Phase Identification in Distribution Grids Using Voltage Variables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for identifying phases in multi-phase electrical power distribution systems require specialized equipment and are not simple or reliable, making it difficult to determine which phase of a multi-phase system is connected to which terminal of an electricity meter.
Innovation Solution
A method that measures and analyzes voltage variables at electricity meters, calculates mean free voltage change variables, and uses dimension reduction techniques to identify phase associations without external measuring equipment, utilizing a reference meter to determine phase connections based on similarities in voltage change characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If specialized measuring equipment is used to identify phases in multi-phase electrical power distribution systems, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses voltage variables already being measured by routine electricity meters to create a copy of the phase identification function, eliminating the need for specialized measuring equipment. The method calculates mean free voltage change variables from existing meter data and compares these characteristics across meters to identify phase connections, achieving accurate phase identification using only standard metering infrastructure.
2Reliability
If specialized equipment is deployed for phase identification, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service phase identification by utilizing voltage variables already being collected by routine electricity meters for billing purposes. The method automatically calculates mean free voltage change variables, compares characteristics across meters, and identifies phase connections without requiring external specialized equipment or manual intervention, making the process both reliable and operationally simple.
3Measurement precision
If external measuring equipment is used to manipulate and measure grid parameters, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the electricity meters multi-functional by having them perform both their primary billing function and phase identification simultaneously. The voltage variables measured for commercial metering are reused for phase identification by calculating mean free voltage change variables, eliminating the need for separate specialized measuring equipment and avoiding additional energy consumption from external devices.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for identifying which phase of a multi-phase system is associated with which terminal of a group of electricity meters associated with the multi-phase system, based on an analysis of voltage variables measured by and collected from the electricity meters.