunction with the first exemplary aspect.

[0145] According to a fourth example aspect of the present disclosure, a substation is provided, comprising at least one device for controlling and monitoring as described in conjunction with the first example aspect above.

[0146] Preferably, the substation includes:

[0147] at least one first switching portion connected to the medium voltage grid and configured to switch from a first position allowing the flow of medium voltage power between the medium voltage grid and the substation to a second position interrupting the flow of medium voltage power, and

[0148] At least one second switching portion is connected to the low voltage grid and is configured to switch from a first position allowing the flow of low voltage power between the low voltage grid and the substation to a second position interrupting the flow of low voltage power.

[0149] The device thus enables the switching section to interrupt the flow of electrical energy, thereby reducing the risk of malfunctions occurring in the substation, which could damage components.

[0150] Preferably, the substation comprises at least one transformer provided with at least one primary winding and at least one secondary winding.

[0151] wherein said at least one first switching portion comprises means for operatively connecting said primary winding to said medium voltage grid, and

[0152] Therein, the at least one second switching portion comprises means for operatively connecting the at least one secondary winding to the low-voltage grid.

[0153] Therefore, the device can enable the switching portion to isolate the primary winding from the medium voltage grid and / or isolate the secondary winding from the low voltage grid, thereby reducing the risk of damage to the transformer due to malfunction.

[0154] According to a fifth example aspect herein, there is provided a computer program comprising instructions which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform the method of the second aspect as described above. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0155] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are presented for a better understanding of the inventive concept but are not to be considered as limiting the present invention. In the accompanying drawings:

[0156] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a system for control in an exemplary embodiment;

[0157] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an apparatus for controlling and monitoring in an exemplary embodiment;

[0158] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of elements of a control unit in an exemplary embodiment;

[0159] Figure 4is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an application and a virtual copy in an exemplary embodiment;

[0160] Figure 5 The process performed by the apparatus for controlling and monitoring in the exemplary embodiment is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0161] Although exemplary embodiments will be described below, it will be evident that various modifications may be made thereto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the invention. The following description and drawings are, therefore, to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.

[0162] The components described herein, such as the first connection tool, the second connection tool, the acquisition tool, the peripheral unit, and the sensing unit, can use any suitable communication link for exchanging data, such as a wireless (or radio) communication link (e.g., Wi-Fi, a cellular phone data link such as LTE / 5G, Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)), a wired communication link (e.g., DSL, fiber optic cable, Ethernet, power line carrier communication, etc.). Each communication link may not be permanent.

[0163] In the following description and drawings, numerous details are set forth to provide an understanding of various exemplary embodiments. However, it is apparent to one skilled in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without these details.

[0164] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a system for control in an exemplary embodiment.

[0165] In the system S, the substation 2 includes: an apparatus for controlling and monitoring 1, a first switching section 20, a second switching section 21, and a peripheral unit P. In addition, the substation 2 includes a transformer (not shown) having a primary winding and a secondary winding. However, it should be understood that the number of each of these elements is purely illustrative, and the substation 2 may include any number of these elements.

[0166] The substation 2 is connected to a medium voltage grid MV via a first switching section 20 and to a low voltage grid LV via a second switching section 21 .

[0167] The first switching portion 20 has a first position for allowing medium voltage power flow between the medium voltage grid MV and the substation 2 and a second position for interrupting the medium voltage power flow. The first switching portion 20 can be switched between the first position and the second position to selectively allow the medium voltage power flow.

[0168] The second switching portion 21 has a first position for allowing low-voltage power flow between the low-voltage grid LV and the substation 2 and a second position for interrupting the flow of low-voltage power. The second switching portion 21 can be switched between the first position and the second position to selectively allow low-voltage power flow.

[0169] When electric energy is to be distributed to consumers, the first switching section 20 allows medium-voltage electric energy to flow to the substation 1 by operatively connecting the terminals of the medium-voltage grid MV to the primary winding of the transformer. The transformer converts the medium-voltage electric energy (e.g., 15 kVAC) into low-voltage electric energy (e.g., 120 VAC). The low-voltage electric energy is provided to a plurality of electric power consumers.

