Method, monitoring system and transformer device

Abstract

A method (2) for monitoring structural degradation in a transformer arrangement (3) is disclosed. The transformer arrangement (3) comprises a transformer tank (10) and a transformer (12) enclosed by the transformer tank (10) and immersed in an insulating fluid inside the transformer tank (10). The method (2) is performed by a monitoring system (400) comprising a control unit (1), an actuator assembly (14) controllable to dynamically excite a transformer arrangement (3), and a sensor assembly (16) configured to detect a vibration response V in a transformer tank (10) of the transformer arrangement (3). The method (2) comprises the following by the control unit (1): controlling S1 the actuator assembly (14) to dynamically excite the transformer device (3), detecting S2 a vibration response V of the transformer device (3) via the sensor assembly (16), comparing S3 the vibration response V with a reference response R, and determining S4 a structural degradation of the transformer arrangement (3) in response to a comparison between the vibration response V and the reference response R exceeding a threshold. A monitoring system (400) and a transformer arrangement are also disclosed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a computer-implemented method, a monitoring system, and a transformer assembly for monitoring structural deterioration of a transformer and related wetted components included in a transformer assembly. In particular, this disclosure relates to mechanically exciting the transformer tank at at least one frequency and analyzing the vibration response. Background Technology

[0002] To provide early warning of initial faults, several solutions have been proposed to monitor transformer degradation in the form of winding clamping pressure relaxation, as well as other initial mechanical transformer faults associated with oil-immersed components in the transformer tank. However, current solutions are not robust or reliable enough for online monitoring and diagnostics. Some examples include: - Excitation of the winding using electrical pulses (direct excitation) - Utilizing, for example, the stimulation of the box by hammering. - The winding vibration frequency related to clamping pressure during normal operation. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Therefore, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide an improved method, an improved monitoring system, and an improved transformer device for mechanically exciting a transformer tank at at least one frequency using at least one actuator and simultaneously measuring the resulting tank vibration response using at least one sensor.

[0004] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, this objective is achieved at least in part by a computer-implemented method according to claim 1.

[0005] Therefore, a computer-implemented method is provided for monitoring structural degradation in a transformer assembly, the transformer assembly including a transformer tank and a transformer enclosed by the transformer tank and immersed in an electrically insulating fluid inside the transformer tank. The method is executed by a monitoring system including: a control unit, an actuator assembly for dynamically exciting the transformer assembly, and a sensor assembly configured to detect vibration responses in the transformer assembly. The method includes the following actions performed by the control unit: controlling the actuator assembly to dynamically exciting the transformer assembly; detecting the vibration response of the transformer assembly via the sensor assembly; comparing the vibration response with a reference response; and determining structural degradation of the transformer assembly in response to the comparison between the vibration response and the reference response exceeding a threshold.

[0006] The transformer can be a single-phase transformer or a multi-phase transformer. The transformer may include at least a primary winding and a secondary winding held between the top and bottom yokes of the transformer core by pressure plates. During transformer operation, the clamping pressure of the pressure plates may loosen, which could lead to a short-circuit accident. Other structural changes may also occur. The loosening of clamping pressure and other structural changes can be detected by the methods and monitoring systems described in this disclosure.

[0007] The actuator assembly may include at least one actuator (such as an electric vibrator) disposed on or inside the transformer tank. A control unit controls the actuator assembly to dynamically excite the transformer unit at at least one frequency. The term "dynamically excite" is understood to mean exciting vibration using a variable force, such as applying a sinusoidal varying force from the electric vibrator. This is the opposite of applying a constant force or pulse. By mechanically exciting the transformer unit using an electric vibrator and monitoring the resulting vibration response using standard vibration sensors, it is possible to identify initial potentially harmful changes in the mechanical properties of the active parts of the transformer, as well as initial potentially harmful changes in the mechanical properties of other mechanical substructures immersed in the insulating fluid.

[0008] Furthermore, the excitation of “transformer assembly” in this paper will be understood as the excitation of vibrations in the transformer box and / or in the transformer and its substructures (such as windings, pressure plates, cores, etc.).

[0009] Therefore, the sensor assembly may include at least one sensor and may be similarly arranged on or inside the transformer tank, configured to detect the vibration response caused by excited vibrations. The evolution of the frequency content of the vibration response, compared to a reference response, will reveal changes in the mechanical properties of the transformer unit's substructures. The sensor assembly may alternatively be arranged inside the transformer tank.

