Coordinated Voltage Control for Power Systems

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electric power systems face challenges in coordinating voltage control and minimizing interaction between voltage control modules, particularly in systems with multiple substations and loads, which can lead to destabilization and inefficiencies in reactive power distribution.

Innovation Solution

A method and system for coordinated voltage control that involves determining the operating mode of voltage control modules based on network configuration, using proportional-integral-derivative algorithms to adjust set points of automatic voltage regulators, and implementing a set point correction coefficient to minimize interactions between high and low-level control modules, while ensuring proportional sharing of reactive power and maintaining voltage stability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple voltage control modules are used in parallel across multiple substations, then voltage control coverage and system reliability are improved, but interaction and potential destabilization between modules increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevoltage control reliabilityVSAvoidcontrol module interaction complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the voltage control system into hierarchical levels (primary local control at each substation, secondary regional control, and tertiary central control). Each level operates semi-independently with defined boundaries, allowing multiple control modules to function in parallel without excessive interaction. The segmentation creates clear zones of control responsibility while maintaining overall system coordination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces intermediary control elements and communication protocols that mediate between multiple voltage control modules. These intermediaries coordinate the operations of parallel control modules, manage information exchange, and prevent destabilizing interactions while maintaining the benefits of distributed control coverage and reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If reactive power distribution is optimized across substations, then system efficiency is improved, but control coordination complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem efficiencyVSAvoidcontrol coordination complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic reactive power distribution control that automatically adjusts control strategies based on real-time system conditions. The control system dynamically optimizes reactive power flow across substations to maximize efficiency while adapting to changing load patterns and system states, reducing the need for complex static coordination arrangements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes parameter changes in voltage levels, reactive power outputs, and control setpoints to optimize system efficiency. By dynamically adjusting these parameters across multiple substations according to system conditions, the control system achieves efficient reactive power distribution without requiring overly complex coordination mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Stability of the object's composition

If voltage control set points are adjusted frequently to maintain stability, then voltage stability is improved, but control system wear and tear increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevoltage stabilityVSAvoidcontrol mechanism lifespan
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial control actions by adjusting voltage control set points only when and where necessary to maintain stability, rather than frequently adjusting all control parameters system-wide. This selective approach maintains voltage stability while minimizing unnecessary control mechanism operations and extending their operational lifespan.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements preliminary control actions that anticipate voltage stability issues before they occur. By detecting early signs of voltage deviations and applying corrective control adjustments proactively, the system maintains stability while avoiding the need for frequent reactive adjustments that would increase wear on control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Data Source

PatentUS10116135B1Method and apparatus for voltage control in electric power systems
Publication Date: 2018.10.30 STATISTICS & CONTROL
  • US10116135B1 patent drawing
  • US10116135B1 patent drawing
  • US10116135B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for controlling voltage for an electric power system comprising: at least two substations and at least one load using voltage control devices, with one voltage control module required for each substation with appropriate control elements for OLTC equipped transformers or turbo generator's automatic voltage regulators. Utilizing the system, methods of the like have the purpose of controlling the distribution of reactive power to minimize power losses, maintain each busbar voltage in accordance to selected set point, maintain active and reactive power reserves, and minimizing the reactive power drawn from the transmission system.