[0170] Each electricity user is associated with a respective electricity meter 4 for measuring the electrical energy consumed by the electricity user. Figure 1 Two energy meters 4 are shown, although any other number of energy meters 4 may be provided with low-voltage electricity from the substation 2. It will be understood that, although each energy meter 4 may be of a different type, each is a smart meter capable of remotely providing data to the device 1. Each smart meter may have different capabilities and may communicate via different types of communication links. Each smart meter may also have other "smart" capabilities, such as displaying consumption data or other data related to the smart meter to a user. Each smart meter may communicate using a different communication protocol. For example, the device 1 may communicate with a first smart meter using a communication protocol in accordance with the PRIME communication standard. That is, a standard defined by the PRIME Alliance (www.prime-alliance.org), such as PRIME specifications v1.3 or v1.4. The device 1 may communicate with a second smart meter using a communication protocol in accordance with the G3 communication standard. That is, a standard defined by the G3 Alliance (www.g3-alliance.com).

[0171] It should be understood that any other communication protocols may be used instead of or in addition to the examples described above.

[0172] The device 1 is connected to the remote control unit 3 via a network N to exchange information with the remote control unit 3. The network N may include one or more networks, such as the Internet, a telephone network, a cellular data network, etc. The network N may also include a virtual private network (VPN), a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), or any other form of network.

[0173] The apparatus 1 is further connected to at least one peripheral unit P. Each peripheral unit P provides the apparatus 1 with data associated with the low-voltage grid LV and / or the medium-voltage grid MV (also referred to as network data) and / or data associated with the substation 2. For example, the peripheral unit may comprise a sensor at the connection between the medium-voltage grid MV and the substation 2, at the connection between the low-voltage grid LV and the substation 2, etc., which is configured to sense the operating parameter(s).

[0174] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an apparatus 1 for controlling and monitoring in an exemplary embodiment.

[0175] The device 1 includes a control unit 10 , a first connection tool 11 , a second connection tool 12 , a third connection tool 13 , a collection tool 15 and a memory 16 .

[0176] The control unit 10 (i.e., a control logic unit or controller) is configured to control the exchange of information between the various components of the device 1 to optimize the efficiency of the power grid and / or substation. The control unit 10 includes a data bus 100 for allowing the exchange of data / information between the various components within the device, substation, or with components external to the substation, as described below. The control unit 10 may also include one or more processors (e.g., single-core / multi-core CPUs, one or more microprocessors, etc.), one or more working memories (e.g., random access memory, RAM, flash memory, etc.), and one or more non-volatile instruction stores storing computer-readable instructions (e.g., read-only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), erasable PROM (EPROM), electrically erasable PROM (EEPROM), flash memory, etc.). The processors, executing the computer-readable instructions in the instruction stores, generate virtual replicas R1 and R2, allowing information to be exchanged via the data bus 100, and executing applications A and A'.

[0177] In some exemplary embodiments, applications A and A' and virtual copies R1 and R2 may run on an operating system that is implemented when a processor executes computer-readable instructions in an instruction store.

[0178] Given its control functionality, the control unit 10 may also be referred to as a head unit of the device 1 .

[0179] The first connection tool 11 connects the device 1 to ( Figure 1 The control unit 10 can send data or receive data from the remote control unit 3 via the first connection means 11.

[0180] The second connection means 12 connects the device 1 to the ( Figure 1Similarly, the third connection means 13 connects the device 1 to the ( Figure 1 ) second switching part 21 shown.

[0181] The acquisition tool 15 is communicatively coupled to at least one peripheral unit P to acquire information therefrom (e.g., the aforementioned network data and / or substation-related data). The acquisition tool 15 provides this information to the control unit 10 for processing by the control and / or monitoring functions executed on the control unit 10.

[0182] As will be explained below, the virtual replicas and applications generated on the control unit acquire information / data from external sources, such as the energy meters 4. To this end, the collection tool 15 can acquire meter data (which may include consumption data) from each energy meter 4. The virtual replicas (including the virtual replica R1 for the concentrator) can then acquire the meter data.

