Power Delivery Topology Interlocking Using PAC Graph Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing electric power delivery systems require rigorous, time-consuming, and expensive reprogramming and retesting of programmable logic after any modification, such as adding or removing a circuit, due to the need for thorough testing of user-configured logic in critical applications.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a PAC algorithm, such as the substation topology protection and control (STPAC) algorithm, which represents the electric power delivery system as a graph, allowing for quick visualization and adjustment of connections based on updated topology, thereby reducing the need for extensive retesting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If user-configured programmable logic is used for protection and control schemes, then the system can adapt to various topologies, but reprogramming and retesting becomes time-consuming and expensive after modifications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic topology detection that automatically monitors and identifies changes in the power system topology in real-time. The system continuously updates the system graph data structure to reflect current breaker and disconnect states, eliminating the need for manual reprogramming when topology changes occur. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by making the system both versatile across different topologies and efficient when transitioning between them.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-configuration through automatic topology detection and graph resolution. When topology changes occur, the system automatically detects the new configuration, resolves the updated system graph, and generates appropriate protection and control logic without requiring manual intervention. This self-service capability eliminates reprogramming and retesting time while maintaining adaptability to various topologies.
2Reliability
If thorough testing is performed on programmable logic, then system reliability is ensured, but the process becomes rigorous, time-consuming, and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses graph theory to create an abstract system graph that copies and represents the physical power system topology. This graphical model allows for automated analysis and validation of protection schemes without requiring physical testing. The system graph serves as a virtual replica that can be manipulated and analyzed computationally, ensuring reliability through mathematical validation while dramatically improving productivity by eliminating iterative physical testing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual programming and physical testing mechanisms with automated computational methods. The system uses algorithmic graph resolution and topological analysis to validate protection schemes, substituting mechanical testing processes with electronic computation. This substitution maintains reliability through rigorous mathematical validation while significantly improving reprogramming efficiency by eliminating time-consuming physical testing cycles.
3Ease of operation
If the system represents topology as a graph with nodes and edges, then quick visualization and adjustment is enabled, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal graph data structure that serves multiple functions simultaneously: it represents the physical topology, enables visualization, supports automated analysis, and facilitates modification management. The system graph acts as a multi-functional model that handles various operational requirements through a single unified representation, reducing the need for separate complex systems for each function while maintaining ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
An electric power system may include numerous devices electrically connected to numerous other devices. In some cases, it may be beneficial to quickly determine and resolve an electric power system topology. Using a protection and control (PAC) algorithm, an electric power delivery system may be identified and represented as a graph including nodes and edges. The nodes represent electric power sources, busses, and ground. The edges represent circuit breakers, disconnects switches, and ground switches. By representing the electric power delivery system as a graph, the connections between various nodes (e.g., power sources, busses, grounds) and edges (e.g., circuit breakers, disconnects, ground switches) may be quickly and easily realized, represented, and visualized. Doing so may reduce programming and testing time after a change to the topology.