Tap-Changing Transformer Voltage Control for Reverse Power Flow

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing voltage control methods for tap-changing transformers fail to adapt to reverse power flows, leading to overvoltages and inefficiencies, especially when generators are present on the low-voltage side, which can disrupt grid stability.

Innovation Solution

A method and device for adapting a target voltage value by determining a reverse power flow and using the quotient of powers at different tap positions to adjust the gradient of the target voltage value, allowing the on-load tap changer to efficiently maintain voltage within a predetermined band and prevent overvoltages.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed target voltage value is used for controlling the tap-changing transformer, then the control method is simple, but the system cannot adapt to reverse power flow conditions, leading to overvoltages and grid instability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to reverse power flowVSAvoidcomplexity of voltage control method
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic adaptation of the target voltage value by detecting reverse power flow conditions and adjusting the voltage gradient accordingly. The control system transitions from a static fixed voltage approach to a dynamic adaptive approach where the target voltage is modified based on real-time power flow detection, enabling the system to respond to changing grid conditions while maintaining operational simplicity through automated detection and adjustment mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the voltage gradient parameter from a fixed value to an adaptive value that is adjusted based on detected reverse power flow conditions. By modifying the target voltage gradient dynamically when reverse power flow is detected, the system adapts to different operational modes without requiring complex additional hardware, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and simplicity through parameter-based control adjustment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If the target voltage value is not adapted to reverse power flow, then the control system remains simple, but overvoltages occur and feed power is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegrid stabilityVSAvoidcomplexity of control system
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the control system continuously monitors power flow direction and uses this information to adjust the target voltage value. When reverse power flow is detected through measurement of active power, the system automatically adapts the voltage gradient to prevent overvoltages and maintain grid stability, creating a closed-loop control system that enhances reliability while keeping the implementation relatively simple through straightforward feedback-based adjustment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If a fixed voltage control strategy is used, then implementation is straightforward, but the system cannot maximize feed power under varying grid conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefeed powerVSAvoidease of control implementation
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables the control system to automatically detect reverse power flow conditions and self-adjust the target voltage value without requiring external intervention or complex manual configuration. The system serves itself by monitoring its own operational state and making necessary adjustments to maximize feed power, thereby maintaining ease of operation while improving productivity through automated adaptive control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS20250350220A1Method for adapting a target voltage value for controlling a tap-changing transformer, and device for adapting a target voltage value for controlling a tap-changing transformer
Publication Date: 2025.11.13 MASCHFAB REINHAUSEN GMBH
  • US20250350220A1 patent drawing
  • US20250350220A1 patent drawing
  • US20250350220A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for adapting a target voltage value for voltage control of a tap-changing transformer by an on-load tap changer is provided. The method includes determining a reverse power flow on a low-voltage side of the tap-changing transformer by measuring a current and a voltage. The on-load tap changer is actuated from a current tap position n to a further tap position. A voltage of a current is measured in the further tap position. A value m is determined from powers of different tap positions, and the determined value m is used as a gradient for a first section of a straight line of the target voltage value.