[0183] The collection tool 15 may also acquire information from peripheral units in the substation 2 (eg, balance meters and sensors) and provide this data to the control unit 10 (specifically, to a virtual copy and / or application generated by the control unit 10 ).

[0184] The acquisition tool may exchange (i.e., receive and / or transmit) data with peripheral units, energy meters 4, balance meters, sensors, etc. via any suitable communication link (e.g., power line carrier and / or radio communication), which may, for example, involve the transmission of signals. The memory 16 may include any number of working memories and / or instruction storage storing computer-readable instructions that may be executed by one or more processors to perform processing operations as described below.

[0185] The instruction store is a non-volatile storage medium, which may include a non-volatile memory, such as a read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, a magnetic computer storage device (such as a hard disk), or an optical disk, which is preloaded with computer-readable instructions. Alternatively, the instruction store may include a writable memory, such as a random access memory (RAM), and the computer-readable instructions may be input thereto from a computer program product (such as a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium (such as an optical disk, such as a CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, etc.) or a computer-readable signal carrying computer-readable instructions).

[0186] The apparatus 1 can be connected to various external devices, such as the peripheral unit P, the first switching portion 20, the second switching portion 21, the remote control unit 3, or the energy meter 4, via any suitable communication link. For example, the acquisition tool 15 can communicate with the energy meter 4 via a first type of wireless communication (e.g., a cellular data link) and communicate with the peripheral unit P using a second type of wireless communication (e.g., Bluetooth Low Energy), while the first connection tool 11 can communicate with the remote control unit 3 via power line carrier communication or via a dedicated wired data link.

[0187] In an exemplary embodiment, the (multiple) elements of the device 1, such as the control unit 10, the first connection tool 11, the second connection tool 12, the third connection tool 13, the acquisition tool 15 and the memory 16, can each include one or more circuit boards (e.g., printed circuit boards) that are mechanically and communicatively coupled to each other via a computer bus.

[0188] The collection tool 15 may be understood to include a meter management unit (which may also be referred to as a smart meter management unit) configured to manage the reception of meter data from the electric energy meter 4 .

[0189] The acquisition tool 15 may also be understood to include a measurement acquisition unit configured to acquire measurement data from a medium-voltage grid and / or a low-voltage grid, for example via a peripheral unit P.

[0190] The acquisition means 15 may also be understood to comprise an environmental unit configured to acquire from the peripheral unit P data indicative of the environment in which the component operates (eg meteorological environment, such as temperature, ambient moisture, humidity, etc.).

[0191] Furthermore, the elements of the apparatus 1 for communicating with a remote device (e.g., the acquisition means 15 and the first connection means 11) can be understood to form a remote terminal unit, a universal input / output unit, and / or a communication unit. These elements include at least one interface for connecting to an input / output device, an inlet device for receiving digital and / or analog data, and an outlet device configured to send digital and / or analog data.

[0192] Although not shown, it should be understood that in order to perform the functions described herein, the device 1 may include a communication unit (e.g., including at least a portion of the acquisition tool 15, the first connection tool 11, the second connection tool 12 and / or the third connection tool 13), wherein the communication unit includes an encoder / decoder, a modulator / demodulator (modem), one or more input / output ports and / or a switching structure to generally distribute (route) data to an appropriate destination.

[0193] Furthermore, the apparatus 1 may be understood to include one or more protection units. For example, a first protection unit (which may include at least a portion of the second connection tool 12 and / or at least a portion of the acquisition tool 15) exchanges sensor data related to protection functions of the medium-voltage power grid, such as data from sensors or other units coupled to the first switching portion 20 or from remote units (e.g., sensors) coupled to the medium-voltage power grid remote from or near the substation 2. The second connection tool 12 and / or the acquisition tool 15 may communicate with the remote unit via any communication link (e.g., power line carrier communication).

[0194] The device 1 (e.g., the control unit 10) can also be understood to include a second protection unit configured to exchange data with the second connection tool 12 to operate the first switching part 20. For example, the second connection tool 12 can provide the second protection unit with information about the state of the first switching part 20, and the second protection unit can send a command to the second connection tool 12 to switch the state of the first switching part 20 when necessary.