[0010] The threshold can be set based on the individual transformer and transformer tank configuration. If structural deterioration is determined, the control unit can indicate to the transformer unit's user or operator which substructures have deteriorated or require further investigation of the transformer unit's condition. Alternatively, the control unit can shut down the transformer.

[0011] The control unit can be configured to perform the method continuously or intermittently at predetermined intervals.

[0012] Optionally, the actuator assembly is controlled to dynamically excite the transformer device within a certain frequency range. Thus, the method can be a swept frequency response analysis (SFRA) method, where the actuator assembly excites the transformer device over a wide frequency range.

[0013] Alternatively, the actuator assembly can be controlled to excite the transformer assembly near frequencies of interest, such as the frequencies of symmetric and asymmetric resonant vibration modes of the transformer and transformer windings. Particularly high-energy axial resonant vibrations of the transformer windings (along the extension of the transformer windings) are known to occur at approximately twice the grid operating frequency, i.e., twice the frequency of 50 Hz or 60 Hz (e.g., at 100 Hz and 120 Hz). Structural changes can be expected at these frequencies due to fatigue of the transformer and / or transformer assembly substructures, but are not limited to these frequencies. Furthermore, the methods and monitoring systems of this disclosure allow for the study of radial resonant vibrations that are also excited during normal operation of the transformer.

[0014] Optionally, the frequency range is between 5 Hz and 5000 Hz.

[0015] Vibration responses caused by structural degradation can be unpredictable. A wide frequency range for exciting vibrations increases the opportunity to detect structural changes in the vibration response.

[0016] Optionally, when determining the structural degradation of the transformer device at a certain excitation frequency, the method further includes: exciting vibration at a higher resolution frequency near said frequency.

[0017] Exciting vibrations at higher resolution frequencies is understood to mean exciting vibrations with smaller increment steps near the frequencies of interest, in order to better characterize the deviation of the vibration response from the reference response.

[0018] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, this objective is achieved at least in part by the monitoring system according to claim 5.

[0019] Therefore, a monitoring system for monitoring structural deterioration in a transformer unit is provided. The monitoring system includes: a control unit, an actuator assembly controllable by the control unit to dynamically excite the transformer tank, and a sensor assembly configured to detect vibration response in the transformer tank. The control unit is configured to: control the actuator assembly to dynamically excite the transformer unit, detect the vibration response of the transformer unit by the sensor assembly, compare the vibration response with a reference response, and determine structural deterioration of the transformer unit in response to the comparison between the vibration response and the reference response exceeding a threshold.

[0020] As described above, the actuator assembly of the monitoring system may include at least one actuator, such as an electric vibrator. The sensor assembly may include at least one vibration sensor, such as a fiber optic accelerometer. The control unit may have processing capabilities and may be configured to communicate wirelessly or via cable with the actuator assembly and sensor assembly to perform the actions of the method. The monitoring system may further include visual or auditory indicators (such as graphic displays, speakers, etc.) to display status and / or alert operators and users of the transformer unit to structural deterioration of the transformer unit. The control unit may further control a switch to shut down the transformer in the event of an emergency structural change.

[0021] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, this objective is achieved at least in part by the transformer device according to claim 6.

[0022] Therefore, a transformer apparatus is provided, comprising: a transformer tank; a transformer enclosed by the transformer tank and immersed in an electrically insulating fluid inside the transformer tank; and a monitoring system according to any one of the embodiments of the second aspect of this disclosure. The control unit of the monitoring system is configured to perform the method of any one of the embodiments of the first aspect of this disclosure.

[0023] Therefore, the transformer assembly may include a conventional transformer box and transformer, which are further arranged together with the monitoring system described in the second aspect of this disclosure.

[0024] Optionally, the transformer box is formed and includes walls, a base, and a cover, with the walls extending between the base and the cover, and the walls including reinforcing beams and plate areas between the beams.

[0025] The transformer tank cover is made of a relatively thick material, such as steel >30 mm thick. The cover may include openings for servicing and inspection, as well as bushings for electrical connection to the transformer inside the tank. The cover is positioned relative to the top pressure plate near the transformer windings.

[0026] The base of the transformer enclosure is also made of a relatively thick material, such as steel >30-40 mm thick. The transformer is arranged upright on the base inside the transformer enclosure. Therefore, there is a strong mechanical connection between the base and the transformer.

[0027] The reinforcing beams strengthen the walls and also suppress vibrations generated by the windings during transformer operation. These vibrations are transmitted to the walls via the insulating fluid surrounding the transformer inside the tank. The plate area will be understood as the portion of the wall between the beams.

