CA2232683C - Systems for determining fault location on power distribution lines - Google Patents
Systems for determining fault location on power distribution lines Download PDFInfo
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- CA2232683C CA2232683C CA002232683A CA2232683A CA2232683C CA 2232683 C CA2232683 C CA 2232683C CA 002232683 A CA002232683 A CA 002232683A CA 2232683 A CA2232683 A CA 2232683A CA 2232683 C CA2232683 C CA 2232683C
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- lightning
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- 238000001514 detection method Methods 0.000 claims description 42
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- 230000005855 radiation Effects 0.000 claims description 11
- 230000001360 synchronised effect Effects 0.000 claims description 10
- 230000002159 abnormal effect Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 18
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 5
- 208000025274 Lightning injury Diseases 0.000 description 4
- 238000009413 insulation Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000012544 monitoring process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000001681 protective effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 241001465754 Metazoa Species 0.000 description 1
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007664 blowing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 1
- ZZUFCTLCJUWOSV-UHFFFAOYSA-N furosemide Chemical compound C1=C(Cl)C(S(=O)(=O)N)=CC(C(O)=O)=C1NCC1=CC=CO1 ZZUFCTLCJUWOSV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
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- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000007935 neutral effect Effects 0.000 description 1
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Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01R—MEASURING ELECTRIC VARIABLES; MEASURING MAGNETIC VARIABLES
- G01R31/00—Arrangements for testing electric properties; Arrangements for locating electric faults; Arrangements for electrical testing characterised by what is being tested not provided for elsewhere
- G01R31/08—Locating faults in cables, transmission lines, or networks
- G01R31/081—Locating faults in cables, transmission lines, or networks according to type of conductors
- G01R31/085—Locating faults in cables, transmission lines, or networks according to type of conductors in power transmission or distribution lines, e.g. overhead
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y04—INFORMATION OR COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES HAVING AN IMPACT ON OTHER TECHNOLOGY AREAS
- Y04S—SYSTEMS INTEGRATING TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO POWER NETWORK OPERATION, COMMUNICATION OR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES FOR IMPROVING THE ELECTRICAL POWER GENERATION, TRANSMISSION, DISTRIBUTION, MANAGEMENT OR USAGE, i.e. SMART GRIDS
- Y04S10/00—Systems supporting electrical power generation, transmission or distribution
- Y04S10/50—Systems or methods supporting the power network operation or management, involving a certain degree of interaction with the load-side end user applications
- Y04S10/52—Outage or fault management, e.g. fault detection or location
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- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Locating Faults (AREA)
- Remote Monitoring And Control Of Power-Distribution Networks (AREA)
Abstract
A novel power distribution line fault locating system is provided herein. The system includes at least one first data manipulation unit for manipulating conducted fault signal data resulting from a fault on a power distribution line, and producing and communicating a first set of fault location data. At least one second data manipulation unit is provided for manipulating electromagnetic radiated signal data emanating from the fault on the power distribution line, and producing and communicating a second set of fault location data. A fault location centre is responsive to the first set of fault location data and to the second set of fault location data which is produced by the at least one first data manipulation unit and the at least one second data manipulation unit, for determining a location of the fault.
Description
(a) TITLE OF THE INVENTION
SYSTEMS FOR DETERMINING FAULT LOCATION ON POWER
DISTRIBUTION LINES
(b) TECHNICAL FIELD TO WHICH THE INVENTION RELATES
The present invention relates to systems for improving the accuracy of locating faults on electric utility power distribution systems. More particularly, the present invention pertains to systems that utilize conducted and radiated signals to locate faults on electric utility power distribution systems. Even more particularly, the present invention relates to power line fault locating systems that utilize travelling conducted wave technology, precise timing means, and electromagnetic signal detection means, including lightning location technology, to locate faults on a power distribution system.
(c) BACKGROUND ART
Electric power outages are very often attributed to faults that trigger protective devices in the power distribution system. The faults result because of the creation of a low impedance, current-conducting path between a power line and another power line, or from a power line to ground, or from a power line to the neutral line. The current being conducted is termed "fault current" and is typically preceded by an air gap arc which results from voltage levels which exceed the local insulation level.
Such arcs typically result from lightning striking the line, tree branches blowing near the line, birds or small animals bridging the insulation gap, or cracked/dirty insulators. The protective devices of the distribution system are designed to sense the fault current and to switch relays to operate circuit breakers in an attempt to clear the fault. If the fault can be cleared, then finding the location of the fault is typically not of high concern. However, if the fault is intermittent, or re-occurring, then locating the fault is of greater concern.
Locating the fault becomes of extreme concern when the fault can not be cleared, i.e., a "bolted" or "lock-out" condition exists and the fault source must be found.
One method of locating the fault is line-men (persons) walking/driving/flying along the line until the source of the fault is found. Obviously, if the fault occurs along distribution lines in urban areas, then the flying method is not practical. In these situations, the faults can be isolated by means of evaluating the incoming telephone calls of the customers. If the faults occur in less populated areas, then more scientific methods are required to locate the fault.
The state of the art in fault locating systems, (FLS), employs recording site sensors that are responsive to conducted voltage transient/current transient signals which are produced by the fault. The fault locating methods are referred to either as impedance (reactance) or as travelling wave/time of arrival methods. The impedance method analyzes the impedance characteristics of a power line by comparing normal loading conditions against the abnormal line impedance resulting from a fault. The travelling wave method, utilizes the fact that a transient waveform is generated and conducted away from a fault at a first time. The fault waveforms propagate in opposite directions, along the line from the fault with respective propagation times. Knowledge of the times of arrival, at opposing measuring equipment, and characteristics about the line being monitored help in determining the distance that the wave has travelled from the location of the fault.
While these conducted transient methods have merits in a single stretch of transmission lines, an element of ambiguity is introduced when there are multiple primary circuits or tap points, as in a distribution subsystem, since any one of the circuit paths could have been the source of the fault at the same distance determined.
The travelling wave (voltage transient/current transient) method has been published by P.F.
Gale of Hathaway Instruments Ltd., England, in a paper entitled: "OVERHEAD
LINE
FAULT LOCATION BASED ON TRAVELLING WAVES & GPS", and by H. Lee of B.C. Hydro and Power Authority, Burnaby, B.C. in a paper entitled "DEVELOPMENT
OF AN ACCURATE TRAVELLING WAVE FAULT LOCATOR USING THE
GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM SATELLITES" .
There are several known prior art patents relating to fault locating systems.
These include the following U.S. Patents Nos.: 3,670,240; 3,781,665;
SYSTEMS FOR DETERMINING FAULT LOCATION ON POWER
DISTRIBUTION LINES
(b) TECHNICAL FIELD TO WHICH THE INVENTION RELATES
The present invention relates to systems for improving the accuracy of locating faults on electric utility power distribution systems. More particularly, the present invention pertains to systems that utilize conducted and radiated signals to locate faults on electric utility power distribution systems. Even more particularly, the present invention relates to power line fault locating systems that utilize travelling conducted wave technology, precise timing means, and electromagnetic signal detection means, including lightning location technology, to locate faults on a power distribution system.
(c) BACKGROUND ART
Electric power outages are very often attributed to faults that trigger protective devices in the power distribution system. The faults result because of the creation of a low impedance, current-conducting path between a power line and another power line, or from a power line to ground, or from a power line to the neutral line. The current being conducted is termed "fault current" and is typically preceded by an air gap arc which results from voltage levels which exceed the local insulation level.