[0195] The apparatus 1 (eg, the control unit 10 ) may also be understood to include a third protection unit that operates in conjunction with the third connection means 13 to operate the second switching portion 21 in a manner similar to the second protection unit described above.

[0196] In some implementations, the substation 2 can have an arc flash protection function that mitigates the risk of arc flash occurring in the substation 2 and / or mitigates the risk of damage from such an arc by interrupting the flow of electrical energy when a flash is detected. For example, one or more optical sensors can be located in the substation 2 (e.g., near a switching section or transformer) to detect arc flash.

[0197] The substation 2 may also comprise a circuit breaker configured to operate when such an arc flash is detected. In particular, this may be a high-opening, high-speed type circuit breaker to reduce the duration of any arc flash.

[0198] Thus, the device may have a fourth protection unit having an inlet device (e.g., an interface of a communication link) for receiving information from the optical sensor when an arc flash is detected and an outlet device (e.g., an electrical contact) for triggering a high-trip high-speed circuit breaker to interrupt the circuit when an arc flash is detected.

[0199] Preferably, each of said at least one fourth protection unit comprises at least one contact, each contact controlling a circuit breaker, preferably a high-break high-speed type circuit breaker

[0200] In some implementations, groups of circuit boards of the apparatus 1 may form components of the aforementioned meter management unit, remote terminal unit, measurement collection unit, and environment unit. Any circuit board may belong to more than one group.

[0201] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of elements of a control unit in the exemplary embodiment.

[0202] The control unit 10 generates a virtual replica R1 for the concentrator and a virtual replica R2 for each of the detection device D, the monitoring device M, the router R, and the peripheral unit P. Furthermore, the control unit 10 executes a first application A and a second application A'.

[0203] The concentrator is a component that obtains consumption data from each electric energy meter 4. The concentrator may also collect data from one or more balance meters and sensors provided in the substation 2 to monitor the conversion of electric energy.

[0204] A detection device D (e.g., a directional fault detector) is configured to acquire data measured by sensors at a medium voltage terminal. When the data measured by these sensors indicates a fault, the detection device D activates a protection function to isolate the terminal or transformer from the medium voltage power (e.g., using a circuit breaker).

[0205] The monitoring device M is configured to monitor operating parameters of the medium voltage grid MV and / or the low voltage grid LV. For example, the monitoring device M can obtain operating voltage, current in each phase of the connection between the substation 2 and one or both grids (MV and LV), etc.

[0206] Each of the virtual replicas R1 and R2 , the first application program A, and the second application program A′ is connected to the data bus 100 to communicate with each other using the data bus 100 .

[0207] Specifically, in one example, the control unit 10 executes the NATS server to assign corresponding URLs to each virtual replica and application. These URLs are used to send data to the corresponding virtual replica or application, thereby allowing the exchange of information acquired by each virtual replica and application, such as information from peripheral units, consumption data and / or data from balance meters, sensors, etc. acquired by the concentrator, data acquired by detection equipment, data on operating parameters monitored by the monitoring device M, etc. In addition, information processed by the application can also be provided to the virtual replica or other applications.

[0208] In this example, application A receives data from a virtual replica R1 of a concentrator and a virtual replica R2 of a monitoring device M, as will be explained below.

[0209] Now refer to Figure 4, application A receives as input a value I1 provided to virtual replica R1 and a value O1 output by virtual replica R1. Additionally, application A receives as input a value I2 provided to virtual replica R2(M) of the monitoring device and a value O2 output by virtual replica R2(M).

[0210] In this example, values ​​I1, I2, O1, and O2 are all broadcast over data bus 100 using NATS messages, and values ​​I1, I2, O1, and O2 are all sent to the URL of application A in addition to other intended targets (e.g., virtual copy R1 for value I1, virtual copy R2 of monitoring device M for value I2, etc.).

