On-Load Tap Changer Pre-Movement Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for monitoring tap changers operate retrospectively, allowing faulty functioning during load changeovers that can lead to damage, as they only compare actual and target values after the process is complete, unable to prevent or correct issues in real-time.
Innovation Solution
A method that proactively monitors the tap changer's state before a load changeover by moving it slightly in the opposite direction to detect movement and torque, signaling any blockages or faults to prevent the changeover from starting, using sensors or torque detection to ensure the tap changer is functional.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If retrospective monitoring methods are used to compare actual and target values after the load changeover process, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates because faulty functioning cannot be prevented in real-time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing a test movement of the tap changer before the actual load changeover process. The system moves the tap changer by a small amount in the opposite direction to detect potential blockages or faults before they can cause damage during the real switching operation. This preventive approach allows the system to identify issues in advance and prevent faulty functioning, thereby improving reliability without requiring complex real-time monitoring during the actual changeover
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary anti-action by detecting and signaling faults before the load changeover begins. The monitoring system performs a preliminary check by attempting to move the tap changer and detecting any blockages or abnormal torque conditions. If faults are detected, the system generates warning signals and prevents the actual load changeover from starting, thereby counteracting potential harmful effects before they can occur
2Reliability
If the tap changer is moved slightly in the opposite direction before load changeover to detect blockages, then reliability is improved, but loss of time increases due to the additional monitoring step
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by performing only a small test movement of the tap changer in the opposite direction, rather than completing the full load changeover sequence during monitoring. This limited movement is sufficient to detect blockages or faults without consuming excessive time. The test movement is just enough to engage the drive mechanism and detect abnormalities, then the system decides whether to proceed with the actual changeover based on the results
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables proactive functional monitoring, preventing faulty load changeovers and enhancing operational safety and reliability by identifying and addressing issues before they cause damage, ensuring uninterrupted energy supply.
Implementation Method 1
the torque of the motor drive can also be detected. If it is equal to zero, the electrical connection is interrupted; the motor drive has not moved. If the torque is greater than a predetermined limit value a blockage of the motor or another faulty function is present.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for monitoring an on-load tap changer that is used to switch between winding taps of a tapped transformer without interrupting the load current and is actuated using a motor drive. According to the invention, prior to the actual load switching process, the on-load tap changer is initially moved a short distance, preferably against the direction in which the load is subsequently switched. In said initial process, it is verified whether the on-load tap changer has moved, i.e. has left its previous stationary position, and/or whether the torque on the motor drive has exceeded a predefined threshold value. The actual load switching process takes place only once the test has yielded a positive result.