Such arcs typically result from lightning striking the line, tree branches blowing near the line, birds or small animals bridging the insulation gap, or cracked/dirty insulators. The protective devices of the distribution system are designed to sense the fault current and to switch relays to operate circuit breakers in an attempt to clear the fault. If the fault can be cleared, then finding the location of the fault is typically not of high concern. However, if the fault is intermittent, or re-occurring, then locating the fault is of greater concern.
Locating the fault becomes of extreme concern when the fault can not be cleared, i.e., a "bolted" or "lock-out" condition exists and the fault source must be found.
One method of locating the fault is line-men (persons) walking/driving/flying along the line until the source of the fault is found. Obviously, if the fault occurs along distribution lines in urban areas, then the flying method is not practical. In these situations, the faults can be isolated by means of evaluating the incoming telephone calls of the customers. If the faults occur in less populated areas, then more scientific methods are required to locate the fault.
The state of the art in fault locating systems, (FLS), employs recording site sensors that are responsive to conducted voltage transient/current transient signals which are produced by the fault. The fault locating methods are referred to either as impedance (reactance) or as travelling wave/time of arrival methods. The impedance method analyzes the impedance characteristics of a power line by comparing normal loading conditions against the abnormal line impedance resulting from a fault. The travelling wave method, utilizes the fact that a transient waveform is generated and conducted away from a fault at a first time. The fault waveforms propagate in opposite directions, along the line from the fault with respective propagation times. Knowledge of the times of arrival, at opposing measuring equipment, and characteristics about the line being monitored help in determining the distance that the wave has travelled from the location of the fault.
While these conducted transient methods have merits in a single stretch of transmission lines, an element of ambiguity is introduced when there are multiple primary circuits or tap points, as in a distribution subsystem, since any one of the circuit paths could have been the source of the fault at the same distance determined.
The travelling wave (voltage transient/current transient) method has been published by P.F.
Gale of Hathaway Instruments Ltd., England, in a paper entitled: "OVERHEAD
LINE
FAULT LOCATION BASED ON TRAVELLING WAVES & GPS", and by H. Lee of B.C. Hydro and Power Authority, Burnaby, B.C. in a paper entitled "DEVELOPMENT
OF AN ACCURATE TRAVELLING WAVE FAULT LOCATOR USING THE
GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM SATELLITES" .
There are several known prior art patents relating to fault locating systems.
These include the following U.S. Patents Nos.: 3,670,240; 3,781,665;
3,878,460;
4,110,684; 4,165,482; 4,475,079; 4,672,321; 4,719,580; 4,731,689; 4,731,688;
5,256,976; 4,800,509; 5,146,170; 5,070,537; 5,256,976; 5,319,311; 5,321,632;
and 5,508,619.
,.
Of general interest are the teachings of U.S. Patent Nos. 5,070,537 and 5,508,619, which teach conducted voltage surge detection and the utilization of GPS
(Global Positioning System) technology to determine the distance to the fault, respectively.
U.S. Patent No. 5,256,976 teaches the use of a plurality of electromagnetic wave detectors which are disposed within metal containers and which detect electromagnetic waves which are generated by a fault within a container to aid in locating a power line fault. Each bus in a power line network has a detector which reports electromagnetic wave fault data only for that bus.
The electromagnetic wave detectors taught by U.S. Patent No. 5,256,976 do not utilize synchronized time of arrival technology in its system.
None of the prior art patents teach an improved electric power line fault locating system that utilizes both conducted signal information and electromagnetic radiated signal information, in combination with GPS technology and geographical information about the line, to locate a fault on a power distribution line.
(d) DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Thus, there is a need to improve the accuracy of fault locating systems, especially when applied to distribution subcircuits where it is not practical to include a sufficient number of conducted waveform monitoring sites to provide unambiguous fault locations.
However, it is known that power line faults generate low level electromagnetic radiated signals caused by arcing. To applicant's knowledge, power line fault locating systems have not fully employed this radiated electromagnetic signal detection (arc detection) for locating a fault.
It is therefore an object of one aspect of the present invention to provide an improved electric power line fault locating system that utilizes both conducted signal information and electromagnetic radiated signal information, in combination with geographical information about the line to locate a fault on a power distribution line.
An object of an additional aspect of the present invention is to provide an improved electric power line fault locating system that utilizes conducted signal information, (e. g. , the travelling wave systems and methods currently known) and electromagnetic radiated signal information (precise time and location) which is produced by lightning locating systems, to locate faults on a power line which are produced by a lightning stroke on or near the line.
An object of a related aspect of the present invention is to provide an improved electric power line fault locating system that utilizes both conducted signal information and electromagnetic radiated signal information using electronic arc detection sensors (ADS) which are adapted to detect low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) which is generated by acing which is associated with faults on a power distribution line.
An object of another related aspect of the present invention is to provide an improved electric power line fault locating system that utilizes only electromagnetic radiated signal information using a plurality of electronic arc detection sensors (ADS) which are adapted to detect low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) which is generated by arcing which is associated with faults on a power distribution line.
By a first broad aspect of this invention, a power distribution line fault locating system is provided, the system comprising at least one first data manipulation unit for manipulating conducted fault signal data resulting from a fault on a power distribution line, and producing and communicating a first set of fault location data, at least one second data manipulation unit for manipulating electromagnetic radiated signal data emanating from the fault on the power distribution line, and producing and communicating a second set of fault location data, and a fault location centre responsive to the first set of fault location data and to the second set of fault location data which is produced by the at least one first data manipulation unit and by the at least one second data manipulation unit, for determining a location of the fault.
By one variant of this first broad aspect of this invention, the first set of fault location data comprises a time of arrival at the at least one first data manipulation unit of the conducted signal data which is generated by the fault on the power distribution line, the second set of fault location data comprises a precise time of arrival of the electromagnetic radiated signal data emanating from the fault on the power distribution line at the at least one second data manipulation unit, the time of arrival of the conducted signal data and the time of arrival of the electromagnetic radiated signal data being accurate to microsecond accuracy as made possible by the at least one first data manipulation unit and by the at least one second data manipulation unit being provide with, and utilizing, clocks that are synchronized by Global Positioning System (GPS) 5 receivers, and the fault location centre comprises a power line fault locating analyzer, which is operative to determine a first path length between the at least one first data manipulation unit and the fault, and a second path length between the at least one second data manipulation unit and the fault, by utilizing (a) the time of arrival of the conducted signal data at the at least one first data manipulation unit, (b) the time of arrival of the electromagnetic radiated signal data as determined by the at least one second data manipulation unit, and (c) placement and path data of related individual power lines which are associated with the power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system.
By a second variant of this first broad aspect of this invention, and/or the above variant thereof, the conducted fault signal data comprises conducted electrical signals which are produced by the fault, and the at least one first data manipulation unit comprises a fault recording sensor which is responsive to conducted electrical signal fault data, for determining an impedance characteristic of the power distribution line by comparing normal loading conditions against an abnormal line impedance resulting from the fault.
By a third variant of this first broad aspect of this invention, and/or the above variants thereof, the conducted fault signal data comprises conducted current transient signal produced by the fault, and the at least one first data manipulation unit comprises a fault recording sensor which is responsive to the conducted current transient signal for determining its time of arrival data, the conducted current transient signal being one of a plurality of travelling wave signals that travel in opposite directions from a location of the fault.
By a fourth variant of this first broad aspect of this invention, and/or the above variants thereof, the electromagnetic radiated signal data comprises electromagnetic radiation data which is generated by a lightning discharge which produced a lightning caused fault on the power distribution line, and the at least one second data manipulation unit comprises at least one electronic lightning locating system that manipulates the electromagnetic radiation data which is generated by lightning and identifies a time of occurrence and a location of a stroke of lightning that caused the fault.
