Distribution Grid Hosting Capacity via Linear Power Flow Optimization

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for determining the hosting capacity of distribution grids are inefficient and inaccurate due to their iterative approaches, which fail to consider spatial interdependencies and are computationally intensive, leading to suboptimal results and long computation times.

Innovation Solution

An optimization-based method using a linear power flow model and linear programming to determine the hosting capacity of radial distribution grids, considering factors like distribution bus overvoltage and line overload, allowing for dynamic updates and simultaneous analysis of multiple distributed generators.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If iterative methods are used to determine hosting capacity, then comprehensive analysis can be performed, but computation time increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehosting capacity determination accuracyVSAvoidcomputation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the nonlinear power flow equations into a linear programming problem by changing the mathematical parameters and formulation approach. This allows the use of efficient linear optimization algorithms instead of iterative numerical methods, achieving both high accuracy and fast computation speeds simultaneously

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the traditional iterative computational mechanics with a direct linear programming approach. By substituting the iterative solution methodology with a closed-form linear optimization framework, it eliminates the time-consuming iterative loops while maintaining solution accuracy

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

2Measurement precision

If traditional iterative methods are used, then detailed analysis is possible, but computational complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehosting capacity analysis accuracyVSAvoidcomputational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the mathematical formulation from nonlinear iterative equations to a linear programming model with clear objective functions and constraints. This parameter transformation simplifies the computational complexity while preserving the ability to perform detailed hosting capacity analysis

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the hosting capacity determination into distinct linear constraints (power flow limits, voltage constraints, generator capacity) that can be independently formulated and then solved simultaneously through linear programming, reducing overall computational complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If iterative approaches are employed, then comprehensive system analysis can be conducted, but computation efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanalysis comprehensivenessVSAvoidcomputation efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent substitutes the iterative computational mechanism with a direct linear programming solution approach. This replacement maintains comprehensive system analysis capabilities while dramatically improving computation efficiency through efficient linear optimization algorithms

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary transformation of the power flow equations into linear form before solving. By pre-processing the mathematical formulation into a solvable linear program, it enables efficient computation without sacrificing analysis comprehensiveness

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS12003102B2Methods and systems for determining distribution grid hosting capacity
Publication Date: 2024.06.04 COMMONWEALTH EDISON CO
  • US12003102B2 patent drawing
  • US12003102B2 patent drawing
  • US12003102B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods and systems for determining a hosting capacity in a distribution grid are disclosed herein. The methods and systems may use optimization models that consider operating conditions of a distribution grid having a distinct topology, characteristics, and predetermined performance parameters. The determination of a hosting capacity may first consider a lossless power flow model for the distribution grid, which may then be used to arrive at a maximum hosting capacity for the distribution grid. The maximum hosting capacity may be defined as the total capacity of a number of distributed generators connected to the distribution grid such that the performance parameters will be met.