Distributed Electrical Interlocking for Source Changeover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing source change over systems face issues with complexity, cost, flexibility, and reliability due to centralized control of electrical interlocking, leading to installation challenges and reduced scalability.
Innovation Solution
A distributed electrical interlocking system using a token exchange method between switch disconnectors/circuit breakers, where the automatic transfer switch issues control commands and communicates through multiple interfaces, ensuring that only one breaker can possess the interlocking token at a time, allowing for flexible and reliable control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate electrical interlocking device is used to control breaker systems, then electrical interlocking between two breaker systems is ensured, but device complexity and installation wiring complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electrical interlocking function with the breaker system itself by embedding the interlocking logic within the breaker's control circuitry. The breaker system integrates the interlocking device, eliminating the need for separate external interlocking equipment while maintaining reliable electrical interlocking between breaker systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The breaker system is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the circuit protection device and the electrical interlocking control device. The breaker's control circuitry handles both breaker operation and interlocking logic, making the system more versatile and reducing overall system complexity.
2Reliability
If a separate electrical interlocking device is used, then electrical interlocking is achieved, but installation and wiring complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The interlocking function is combined with the breaker system, eliminating separate interlocking devices and reducing wiring requirements. This integration simplifies installation while maintaining the reliability of electrical interlocking through the breaker's built-in control circuitry.
3Reliability
If full control of actuators is taken by an external electrical interlocking device, then electrical interlocking is ensured, but flexibility to control breaker or switch disconnector is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The breaker system's control circuitry is designed to handle multiple control functions including local control, remote control, and electrical interlocking. This multi-functional design maintains flexibility in controlling the breaker or switch disconnector while ensuring reliable electrical interlocking through integrated logic.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention discloses a source change over system having distributed electrical interlocking. The source change over system includes an automatic transfer switch (ATS) for issuing control commands, multiple switch disconnectors communicatively coupled with the automatic transfer switch for tripping actuators for break operation based on the control commands, plurality of Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs), field bus communication interfaces and input output interfaces connected with each of the switch disconnectors. The switch disconnectors are interconnected by one or more communication channels and are embedded with the electrical interlock intelligence with a token exchange method.