By a fifth variant of this first broad aspect of this invention, and/or the above variants thereof, the electromagnetic radiated signal data comprises low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) which is generated by arcing which is associated with a fault on the power distribution line, and the at least one second data manipulation unit comprises at least one electronic arc detection sensor having circuitry that detects the low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) and that manipulates the electromagnetic radiation for purposes of determining a time of arrival of the radiation at the electronic arc detection sensor.
By a second broad aspect of this invention, a power distribution line fault locating system is provided, the system comprising at least two electronic arc detection sensors having electronic circuitry which is responsive to low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) emanating from arcing at a fault on a power distribution line, the electronic circuitry manipulating the electromagnetic radiation for purposes of determining and communicating a time of arrival of the radiation at each of the at least two arc detection sensors, and a power line fault locating analyzer, which is operative to receive the communicated time of arrival of the radiation at each of the at least two arc detection sensors, to manipulate stored longitudinal and latitudinal information on each of the at least two arc detection sensors, and further to manipulate placement and path data of related individual power lines which are associated with the power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system for purposes of determining an exact location of the fault.
By a third aspect of this invention, a power distribution line fault locating system is provided, the system comprising at least one first data manipulation unit comprising at least one fault recording sensor unit for manipulating a conducted electrical signal which is produced by a fault on a power distribution line, and producing and communicating a first set of fault location data, the fault recording sensor unit being responsive to the conducted electrical signal for determining its time of arrival data, the conducted electrical signal being one of a plurality of conducted travelling wave signals that travel in opposite directions from a location of the fault, at least one second data manipulation unit for manipulating electromagnetic radiated signal data emanating from the fault on the power distribution line, and producing and communicating a second set of fault location data, and a fault location centre which is responsive to the first set of fault location data, and to the second set of fault location data which are produced by the at least one first data manipulation unit and by the at least one second data manipulation unit for determining a location of a fault.
By one variant of this third broad aspect of this invention, the electromagnetic radiated signal data comprises electromagnetic radiation data which is generated by a lightning-caused fault on the power distribution line, and the at least one second data manipulation unit comprises at least one electronic lightning locating system that manipulates the electromagnetic radiation data such that the second set of fault location data comprises a precise time of occurrence and location of lightning u,~hich produced the lightning-caused fault on the power distribution line.
By a second variant of this third broad aspect of this invention, and/or the above variant thereof, the conducted electrical signal comprises a conducted electrical signal which is generated by the lightning-caused fault on the power distribution line, and the first set of fault location data comprises a time of arrival at the at least one first data manipulation unit of the lightning-caused conducted electrical signal, the time of arrival of the lightning-caused conducted electrical signal and the time of occurrence of lightning which produced the lightning-caused fault being accurate to microsecond accuracy as made possible by the at least one first data manipulation unit and by the at least one second data manipulation unit being provided with, and utilizing, clocks that are synchronized by Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver, and the fault location centre comprises a power line fault locating analyzer, which is operative to determine a first path length between the at least one first data manipulation unit and the lightning-caused fault, and a second path length between the at least one second data manipulation unit and the lightning-caused fault, by utilizing the time of arrival of the lightning-caused g conducted electrical signal at the at least one first data manipulation unit, the time of occurrence of lightning which produced the lightning-caused fault as determined by the at least one second data manipulation unit, and placement and path data of related individual power lines which are associated with the power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system.
By a third variant of this third broad aspect of this invention, and/or the above variants thereof, the conducted electrical signal comprises a conducted electrical signal which is generated by the lightning-caused fault on the power distribution line, and the first set of fault location data comprises a time of arrival at the at least one first data manipulation unit of the lightning-caused conducted electrical signal, the time of arrival of the lightning-caused conducted electrical signal and the time of occurrence of lightning which produced the lightning-caused fault being accurate to microsecond accuracy as made possible by the at least one first data manipulation unit and by the at least one second data manipulation unit being provided with, and utilizing, clocks that are synchronized by Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers, and the fault location centre comprises a power line fault locating analyzer, operative to receive the communicated time of arrival of the radiation at the at least one arc detection sensor, manipulate stored longitudinal and latitudinal information on the at least one arc detection sensor, and further to manipulate placement and path data of related individual power lines which are associated with the power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system for purposes of determining an exact location of the fault.
By a fourth variant of this third broad aspect of this invention, and/or the above variants thereof, the electromagnetic radiated signal data comprises low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) which is generated by arcing which is associated with a fault on the power distribution line, and the at least one second data manipulation unit comprises at least one electronic arc detection sensor having circuitry that detects the low level electromagnetic radiation and that manipulates the low level electromagnetic radiation for purposes of determining and communicating a time of arrival of the low level electromagnetic radiation at the electronic arc detection sensors.
By a fourth broad aspect of this invention, a power distribution line fault locating system is provided, the system comprising at least one first data manipulation unit for manipulating conducted fault signal data resulting from a fault on a power distribution line, and producing and communicating a first set of fault location data, at least one second data manipulation unit for manipulating electromagnetic radiated signal data emanating from the fault on the power distribution line and producing and communicating a second set of fault location data, and a power line fault locating analyzer, which is operative to determine a first path length between the at least one first data manipulation unit and the fault, and a second path length between the at least one second data manipulation unit and the fault, by utilizing the communicated first set of fault location data, the communicated second set of fault location data, and placement and path data of related individual power lines which are associated with the power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system for purposes of determining a location of the fault.
By one variant of this fourth broad aspect of this invention, the conducted fault signal data comprises a conducted electrical signal which is produced by the fault, and the at least one first data manipulation unit comprises at least one fault recording sensor unit for manipulating the conducted electrical signal, and producing and communicating the first set of fault location data, the at least one fault recording sensor unit being responsive to the conducted electrical signal for determining the time of arrival of the conducted electrical signal at the at least one first data manipulation unit, the conducted electrical signal being one of a plurality of conducted travelling wave signals that travel in opposite directions from a location of the fault.
By a second variant of this fourth broad aspect of this invention, and/or the above variant thereof, the electromagnetic radiated signal data comprises electromagnetic radiation data which is generated by a lightning-caused fault on the power distribution line, and the at least one second data manipulation unit comprises at least one electronic lightning locating system that manipulates the electromagnetic radiation data such that the second set of fault location data comprises a precise time of occurrence and location of lightning which produced the lightning-caused fault on the power distribution line.
By a second variant of this fourth broad aspect of this invention, and/or the above variants thereof, the conducted electrical signal comprises a conducted electrical signal which is generated by the lightning-caused fault on the power distribution line, and by the first set of fault location data comprises a time of arrival at the at least one first data 5 manipulation unit of the lightning-caused conducted electrical signal, the time of arrival of the lightning-caused conducted electrical signal and the time of occurrence of lightning which produced the lightning-caused fault being accurate to microsecond accuracy as made possible by the at least one first data manipulation unit, and by the at least one second data manipulation unit being provided with, and utilizing, clocks that are 10 synchronized by Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers, and the power line fault locating analyzer further being operative to determine a first path length between the at least one first data manipulation unit and the lightning-caused fault, and a second path length between the at least one second data manipulation unit and the lightning-caused fault, by utilizing the time of arrival of the lightning caused conducted electrical signal at the at least one first data manipulation unit, the time of occurrence of lightning which produced the lightning-caused fault as determined by the at least one second data manipulation unit, and placement and path data of related individual power lines which are associated with the power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system.
By a third variant of this fourth broad aspect of this invention, and/or the above variants thereof, the electromagnetic radiated signal data comprises low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) which is generated by arcing associated with a fault on the power distribution line, and the at least one second data manipulation unit comprises at least one electronic arc detection sensor having circuitry that detects the low level electromagnetic radiation and that manipulates the low level electromagnetic radiation for purposes of determining and communicating a time of arrival of the low level electromagnetic radiation at the electronic arc detection sensor.
