Handheld Switching Simulation for Power Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional switching-sequence simulation systems in electric power systems are prone to human errors due to reliance on human programmers, leading to potential equipment damage and safety risks, especially in complex configurations where complex logic and interconnections are involved.
Innovation Solution
A real-time, in-the-field switching-sequence simulation system that uses a hand-held device to identify switching devices, obtain status information, and perform simulations based on topology and user-definable rules, ensuring safe operation by verifying compliance with safety rules before actual switching occurs, incorporating a smart-interlock system with a central simulation-and-control system and smart key for error prevention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If human programmers manually generate and input logic expressions for switching-sequence simulation, then the system can perform switching simulation, but the system is prone to human errors such as omissions and typographical errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses automatic generation of logic expressions by copying and processing existing system data and configurations, eliminating the need for manual programming. The system automatically extracts switching logic from the power system configuration and generates the necessary simulation rules without human intervention, thereby preventing human errors while maintaining system reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional simulation systems are used for complex circuit configurations like bridge-circuit, then the system can handle various switching operations, but it becomes difficult to summarize all possible operating modes and requires huge amounts of work
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically analyzing complex circuit configurations and generating the necessary simulation logic without requiring extensive manual programming. The automatic generation mechanism adapts to various circuit topologies including bridge-circuits by processing the system's own configuration data, thereby handling complex configurations efficiently without proportional increases in programming work.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by dynamically adjusting simulation parameters and logic expressions based on the specific circuit configuration being analyzed. The system automatically modifies the simulation model to match the actual power system topology, enabling efficient handling of complex configurations like bridge-circuits without requiring separate programming for each configuration type.
3Speed
If manual switching operations are performed without real-time simulation verification, then the switching process is faster, but switching errors can lead to equipment damage and safety risks
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by conducting switching-sequence simulation before actual switching operations. The real-time simulation verifies the safety of each switching step in advance, identifying potential errors before they occur. This preliminary verification ensures that only safe switching sequences are executed, preventing equipment damage and safety accidents while maintaining operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring the power system state during switching operations and comparing it with the simulated switching sequence. The system provides real-time feedback on whether the actual system state matches the expected state, allowing operators to correct deviations immediately. This feedback mechanism prevents switching errors by alerting operators to unsafe conditions before they lead to equipment damage.
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment of the present invention provides a system for performing a real-time, in-the-field switching-sequence simulation for a power system that includes a plurality of switching devices. During operation, the system receives, at a hand-held device, topology information associated with the power system, a set of user-definable rules, and a request to perform an operation on a switching device in the power system. In response to the request, the system identifies the switching device from the plurality of switching devices, obtains instant status information associated with the plurality of switching devices, and runs a simulation based on the topology information, the user-definable rules, the status information, and the identified switch device. The system determines whether the operation is allowed based on an outcome of the simulation.