[0028] Optionally, the actuator assembly is mounted on at least one beam of the transformer tank wall. When vibration is excited by the actuator assembly, the beam provides strong excitation and mechanical coupling to the transformer tank.

[0029] Optionally, the actuator assembly is mounted on the cover of the transformer tank. When vibrations are excited by the actuator assembly, the relatively thick material of the cover provides strong excitation and mechanical coupling to the transformer tank.

[0030] Optionally, the actuator assembly is mounted on the base of the transformer tank. When vibration is excited by the actuator assembly, the relatively thick material of the base provides strong excitation and mechanical coupling to the transformer tank. Furthermore, the direct mechanical connection between the base and the transformer results in less dependence on the transmission of vibration through the insulating fluid.

[0031] Optionally, the sensor assembly is mounted on at least one plate area of ​​the transformer tank wall and arranged away from adjacent beams. Mounting the sensor assembly on the field area provides localized readings of the vibration response.

[0032] Alternatively, the sensor assembly is mounted on the cover of the transformer tank. Compared to other parts of the transformer tank, the cover is positioned relatively close to the top of the windings. Therefore, mounting the sensor assembly provides a more accurate reading of the transformer's structural deterioration.

[0033] Alternatively, the sensor assembly is mounted on the base of the transformer tank. The direct mechanical connection between the base and the transformer results in less reliance on vibrations transmitted through the insulating fluid. Consequently, readings from sensors mounted on the base can be more accurate.

[0034] Optionally, the sensor assembly is mounted inside the transformer tank. The sensor assembly can be directly mounted on the transformer, such as on the transformer windings or pressure plates. The sensor can be configured to communicate wirelessly with a control unit outside the transformer tank, such as through electromagnetic coupling between LC circuits. The sensor can be further arranged and configured to extend along the electric field lines of the operating transformer to reduce interference potentials across the sensor.

[0035] According to the fourth aspect of this disclosure, this objective is achieved at least in part by the computer program product according to claim 15.

[0036] Therefore, a computer program product is provided, including program code that, when executed by a control unit, performs the method of any one of the embodiments of the first aspect of this disclosure.

[0037] According to the fifth aspect of this disclosure, this objective is achieved at least in part by the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium according to claim 16.

[0038] Therefore, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided, including instructions that, when executed by a control unit of the second aspect of the present disclosure, cause the control unit to perform any of the methods in the embodiments of the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0039] The control unit can be connected to a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having a computer program product thereon, the computer program product including code for causing the control unit to perform the methods of this disclosure. The control unit can use the software / computer program product to control the excitation of vibrations in the transformer tank. The computer program is configured to cause the control unit to run the method in the most efficient possible manner. The computer program and control unit can perform data acquisition and signal processing, and run algorithms to evaluate whether changes in the recorded vibration spectrum are due to initial degradation. The assessment of structural degradation may involve machine learning.

[0040] As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the foregoing aspects, the appended claims, and / or the examples described herein above and hereinafter below can be appropriately combined with each other.

[0041] Additional features and advantages are disclosed in the following description, claims and drawings, and will in part be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from therein or to be recognized by practice of the disclosure as described herein. Attached Figure Description

[0042] Further objects and advantages of this disclosure, as well as its features, will become apparent from the following description of one or more embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 A flowchart of a method according to a first aspect of this disclosure is shown.

[0043] Figure 2 An exemplary graph showing the vibration response of a transformer device compared to a reference response according to a third aspect of this disclosure is shown.

[0044] Figure 3 A schematic example of a monitoring system according to the second aspect of this disclosure is shown.

[0045] Figure 4 An example of a transformer device according to the third aspect of this disclosure is shown.

[0046] Figure 5 A perspective view of an exemplary transformer device according to a third aspect of this disclosure is shown.