By a fourth variant of this fourth broad aspect of this invention, and/or the above variants thereof, the power line fault locating analyzer is operative to receive the communicated time of arrival of the radiation at the at least one arc detection sensor, to manipulate stored longitudinal and latitudinal information on the at least one arc detection sensor, and further to manipulate placement and path data of related individual power lines which are associated with the power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system for purposes of determining an exact location of the fault.
In other words, the present invention in its many aspects provides a lightning-caused power line fault locating system, which employs lightning locating systems (LLS) and a fault recorder sensor (FRS) as is employed in a travelling wave fault locating system (TWFLS), both coupled to a central power line fault locating analyzer (PLFLA) that receives and manipulates lightning location information and conducted power line fault information to determine the location of the fault. The LLS is responsive to high level electromagnetic radiated fields which are generated by the lightning discharge and is capable of recording, to a microsecond level, the time of occurrence of the lightning stroke, as well as being capable of locating the lightning stroke with a known accuracy.
The FRS provides the time of arrival, also to the microsecond level, of the conducted travelling wave which is generated by the fault. The information from the LLS
and FRS
is further manipulated at the PLFLA using appropriate algorithms and databanks containing geographical maps of electric utility power systems to arrive at the location of the power line fault. The LLS provides the initial time of the fault-producing lightning discharge, so that only one FRS needs to be employed.
In one embodiment of a power line fault locating system of an aspect of this invention, for either lightning or non-lightning caused faults, in addition to a FRS, a modified electronic version of the sensors which are used in a LLS system is employed.
The modified sensors, termed "arc detection sensors" (ADS), are responsive to low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) which is caused by arcing which is associated with a fault. At least one ADS is positioned at a predetermined location to sense the time of arrival of the radiated arc which is associated with a fault on a power line.
The time of arcing information from the ADS and the time of arrival of the conducted signal from the FRS is communicated to the PLFLA for further manipulation, using appropriate algorithms and databanks containing geographical maps of electric utility power systems to arrive at the location of the power line fault.
In an alternative embodiment, multiple ADS units which are located about a power distribution network are provided such that the time of arcing information, from each of the ADS units, is communicated to the PLFLA to provide sufficient information to determine the exact location of a power line fault employing time-of arrival location methods, which are similar to those employed in lightning locating systems, see paper by Kenneth L. Cummins, et al. , entitled "LINE RELIABILITY AND FAULT
ANALYSIS USING THE NATIONAL LIGHTNING DETECTION NETWORK", presented October 1993 at the Precise Measurement Power Conference, Arlington, VA.
The PLFLA contains longitudinal and latitudinal information on each ADS as well as the geographical map of the power distribution system. The ADS type of power line fault locating system is entirely based on arc detection and does not require input from a FRS
to determine the location of a fault.
(e) BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In the accompany drawings:
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustration of a fault locating system arrangement for implementing the travelling wave method of locating a fault on a power line;
FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic representation of a lightning caused fault on a power distribution system and a fault locating system employing a electronic lightning locating system (LLS), a fault recorder sensor (FRS) responsive to the conducted fault waveform, a geographical information system (GIS) providing information about the location of the power lines, and a power line fault locating analyzer (PLFLA), in accordance with an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention;
FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic representation of a fault on a power distribution system and a fault locating system employing a pair of arc detection sensors (ADS) in addition to a fault recorder sensor (FRS) responsive to the conducted fault waveform, and a power line fault locating analyzer (PLFLA), in accordance with an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention; and FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic representation of a fault on a power distribution system and a fault locating system employing only multiple arc detection sensors (ADS) with a power line fault locating analyzer (PLFLA), in accordance with an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention.
(fj DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART
FIG. 1 shows diagrammatically a prior art travelling wave method which utilizes the fact that a transient waveform is generated and is conducted away from a fault F at time TO. The fault waveforms propagate in opposite directions, along line L1, L2 from the fault with respective propagation times Tpl, Tp2. Knowledge of the times of arrival, T1, T2, at opposing measuring equipment, and characteristics about the line being monitored help in determining the distance that the wave has travelled from the location of the fault.
(g) AT LEAST ONE MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
FIG. 2 shows a diagrammatic representation of a fault on a power distribution system and a fault locating system employing an electronic lightning locating system (LLS), a fault recording sensor (FRS) responsive to conducted fault waveforms, and a power line fault locating analyzer (PLFLA) in accordance with an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention. The LLS detects and processes the electromagnetic radiation which is produced by a lightning discharge and communicates the relevant lightning information (precise time and location) to the PLFLA, to be combined with the arrival time of the conducted signal recorded by the FRS, also communicated to the PLFLA. This conducted signal will contain a waveform which is produced by the lightning discharge, preceded by, or followed, in rapid succession by a waveform which is produced by the resulting fault current. Frequently, these two waveforms will be indistinguishable, as the location of the lightning discharge may also be the precise location of the fault along the line. Critical to the manipulation of the information is that both the LLS and FRS record the time of their respective events, being monitored to microsecond accuracy. In this embodiment, the precise timing is provided by clocks which are, for example, synchronized by Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers.
The use of an LLS to determine the precise time of the lightning discharge eliminates having to employ a FRS at more than one location along the distribution line.
As a first step in the location procedure, the path length between the FRS and the fault is determined by using the time of arrival at a FRS monitoring site of the conducted wave which is induced by a lightning on a power line, and the time of the lightning event as determined by a lightning location system (LLS), coupled with specific knowledge of the placement/path of related power lines as provided by a properly configured geographical information system (GIS). In cases involving multiple tap points along the line, more than one location will be consistent with the determined path length. This ambiguity will commonly be resolved with knowledge of the approximate location of the lightning and its estimated location error, as provided by the LLS.
An additional feature of this method is that if the fault occurs at a point which is farther from the FRS than the lightning discharge, it is possible to locate both the lightning stroke point and the fault location. This provides additional information about the insulation level of the line and identifies weak points along the line.
FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic representation of a fault on a power distribution system and a fault locating system employing a pair of arc detection sensors (ADS) in combination with a fault recording sensor (FRS) and a power line fault locating analyzer (PLFLA) in accordance with an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention. This embodiment employs electronic circuitry in the ADS that is responsive to the arc that emits low level electromagnetic radiation, and which determines the arrival time of the electromagnetic radiation at each ADS. While primarily designed for detecting the arc which is associated with faults, the ADS may also include circuitry for detecting lightning discharges.
The information concerning the time of the arc which is detected by the ADS, in combination with the information concerning the time of arrival of the conducted travelling wave which is sensed by the FRS and the associated line pathway which is provided by the GIS are sufficient for determining the location of the fault.
Upon the occurrence of a fault, the arc will generate a radiated signal, and the arrival times of this radiated signal is recorded at each of the ADS detectors. In the case where only one ADS detects the arc, the location of the fault on the line is determined using a procedure which iteratively moves an estimated fault location along the line, and computes the expected arrival time at both the ADS and the FRS sites, using the geographical information. Since the conducted signal must propagate along the power line, and since the radiated signal must travel a straight-line path between the arc and the ADS, a unique 5 solution can be obtained. In the case where two ADS sensors detect the arc, the difference in arrival times of the radiated waveform at the two ADS sites is used to determine a hyperbola that is symmetrical about a line which is drawn between the two ADS. The point of intersection between the power line and this hyperbola is the initial estimate of the fault location. This estimate can then be improved upon or verified by 10 considering the arrival time of the conducted fault waveform at the FRS.
