Parallel IED Configuration via Ethernet Batch Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing low or medium voltage power distribution networks face inefficiencies in configuring and upgrading Intelligent Electronic Devices (IEDs) due to slow data transfer rates and difficulties in reaching remote locations, leading to time-consuming and labor-intensive maintenance operations.
Innovation Solution
A computerized station that executes batch processing mode for downloading and uploading configuration/software upgrading data packages to multiple IEDs in parallel, utilizing a multi-threading architecture and TCP/IP protocol over an Ethernet LAN, allowing for remote accessibility and simultaneous configuration or software updates across multiple devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a one-to-one serial cable connection is used to download configuration files to P&C devices, then the connection is simple and reliable, but the configuration process becomes extremely time-consuming when multiple devices need to be configured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple serial communication channels into a single Ethernet communication channel. Instead of establishing separate serial connections for each P&C device, the system uses a single network-connected computer that can simultaneously communicate with multiple devices through the Ethernet network, combining multiple communication paths into one centralized management interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical serial cable connection system with an electronic network-based Ethernet communication system. This substitution allows for faster data transfer rates and enables simultaneous configuration of multiple devices through network protocols rather than requiring physical cable connections for each device.
2Ease of operation
If an operator physically visits each P&C device location to perform maintenance, then direct access to devices is ensured, but the time and effort required increases significantly for remote or hard-to-reach locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a network-connected computer as an intermediary between the operator and the P&C devices. Instead of the operator directly connecting to each device at its physical location, the computer acts as a mediator that communicates with multiple devices through the Ethernet network, allowing remote maintenance without physical presence at each device location.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service maintenance capabilities where configuration files can be automatically distributed and applied to multiple P&C devices through the network. The batch processing functionality allows devices to be configured automatically without requiring an operator to manually intervene at each location, reducing both time and human effort.
3Device complexity
If configuration files are downloaded sequentially to each P&C device, then resource requirements are minimal, but the overall configuration process becomes prohibitively slow for large networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous parallel configuration operations where multiple P&C devices are configured simultaneously through batch processing. Instead of completing one device configuration before starting the next, the system maintains continuous useful action by distributing configuration tasks across multiple devices at the same time, maximizing productivity without significantly increasing system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A low or medium voltage electric power distribution network comprising: a plurality of P&C devices (IED1, IEDN), and a computerized station (11) which can communicate with said P&C devices through a communication network (12). Said computer station comprises first computerized means (111) for executing, according to a batch processing mode, downloading/uploading sessions of configuration/software upgrading data packages (F1, FN) to/from said P&C devices, said computerized means executing a plurality of processing threads during a downloading/uploading session of said configuration/software upgrading data packages, each of said processing threads being executed for performing the task of downloading/loading one or more configuration/software upgrading data packages to a selected P&C device in parallel and independent manner with respect to the other P&C devices.