Open-Phase Detection Logic for Inverter-Based Power Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inverter-based electric power delivery systems face challenges in detecting open-phase conditions, which can lead to unbalanced voltages and faults, making it difficult to disconnect generators and loads effectively.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of dependable open-phase detection logic using a combination of unbalance voltage detection, current detection, and total harmonic distortion detection, facilitated by intelligent electrical devices (IEDs) with processing circuitry, to determine open-phase conditions and control breakers in electric power delivery systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If inverter-based resources are used for electric power generation, then adaptability and modernization of the power delivery system are improved, but the ability to detect open-phase conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection task into multiple independent detection mechanisms: unbalance voltage detection, current detection, and total harmonic distortion detection. Each mechanism independently monitors a specific aspect of the electrical parameters, and their results are combined to achieve reliable open-phase detection in inverter-based systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary detection system that uses multiple indirect measurement approaches (voltage unbalance, current flow, harmonic distortion) to infer the presence of open-phase conditions. These intermediary measurements serve as proxies for directly detecting the fault condition in inverter-based resources.
2Measurement precision
If multiple detection mechanisms are implemented for open-phase detection, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional detection system where the same monitoring infrastructure measures multiple parameters (voltage, current, harmonics) simultaneously. Each measurement serves multiple purposes: individual parameter monitoring, cross-validation of fault conditions, and comprehensive system diagnostics, thereby reducing the need for separate dedicated detection devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple detection mechanisms (voltage unbalance detection, current detection, harmonic distortion detection) into a unified open-phase detection system. The results from these different detection approaches are integrated and evaluated together to determine the presence of open-phase conditions, improving reliability while sharing common infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are described herein to detect an open-phase condition associated with an inverter-based resource for electric power generation within an electric power delivery system. An electric power delivery system may include one or more inverter-based resources that provide three phased electric power to one or more loads of an electric utility. A controller may include circuitry to measure voltage unbalances between different phases, high voltage sequences, phase voltage waveform harmonic distortions, voltage levels, and current levels to dependably detect an open-phase condition of the electric power delivery system.