Note that if the fault occurred equidistant between the two ADS detectors, then the hyperbola would be a straight line which is equidistant from both ADS sites (See Cummins et al., 1993 for a discussion of "relative time of arrival" method of hyperbolic intersections).
FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic representation of a fault on a power distribution system 15 and a fault locating system employing only multiple arc detection sensor (ADS) with a power line fault locating analyzer (PLFLA) in accordance with an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention. Here, three (3) or more ADS sites about a power distribution network are provided such that the arrival time of arcing information at each of the ADS sites is communicated to the PLFLA to determine the exact location of a power line fault. The PLFLA contains longitudinal and latitudinal information on each ADS site as well as the geographical map of the power distribution system. The ADS
type of power line fault locating system of an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention is based entirely on arc detection and does not require input regarding the conducted waveform to determine the location of a fault.
and 5,508,619.
,.
Of general interest are the teachings of U.S. Patent Nos. 5,070,537 and 5,508,619, which teach conducted voltage surge detection and the utilization of GPS
(Global Positioning System) technology to determine the distance to the fault, respectively.
U.S. Patent No. 5,256,976 teaches the use of a plurality of electromagnetic wave detectors which are disposed within metal containers and which detect electromagnetic waves which are generated by a fault within a container to aid in locating a power line fault. Each bus in a power line network has a detector which reports electromagnetic wave fault data only for that bus.
The electromagnetic wave detectors taught by U.S. Patent No. 5,256,976 do not utilize synchronized time of arrival technology in its system.
None of the prior art patents teach an improved electric power line fault locating system that utilizes both conducted signal information and electromagnetic radiated signal information, in combination with GPS technology and geographical information about the line, to locate a fault on a power distribution line.
(d) DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Thus, there is a need to improve the accuracy of fault locating systems, especially when applied to distribution subcircuits where it is not practical to include a sufficient number of conducted waveform monitoring sites to provide unambiguous fault locations.
However, it is known that power line faults generate low level electromagnetic radiated signals caused by arcing. To applicant's knowledge, power line fault locating systems have not fully employed this radiated electromagnetic signal detection (arc detection) for locating a fault.
It is therefore an object of one aspect of the present invention to provide an improved electric power line fault locating system that utilizes both conducted signal information and electromagnetic radiated signal information, in combination with geographical information about the line to locate a fault on a power distribution line.
An object of an additional aspect of the present invention is to provide an improved electric power line fault locating system that utilizes conducted signal information, (e. g. , the travelling wave systems and methods currently known) and electromagnetic radiated signal information (precise time and location) which is produced by lightning locating systems, to locate faults on a power line which are produced by a lightning stroke on or near the line.
An object of a related aspect of the present invention is to provide an improved electric power line fault locating system that utilizes both conducted signal information and electromagnetic radiated signal information using electronic arc detection sensors (ADS) which are adapted to detect low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) which is generated by acing which is associated with faults on a power distribution line.
An object of another related aspect of the present invention is to provide an improved electric power line fault locating system that utilizes only electromagnetic radiated signal information using a plurality of electronic arc detection sensors (ADS) which are adapted to detect low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) which is generated by arcing which is associated with faults on a power distribution line.
By a first broad aspect of this invention, a power distribution line fault locating system is provided, the system comprising at least one first data manipulation unit for manipulating conducted fault signal data resulting from a fault on a power distribution line, and producing and communicating a first set of fault location data, at least one second data manipulation unit for manipulating electromagnetic radiated signal data emanating from the fault on the power distribution line, and producing and communicating a second set of fault location data, and a fault location centre responsive to the first set of fault location data and to the second set of fault location data which is produced by the at least one first data manipulation unit and by the at least one second data manipulation unit, for determining a location of the fault.
By one variant of this first broad aspect of this invention, the first set of fault location data comprises a time of arrival at the at least one first data manipulation unit of the conducted signal data which is generated by the fault on the power distribution line, the second set of fault location data comprises a precise time of arrival of the electromagnetic radiated signal data emanating from the fault on the power distribution line at the at least one second data manipulation unit, the time of arrival of the conducted signal data and the time of arrival of the electromagnetic radiated signal data being accurate to microsecond accuracy as made possible by the at least one first data manipulation unit and by the at least one second data manipulation unit being provide with, and utilizing, clocks that are synchronized by Global Positioning System (GPS) 5 receivers, and the fault location centre comprises a power line fault locating analyzer, which is operative to determine a first path length between the at least one first data manipulation unit and the fault, and a second path length between the at least one second data manipulation unit and the fault, by utilizing (a) the time of arrival of the conducted signal data at the at least one first data manipulation unit, (b) the time of arrival of the electromagnetic radiated signal data as determined by the at least one second data manipulation unit, and (c) placement and path data of related individual power lines which are associated with the power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system.
By a second variant of this first broad aspect of this invention, and/or the above variant thereof, the conducted fault signal data comprises conducted electrical signals which are produced by the fault, and the at least one first data manipulation unit comprises a fault recording sensor which is responsive to conducted electrical signal fault data, for determining an impedance characteristic of the power distribution line by comparing normal loading conditions against an abnormal line impedance resulting from the fault.
By a third variant of this first broad aspect of this invention, and/or the above variants thereof, the conducted fault signal data comprises conducted current transient signal produced by the fault, and the at least one first data manipulation unit comprises a fault recording sensor which is responsive to the conducted current transient signal for determining its time of arrival data, the conducted current transient signal being one of a plurality of travelling wave signals that travel in opposite directions from a location of the fault.
By a fourth variant of this first broad aspect of this invention, and/or the above variants thereof, the electromagnetic radiated signal data comprises electromagnetic radiation data which is generated by a lightning discharge which produced a lightning caused fault on the power distribution line, and the at least one second data manipulation unit comprises at least one electronic lightning locating system that manipulates the electromagnetic radiation data which is generated by lightning and identifies a time of occurrence and a location of a stroke of lightning that caused the fault.
By a fifth variant of this first broad aspect of this invention, and/or the above variants thereof, the electromagnetic radiated signal data comprises low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) which is generated by arcing which is associated with a fault on the power distribution line, and the at least one second data manipulation unit comprises at least one electronic arc detection sensor having circuitry that detects the low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) and that manipulates the electromagnetic radiation for purposes of determining a time of arrival of the radiation at the electronic arc detection sensor.
By a second broad aspect of this invention, a power distribution line fault locating system is provided, the system comprising at least two electronic arc detection sensors having electronic circuitry which is responsive to low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) emanating from arcing at a fault on a power distribution line, the electronic circuitry manipulating the electromagnetic radiation for purposes of determining and communicating a time of arrival of the radiation at each of the at least two arc detection sensors, and a power line fault locating analyzer, which is operative to receive the communicated time of arrival of the radiation at each of the at least two arc detection sensors, to manipulate stored longitudinal and latitudinal information on each of the at least two arc detection sensors, and further to manipulate placement and path data of related individual power lines which are associated with the power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system for purposes of determining an exact location of the fault.
By a third aspect of this invention, a power distribution line fault locating system is provided, the system comprising at least one first data manipulation unit comprising at least one fault recording sensor unit for manipulating a conducted electrical signal which is produced by a fault on a power distribution line, and producing and communicating a first set of fault location data, the fault recording sensor unit being responsive to the conducted electrical signal for determining its time of arrival data, the conducted electrical signal being one of a plurality of conducted travelling wave signals that travel in opposite directions from a location of the fault, at least one second data manipulation unit for manipulating electromagnetic radiated signal data emanating from the fault on the power distribution line, and producing and communicating a second set of fault location data, and a fault location centre which is responsive to the first set of fault location data, and to the second set of fault location data which are produced by the at least one first data manipulation unit and by the at least one second data manipulation unit for determining a location of a fault.