[0047] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a computer system used to implement the examples in this article is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0048] The present disclosure is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate examples of embodiments. This disclosure should not be construed as limiting itself to the examples described. Throughout the description, similar numbers refer to similar elements. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects of the disclosure only and is not intended to limit the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

[0049] Figure 1 A flowchart illustrating a method 2 for monitoring structural deterioration in a transformer assembly 3 according to a first aspect of this disclosure is shown. The transformer assembly 3 includes a transformer tank 10 and a transformer 12 enclosed by the transformer tank 10 and immersed in an electrically insulating fluid inside the transformer tank 10. Method 2 is performed by a monitoring system 400, which includes: a control unit 1, an actuator assembly 14 controllable to dynamically arouse the transformer assembly 3, and a sensor assembly 16 configured to detect a vibration response V in the transformer tank 10 of the transformer assembly 3. Method 2 includes the following actions performed by the control unit 1: controlling the actuator assembly 14 to dynamically arouse the transformer assembly 3; detecting the vibration response V of the transformer assembly 3 via the sensor assembly 16; comparing the vibration response V with a reference response R; and determining structural deterioration of the transformer assembly 3 in response to the comparison between the vibration response V and the reference response R exceeding a threshold.

[0050] The reference response R is the nominal vibration response of a particular transformer unit 3, initially measured and recorded at a certain excitation frequency range when the unit is installed for service or after maintenance or repair.

[0051] Actuator assembly 14 may include at least one actuator (such as an electric vibrator) arranged on transformer tank 10. Control unit 1 controls actuator assembly 14 to dynamically excite transformer assembly 3 at at least one frequency. By mechanically exciting transformer tank 10 using an electric vibrator and monitoring the resulting vibration response V using a standard vibration sensor, it is possible to identify initial and potentially harmful changes in the mechanical characteristics of the active portion of transformer 12, as well as initial and potentially harmful changes in the mechanical characteristics of other mechanical substructures immersed in insulating fluid.

[0052] Therefore, sensor assembly 14 may include at least one sensor and may be similarly arranged on transformer tank 10 and configured to detect the vibration response V caused by the excited vibration in S2. When compared with a reference response R in S3, the evolution of the frequency content of the vibration response V will reveal changes in the mechanical properties of the substructure of the transformer assembly 3.

[0053] The threshold can be set depending on the individual transformer unit 3 and transformer tank 10 configuration. If structural degradation of S4 is determined, control unit 1 can indicate to the user or operator of the transformer unit which substructures have deteriorated or require further investigation of the condition of transformer unit 3. Alternatively, control unit 1 can shut down transformer 12. Control unit 1 can be configured to execute method 2 continuously or intermittently at predetermined intervals.

[0054] The actuator assembly 14 can be controlled S1 to excite vibrations in the transformer box 10 within a certain frequency range. Therefore, method 2 can be a swept frequency response analysis (SFRA) method, in which the actuator assembly 14 excites the transformer device 3 over a wide frequency range.

[0055] Alternatively, actuator assembly 14 can be controlled S1 to excite transformer assembly 3 near frequencies of interest, such as the frequencies of symmetric and asymmetric resonant vibration modes of transformer 12 and transformer windings. Particularly high-energy axial resonant vibrations of transformer windings (along the extension of the transformer windings) are known to occur at approximately twice the grid operating frequency, i.e., twice the frequency of 50 Hz or 60 Hz (e.g., at 100 Hz and 120 Hz). Structural changes can be expected at these frequencies due to fatigue of the substructures of transformer 12 and / or transformer assembly 3. Furthermore, method 2 and monitoring system 400 of this disclosure allow for the study of radial resonant vibrations also excited during normal operation of transformer 12.

[0056] The frequency range can be between 5 Hz and 5000 Hz. The vibration response V caused by structural degradation can be difficult to predict. Therefore, a wide frequency range for exciting vibrations can increase the chance of detecting structural changes in the S2 vibration response V.

[0057] When structural degradation of the S4 transformer device 3 is determined at a certain excitation frequency, method 2 may further include: exciting vibration at a higher resolution frequency near the stated frequency. Exciting vibration at a higher resolution frequency is understood to mean exciting vibration with a smaller increment step near the frequency of interest in order to better characterize the deviation of the vibration response V from the reference response R.

[0058] Figure 2An exemplary diagram depicts the vibration response V according to the third aspect of this disclosure, compared to a reference response R of the transformer assembly 3. The vibration response V and the reference response R are measured in meters (m) for the displacement of the structure of the transformer assembly 3 over a certain range of excitation frequencies. The reference response R is shown as a solid line and characterizes the vibration response of a newly installed transformer assembly 3 with a specific individual configuration of components, devices, connections, and locations. The exemplary vibration response V is shown as a dashed line, deviating from the reference response R curve at certain excitation frequencies. These deviations indicate structural changes in the transformer assembly 3 due to the deterioration of structural parts of the transformer assembly over time.

