DC Transformer Harmonic Error Detection With Self-Calibration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing DC transformer error detection apparatuses face challenges in accuracy and reliability due to long-distance transportation, rough handling, and the need for complex verification processes, especially under DC superimposed pulsating harmonic signals, which are costly and time-consuming, and lack efficient means for error detection in remote converter stations.

Innovation Solution

A DC transformer error detection apparatus with a DC and pulsating harmonic current output module, internal sampling circuit, self-calibrated standard resistor array, and error self-calibration module that uses Fourier transform algorithms for self-calibration, enabling accurate measurement and compensation of amplitude and angular differences in harmonic signals, reducing the need for external verification and minimizing manpower and time costs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the DC transformer error detection apparatus is verified and calibrated by a qualified institution using traditional DC source or AC source methods, then the verification accuracy can be ensured, but the verification process becomes complex and time-consuming, requiring multiple trips between the converter station and verification institution

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveverification accuracyVSAvoidverification time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-calibration capability within the error detection apparatus itself. The apparatus contains internal standard resistors and a calibration module that can automatically calibrate the detection circuit without external verification equipment. This eliminates the need for repeated trips to verification institutions while maintaining calibration accuracy, directly resolving the contradiction between verification accuracy and verification time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates preliminary calibration functions into the apparatus design, including pre-stored standard resistor values and automatic calibration routines that can be executed before field deployment. This preliminary preparation ensures the apparatus is ready for accurate measurements without requiring post-deployment verification trips, reducing time loss while maintaining measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If the DC transformer error detection apparatus is transported over long distances to remote converter stations, then the detection capability can be provided, but the accuracy may be affected by rough handling and transportation conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection capabilityVSAvoiddetection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements protective measures including shock-absorbing mounting structures for internal components, reinforced circuit board designs, and protective casing. These beforehand cushioning measures protect the sensitive detection circuits from damage during rough handling and transportation, maintaining detection accuracy while providing mobility to remote locations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent includes self-diagnosis and self-calibration functions that continuously monitor the apparatus condition. If transportation or handling causes drift in measurement accuracy, the system automatically detects this through internal reference standards and performs compensation or recalibration, maintaining reliability despite adverse transportation conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If traditional verification methods using DC source or AC source are used, then the verification process can be completed, but additional expensive high-precision AC/DC diverters are required for pulsating harmonic signals

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal type coverageVSAvoidverification equipment
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the error detection apparatus with multi-functionality to handle multiple signal types including DC signals, AC signals, and pulsating harmonic signals using the same detection circuitry. The apparatus includes configurable input channels and signal processing algorithms that adapt to different signal types, eliminating the need for separate verification equipment for different signal types and reducing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements adjustable detection parameters including frequency range selection, amplitude thresholds, and harmonic analysis settings that can be configured for different signal types. This parameter flexibility allows a single apparatus to verify DC transformers across the full spectrum from pure DC to pulsating harmonic signals without requiring additional specialized equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Measurement precision

If the DC transformer error detection apparatus is designed for high precision measurement, then the measurement accuracy is improved, but the apparatus size and weight increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidapparatus weight
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical verification equipment (large standard transformers, heavy calibration instruments) with electronic measurement and calibration circuits. The apparatus uses integrated ADC converters, digital signal processing, and software-based calibration algorithms to achieve high measurement precision without the bulk and weight of mechanical verification equipment, enabling portable deployment to remote converter stations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS12146925B2Direct current (DC) transformer error detection apparatus for pulsating harmonic signal
Publication Date: 2024.11.19 STATE GRID HUBEI MARKETING SERVICE CENT (MEASUREMENT CENT)
  • US12146925B2 patent drawing
  • US12146925B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides a direct current (DC) transformer error detection apparatus for a pulsating harmonic signal, including a DC and pulsating harmonic current output module and an external detected input module, where the DC and pulsating harmonic current output module outputs a DC and a DC superimposed pulsating harmonic current to an internal sampling circuit and a self-calibrated standard resistor array; and the internal sampling circuit converts the input DC and the input DC superimposed pulsating harmonic current into a voltage signal, and sends the voltage signal to an analog-to-digital (AD) sampling and measurement component through a front-end conditioning circuit and a detected input channel. The DC transformer error detection apparatus can complete self-calibration for measurement of the DC and the pulsating harmonic signal on a test site.