Switchable Load Management for Transmission Network Stability

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Solution Overview

Problem

The expansion of electrical transmission networks to accommodate renewable energy integration and peak loads while minimizing resource usage, as existing methods require redundant infrastructure to meet the N-1 criterion, leading to inefficiencies and public resistance against new overhead lines.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating switchable power capacities within the distribution network, allowing for real-time adjustments and load management through cyclic selection and switching of subscribers, which can be simulated to maintain network stability without overloading transmission equipment, thus reducing the need for extensive network expansion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the transmission network is designed to meet the N-1 criterion with redundant capacity, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and infrastructure requirements worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork reliabilityVSAvoidinfrastructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static N-1 criterion design to dynamic load management. Switchable loads are controlled in real-time based on actual network conditions, allowing the system to adapt capacity allocation dynamically rather than provisioning for worst-case scenarios statically. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining reliability through active control while reducing infrastructure complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of load capacity from fixed to variable. By introducing switchable loads that can be activated or deactivated based on network conditions, the system optimizes capacity utilization. This allows the transmission network to operate closer to its actual limits without requiring redundant infrastructure, resolving the contradiction between reliability and infrastructure complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If the transmission network is expanded to accommodate peak loads, then productivity is improved, but loss of substance worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower transmission capacityVSAvoidmaterial resources
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses dynamic load switching to optimize power transmission capacity utilization. Instead of expanding infrastructure for peak loads, the system dynamically manages demand by switching non-critical loads on and off based on network conditions. This maintains productivity by ensuring adequate capacity during peak times while avoiding material resource loss through unnecessary infrastructure expansion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements self-service through automated load management systems that respond to network conditions without manual intervention. The switchable loads are controlled automatically based on real-time network status, allowing the system to self-regulate capacity utilization. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining productivity through intelligent demand management rather than physical expansion, avoiding material resource loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If switchable loads are managed in real-time, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveload management flexibilityVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by implementing real-time load switching capabilities. The system can dynamically adjust which loads are active based on network conditions, power availability, and priority levels. This improves adaptability by allowing the network to respond flexibly to changing conditions while the control system manages the complexity of coordinating multiple switchable loads.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses feedback mechanisms where the control system continuously monitors network conditions and adjusts load switching decisions accordingly. This feedback loop enables the system to adapt to changing conditions while managing complexity through automated decision-making based on predefined criteria and real-time data, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and control system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP3637572A1Method for operating an electric transmission network
Publication Date: 2020.04.15 INNOGY SE
  • EP3637572A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3637572A1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP3637572A1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

Method for operating an electrical transmission network (4), in particular a high-voltage network, comprising the steps of: receiving a list of at least one switchable subscriber from at least one distribution network for a network transfer point (16a-e) between the distribution network and the transmission network (4), wherein each list is assigned a switchable electrical power, and checking a schedule for at least one power plant connected to the transmission network (4), wherein an n-1 criterion for the transmission network (4) is supplemented by the switchable power of the at least one list.