Dynamic Line Rating Using Phase Vectors to Estimate Conductor Temperature
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the maximum current rating of power lines are overly conservative due to reliance on 'worst-case' environmental conditions, leading to underutilization of power line capacity and require extensive measurement units for conductor temperature monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic line rating determination apparatus that calculates the dynamic maximum current rating using measured voltage and current phase vectors at two ends of a power line, applying them to a power line model to estimate real-time conductor temperature and predict steady-state temperature, thereby eliminating the need for ambient weather or conductor temperature measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional methods use worst-case environmental conditions to determine maximum current rating, then reliability is improved, but power line capacity utilization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic line rating that continuously updates the maximum current rating based on real-time environmental conditions and conductor temperature, replacing the static worst-case approach. This allows the power line capacity to dynamically adapt to actual conditions, improving utilization while maintaining reliability through continuous monitoring and adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operating parameters by using actual environmental parameters (real-time temperature, wind speed, solar radiation) and conductor temperature measurements to calculate the maximum current rating, instead of relying on fixed worst-case parameters. This parameter transformation enables more accurate and flexible capacity determination.
2Measurement precision
If dynamic line rating uses real-time environmental and temperature measurements, then accuracy is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs self-service principles by using the power line's existing infrastructure (current flow measurements) to infer conductor temperature through thermal models. The system utilizes measurements already taken for power delivery (current and voltage) and combines them with environmental data to calculate conductor temperature, reducing the need for separate dedicated temperature measurement devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces thermal models as intermediaries that bridge the gap between easily measurable quantities (current, environmental conditions) and the desired measurement (conductor temperature). These models act as computational mediators that translate available data into accurate temperature estimates without requiring direct physical temperature sensors on the conductor.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach provides a surprisingly accurate and effective dynamic maximum current rating without requiring environmental or conductor temperature measurements, improving power line capacity utilization by adjusting ratings based on actual conditions.
Implementation Method 1
applying said voltage and current phase vectors to a predetermined power line model to determine an estimate of the real time conductor temperature
Implementation Method 2
applying said estimate of the real time conductor temperature to a predetermined thermal model to determine a prediction of a steady state temperature that the power line conductor will reach over time
Data Source
AI summary
A dynamic line rating determination apparatus configured to control the current applied to a power line conductor by determining a dynamic maximum current rating for said power line conductor, based on measured voltage and current phase vectors taken at two temporally spaced sample times, the phase vectors including a voltage and current phase vector for each phase of electrical power carried by the power line conductor at a first and second end of the power line conductor; and determining the dynamic maximum current rating by; applying the phase vectors to a power line model to estimate the conductor temperature, applying the estimate to a thermal model to predict a steady state temperature that the power line conductor will reach, and calculate the dynamic maximum current rating based on the prediction of the steady state temperature, a power line conductor current, and a maximum temperature limitation value.