Modular Underground GIS Layout for Narrow Tunnel Installation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing gas-insulated line installations in tunnels require significant space for accessibility, assembly, disassembly, and maintenance, leading to increased costs and complexity.

Innovation Solution

The development of a gas-insulated line segmented into modular units with holding means that align single-phase enclosures parallel to each other, allowing for compact and stable line-segment modules that can be easily handled and installed in confined spaces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If three phases are placed on the sides of the tunnel or at the bottom/top with additional personnel space, then accessibility and maintenance space is provided, but the tunnel diameter and construction cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccessibility and maintenance spaceVSAvoidtunnel diameter and construction cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The gas-insulated line is divided into modular line segments with standardized lengths (e.g., 2-12 meters). Each segment contains complete functional units including busbars, insulation structures, and connection elements. This segmentation allows compact packaging of three phases within smaller tunnel diameters while maintaining accessibility through modular assembly and disassembly operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from traditional horizontal/side-by-side phase arrangements to vertical stacking configurations where three phases are arranged one above another within a single tunnel. This dimensional reorganization significantly reduces the required tunnel diameter while preserving maintenance access through the use of lifting equipment and vertical assembly procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Ease of operation

If large accessible circular tunnels are used for installing and housing cable systems, then personnel access and equipment installation is facilitated, but the space requirement and construction complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepersonnel access and equipment installationVSAvoidtunnel construction complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Line segments are pre-assembled and pre-tested at manufacturing facilities before being transported to the installation site. Each segment arrives as a complete, factory-assembled module with busbars, insulation, and connection elements already integrated. This preliminary action eliminates the need for complex on-site assembly operations and reduces the skill level required for installation personnel.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The modular line segment design enables self-contained installation units that can be independently handled, transported, and installed without requiring large coordinated teams. Each segment is designed to be self-supported during installation, with integrated lifting points and alignment features that enable single-unit installation procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If GIL is installed in straight line or vertical V-shaped line with elbows, then routing flexibility is achieved, but the number of components and assembly complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverouting flexibilityVSAvoidnumber of components and assembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Each line segment is designed with universal connection interfaces that can accommodate multiple routing configurations. The standardized flange connections and alignment features enable the same basic segment design to be used in straight runs, vertical installations, and angled configurations without requiring specialized elbow components or custom-designed sections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12322947B2Compact underground GIS for high-voltage gas-insulated substation (GIS), busbars and lines (GIL)
Publication Date: 2025.06.03 HIVODUCT AG
  • US12322947B2 patent drawing
  • US12322947B2 patent drawing
  • US12322947B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a modular and compact arrangement (200) of three phases (A, B, C) of a gas-insulated apparatus (100), that is suitable for placement inside a tunnel or a pipe (106) or another confined space. According to the invention, the three phases (A, B, C) are arranged in a triangle or side-by-side on a fixation part (103, 104) which includes a roller system (105; 105a, 105b, 105c, 105d). This allows the insertion of such a three-phase assembly (100) into confined spaces such as pipes or tunnels (106), without the need for access by workers or machinery. Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a method for assembling and installing such a three-phase arrangement (100) into the confined space (106).