[0059] Figure 3 A schematic example of a monitoring system 400 for monitoring structural deterioration in a transformer assembly 3 according to a second aspect of this disclosure is shown. The monitoring system 400 includes at least: a control unit 1, an actuator assembly 14 controllable by the control unit 1 to dynamically excite a transformer tank 10, and a sensor assembly 16 configured to detect a vibration response V in the transformer tank 10. The control unit 1 is configured to: control the actuator assembly 14 to dynamically excite the transformer assembly 3, detect the vibration response V of the transformer assembly 3 by the sensor assembly 16, compare the vibration response V with a reference response R, and determine structural deterioration of the transformer assembly 3 in response to the comparison between the vibration response V and the reference response R exceeding a threshold.

[0060] As stated above, the actuator assembly 14 of the monitoring system 400 may include at least one actuator, such as an electric vibrator. The sensor assembly 16 may include at least one vibration sensor. The control unit 1 may have processing capabilities and may be configured to communicate wirelessly or via cable with the actuator assembly 14 and the sensor assembly 16 to perform the actions of method 2. The monitoring system 400 may further include visual and / or auditory indicators (such as graphic displays, speakers, etc.) to display status and / or alert the operator and user of the transformer assembly 3 to structural deterioration of the transformer assembly 3. The control unit 1 may further control a switch to shut down the transformer 12 upon detection of a structural change requiring immediate operator attention.

[0061] Figure 4 A conceptual diagram of an example of a transformer apparatus 3 according to a third aspect of this disclosure is shown. The transformer apparatus 3 includes a transformer tank 10, a transformer 12 enclosed by the transformer tank 10 and immersed in an insulating fluid inside the transformer tank 10, and a monitoring system 400 according to a second aspect of this disclosure. The control unit 1 of the monitoring system 400 is configured to perform the method 2 of the first aspect of this disclosure.

[0062] Therefore, the transformer assembly 3 may include a conventional transformer box 10 and a transformer 12, which are further combined with those described above. Figure 3 The described monitoring system 400 is arranged together. The actuator assembly 14 may include at least one actuator, and the sensor assembly 16 may include at least one sensor.

[0063] Transformer 12 can be a single-phase transformer or a multi-phase transformer. Figure 4 The diagram conceptually illustrates a three-phase transformer 12 having three phase windings 12a, 12b, and 12c. The transformer 12 may include at least a pressure plate 12d (only one of six pressure plates is composed of…). Figure 4 (The reference figures in the text indicate the primary and secondary windings clamped between the top yoke 12e and the bottom yoke 12f of the transformer core.) During operation of the transformer 12, the clamping pressure of the pressure plates may loosen, which could lead to unwanted short-circuit events. Other structural changes may also occur. The loosening of the clamping pressure and other structural changes can be detected by the method 2 and monitoring system 400 described in this disclosure.

[0064] The transformer box may be formed and include a wall 18, a base 20, and a cover 22. The wall 18 extends between the base 20 and the cover 22 and includes a reinforcing beam 24. Figure 5 ) and the slab area 26 between beam 24 ( Figure 5 ).

[0065] The cover 22 of the transformer box 10 may be made of a relatively thick material, such as steel >30 mm thick. The cover 22 is shown conceptually only in the drawings, but may include openings for service and inspection, as well as bushings for electrical connection to the transformer inside the box. The cover 22 is located opposite the top pressure plate 12d of the windings 12a, 12b, 12c of the transformer 12.

[0066] The base 20 of the transformer housing 10 is also made of a relatively thick material, such as steel >30-40 mm thick. The transformer 12 is arranged inside the transformer housing 10, standing upright on the base 20. Therefore, there is a strong mechanical connection between the base 20 and the transformer 12.

[0067] The reinforcing beams 24 conventionally strengthen the wall 18 and also suppress vibrations of the wall 18 that occur during the operation of the transformer 12 caused by the vibrations of the windings 12a, 12b, and 12c. These vibrations are transmitted to the wall 18 via the insulating fluid surrounding the transformer 12 within the transformer housing 10. Plate areas 26 will be understood as portions of the wall 18, which are exposed between the beams 24.

[0068] refer to Figure 5The actuator assembly 14 is illustrated as including two actuators 14a and 14b, which can be mounted on at least one beam 24 of the wall 18 of the transformer tank 10. When vibrations in the transformer tank 10 / transformer assembly 3 are excited by the actuator assembly 14, the beam 24 can provide strong excitation and mechanical coupling to the transformer tank 10.

