Transformer Linearization via Conditioning Signal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transformers often operate in a non-linear region when the voltage amplitude of the measurement signal is below the designed range, leading to inaccurate measurements and potential false detection in fault scenarios due to varying no-load impedance, especially when multiple transformers are connected in a measurement chain.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced where a conditioning signal with a specific amplitude and frequency, non-harmonically related to the measurement signal, is supplied to the transformer to ensure linear operation. This conditioning signal is chosen to be within 25-75% of the nominal voltage and is applied at a frequency that does not interfere with the measurement signal, allowing the transformer to operate within its linear range, thereby maintaining accurate measurement quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the voltage amplitude of the measurement signal is reduced to avoid overloading the transformer, then the transformer can handle stronger signals, but the transformer operates in a non-linear region leading to inaccurate measurements
Solution Approach 1:
A conditioning signal is supplied to the transformer before or simultaneously with the measurement signal to pre-establish linear operating conditions. This preliminary action ensures the transformer core operates in its linear region, preventing non-linear effects from degrading measurement accuracy while maintaining the ability to handle strong signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The operating parameters of the transformer are changed by introducing a conditioning signal with specific amplitude and frequency characteristics. This parameter change shifts the transformer's operating point from a potentially non-linear region to a linear region, thereby improving measurement precision without sacrificing overload protection capability.
2Measurement precision
If auxiliary circuit arrangements are added to linearize transformer performance, then measurement accuracy is improved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The conditioning signal serves multiple functions simultaneously: it linearizes the transformer operation, provides a reference for harmonic filtering, and enables accurate measurement extraction. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate auxiliary circuits, thereby limiting the increase in system complexity while achieving improved measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The conditioning signal acts as an intermediary that mediates between the measurement system and the transformer. By introducing this intermediate signal, the system achieves linear transformation without requiring complex auxiliary feedback circuits, thus improving measurement accuracy with minimal added complexity.
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
The method ensures linear operation of the transformer, preventing harmonic interference and maintaining accurate measurement results, even in scenarios where the transformer would otherwise operate in a non-linear region, thus preventing false protection operations.
Implementation Method 1
Transformers are used for converting voltages and currents in electrical circuits and power systems
Implementation Method 2
the voltage of the measurement signal may be so low that the transformer operates in a non-linear region
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for linearizing voltage transmission through a transformer including a magnetic core and, input and output windings. A measurement signal is supplied to the input winding at a first frequency and an output signal is measured at the output winding of the transformer, wherein the voltage of the measurement signal may be so low that the transformer operates in a non-linear region. The method comprises, for a conditioning signal, selecting a second frequency different from the first frequency (100), defining an amplitude value of the conditioning signal (110) and supplying the conditioning signal to the input winding at the second frequency with the defined amplitude value so that the transformer operates in its linear region (120).