Power Control System Sequencer for Graphical Sequence Validation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Complex power control systems (PCS) require lengthy and non-standardized sequence documents for defining operational sequences, making it difficult for designers and engineers to validate and follow the sequences, especially in pre-design stages.
Innovation Solution
A graphical modeling system that allows users to build and animate PCS sequences using drag-and-drop model objects, enabling the definition of plain language commands and instructions for operations like generator start/stop and circuit breaker operations, with the ability to automatically or manually control the sequence animation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If detailed operational sequences are documented in comprehensive sequence documents, then the completeness and reliability of PCS operation definitions is improved, but the complexity and difficulty of following these sequences increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex PCS system into discrete graphical model objects representing individual components (generators, circuit breakers, transfer switches). Each component is visually represented and can be independently configured, allowing the overall sequence to be broken down into manageable segments that are easier to understand and validate than a monolithic text document.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional text-based sequence documentation to a two-dimensional graphical interface where components are spatially arranged and connected. This dimensional change allows users to visually trace power flow and operational sequences through the system, making complex relationships more intuitive and easier to follow.
2Adaptability or versatility
If comprehensive sequence documents are created to cover all operational scenarios, then the coverage of operational cases is improved, but the time required to review and validate sequences increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables preliminary visualization and validation of operational sequences during the design phase through graphical animation. Users can simulate and observe system behavior before implementation, allowing early detection of sequence errors and validation of operational logic without requiring extensive manual review of lengthy documents later.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides visual feedback through animated graphics that show the actual operational sequence as it executes. This immediate visual feedback allows users to quickly verify whether sequences behave as intended, reducing the time needed to validate comprehensive operational scenarios compared to manual document review.
3Ease of operation
If standardized sequence documentation formats are implemented, then the consistency and ease of following sequences is improved, but the flexibility in representing complex PCS variations decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal graphical modeling framework that can represent multiple types of PCS components and operational scenarios through a common interface. The same drag-and-drop mechanism and animation engine handle diverse components (generators, breakers, switches) and various operational sequences, providing both standardized ease of use and flexibility for complex variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The graphical model objects and their connections are dynamic and can be easily modified during design. Users can add, remove, or reconfigure components and sequences through the graphical interface without being constrained by rigid documentation formats, allowing the system to adapt to varying PCS configurations while maintaining ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for demonstrating power control system (PCS) operating sequences provide a model builder and a sequence builder. The PCS model builder allows a user to build a graphical model of a PCS using drag-and-drop objects representing PCS components, such as generators, circuit breakers, transfer switches, and the like. The PCS sequence builder allows the user to enter plain language commands that represent operations performed by the model objects. The model builder then graphically animates the model according to the plain language commands. Animation may include changing an image color, shape, configuration, position, orientation, or size for the model objects. This allows any user to graphically demonstrate how a PCS would work before resources are invested toward developing the PCS.