Universal Transformer Bushing Assembly for Faster Substation Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing high voltage power systems require multiple spare transformer-bushing assemblies with site-specific bushings, leading to increased costs and longer out-of-service durations for electrical power transmission and distribution substations due to the need for multiple types of bushings, which complicates the replacement process.
Innovation Solution
A high voltage power system with a single power transformer pre-installed with three different types of bushings (oil-to-oil, oil-to-air, and oil-to-SF6) allows for a universal transformer-bushing assembly that can be used across multiple substations, reducing the need for multiple spare assemblies and simplifying the replacement process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple spare transformer-bushing assemblies with different site-specific bushings are stocked, then each substation can receive the correct replacement assembly, but the number of spare assemblies required increases and inventory complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single transformer-bushing assembly that can serve multiple substations with different bushing types. The assembly includes a transformer with a bushing receptacle that accepts various site-specific bushings (e.g., SF6, air-insulated, oil-insulated), allowing one universal assembly to replace multiple site-specific assemblies and reduce inventory requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by separating the bushing component from the transformer core. The transformer is designed with a standardized receptacle that can accept different bushing types as interchangeable components. This allows the bushing to be replaced independently based on site requirements while keeping the main transformer assembly universal.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of bushings are installed on a single transformer, then a single universal transformer-bushing assembly can serve multiple substations, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transformer is designed with a universal bushing receptacle that can accommodate multiple types of bushings (SF6, air-insulated, oil-insulated) through standardized mounting interfaces. This multi-functional design allows a single transformer assembly to be deployed across different substations with varying bushing requirements without increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by making only the bushing portion variable while keeping the main transformer body standardized. Each bushing type is designed to fit a specific receptacle location on the transformer, allowing local adaptation to site requirements while maintaining a uniform core design. This minimizes complexity by limiting variability to discrete, interchangeable components.
3Loss of time
If bushing replacement is performed in the field near the failed transformer, then replacement can be done quickly, but the replacement quality and reliability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-assembling complete transformer-bushing assemblies in a controlled manufacturing environment before deployment. The universal assembly is prepared with all necessary components and configurations in advance, allowing for quality control and testing before field installation. This pre-preparation ensures high replacement quality while enabling rapid deployment to multiple substations.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for a high voltage power system (HV system) for changing a voltage of an electric current from a first voltage to a second voltage by having the electric current conducted through at least one of multiple connections and across the transformer casing of a high voltage power transformer. The electric current is substantially electrically insulated from the transformer casing and is conducted to the high-voltage side of the HV transformer. The HV transformer is equipped with multiple respective receptacles for the multiple connections. The receptacles include a high-voltage cable box receptacle, a high-voltage top receptacle, and a high-voltage side receptacle.