AC Reference Switching for GIS Partial Discharge Synchronization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems face challenges in synchronizing partial discharge detections in Gas Insulated Stations (GIS) due to the complexity of generating power and acquisition signals, incompatibility of sensors, and the need for a simplified method to manage multiple voltage sources across different locations.

Innovation Solution

A device comprising an AC reference switch and an AC inverter generates and distributes a synchronized power and synchronization signal using a microcontroller and phase compensation, ensuring compatibility across multiple sensors and locations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple measuring devices are used to detect HV signals at different locations, then the coverage and reliability of partial discharge detection is improved, but the complexity of managing multiple voltage sources and synchronizing signals increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection reliabilityVSAvoidsynchronization system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The AC inverter serves multiple functions: it acts as a power supply for the acquisition units, generates the synchronization signal, and interfaces with the HV network. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies the overall system architecture while maintaining reliable detection across multiple locations.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The AC reference switch device acts as an intermediary between the multiple measuring devices and the AC inverter. It selects and switches between different HV signal sources, managing the complexity of multiple voltage sources by providing a single standardized output to the inverter, thereby simplifying synchronization across the distributed system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If separate power signal and acquisition signal generation systems are used, then the functionality and flexibility of the detection system is improved, but the number of connections and system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection system flexibilityVSAvoidnumber of connections
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the power signal generation and acquisition signal generation into a single AC inverter unit. This unified approach reduces the number of separate connections and components while maintaining the functional flexibility needed for partial discharge detection. The inverter simultaneously provides both power and synchronization signals to the acquisition units.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If sensors with different characteristics are used at multiple locations, then the adaptability to different measurement conditions is improved, but the compatibility and synchronization of signals across locations deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor compatibilityVSAvoidsignal synchronization
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The AC inverter dynamically adjusts its output parameters (voltage, frequency, phase) based on the selected HV signal source from the AC reference switch. This allows the system to adapt to different sensor characteristics and measurement conditions at various locations while maintaining consistent synchronization across the entire system through centralized parameter control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

The solution simplifies the synchronization process, reduces the risk of short-circuits, and enables efficient identification of partial discharges across various configurations of HV substations, allowing for accurate maintenance actions.

Implementation Method 1

an AC inverter to provide a power and synchronisation signal, based at least on said synchronisation signal provided by said AC reference switch device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP4628908A1Device for synchronizing a partial discharge monitoring system
Publication Date: 2025.10.08 GENERAL ELECTRIC TECH GMBH
  • EP4628908A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4628908A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4628908A1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3B

AI summary

The invention concerns a device (100) for providing a synchronisation signal to identify partial discharges in a GIS comprising: - an AC reference switch device (20), comprising a plurality of inputs for inputtinga plurality of synchronisation signalsfrom a plurality of sensors, said switch device comprising means for selecting an input among said plurality of inputs based on the presence of a synchronisation signals ; - an AC inverter (30) to provide a power and synchronisation signal, based on said synchronisation signal provided by said AC reference switch device (20).