Low-Voltage Grid Topology Detection via Current Summation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for monitoring and controlling low-voltage distribution networks are inefficient due to incomplete knowledge of network topology and unknown switching statuses, leading to potential disruptions from unregistered connections and power feedback.
Innovation Solution
A method using current measuring devices to automatically determine load- and source-free sections of the network by measuring current values and forming topology information without prior knowledge of the network structure, allowing for precise and efficient topology detection and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If manual recording and entry of topology information into GIS is used, then topology information can be stored, but the system requires constant maintenance and is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic self-determination of topology information through current measuring devices that autonomously measure current values and generate topology information without manual intervention. The measuring devices automatically detect load- and source-free sections and communicate this information to the control device, eliminating the need for manual recording and constant GIS maintenance
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical process of recording and maintaining topology information in GIS is replaced by an automated electronic measurement and communication system. Current measuring devices electronically detect topology changes and transmit this information automatically to the control device, substituting the manual information management process with an automated electronic system
2Extent of automation
If automatic determination methods from prior art are used, then coordination of consumed and delivered power is possible, but complex data transmission and evaluation are required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and focuses only on the essential measurement data needed for topology determination - specifically current values from measuring devices at network nodes. By isolating and transmitting only these critical measurements rather than comprehensive network data, the system achieves automatic topology determination with minimized data transmission and evaluation complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The network is segmented into measurable sections by placing current measuring devices at specific nodes. Each measuring device independently measures local current values, and the control device combines these segmented measurements to determine overall topology. This segmentation allows automatic determination without requiring complex centralized data collection from the entire network
3Stability of the object's composition
If topology documentation is not updated, then existing documentation can be maintained, but knowledge of topology becomes incomplete and switching status unknown
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements continuous feedback by automatically measuring current values at network nodes and comparing them against expected patterns. When topology changes occur (such as new connections or switching operations), the measurement results provide immediate feedback to the control device, which then updates the topology information. This feedback mechanism ensures topology documentation remains accurate without manual updates
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary measurement of current values at all network nodes before topology determination. By pre-measuring and storing these current values, the system is prepared to immediately detect and record topology changes when they occur, ensuring accurate and up-to-date topology information without requiring continuous manual updates
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates, inter alia, to a method for determining a topology information item on a low-voltage electrical distribution system (10), wherein in the method (a) a group of at least two current measuring devices (17a-17e, 16a-16h) arranged at different points in the low-voltage distribution system (10) is selected, (b) in each case the current is measured by the current measuring devices (17a-17e, 16a-16h) so as to form a current measurement value, (c) the current measurement values are added so as to form a current sum taking into consideration the current flow direction, and (d) a topology information item is formed which specifies that the current measuring devices (17a-17e, 16a-16h) electrically isolate a load-free and source-free section of the low-voltage distribution system (10) when the current sum, in terms of absolute value, falls below a predetermined threshold value.