[0069] The sensor assembly 16 is illustrated as comprising three sensors 16a, 16b, and 16c, which can be mounted on the cover 22 of the transformer housing 10. The cover 22 is arranged relatively close to the tops of the windings 12a, 12b, and 12c compared to other parts of the transformer housing 10 that are positioned further away. Therefore, mounting the sensor assembly 16 on the cover 22, due to its proximity to the windings 12a, 12b, 12c and the upper pressure plate 12d, provides a more accurate reading of the structural deterioration of the transformer.

[0070] Alternatively (but not illustrated in the figures), actuator assembly 14 may be mounted on cover 22 of transformer housing 10. When vibration is aroused by actuator assembly 14, the relatively thick material of cover 22 provides strong excitation and mechanical coupling to transformer housing 10.

[0071] Alternatively (but not illustrated in the figures), actuator assembly 14 may be mounted on base 20 of transformer housing 10. When vibration is excited by actuator assembly 14, the relatively thick material of base 20 provides strong excitation and mechanical coupling to transformer housing 10. Furthermore, the direct mechanical connection between base 20 and transformer 12 results in less reliance on the transmission of vibrations through insulating fluid.

[0072] Alternatively (but not illustrated in the figures), the sensor assembly 16 may be mounted on at least one plate area 26 of the transformer tank wall 18 and arranged away from the adjacent beam 24. Mounting the sensor assembly 16 on the plate area 26 may provide more information about the local vibration response.

[0073] Alternatively (but not illustrated in the figures), the sensor assembly 16 may be mounted on the base 20 of the transformer housing 10. The direct mechanical connection between the base 20 and the transformer 12 results in less reliance on vibrations transmitted through an insulating fluid. Consequently, readings from the sensor mounted on the base can be more accurate.

[0074] Alternatively (but not illustrated in the figures), sensor assembly 16 is mounted inside transformer tank 10. Sensor assembly 16 may be directly mounted on transformer 12, such as on transformer windings 12a, 12b, 12c or on pressure plate 12d. Sensor assembly 16 may be configured to wirelessly communicate with control unit 1 outside transformer tank 10, such as through electromagnetic coupling between LC circuits and through a wireless array of LC circuits. Sensor assembly 16 may be further arranged and configured to extend along the electric field lines of the operating transformer 12 in order to reduce interference potentials across sensor assembly 16.

[0075] According to the fourth aspect of this disclosure, this objective is achieved at least in part by the computer program product according to claim 15.

[0076] Therefore, a computer program product is provided, including program code that, when executed by a control unit, performs the method of any one of the embodiments of the first aspect of this disclosure.

[0077] According to the fifth aspect of this disclosure, this objective is achieved at least in part by the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium according to claim 16.

[0078] Therefore, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided, including instructions that, when executed by a control unit of the second aspect of the present disclosure, cause the control unit to perform any of the methods in the embodiments of the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0079] The control unit can be connected to a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having a computer program product thereon, the computer program product including code for causing the control unit to perform the methods of this disclosure. The control unit can use the software / computer program product to control the excitation of vibrations in the transformer tank. The computer program is configured to cause the control unit to run the method in the most efficient possible manner. The computer program and control unit can perform data acquisition and signal processing, and run algorithms to evaluate whether changes in the recorded vibration spectrum are due to initial degradation. The assessment of structural degradation may involve machine learning.

[0080] Figure 6This is a schematic diagram of a monitoring system 400 for implementing the examples disclosed herein. The monitoring system 400 is adapted to execute instructions from a computer-readable medium to perform these and / or any functions or processes described herein. The monitoring system 400 may be connected (e.g., networked) to other machines in a LAN, intranet, extranet, or the Internet. Although only a single device is illustrated, the monitoring system 400 may include any collection of devices that individually or jointly execute a set (or more sets) of instructions to perform any or more of the methods discussed herein. Therefore, any references in this disclosure and / or the claims to monitoring systems, computing systems, computer devices, computing apparatuses, control systems, control units 1, electronic control units (ECUs), processor devices, etc., include references to one or more such devices to individually or jointly execute a set (or more sets) of instructions to perform any or more of the methods discussed herein. For example, the monitoring system 400 may include a single control unit 1 or multiple control units 1 connected to or otherwise communicatively coupled to each other, such that any performed functions can be distributed among the control units 1 as needed. Furthermore, such devices can communicate with each other or with other devices through various system architectures, such as directly or via a controller area network (CAN) bus.