[0211] As an example, value I1 may be the value of low-voltage electric energy measured by a given electric energy meter 4, and value I2 may be the value of electric energy measured in the low-voltage grid LV at a point between substation 2 and electric energy meter 4. In other words, value I2 corresponds to the electric energy indicated by value I1 and the electric energy distributed to other electric energy meters 4, such that the ratio between I2 and I1 may be predetermined. Application A may determine whether value I1 is a predetermined ratio (or proportion) of value I2.

[0212] Similarly, the value O1 may be the sum of the medium voltage electrical energy at each terminal of the medium voltage grid MV, and the value O2 may indicate the temperature of a component near the terminal of the medium voltage grid MV. In this case, the application may determine whether the values ​​O1 and O2 correspond to each other.

[0213] Thus, application A can perform analysis of data received from at least one of the virtual copy R2 of monitoring device M, the virtual copy R2 of detection device D, and the virtual copy R1 of the concentrator to provide an additional layer of monitoring or determine whether a functional anomaly may have occurred in one of the virtual copies.

[0214] Now back Figure 3 , the control unit 10 may receive code data from the remote control unit 3 to execute the application A, and store the code data on the memory 16 for execution, or the code data may be stored in the memory 16 by other means (eg, pre-stored in the memory 16).

[0215] For application A', the control unit 10 receives code data from the remote control unit 3 and stores the code data in the memory 16. The control unit 10 then executes the computer-readable instructions in the received code data to perform the functions of application A'.

[0216] The application A' is configured to communicate with the virtual replica R2 of the peripheral unit P using NATS messages sent via the data bus 100. Furthermore, if the analysis performed by the application A' indicates a high risk of failure (e.g., a seismic event that could damage or disconnect a component), the application A' may send an alert of the risk of failure to the application or virtual replica on the control unit 10 or to the remote control unit 3.

[0217] For example, the peripheral unit P may include a meteorological or seismic sensor installed at the substation 2, in particular to provide data to be processed by the application A' installed on the device 1 in the substation 2 (i.e., stored in the memory 16). Thus, the application A' may be a program for monitoring specific environmental risks of particular importance to the substation 2, thereby supplementing the monitoring functions provided by the virtual replicas R1 and R2.

[0218] Thus, application A' provides a substation with customized monitoring / control functions to operate in conjunction with the customized sensing unit installed at the substation. Once the sensing unit is installed at the substation 2, the customized monitoring / control functions can be installed or updated on the device via the remote control unit 3 without the need for physical components or installation by operators.

[0219] In this example, each of the virtual replicas R1 , R2 and the applications A and A′ is a container based on a corresponding Docker package. Therefore, they can each operate independently of each other while exchanging information via the data bus 100 .

[0220] In some cases, for example, if fluctuations in data volume are difficult to accurately predict, the control unit 10 may not have sufficient resources (e.g., computing resources, such as computing time, memory 16, bandwidth on the data bus 100, and / or external to the device 1 via one of the first, second, and third connection means) to execute all virtual copies and applications. Thus, the control unit 10 categorizes the virtual copies or applications based on the operations they provide to prioritize critical operations and ensure that these operations are executed correctly.

[0221] As an example, the concentrator's virtual replica R1 and application A can be associated with category C1 for monitoring. Application A' can be associated with category C2 for failure risk alerts. The virtual replica R2 of the peripheral unit P (in this case, the sensing unit) can be associated with category C3 for logging data.

[0222] Categories C1, C2 and C3 may be determined to have priorities L1, L2 and L3 respectively. This determination may be based on a predetermined association between categories and their priorities, or the association information may be provided by the remote control unit 3 (e.g. when sending code data for a virtual copy or application).

[0223] Priority level L1 may prioritize by resources having the smallest guaranteed allocation.

[0224] Priority level L2 may have a guaranteed bandwidth for transmission to be used for all transmissions via the first connection means 11 .

[0225] Priority level L3 may have allocated memory resources and bandwidth for transmission on bus data 100 .

[0226] The updating of the application depends on the network infrastructure into which the device 1 is integrated, which obviously must be sufficient to manage it and meet the required use cases.

