Transformer Tap Changer Testing via Superimposed Electrical Curves
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complex and error-prone mechanics of tap changers in transformers, particularly in high-power applications, make regular checks necessary to ensure proper operation, but existing methods are inadequate for efficiently assessing their performance.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that generate a test signal to simulate switching operations in the tap changer, recording and superimposing time profiles of electrical variables to assess the tap changer's functionality, allowing for improved detection of correct operation and potential issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional measurement methods with separate measuring devices are used for each tap changer, then individual tap changer performance can be measured, but the evaluation process becomes complex and time-consuming when multiple tap changers need to be assessed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple measuring devices into a single integrated measurement system that can simultaneously measure multiple tap changers. The system uses one measuring device with a display that shows superimposed time profiles from all tap changers, eliminating the need for separate devices for each tap changer and simplifying the overall measurement system.
Solution Approach 2:
The measuring device is designed to universally measure multiple tap changers of different phases (e.g., R, S, T) with a single device. The system can handle and display measurements from multiple tap changers simultaneously, making the measuring device multi-functional rather than requiring dedicated devices for each tap changer.
2Measurement precision
If multiple measuring devices are used to test each tap changer separately, then detailed individual measurements are obtained, but the time required for evaluation increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the time profiles of multiple tap changers into a single superimposed display. All time profiles are shown simultaneously on one display device, allowing the operator to evaluate multiple tap changers at once rather than sequentially reviewing separate measurements, thus dramatically reducing evaluation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from sequential one-dimensional evaluation (one tap changer at a time) to simultaneous multi-dimensional evaluation by superimposing time profiles. The display shows multiple time profiles stacked vertically or layered, adding a visual dimension that allows parallel comparison of multiple tap changers without increasing evaluation time linearly.
3Measurement precision
If separate time profiles for each tap changer are recorded individually, then detailed analysis of each device is possible, but visual comparison and identification of issues becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent superimposes time profiles from multiple tap changers on a single display, merging them into one visual representation. This allows operators to visually compare amplitude, timing, and shape characteristics of different tap changers simultaneously, making it easier to identify anomalies or deviations without switching between multiple separate displays or documents.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs visual differentiation (such as color coding or distinct line styles) to distinguish between time profiles of different tap changers when superimposed. This allows operators to easily track and compare specific tap changers within the composite display, maintaining individual profile identifiability while enabling visual comparison across multiple devices.
Data Source
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AI summary
For testing a tap changer (20) of a transformer (5; 6), which tap changer is designed to change a transmission ratio of the transformer (5; 6), the following steps are carried out: generating a test signal which is supplied to a winding (1-3; 10) of the transformer (5; 6) and to the tap changer (20). repeatedly actuating the tap changer (20) in order to change the transmission ratio with each actuation. determining a curve of an electrical measurement variable (I; l1; l2) of the transformer (5; 6) over time (t) for each actuation of the tap changer (20) depending on the test signal. automatically displaying the curves (41, 42) in a temporally superimposed manner.