Power-Line Event Location Using Unsupervised Feeder Modeling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Power-line event location identification in distribution feeders is challenging due to the limited number of measurement devices and the unavailability of network parameters.

Innovation Solution

An unsupervised approach using synchro-waveform measurements from line-mounted sensors to identify event locations without requiring prior knowledge of network parameters, involving approximation of voltage waveforms, estimation of network parameters, and reconstruction of a feeder model.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If synchro-waveform measurements from line-mounted sensors are used, then event location identification accuracy is improved, but the requirement for network parameters knowledge increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveevent location identification accuracyVSAvoidnetwork parameters availability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses the synchro-waveform measurements themselves to extract and estimate the network parameters (line impedance, loading conditions) that are normally required as prior knowledge. The measurements serve dual purposes: both for event detection and for characterizing the network, eliminating the need for separate parameter acquisition systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The invention transforms the approach by changing from requiring fixed network parameters as input to dynamically estimating these parameters from the waveform measurements themselves. This parameter transformation allows the system to operate without pre-existing network models while maintaining high location accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Loss of information

If traditional measurement devices are used, then network parameters can be obtained, but the device complexity and installation cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork parameters availabilityVSAvoidmeasurement device complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The line-mounted sensors are designed to perform multiple functions: they measure synchro-waveforms for event detection, estimate network parameters, and provide location identification. This multi-functionality replaces the need for separate specialized measurement devices that would otherwise be required to obtain network parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces complex physical measurement systems with a signal-processing-based approach. Instead of using dedicated devices to measure network parameters directly, the system uses waveform analysis and signal processing algorithms to extract parameter information, reducing hardware complexity.

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

3Measurement precision

If comprehensive network models are used, then event location accuracy is improved, but the system setup time and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveevent location identification accuracyVSAvoidsystem setup time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary estimation of network parameters directly from the synchro-waveform measurements during the event detection process itself, rather than requiring pre-configured network models. This eliminates time-consuming setup procedures while maintaining the accuracy benefits of using network information.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS12235308B2Power-line event location systems and methods
Publication Date: 2025.02.25 SENTIENT TECH HLDG LLC
  • US12235308B2 patent drawing
  • US12235308B2 patent drawing
  • US12235308B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed are various embodiments for unsupervised power-line event location within a power-line network. In one embodiment, e-field measurements are received from a plurality of line-mounted sensors located on one or more power lines in the power-line network. The e-field measurements to voltage approximations. A feeder model of the power line network is constructed based at least in part on the voltage approximations. An event within the power-line network is identified. A location of the event is identified based at least in part on the feeder model.