[0227] Regardless of the network access technology, a minimum bidirectional bandwidth of 2 Mb / s may be considered. In summary, it can be understood from the above description that certain exemplary embodiments perform processing operations to achieve the following: Figure 5 The method shown is performed by the device for controlling and monitoring as described above.

[0228] In step S50 , the control unit 10 generates a virtual replica R1 of the concentrator. The concentrator is configured to obtain consumption data from the energy meter 4 .

[0229] In step S51 , the control unit 10 generates a virtual replica R2 of at least one component C. The at least one component C is used to collect network data associated with the low voltage grid LV and / or the medium voltage grid MV.

[0230] In step S52 , the acquisition tool 15 acquires information from the at least one peripheral unit P.

[0231] In step S53 , the data bus 100 shares information and / or consumption data and / or network data in the data bus 100 to allow information and / or consumption data and / or network data to be exchanged between each virtual replica R1 , R2 and at least one peripheral unit P, thereby optimizing the efficiency of the medium voltage grid MV and / or the low voltage grid LV.

[0232] Modifications and variations

[0233] Although the grid is described as having alternating current (AC) power, it should be understood that the medium voltage grid MV and / or the low voltage grid LV can operate using direct current (DC) power. In some cases, the substation 2 may include means for converting AC power to DC power, and vice versa.

[0234] The device may have fewer or more virtual copies than described in the above embodiments.

[0235] In some cases, multiple copies of the same component's virtual copy may be used, and / or multiple replica applications may be executed in parallel, for redundancy and to ensure proper operation of the virtual copies and / or applications.

[0236] It should be understood that any of the applications A, A' may include a modular software architecture. Preferably, the modular software architecture includes one or more modules, each module being associated with a corresponding service to be provided by the application.

[0237] It should be understood that the application program A, A′ may include one or more programs associated with the remote terminal unit of the apparatus 1 .

[0238] It should be understood that the application programs A, A' may include one or more programs related to arc flash protection functionality for components of the substation 2 operating at medium voltage, such as the first switching section 20 .

[0239] It should be understood that the applications A, A' may include one or more programs to communicate with the energy meter 4 (i.e., smart meter) and support the communication protocol used by the one or more smart meters. For example, a separate program may be provided for each communication standard to be used by the smart meter. Thus, when the device supports a new communication standard, the new program can be easily installed via the remote control unit 3. Alternatively, a program serving as a universal translator may be configured to interface with the collection tool 15 and adapt the data exchanged with each smart meter to a common format that can be processed by the various virtual replicas and other applications implemented on the control unit 10.

[0240] It should be understood that the application programs A, A' may include one or more programs for fault detection functionality in the medium voltage grid. These programs may be configured to process data received from a data source coupled to the medium voltage grid (e.g., a remote sensing unit) and assist in fault location, for example, by implementing virtualized phasor measurement functionality. Similar functionality may be implemented for fault detection functionality in the low voltage grid, where data provided by the energy meter 4 may be used to locate the fault.

[0241] It should be understood that the application programs A, A' may include one or more programs for controlling a variable transformer coupled to the medium-voltage grid and / or the low-voltage grid. For example, these programs may send commands to control the amount of electric power (e.g., voltage, current, etc.) output by the variable transformer.

[0242] It should be understood that the applications A, A' may include one or more programs for managing environmental sensor data related to the environment in or near the substation and for transmitting the environmental sensor data to a centralized data collection system. For example, these programs may acquire information from temperature, humidity, and moisture sensors located in or near the substation 2 via the acquisition tool 15. These programs may process the data to obtain information defining the environment of the substation 2 and transmit the information to the remote control unit 3 via the first connection tool 11.

[0243] It will be understood that the application programs A, A′ may comprise one or more programs for remote backup functionality of the operating parameters of the apparatus 1 .

[0244] For example, when the device 1 is installed in the substation 2, or during maintenance or updates, various operating parameters of the device 1 can be collected and stored by these programs. These operating parameters may include, for example, a list or backup of the virtual copies it has generated or the values ​​of specific electrical quantities related to the substation, such as medium voltage and / or low voltage reference values. These programs can then cause the collected operating parameters to be sent to the remote control unit 3 via the network. Therefore, if the device 1 is to be replaced or reinitialized, the values ​​of the operating parameters on the remote control unit 3 can be used to easily restore the device (or its replacement) to the same operating state. These operating parameters can also be used at the remote control unit 3 to determine which data should be sent to the device 1 to update the program and virtual copies.

