Power Grid Topology Inference From Smart Meter Bus Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for identifying and correcting errors in power grid topology are time-consuming and inefficient, especially in distribution grids, due to lack of detailed knowledge and high costs associated with installing topology identification devices in underground systems, and are not suitable for radial or weakly meshed systems with polyphase loads.
Innovation Solution
A data-driven method using smart meter data and graph theory algorithms to determine power grid topology by calculating weights indicating connections between grid buses, allowing for automated identification and correction of errors in the utility topology database, even with non-synchronized and incomplete data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional topology identification devices are installed in underground distribution grids, then topology identification accuracy is improved, but installation cost and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses smart meter data as an intermediary to infer grid topology without direct installation of specialized topology identification devices. The method processes voltage magnitude measurements from existing smart meters to determine grid connections, eliminating the need for physical topology identification hardware in underground grids.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual model of the grid topology by processing and analyzing data from existing smart meters. Instead of physically installing measurement devices, the system reconstructs topology information through data processing algorithms that calculate connection probabilities based on voltage measurements.
2Ease of manufacture
If manual inspection methods are used to identify topology errors, then implementation simplicity is maintained, but time consumption and labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-diagnosis by automatically analyzing smart meter data to identify topology errors. The method autonomously calculates connection probabilities, detects inconsistencies with the utility model, and identifies erroneous connections without requiring manual inspection, thereby improving productivity while maintaining implementation simplicity.
3Measurement precision
If complete and synchronized smart meter data is required for topology determination, then measurement accuracy is improved, but data availability and system complexity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the approach by changing from requiring complete synchronized data to processing non-synchronized incremental updates. The system accepts voltage magnitude measurements at different times and uses probability calculations to determine connections, making the method adaptable to real-world smart meter data that is often incomplete and non-synchronized.
Data Source
AI summary
The present application relates to a method for determining a power grid topology. The method may comprise: determining at least one loop of the power grid; determining a plurality of grid busses located at sections of the at least one loop of the power grid; performing at least one statistical evaluation on measured data associated with the grid busses of the plurality of grid busses to calculate weights indicating that grid busses of a section or of a segment comprising at least two adjacent sections are connected to each other; and determining a power grid topology based on the calculated weights. The present application also relates to a respective device and a respective computer program product.