[0081] The monitoring system 400 may include at least one computing or electronic device capable of including firmware, hardware, and / or executing software instructions to implement the functions described herein. The monitoring system 400 may include a processor device 402 (also referred to as control unit 1), a memory 404, and a system bus 406. The monitoring system 400 may include at least one computing device having the processor device 402. The system bus 406 provides interfaces for system components, including but not limited to the memory 404 and the processor device 402. The processor device 402 may include any number of hardware components for performing data or signal processing or for executing computer code in the memory 404. The processor device 402 (e.g., control unit 1) may include, for example, those designed to perform the functions described herein, such as: a general-purpose processor, a special-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a circuit containing processing components, a set of distributed processing components, a set of distributed computers configured for processing, or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof. The processor device may further include computer-executable code that controls the operation of the programmable device.

[0082] System bus 406 can be any of several types of bus architectures, which can be further interconnected to a memory bus, peripheral bus, and / or local bus (with or without a memory controller) using any of a variety of bus architectures. Memory 404 can be one or more means for storing data and / or computer code to perform or facilitate the methods described herein. Memory 404 may include database components, object code components, script components, or other types of information structures for supporting the various activities described herein. Furthermore, any distributed or local memory device can be utilized with the systems and methods described herein. Memory 404 may be communicatively connected to processor device 402 / control unit 1 (e.g., via circuitry or any other wired, wireless, or network connection) and may include computer code for performing one or more processes described herein. Memory 404 may include non-volatile memory 408 (e.g., read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), etc.) and volatile memory 410 (e.g., random access memory (RAM)), or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures and can be accessed by a computer or other machine having processor device 402. Basic Input / Output System (BIOS) 412 may reside in non-volatile memory 408 and may include basic routines that facilitate the transfer of information between elements within monitoring system 400.

[0083] The monitoring system 400 may further include or be coupled to a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium (such as storage device 414), which may include, for example, an internal or external hard disk drive (HDD) (e.g., an enhanced integrated drive electronics (EIDE) or a Serial Advanced Technology Accessory (SATA)), an HDD for storage (e.g., EIDE or SATA), flash memory, etc. Storage device 414 and other drives associated with computer-readable and computer-usable media can provide non-volatile storage of data, data structures, computer-executable instructions, etc.

[0084] Several modules may be implemented as software and / or hard-coded in a circuit system to perform all or part of the functions described herein. These modules may reside in storage device 414 and / or volatile memory 410, which may include operating system 416 and / or one or more program modules 418. All or part of the examples disclosed herein may be implemented as a computer program product 420 on a transient or non-transitory computer-usable or computer-readable storage medium (e.g., a single medium or multiple media) (such as storage device 414), which includes complex programming instructions (e.g., complex computer-readable program code) to cause processor device 402 to perform the steps described herein. Thus, the computer-readable program code may include software instructions for performing the functions of the examples described herein when executed by processor device 402 (control unit 1). Processor device 402 may be used as a controller or control unit 1 for monitoring system 400, which will perform the functions described herein.

[0085] The monitoring system 400 may also include an input device interface 422 (e.g., an input device interface and / or an output device interface). The input device interface 422 may be configured to receive inputs and selections to be conveyed to the monitoring system 400 when commands are executed (e.g., from a keyboard, mouse, touch-sensitive surface, etc.). Such input devices may be connected to the processor device 402 / control unit 1 via the input device interface 422 coupled to the system bus 406, but may also be connected via other interfaces (e.g., parallel ports, IEEE 1394 serial ports, Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports, IR interfaces, etc.). The monitoring system 400 may include an output device interface 424 configured to forward outputs, such as to a display, video display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a cathode ray tube (CRT)). The monitoring system 400 may also include a communication interface 426 suitable for communicating with a network, as appropriate or as required.

[0086] The operational steps described in any of the exemplary aspects herein are described to provide examples and discussion. These steps may be performed by hardware components, may be embodied in machine-executable instructions to cause a processor to perform these steps, or may be performed by a combination of hardware and software. While a particular order of method steps may be shown or described, the order of steps may differ. Furthermore, two or more steps may be performed simultaneously, or in a partially simultaneous manner.

[0087] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will be further understood that, when used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” and / or “including” specify the presence of the stated features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0088] It will be understood that although the terms first, second, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element.

[0089] Relative terms (such as "below" or "above," or "upper" or "lower," or "horizontal" or "vertical") may be used herein to describe the relationship between one element and another, as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that these terms, as well as those discussed above, are intended to cover different orientations of the device in addition to those depicted in the figures. It will be understood that when an element is described as "connected" or "coupled" to another element, it may be directly connected or coupled to the other element, or an intervening element may be present. In contrast, when an element is described as "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another element, no intervening element is present.