[0245] Thus, the program may cause the first connection means 11 to send a query to the remote control unit 3 for the value of the operating parameter, thereby restoring the apparatus 1 (or its replacement) to its previous state.

[0246] It should be understood that the transmission of (values ​​of) the above-mentioned operating parameters can be defined as a backup function, which can be repeatedly performed (for example, at predetermined intervals or when a predetermined event occurs, such as a request from the remote control unit, or the loss of the communication link with the peripheral unit P, or the detection of a potentially unsafe environment in the substation 2).

[0247] The backup function will also be understood as enabling the remote control unit 3 to generate a virtual copy (or twin) of the device 1 in order to monitor whether the device 1 operates correctly and / or whether a fault has occurred in the substation 2 .

Claims

1. A device (1) for controlling and monitoring a substation (2), wherein: The substation (2) is configured to convert medium-voltage electric energy in a medium-voltage grid (MV) into low-voltage electric energy in a low-voltage grid (LV). The low voltage power grid (LV) is provided with a plurality of electric energy meters (4), each electric energy meter (4) is associated with a corresponding electric power user and is used to measure the electric energy consumption of the electric power user. Wherein, the device (1) for controlling and monitoring comprises: - at least one control unit (10) provided with a data bus (100), - acquisition means (15) for acquiring information from at least one peripheral unit (P), Wherein, the at least one control unit (10) is configured to: o generating a virtual copy (R1) of a concentrator configured to acquire consumption data from each energy meter (4), o generating a virtual copy (R2) of at least one component (C), the at least one component (C) being used to collect network data associated with the low voltage network (LV) and / or the medium voltage network (MV), and o allowing the information and / or the consumption data and / or the network data to be exchanged between each virtual replica (R1, R2) and the at least one peripheral unit (P) via the data bus (100) in order to optimize the efficiency of the medium voltage network (MV) and / or the low voltage network (LV).

2. The device for controlling and monitoring (1) according to claim 1, in, The at least one component (C) comprises: a detection device (D) configured to detect a fault and / or an operational anomaly of the substation (2) and / or the medium voltage network (MV), and The virtual copy (R2) includes a virtual copy of the detection device (D).

3. The device for controlling and monitoring (1) according to claim 1 or 2, in, The at least one component (C) comprises a monitoring device (M) configured to monitor operating parameters of the medium voltage grid (MV) and / or the low voltage grid (LV), and The virtual copy (R2) includes a virtual copy of the monitoring device (M).

4. The device for controlling and monitoring (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, in, The device (1) for controlling and monitoring comprises first connection means (11) for connecting the device (1) for controlling and monitoring to a remote control unit (3), wherein the at least one component (C) comprises: a router (R) configured to enable the control unit (10) to communicate with the remote control unit (3) via the first connection means (11), The virtual copy (R2) includes a virtual copy of the router (R).

5. The device for controlling and monitoring (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The control unit (10) is further configured to: - associating each virtual copy (R1, R2) with a corresponding category (C1, C2) of operations on each virtual copy (R1, R2), - determine the priority (L1, L2) for each category (C1, C2), and - Managing the execution priority of each virtual copy (R1, R2) based on the priority (L1, L2).

6. The device for controlling and monitoring (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The control unit (10) is configured to: monitor the operating status of each virtual copy (R1, R2); and if the control unit (10) detects a functional abnormality in any virtual copy (R1, R2), generate another virtual copy (R1', R2') to replace the virtual copy (R1, R2) detected to have a functional abnormality.

7. The device for controlling and monitoring (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The control unit (10) is configured to execute at least one application (A) for controlling and / or monitoring at least one of the substation (2), the medium voltage grid (MV) and the low voltage grid (LV).

