Network Topology Database for Electrical Distribution Fault Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for localizing faults in low-voltage electrical distribution networks are hindered by the need for cost-intensive infrastructure with special intelligent electricity meters, which is not feasible for all networks, leading to inefficient fault detection and isolation.
Innovation Solution
A two-stage method for creating and updating a database of network topology using position information from devices emitting identifiable radio signals, allowing for fault localization without requiring special meters, by determining active and inactive devices and storing their positions, enabling precise identification of fault locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If intelligent electricity meters are installed to localize faults in distribution networks, then fault localization capability is improved, but infrastructure cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses mobile terminal devices (smartphones, tablets) as copies of specialized fault detection equipment. These ubiquitous devices perform fault localization functions without requiring installation of dedicated intelligent meters, thereby reducing infrastructure costs while maintaining measurement precision through GPS positioning and radio signal detection capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical infrastructure of intelligent electricity meters with a software-based solution running on mobile terminals. The system substitutes physical measurement devices with electronic applications that detect radio signals and process location data to achieve fault localization, significantly reducing hardware complexity and deployment costs
2Measurement precision
If intelligent electricity meters are deployed across the network, then fault detection accuracy is improved, but implementation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by having mobile terminal devices continuously detect and store position information of devices in the distribution network during normal operations. This pre-collected data creates a baseline map of the network topology, so that when a fault occurs, the system can immediately compare current device status against the pre-established map to rapidly identify faults without requiring time-consuming infrastructure deployment
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes the self-service capability of mobile terminal devices that users already possess. Instead of requiring the utility company to deploy specialized equipment, the invention leverages devices that users already have in their pockets, turning existing personal technology into network monitoring infrastructure and eliminating lengthy implementation timelines
3Device complexity
If not all electricity meters are intelligent meters, then infrastructure cost is reduced, but fault localization becomes impossible in areas with conventional meters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal fault localization system that works across the entire distribution network regardless of meter type. Mobile terminal devices can detect radio signals from any device in the network and use GPS positioning to locate faults, making the system universally applicable to both intelligent and conventional meter areas. This multi-functional approach allows the same infrastructure to serve diverse network configurations without compromising reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces mobile terminal devices as intermediaries between the distribution network and the fault localization function. These intermediary devices bridge the gap between conventional meters that cannot provide location data and the need for accurate fault localization, enabling areas with traditional infrastructure to achieve modern fault detection capabilities through the mediating mobile devices
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method enables efficient localization of faults in low-voltage networks using existing devices, reducing the need for costly infrastructure and improving the accuracy and speed of fault detection and isolation.
Implementation Method 1
devices connected to the distribution network, which emit radio signals that can be identified by a receiving unit and assigned to the respective device
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The invention relates to a two-stage method for creating and updating a database (12) for mapping the network topology of an electrical distribution network (1), and the use of this database (12) for locating faults in the distribution network. The network topology is mapped by evaluating the reception or absence of radio signals originating from devices (4.1-4.11) that are powered via the electrical distribution network (1). Radio signals are evaluated accordingly to locate faults.