Hierarchical Electrical Distribution Control System
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional electrical distribution systems face challenges with data congestion, computational intensity, and communication network sensitivity due to the increasing number of smart devices, particularly in handling data from smart meters and distributed power generation systems, leading to slower dynamic adjustments and reliability issues.
Innovation Solution
A multi-level electrical distribution control system with a hierarchical structure that distributes data handling, processing, and control across levels, allowing for closed-loop control, reduced data congestion, and improved reliability through redundant network structures, enabling efficient data handling and autonomous decision-making at each level.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If data from smart meters and sensors are communicated to a single Distribution Control Center in a flat topography, then centralized control is achieved, but data transmission bandwidth requirements increase and the system becomes sensitive to communication network fluctuations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the flat control topography into multiple hierarchical levels (field level, distribution level, transmission level, and control center level). Each level processes and filters data locally before transmitting to the next level, segmenting the data flow and reducing the volume of data that must be transmitted across the entire system while maintaining centralized control capabilities.
2Measurement precision
If additional smart devices are deployed to increase monitoring capability, then measurement precision improves, but data consumption at the control center becomes more computationally intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements distributed processing units at multiple hierarchical levels that perform local data processing, filtering, and analysis. This segmentation of computational tasks reduces the burden on the central control center by handling routine processing locally, while only transmitting processed results and critical data upward in the hierarchy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate processing layers (distribution level and transmission level) that act as mediators between field devices and the control center. These intermediaries perform data aggregation, filtering, and preliminary analysis, reducing the computational load on the control center while maintaining high measurement precision through distributed processing.
3Device complexity
If a flat control topography is used to simplify system structure, then device complexity is reduced, but the system becomes increasingly dependent on communication network bandwidth
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control system into hierarchical levels with defined processing capabilities at each level. This segmentation allows the system to maintain relatively simple local structures while adapting to varying network conditions through distributed intelligence, as each level can operate semi-independently based on available communication resources.
4Adaptability or versatility
If distributed power generation systems are incorporated to increase adaptability, then system versatility improves, but the need for high speed real-time adjustments increases data throughput requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the control system into hierarchical levels that can independently manage distributed power generation resources. Each level processes data from local distributed sources and makes localized adjustments, reducing the need for high-speed data transmission across the entire system while maintaining the ability to integrate diverse power sources.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Aspects of a multi-level electrical distribution control system associated with an electrical distribution grid are disclosed. A multi-level control system provides a non-flat topography for electrical distribution grid control. A hierarchical structure can be employed in the topography of the control system. Further, tree and mesh network structure, among others, can be employed in the topography of the control system. These rich topographies can provide for closed loop control at each level of the control system, improved reliability of the control system through redundant topographical network structures, and desirable data handling features that can reduce data congestion and computing costs by distributing data handling, processing, and control across the levels of the control system.