Modular Grid Control for Fault Isolation and Phase Restoration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current power distribution network control systems are limited to simple topologies, requiring centralized or distributed logic controllers, and are not capable of handling complex grid layouts or less than three-phase restoration without extensive configuration and skilled engineering, limiting their applicability and flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A modular, distributed control system using peer-to-peer communication between multiple controllers and substations to isolate faults and restore power in single, dual, or three-phase configurations, allowing for automatic reconfiguration of network topology without the need for a central master controller or extensive software changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If centralized distribution management systems or distributed logic controllers are used for complex grids, then control capability for complex grid layouts is improved, but device complexity and configuration difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the power distribution network into multiple independently controllable sectors, each managed by a separate controller instance. This segmentation allows complex grids to be handled through modular control units rather than requiring a single complex centralized system, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal controller instance that can be deployed in any substation regardless of grid complexity. Each controller instance performs the same functions and can handle any grid layout through peer-to-peer communication, eliminating the need for specialized controllers for different grid types and reducing configuration complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If distributed logic control systems are used, then control flexibility is improved, but the requirement for same-type control devices across the entire grid increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs identical controller instances across all substations, where each controller can independently perform any control function needed. This universal design provides control flexibility while eliminating the requirement for different types of control devices, as any controller can assume any role through software-based peer-to-peer communication.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing control devices are reconfigured to add new control devices or field devices, then network expandability is improved, but configuration time and engineering skill requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows new controllers to be added as independent sector instances without reconfiguring existing controllers. Each controller instance is self-contained and can be independently configured and deployed, enabling network expansion without requiring time-consuming reconfiguration of existing devices or specialized engineering skills.
4Adaptability or versatility
If centralized control is used for less than three-phase restoration, then restoration capability is improved, but system complexity and configuration requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Each controller instance autonomously performs fault detection, isolation, and restoration operations for its sector, including single-phase and dual-phase restoration capabilities. This self-service approach eliminates the need for complex centralized control logic while maintaining full restoration capability, as each distributed controller independently handles its own restoration needs through peer-to-peer communication.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for controlling a multi-feed power distribution network (100) is described herein. The network (100) includes a first network sector (211,212,213,221,222,230) that includes a first plurality of devices connected to a first power source and a second network sector (211,212,213,221,222,230) that includes a second plurality of devices connected to a second power source. The system includes a first controller (101,102,103) and a second controller (101,102,103). The first controller (101,102,103) is configured to control operation of the first network sector (211,212,213,221,222,230) and exchange data with the second controller (101,102,103). The second controller (101,102,103) is configured to control operation of the second network sector (211,212,213,221,222,230) and exchange data with the first controller (101,102,103). The system is modular and it can be expanded to include additional controllers (101,102,103) as necessary. Methods and a computer program product for controlling a multi-feed power distribution network (100) are also described.