[0090] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It will be further understood that the terms used herein shall be interpreted as having the same meaning as they have in the context of this specification and related art, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein.

[0091] It will be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the aspects described above and illustrated in the accompanying drawings; rather, those skilled in the art will recognize that many changes and modifications can be made within the scope of this disclosure and the appended claims. Aspects have been disclosed in the drawings and description for illustrative purposes only and not for limiting purposes, and the scope of the inventive concept is set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A computer-implemented method (2) for monitoring structural deterioration in a transformer assembly (3), the transformer assembly comprising a transformer tank (10) and a transformer (12) enclosed by the transformer tank (10) and immersed in an electrically insulating fluid inside the transformer tank (10), the method being performed by a monitoring system (400) comprising: The control unit (1), actuator assembly (14), and sensor assembly (16), the actuator assembly being controllable to dynamically excite the transformer assembly (3), the sensor assembly being configured to detect vibration response (V) in the transformer tank (10) of the transformer assembly (3), the method (2) comprising the following performed by the control unit (1): - Control (S1) the actuator assembly (14) dynamically actuates the transformer device (3), - The vibration response (V) of the transformer device (3) is detected (S2) via the sensor assembly (16). - Compare the vibration response (V) with the reference response (R) (S3), and - The structural deterioration of the transformer device (3) is determined (S4) in response to the comparison between the vibration response (V) and the reference response (R) exceeding a threshold.

2. The method (2) according to claim 2, wherein, The actuator assembly (14) is controlled to dynamically excite the transformer device (3) within a certain frequency range.

3. The method (2) according to claim 2, wherein, The frequency range is between 5 Hz and 5000 Hz.

4. The method (2) according to any one of claims 2 to 3, wherein, When it is determined that the structure of the transformer device (3) deteriorates at a certain excitation frequency (S4), vibration is further excited (S5) at a higher resolution frequency near the said frequency.

5. A monitoring system (400) for monitoring structural deterioration in a transformer assembly (3), the monitoring system (400) comprising: The control unit (1), actuator assembly (14), and sensor assembly (16), the actuator assembly being controllable by the control unit (1) to dynamically excite the transformer box (10), the sensor assembly being configured to detect vibration response (V) in the transformer box (10), and the control unit (1) being configured to: - Control the actuator assembly (14) to dynamically actuate the transformer device (3). - The vibration response (V) of the transformer device (3) is detected by the sensor assembly (16). - Compare the vibration response (V) with the reference response (R), and - Structural degradation of the transformer device (3) is determined in response to the comparison between the vibration response (V) and the reference response (R) exceeding a threshold (T).

6. A transformer device (3), comprising: A transformer box (10), a transformer (12) enclosed by the transformer box (10) and immersed in an electrically insulating fluid inside the transformer box (10), the transformer assembly further comprising a monitoring system (400) according to claim 5.

7. The transformer device (3) according to claim 6, wherein, The transformer box (10) is formed and includes a wall (18), a base (20) and a cover (22), the wall (18) extending between the base (20) and the cover (22), and the wall (18) includes a reinforcing beam (24) and a plate area (26) between the beam (24).

8. The transformer device (3) according to claim 7, wherein, The actuator assembly (14) is mounted on at least one beam (24) of the wall (18) of the transformer box (10).

9. The transformer device (3) according to any one of claims 7 to 8, wherein, The actuator assembly (14) is mounted on the cover (22) of the transformer box (10).

10. The transformer device (3) according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein, The actuator assembly (14) is mounted on the base (20) of the transformer box (10).

11. The transformer device (3) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein, The sensor assembly (16) is mounted on at least one plate area (26) of the transformer tank wall (18) and arranged away from the adjacent beam (24).

12. The transformer device (3) according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein, The sensor assembly (16) is mounted on the cover (22) of the transformer box (10).

13. The transformer device (3) according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein, The sensor assembly (16) is mounted on the base (20) of the transformer box (10).

14. The transformer device (3) according to claim 7, wherein, The sensor assembly (16) is installed inside the transformer box (10).

15. A computer program product (420) comprising program code, which, when executed by the control unit (1), performs the method according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

16. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium (414) comprising instructions that, when executed by the control unit (1), cause the control unit (1) according to claim 5 to perform the method (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

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