Modular Relay Test System with Dynamic Shorting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interface control equipment (ICE) test systems for relay connection and testing in power transmission and distribution grids are complex and prone to unstable connections, leading to accidental damage and difficulties in secure interaction between the grid and relay sides.
Innovation Solution
A test system comprising a fixed connection block, a mobile plug, and a mobile test block that provides a stable connection between the power transmission and distribution grid and the relay, with internal shorting mechanisms to protect against overloading and allow for safe relay testing and replacement without shutting down the grid, utilizing color coding and labeling for connection identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If prior art test systems are used for relay connection and testing, then relay testing can be performed, but the connection is unstable and prone to accidents
Solution Approach 1:
The test system is divided into separate modular components: a fixed connection block for permanent grid connection, a mobile plug for flexible connection, and a mobile test block for relay testing. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, improving connection stability while maintaining manageable system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixed connection block includes pre-configured internal shorting mechanisms that are activated before relay connection. This preliminary action ensures safe default state and stable connection establishment, preventing accidents during the connection process.
2Reliability
If relay testing is performed in the power transmission and distribution grid, then relay functionality can be verified, but grid shutdown is required which causes downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile plug acts as an intermediary component that isolates the relay testing process from the live grid. It provides a safe interface that allows relay connection and testing while maintaining grid operation, eliminating the need for grid shutdown and enabling continuous power transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes safe default states with internal shorting mechanisms activated before relay connection. This preliminary safety configuration allows relay testing to proceed without requiring grid shutdown, maintaining both safety and continuous operation.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If internal shorting is activated in the fixed connection block, then protection against overloading is provided, but connection to relay is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The internal shorting mechanism in the fixed connection block is designed to be dynamic rather than static. It automatically activates when the mobile plug is not inserted, providing overloading protection. When the mobile plug is inserted, the shorting is automatically deactivated to allow relay connection. This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction by making the protection state conditional on the connection state.
Data Source
AI summary
A test system and method for relay connection and testing of a power transmission and distribution grid including a fixed connection block connected to the power transmission and distribution grid, and a mobile plug which connects the fixed connection block or a mobile test block with the relay when the mobile plug is inserted into the fixed connection block or the mobile test block. The mobile test block provides a connection to an external relay testing device when the mobile test plug is inserted into the mobile test block, the fixed connection block provides internal shorting that is activated when the mobile plug is not inserted into the fixed connection block and is deactivated when the mobile plug is inserted into the fixed connection block, and the fixed connection block, mobile plug, and the mobile test block provides an interaction between a power transmission and distribution grid side and a relay side. This allows a quick recovery when relays are damaged in a cyber-attack.