By one variant of this third broad aspect of this invention, the electromagnetic radiated signal data comprises electromagnetic radiation data which is generated by a lightning-caused fault on the power distribution line, and the at least one second data manipulation unit comprises at least one electronic lightning locating system that manipulates the electromagnetic radiation data such that the second set of fault location data comprises a precise time of occurrence and location of lightning u,~hich produced the lightning-caused fault on the power distribution line.
By a second variant of this third broad aspect of this invention, and/or the above variant thereof, the conducted electrical signal comprises a conducted electrical signal which is generated by the lightning-caused fault on the power distribution line, and the first set of fault location data comprises a time of arrival at the at least one first data manipulation unit of the lightning-caused conducted electrical signal, the time of arrival of the lightning-caused conducted electrical signal and the time of occurrence of lightning which produced the lightning-caused fault being accurate to microsecond accuracy as made possible by the at least one first data manipulation unit and by the at least one second data manipulation unit being provided with, and utilizing, clocks that are synchronized by Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver, and the fault location centre comprises a power line fault locating analyzer, which is operative to determine a first path length between the at least one first data manipulation unit and the lightning-caused fault, and a second path length between the at least one second data manipulation unit and the lightning-caused fault, by utilizing the time of arrival of the lightning-caused g conducted electrical signal at the at least one first data manipulation unit, the time of occurrence of lightning which produced the lightning-caused fault as determined by the at least one second data manipulation unit, and placement and path data of related individual power lines which are associated with the power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system.
By a third variant of this third broad aspect of this invention, and/or the above variants thereof, the conducted electrical signal comprises a conducted electrical signal which is generated by the lightning-caused fault on the power distribution line, and the first set of fault location data comprises a time of arrival at the at least one first data manipulation unit of the lightning-caused conducted electrical signal, the time of arrival of the lightning-caused conducted electrical signal and the time of occurrence of lightning which produced the lightning-caused fault being accurate to microsecond accuracy as made possible by the at least one first data manipulation unit and by the at least one second data manipulation unit being provided with, and utilizing, clocks that are synchronized by Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers, and the fault location centre comprises a power line fault locating analyzer, operative to receive the communicated time of arrival of the radiation at the at least one arc detection sensor, manipulate stored longitudinal and latitudinal information on the at least one arc detection sensor, and further to manipulate placement and path data of related individual power lines which are associated with the power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system for purposes of determining an exact location of the fault.
By a fourth variant of this third broad aspect of this invention, and/or the above variants thereof, the electromagnetic radiated signal data comprises low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) which is generated by arcing which is associated with a fault on the power distribution line, and the at least one second data manipulation unit comprises at least one electronic arc detection sensor having circuitry that detects the low level electromagnetic radiation and that manipulates the low level electromagnetic radiation for purposes of determining and communicating a time of arrival of the low level electromagnetic radiation at the electronic arc detection sensors.
By a fourth broad aspect of this invention, a power distribution line fault locating system is provided, the system comprising at least one first data manipulation unit for manipulating conducted fault signal data resulting from a fault on a power distribution line, and producing and communicating a first set of fault location data, at least one second data manipulation unit for manipulating electromagnetic radiated signal data emanating from the fault on the power distribution line and producing and communicating a second set of fault location data, and a power line fault locating analyzer, which is operative to determine a first path length between the at least one first data manipulation unit and the fault, and a second path length between the at least one second data manipulation unit and the fault, by utilizing the communicated first set of fault location data, the communicated second set of fault location data, and placement and path data of related individual power lines which are associated with the power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system for purposes of determining a location of the fault.
By one variant of this fourth broad aspect of this invention, the conducted fault signal data comprises a conducted electrical signal which is produced by the fault, and the at least one first data manipulation unit comprises at least one fault recording sensor unit for manipulating the conducted electrical signal, and producing and communicating the first set of fault location data, the at least one fault recording sensor unit being responsive to the conducted electrical signal for determining the time of arrival of the conducted electrical signal at the at least one first data manipulation unit, the conducted electrical signal being one of a plurality of conducted travelling wave signals that travel in opposite directions from a location of the fault.
By a second variant of this fourth broad aspect of this invention, and/or the above variant thereof, the electromagnetic radiated signal data comprises electromagnetic radiation data which is generated by a lightning-caused fault on the power distribution line, and the at least one second data manipulation unit comprises at least one electronic lightning locating system that manipulates the electromagnetic radiation data such that the second set of fault location data comprises a precise time of occurrence and location of lightning which produced the lightning-caused fault on the power distribution line.
By a second variant of this fourth broad aspect of this invention, and/or the above variants thereof, the conducted electrical signal comprises a conducted electrical signal which is generated by the lightning-caused fault on the power distribution line, and by the first set of fault location data comprises a time of arrival at the at least one first data 5 manipulation unit of the lightning-caused conducted electrical signal, the time of arrival of the lightning-caused conducted electrical signal and the time of occurrence of lightning which produced the lightning-caused fault being accurate to microsecond accuracy as made possible by the at least one first data manipulation unit, and by the at least one second data manipulation unit being provided with, and utilizing, clocks that are 10 synchronized by Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers, and the power line fault locating analyzer further being operative to determine a first path length between the at least one first data manipulation unit and the lightning-caused fault, and a second path length between the at least one second data manipulation unit and the lightning-caused fault, by utilizing the time of arrival of the lightning caused conducted electrical signal at the at least one first data manipulation unit, the time of occurrence of lightning which produced the lightning-caused fault as determined by the at least one second data manipulation unit, and placement and path data of related individual power lines which are associated with the power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system.
By a third variant of this fourth broad aspect of this invention, and/or the above variants thereof, the electromagnetic radiated signal data comprises low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) which is generated by arcing associated with a fault on the power distribution line, and the at least one second data manipulation unit comprises at least one electronic arc detection sensor having circuitry that detects the low level electromagnetic radiation and that manipulates the low level electromagnetic radiation for purposes of determining and communicating a time of arrival of the low level electromagnetic radiation at the electronic arc detection sensor.
By a fourth variant of this fourth broad aspect of this invention, and/or the above variants thereof, the power line fault locating analyzer is operative to receive the communicated time of arrival of the radiation at the at least one arc detection sensor, to manipulate stored longitudinal and latitudinal information on the at least one arc detection sensor, and further to manipulate placement and path data of related individual power lines which are associated with the power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system for purposes of determining an exact location of the fault.
In other words, the present invention in its many aspects provides a lightning-caused power line fault locating system, which employs lightning locating systems (LLS) and a fault recorder sensor (FRS) as is employed in a travelling wave fault locating system (TWFLS), both coupled to a central power line fault locating analyzer (PLFLA) that receives and manipulates lightning location information and conducted power line fault information to determine the location of the fault. The LLS is responsive to high level electromagnetic radiated fields which are generated by the lightning discharge and is capable of recording, to a microsecond level, the time of occurrence of the lightning stroke, as well as being capable of locating the lightning stroke with a known accuracy.
The FRS provides the time of arrival, also to the microsecond level, of the conducted travelling wave which is generated by the fault. The information from the LLS
and FRS
is further manipulated at the PLFLA using appropriate algorithms and databanks containing geographical maps of electric utility power systems to arrive at the location of the power line fault. The LLS provides the initial time of the fault-producing lightning discharge, so that only one FRS needs to be employed.
In one embodiment of a power line fault locating system of an aspect of this invention, for either lightning or non-lightning caused faults, in addition to a FRS, a modified electronic version of the sensors which are used in a LLS system is employed.