8. The device (1) for controlling and monitoring according to claim 7, wherein The device (1) for controlling and monitoring comprises first connection means (11) for connecting the device (1) for controlling and monitoring to a remote control unit (3), and The control unit (10) is further configured to: receive first code data via the first connection tool (11); and execute the at least one application (A) with the aid of the first code data.

9. The device for controlling and monitoring (1) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein: The information acquired by the acquisition tool (15) from the at least one peripheral unit (P) is information based on data generated by a sensing unit installed in the substation (2), wherein the application (A) is configured to process the information based on the data generated by the sensing unit.

10. The device (1) for controlling and monitoring according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein: The control unit (10) is further configured to allow direct exchange of information between the at least one peripheral unit (P) and the at least one application (A) via the data bus (100).

11. The device (1) for controlling and monitoring according to claim 9 or 10, wherein: The control unit (10) is configured to generate a virtual copy of the sensing unit.

12. The device for controlling and monitoring (1) according to any one of claims 7 to 11, wherein: One or more of the at least one application (A) is configured to analyze data received from at least one of the virtual copy of the monitoring device (M), the virtual copy of the detection device (D), and the virtual copy of the concentrator.

13. The device for controlling and monitoring (1) according to any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein: The control unit (10) is further configured to: - associating each of said at least one application with a respective category (C1, C2) of operations with respect to each application (A); - determine the priority (L1, L2) for each category (C1, C2), and - Managing the execution priority of each application (A) based on the priority levels (L1, L2).

14. Device (1) for controlling and monitoring according to any one of claims 7 to 13, wherein: The control unit (10) is further configured to allow asynchronous communication between the at least one application (A) and at least one further application (A') via Neural Automatic Transfer System (NATS) messages.

15. The device (1) for controlling and monitoring according to any one of claims 7 to 14, wherein: Each application (A) is a containerized type application, preferably based on a Snap or Docker package.

16. Device (1) for controlling and monitoring according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein: The control unit (10) is further configured to allow asynchronous communication between the virtual copy (R1) of the concentrator and the virtual copy of the at least one component (C) for collecting network data and / or any additional application via Neural Automatic Transport System (NATS) messages.

17. The device (1) for controlling and monitoring according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein: At least one or all of the virtual copies are containerized type applications, preferably based on Snap or Docker packages.

18. Device (1) for controlling and monitoring according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein The control unit (10) is further configured to: receive second code data via the first connection means (11); and execute at least one of the virtual copies (R1, R2) by means of the second code data.

19. The device for controlling and monitoring (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 18, further comprising: a second connection means (12) for connecting the device (1) for controlling and monitoring to at least one first switching portion (20) of the substation (2), the at least one first switching portion (20) being connected to the medium-voltage power grid (MV) and being configured to switch from a first position allowing the flow of medium-voltage power between the medium-voltage power grid (MV) and the substation (2) to a second position interrupting the flow of medium-voltage power, and A third connection means (13) for connecting the device (1) for controlling and monitoring to at least one second switching portion (21) of the substation (2), the at least one second switching portion (21) being connected to the low-voltage power grid (LV) and being configured to switch from a first position allowing the flow of low-voltage electric energy between the low-voltage power grid (LV) and the substation (2) to a second position interrupting the flow of low-voltage electric energy.

20. A method (5) for controlling and monitoring a substation (2) by means of the device (1) for controlling and monitoring according to any one of claims 1 to 19, the method (5) comprising the following steps: - generating (50) by the control unit (10) a virtual copy (R1) of a concentrator, wherein the concentrator is configured to obtain consumption data from each energy meter (4), - generating (51) a virtual copy (R2) of at least one component (C) by means of the control unit (10), wherein the at least one component (C) is used to collect network data associated with the low-voltage network (LV) and / or the medium-voltage network (MV), - collecting (52) information from at least one peripheral unit (P) by means of said collecting means (15), - sharing (53) the information and / or the consumption data and / or the network data in the data bus (100) via the data bus (100) to allow the exchange of the information and / or the consumption data and / or the network data between each virtual replica (R1, R2) and the at least one peripheral unit (P) in order to optimize the efficiency of the medium voltage network (MV) and / or the low voltage network (LV).

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