3D Power Distribution Visualization via Triangular Interpolation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing power distribution systems face challenges in real-time visualization and monitoring of three-dimensional networks due to computationally demanding algorithms that disregard physical structures, making it difficult for operators to analyze data from numerous sensor locations effectively.

Innovation Solution

The method involves triangulating a three-dimensional volume into triangles with vertices on structural elements, projecting these onto a visualization plane, and interpolating data values to generate output values for output locations, using a processor and programmable graphics hardware to efficiently display system states in a two-dimensional format, while considering structural elements and dynamically updating data.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If generic three-dimensional interpolation algorithms are used for real-time visualization, then data values can be interpolated from distributed locations, but computational demand becomes excessive and processing speed decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinterpolation accuracyVSAvoidprocessing speed

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The three-dimensional volume is segmented into multiple tetrahedra formed by connecting sensor locations to a central reference point. This segmentation divides the complex volumetric interpolation problem into simpler conical interpolation segments, each manageable independently, reducing overall computational complexity while maintaining interpolation accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transforms the three-dimensional interpolation problem into a series of two-dimensional planar interpolations by projecting sensor data onto radial planes around a reference point. This dimensionality reduction allows standard 2D interpolation algorithms to be applied more efficiently, achieving real-time processing speeds while preserving 3D spatial relationships.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If generic three-dimensional interpolation algorithms are used, then volumetric data can be visualized, but physical structure and subdivision of the volume are disregarded

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevolumetric visualization capabilityVSAvoidstructural consideration

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies different interpolation strategies to different spatial regions by organizing sensors into cones with apexes at reference points. Each conical region is processed independently with localized coordinate transformations, allowing the method to adapt to local structural characteristics while maintaining overall volumetric coherence.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

Reference points serve as intermediary elements that mediate between distributed sensors and the visualization target. These reference points act as apexes for conical regions, providing a hierarchical structure that organizes the volumetric space and enables efficient processing while respecting physical subdivisions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Loss of information

If all data locations are monitored in detail, then complete system state information is obtained, but operator ability to analyze every location is exceeded

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata completenessVSAvoidoperator analysis capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of informationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple sensor data points within each conical region are merged and interpolated to produce a single representative value for display at the reference point location. This merging process consolidates大量 data into manageable visual elements that operators can analyze effectively while preserving the underlying data completeness through the interpolation process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a simplified two-dimensional projection copy of the three-dimensional data structure that preserves essential spatial relationships and data values. This copied representation is much easier for operators to analyze visually while containing interpolated information that reflects the complete three-dimensional sensor network state.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS9842426B2Visualization of three-dimensional power distribution data

Publication Date: 2017.12.12 HITACHI ENERGY LTD

AI summary

Exemplary methods and systems visualize or contour a power distribution system state by displaying to an operator output data values interpolated at output data locations from input data including distributed input data sensor locations in three dimensions and corresponding dynamically updated input data values. The method includes defining triangles in the volume, and determining, for each triangle, closest input data locations according to a closeness criteria. The method also includes projecting each triangle onto a visualization plane, and determining, for an output data location on the visualization plane at least one triangle, the projection of which includes the output data location. The method interpolates, for the output data location, the input data values of the closest input data locations of each of the at least one determined triangle to generate an output data value corresponding to the output data location.