Dynamic Low-Voltage Network Topology Modeling with Timestamped Graph Edges

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current network management systems face challenges in accurately interpreting measurement data due to outdated network topology models in low-voltage networks, especially with dynamic changes such as switching on/off of components, which can lead to incorrect interpretations and inefficiencies in maintaining standard-compliant network operation.

Innovation Solution

A computer-implemented method models the network topology of a low-voltage network as a graph with nodes and edges, where each edge represents components and connecting points, and assigns timestamps to state changes, allowing for dynamic and temporal updates to reflect current network conditions, ensuring accurate and consistent data interpretation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If network topology models are updated manually, then the model structure remains simple, but the accuracy and timeliness of network topology information deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of network topology informationVSAvoidcomplexity of topology management system

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically updates the network topology model by receiving topology change notifications from network elements and processing them autonomously. The topology management server automatically determines current states of network elements, updates the graph model without manual intervention, and maintains accurate topology information continuously, eliminating the need for manual model updates while preserving system simplicity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements a feedback mechanism where network elements send topology change notifications to the topology management server. The server processes these feedback signals, updates the network topology model accordingly, and maintains continuous synchronization between the physical network state and the digital model, ensuring accuracy without manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Reliability

If the network topology model does not account for dynamic changes, then the system operation is simple, but the reliability of measurement data interpretation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvereliability of measurement data interpretationVSAvoidcomplexity of topology update mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system transitions from a static network topology model to a dynamic model that continuously adapts to changing network conditions. The graph model incorporates time-stamped state information of network elements, allowing the system to represent the topology at any specific moment in time. This dynamic capability ensures reliable measurement data interpretation by ensuring the model reflects current network states.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system proactively updates the topology model before measurement data is interpreted by receiving topology change notifications in advance. The model is maintained in a continuously updated state, so when measurement data needs to be processed, the topology model already reflects the current network configuration, eliminating the need for complex real-time adjustments during data interpretation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Loss of time

If manual updates of network topology are performed, then system complexity is low, but the time required for accurate topology reflection increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetime delay in topology information updateVSAvoidcomplexity of automated topology management

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system maintains continuous operation by continuously monitoring network element states and continuously updating the topology model in real-time. The topology management server operates without interruption, receiving and processing topology change notifications as they occur, ensuring that the model is always current. This continuous action eliminates time delays associated with periodic manual updates.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces the mechanical process of manual topology updates with an automated electronic system. Instead of human operators manually updating the model, the system uses automated software processes that receive topology change notifications, process the changes, and update the graph model automatically. This substitution eliminates time delays and reduces operational complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS20220405437A1Method for Modeling a Network Topology of a Low-Voltage Network

Publication Date: 2022.12.22 SIEMENS AG

AI summary

A method for modeling a network topology of a subarea of a low-voltage network, wherein the network topology of the subarea of the low-voltage network is dynamically changeable by switching on, over and/or off components and/or by adding or removing components, where the network topology is modeled as a graph with nodes and edges, states valid for all edges of the graph at an initialization time are determined and assigned to the edges as the respective first state instance, with each subsequent change to the network topology, the respective current states valid for the respective edge from a time of the change to the network topology are determined for the edges of the graph, and each edge of the graph is assigned the respective state determined and currently valid from the time of the respective change to the network topology as a respective further state instance together with a timestamp.