The modified sensors, termed "arc detection sensors" (ADS), are responsive to low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) which is caused by arcing which is associated with a fault. At least one ADS is positioned at a predetermined location to sense the time of arrival of the radiated arc which is associated with a fault on a power line.
The time of arcing information from the ADS and the time of arrival of the conducted signal from the FRS is communicated to the PLFLA for further manipulation, using appropriate algorithms and databanks containing geographical maps of electric utility power systems to arrive at the location of the power line fault.
In an alternative embodiment, multiple ADS units which are located about a power distribution network are provided such that the time of arcing information, from each of the ADS units, is communicated to the PLFLA to provide sufficient information to determine the exact location of a power line fault employing time-of arrival location methods, which are similar to those employed in lightning locating systems, see paper by Kenneth L. Cummins, et al. , entitled "LINE RELIABILITY AND FAULT
ANALYSIS USING THE NATIONAL LIGHTNING DETECTION NETWORK", presented October 1993 at the Precise Measurement Power Conference, Arlington, VA.
The PLFLA contains longitudinal and latitudinal information on each ADS as well as the geographical map of the power distribution system. The ADS type of power line fault locating system is entirely based on arc detection and does not require input from a FRS
to determine the location of a fault.
(e) BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In the accompany drawings:
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustration of a fault locating system arrangement for implementing the travelling wave method of locating a fault on a power line;
FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic representation of a lightning caused fault on a power distribution system and a fault locating system employing a electronic lightning locating system (LLS), a fault recorder sensor (FRS) responsive to the conducted fault waveform, a geographical information system (GIS) providing information about the location of the power lines, and a power line fault locating analyzer (PLFLA), in accordance with an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention;
FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic representation of a fault on a power distribution system and a fault locating system employing a pair of arc detection sensors (ADS) in addition to a fault recorder sensor (FRS) responsive to the conducted fault waveform, and a power line fault locating analyzer (PLFLA), in accordance with an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention; and FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic representation of a fault on a power distribution system and a fault locating system employing only multiple arc detection sensors (ADS) with a power line fault locating analyzer (PLFLA), in accordance with an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention.
(fj DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART
FIG. 1 shows diagrammatically a prior art travelling wave method which utilizes the fact that a transient waveform is generated and is conducted away from a fault F at time TO. The fault waveforms propagate in opposite directions, along line L1, L2 from the fault with respective propagation times Tpl, Tp2. Knowledge of the times of arrival, T1, T2, at opposing measuring equipment, and characteristics about the line being monitored help in determining the distance that the wave has travelled from the location of the fault.
(g) AT LEAST ONE MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
FIG. 2 shows a diagrammatic representation of a fault on a power distribution system and a fault locating system employing an electronic lightning locating system (LLS), a fault recording sensor (FRS) responsive to conducted fault waveforms, and a power line fault locating analyzer (PLFLA) in accordance with an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention. The LLS detects and processes the electromagnetic radiation which is produced by a lightning discharge and communicates the relevant lightning information (precise time and location) to the PLFLA, to be combined with the arrival time of the conducted signal recorded by the FRS, also communicated to the PLFLA. This conducted signal will contain a waveform which is produced by the lightning discharge, preceded by, or followed, in rapid succession by a waveform which is produced by the resulting fault current. Frequently, these two waveforms will be indistinguishable, as the location of the lightning discharge may also be the precise location of the fault along the line. Critical to the manipulation of the information is that both the LLS and FRS record the time of their respective events, being monitored to microsecond accuracy. In this embodiment, the precise timing is provided by clocks which are, for example, synchronized by Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers.
The use of an LLS to determine the precise time of the lightning discharge eliminates having to employ a FRS at more than one location along the distribution line.
As a first step in the location procedure, the path length between the FRS and the fault is determined by using the time of arrival at a FRS monitoring site of the conducted wave which is induced by a lightning on a power line, and the time of the lightning event as determined by a lightning location system (LLS), coupled with specific knowledge of the placement/path of related power lines as provided by a properly configured geographical information system (GIS). In cases involving multiple tap points along the line, more than one location will be consistent with the determined path length. This ambiguity will commonly be resolved with knowledge of the approximate location of the lightning and its estimated location error, as provided by the LLS.
An additional feature of this method is that if the fault occurs at a point which is farther from the FRS than the lightning discharge, it is possible to locate both the lightning stroke point and the fault location. This provides additional information about the insulation level of the line and identifies weak points along the line.
FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic representation of a fault on a power distribution system and a fault locating system employing a pair of arc detection sensors (ADS) in combination with a fault recording sensor (FRS) and a power line fault locating analyzer (PLFLA) in accordance with an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention. This embodiment employs electronic circuitry in the ADS that is responsive to the arc that emits low level electromagnetic radiation, and which determines the arrival time of the electromagnetic radiation at each ADS. While primarily designed for detecting the arc which is associated with faults, the ADS may also include circuitry for detecting lightning discharges.
The information concerning the time of the arc which is detected by the ADS, in combination with the information concerning the time of arrival of the conducted travelling wave which is sensed by the FRS and the associated line pathway which is provided by the GIS are sufficient for determining the location of the fault.
Upon the occurrence of a fault, the arc will generate a radiated signal, and the arrival times of this radiated signal is recorded at each of the ADS detectors. In the case where only one ADS detects the arc, the location of the fault on the line is determined using a procedure which iteratively moves an estimated fault location along the line, and computes the expected arrival time at both the ADS and the FRS sites, using the geographical information. Since the conducted signal must propagate along the power line, and since the radiated signal must travel a straight-line path between the arc and the ADS, a unique 5 solution can be obtained. In the case where two ADS sensors detect the arc, the difference in arrival times of the radiated waveform at the two ADS sites is used to determine a hyperbola that is symmetrical about a line which is drawn between the two ADS. The point of intersection between the power line and this hyperbola is the initial estimate of the fault location. This estimate can then be improved upon or verified by 10 considering the arrival time of the conducted fault waveform at the FRS.
Note that if the fault occurred equidistant between the two ADS detectors, then the hyperbola would be a straight line which is equidistant from both ADS sites (See Cummins et al., 1993 for a discussion of "relative time of arrival" method of hyperbolic intersections).
FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic representation of a fault on a power distribution system 15 and a fault locating system employing only multiple arc detection sensor (ADS) with a power line fault locating analyzer (PLFLA) in accordance with an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention. Here, three (3) or more ADS sites about a power distribution network are provided such that the arrival time of arcing information at each of the ADS sites is communicated to the PLFLA to determine the exact location of a power line fault. The PLFLA contains longitudinal and latitudinal information on each ADS site as well as the geographical map of the power distribution system. The ADS
type of power line fault locating system of an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention is based entirely on arc detection and does not require input regarding the conducted waveform to determine the location of a fault.
Claims (18)
1. A power distribution line fault locating system, the system comprising:
at least one first data manipulation unit for manipulating conducted fault signal data resulting from a fault on a power distribution line, and producing and communicating a first set of fault location data;
at least one second data manipulation unit for manipulating electromagnetic radiated signal data emanating from said fault on said power distribution line, and producing and communicating a second set of fault location data; and a fault location centre responsive to said first set of fault location data and to said second set of fault location data which is produced by said at least one first data manipulation unit and by said at least one second data manipulation unit, for determining a location of said fault.
at least one first data manipulation unit for manipulating conducted fault signal data resulting from a fault on a power distribution line, and producing and communicating a first set of fault location data;
at least one second data manipulation unit for manipulating electromagnetic radiated signal data emanating from said fault on said power distribution line, and producing and communicating a second set of fault location data; and a fault location centre responsive to said first set of fault location data and to said second set of fault location data which is produced by said at least one first data manipulation unit and by said at least one second data manipulation unit, for determining a location of said fault.
