Parameterizable Merging Unit for High Voltage Sensor Accuracy

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current measurement technologies in high voltage power grids face accuracy issues due to high-frequency signals and dynamic changes, particularly with Rogowski coils and impedance dividers, which suffer from sensitivity variations and interference, limiting the transmission distance and accuracy of current and voltage measurements.

Innovation Solution

A parameterizable merging unit processes analog or digital signals from sensors, using field-programmable gate arrays and microcontrollers to correct for spurious effects, enabling longer-distance transmission and improved accuracy by integrating calibration data and operational conditions, and offering configurable connections for various sensor types with low-voltage, high-impedance outputs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If Rogowski coils are used for current measurement, then frequency range and dynamical response are improved, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to sensitivity variations and spurious effects

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedynamical responseVSAvoidmeasurement accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring sensor output signals and comparing them against expected values, then adjusting measurement corrections based on the difference. The system uses feedback loops to compensate for spurious effects and maintain accuracy despite variations in sensor response characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting correction factors and measurement parameters based on operating conditions. The system modifies measurement parameters in response to changing environmental conditions and sensor characteristics to maintain accurate measurements across different operating regimes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Power

If output voltage level is increased in sensors, then signal strength is improved, but internal resistance and self-inductance increase reducing accuracy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoutput voltage levelVSAvoidmeasurement accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing correction circuits and signal conditioners that mediate between the sensor output and the measurement system. These intermediary components compensate for the effects of internal resistance and self-inductance, allowing the system to benefit from higher output voltage levels without sacrificing accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces direct electrical connection approaches with digital signal processing and correction algorithms. Instead of relying solely on electrical signal strength, the system uses digital corrections to compensate for electrical imperfections, substituting electrical solutions with information-based approaches.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Length of stationary object

If transmission distance is increased, then measurement coverage is improved, but vulnerability to ambient interference increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransmission distanceVSAvoidambient interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses copying by creating digital copies of measurement data that can be transmitted without the physical vulnerabilities of analog signals. The system creates digital representations of measurements that can be transmitted over long distances without degradation, eliminating the interference problems inherent in analog transmission.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces intermediary components such as signal conditioners, isolators, and digital converters that mediate between the sensor and the measurement system. These intermediaries protect the measurement signal from ambient interference during transmission, enabling long-distance measurement coverage without increased vulnerability to interference.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Measurement precision

If correction data is stored and applied, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and storing correction data before actual measurements are taken. The system performs correction calculations in advance during calibration, storing the results in lookup tables or databases that can be quickly applied during operation, avoiding the need for complex real-time correction algorithms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements self-service by enabling the measurement system to automatically apply corrections using stored calibration data without requiring complex external intervention. The system self-corrects measurement errors by automatically retrieving and applying pre-computed correction factors, reducing the need for complex manual calibration procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3112884B1Parameterizable merging unit for sensor-based measurement, and method to operate such unit
Publication Date: 2023.08.30 ABB SRO
  • EP3112884B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3112884B1 patent drawingFigure 2A
  • EP3112884B1 patent drawingFigure 2B

AI summary

The invention relates to a parameterizable merging unit for sensor-based measurement of current and voltage in high voltage networks or electrical grids operating with other voltage levels, according to the preamble of claim 1 and 14. In order to t enhance the electronical unit and the method to operate the same, in such, to result in a higher vulnerability of such systems to ambient disturbancy in an easy and constructively compact way, and to improve the measurement accuracy with that, the invention is, the aforesaid unit contains memory or storage means for coefficients for the correction of one and/or more basic characteristics of current and/or voltage sensors, with basic characteristics denoting static transfer-, temperature-, frequency-, load-, and position characteristics.