2. A power distribution line fault locating system as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
said first set of fault location data comprises a time of arrival at said at least one first data manipulation unit of said conducted signal data which is generated by said fault on said power distribution line;
said second set of fault location data comprises a precise time of arrival of said electromagnetic radiated signal data emanating from said fault on said power distribution line at said at least one second data manipulation unit;
said time of arrival of said conducted signal data and said time of arrival of said electromagnetic radiated signal data being accurate to microsecond accuracy as made possible by said at least one first data manipulation unit and by said at least one second data manipulation unit being provide with, and utilizing, clocks that are synchronized by Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers; and said fault location centre comprises a power line fault locating analyzer, which is operative to determine a first path length between said at least one first data manipulation unit and said fault, and a second path length between said at least one second data manipulation unit and said fault, by utilizing:
(a) said time of arrival of said conducted signal data at said at least one first data manipulation unit;
(b) said time of arrival of said electromagnetic radiated signal data as determined by said at least one second data manipulation unit; and (c) placement and path data of related individual power lines which are associated with said power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system.
said first set of fault location data comprises a time of arrival at said at least one first data manipulation unit of said conducted signal data which is generated by said fault on said power distribution line;
said second set of fault location data comprises a precise time of arrival of said electromagnetic radiated signal data emanating from said fault on said power distribution line at said at least one second data manipulation unit;
said time of arrival of said conducted signal data and said time of arrival of said electromagnetic radiated signal data being accurate to microsecond accuracy as made possible by said at least one first data manipulation unit and by said at least one second data manipulation unit being provide with, and utilizing, clocks that are synchronized by Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers; and said fault location centre comprises a power line fault locating analyzer, which is operative to determine a first path length between said at least one first data manipulation unit and said fault, and a second path length between said at least one second data manipulation unit and said fault, by utilizing:
(a) said time of arrival of said conducted signal data at said at least one first data manipulation unit;
(b) said time of arrival of said electromagnetic radiated signal data as determined by said at least one second data manipulation unit; and (c) placement and path data of related individual power lines which are associated with said power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system.
3. A power distribution line fault locating system as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein:
said conducted fault signal data comprises conducted electrical signals which are produced by said fault; and said at least one first data manipulation unit comprises a fault recording sensor which is responsive to conducted electrical signal fault data, for determining an impedance characteristic of said power distribution line by comparing normal loading conditions against an abnormal line impedance resulting from said fault.
said conducted fault signal data comprises conducted electrical signals which are produced by said fault; and said at least one first data manipulation unit comprises a fault recording sensor which is responsive to conducted electrical signal fault data, for determining an impedance characteristic of said power distribution line by comparing normal loading conditions against an abnormal line impedance resulting from said fault.
4. A power distribution line fault locating system as claimed in claim 1, claim 2 or claim 3, wherein:
said conducted fault signal data comprises a conducted current transient signal which is produced by said fault; and said at least one first data manipulation unit comprises a fault recording sensor which is responsive to said conducted current transient signal for determining its time of arrival data, said conducted current transient signal being one of a plurality of travelling wave signals that travel in opposite directions from a location of said fault.
said conducted fault signal data comprises a conducted current transient signal which is produced by said fault; and said at least one first data manipulation unit comprises a fault recording sensor which is responsive to said conducted current transient signal for determining its time of arrival data, said conducted current transient signal being one of a plurality of travelling wave signals that travel in opposite directions from a location of said fault.
5. A power distribution line fault locating system as claimed in claims 1 to 4, wherein:
said electromagnetic radiated signal data comprises electromagnetic radiation data which is generated by a lightning discharge which produced a lightning-caused fault on said power distribution line; and said at least one second data manipulation unit comprises at least one electronic lightning locating system that manipulates said electromagnetic radiation data which is generated by lightning and identifies a time of occurrence and a location of a stroke of lightning that caused said fault.
said electromagnetic radiated signal data comprises electromagnetic radiation data which is generated by a lightning discharge which produced a lightning-caused fault on said power distribution line; and said at least one second data manipulation unit comprises at least one electronic lightning locating system that manipulates said electromagnetic radiation data which is generated by lightning and identifies a time of occurrence and a location of a stroke of lightning that caused said fault.
6. A power distribution line fault locating system as claimed in claims 1 to 4, wherein:
said electromagnetic radiated signal data comprises low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) which is generated by arcing associated with a fault on said power distribution line; and said at least one second data manipulation unit comprises at least one electronic arc detection sensor having circuitry that detects said low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) and that manipulates said electromagnetic radiation for purposes of determining a time of arrival of said radiation at said electronic arc detection sensor.
said electromagnetic radiated signal data comprises low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) which is generated by arcing associated with a fault on said power distribution line; and said at least one second data manipulation unit comprises at least one electronic arc detection sensor having circuitry that detects said low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) and that manipulates said electromagnetic radiation for purposes of determining a time of arrival of said radiation at said electronic arc detection sensor.
7. A power distribution line fault locating system, said system comprising:
at least two electronic arc detection sensors having electronic circuitry which is responsive to low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) emanating from arcing at a fault on a power distribution line, said electronic circuitry manipulating said electromagnetic radiation for purposes of determining and communicating a time of arrival of said radiation at each of said at least two arc detection sensors;
and a power line fault locating analyzer, operative:
(a) to receive said communicated time of arrival of said radiation at each of said at least two arc detection sensors;
(b) to manipulate stored longitudinal and latitudinal information on each of said at least two arc detection sensors; and (c) further to manipulate placement and path data of related individual power lines which are associated with said power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system for purposes of determining an exact location of said fault.
at least two electronic arc detection sensors having electronic circuitry which is responsive to low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) emanating from arcing at a fault on a power distribution line, said electronic circuitry manipulating said electromagnetic radiation for purposes of determining and communicating a time of arrival of said radiation at each of said at least two arc detection sensors;
and a power line fault locating analyzer, operative:
(a) to receive said communicated time of arrival of said radiation at each of said at least two arc detection sensors;
(b) to manipulate stored longitudinal and latitudinal information on each of said at least two arc detection sensors; and (c) further to manipulate placement and path data of related individual power lines which are associated with said power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system for purposes of determining an exact location of said fault.
8. A power distribution line fault locating system, said system comprising:
at least one first data manipulation unit comprising at least one fault recording sensor unit for manipulating a conducted electrical signal produced by a fault on a power distribution line, and producing and communicating a first set of fault location data, said fault recording sensor unit being responsive to said conducted electrical signal for determining its time of arrival data, said conducted electrical signal being one of a plurality of conducted travelling wave signals that travel in opposite directions from a location of said fault;
at least one second data manipulation unit for manipulating electromagnetic radiated signal data emanating from said fault on said power distribution line, and producing and communicating a second set of fault location data; and a fault location centre which is responsive to said first set of fault location data, and to said second set of fault location data which are produced by said at least one first data manipulation unit and by said at least one second data manipulation unit for determining a location of a fault.
at least one first data manipulation unit comprising at least one fault recording sensor unit for manipulating a conducted electrical signal produced by a fault on a power distribution line, and producing and communicating a first set of fault location data, said fault recording sensor unit being responsive to said conducted electrical signal for determining its time of arrival data, said conducted electrical signal being one of a plurality of conducted travelling wave signals that travel in opposite directions from a location of said fault;
at least one second data manipulation unit for manipulating electromagnetic radiated signal data emanating from said fault on said power distribution line, and producing and communicating a second set of fault location data; and a fault location centre which is responsive to said first set of fault location data, and to said second set of fault location data which are produced by said at least one first data manipulation unit and by said at least one second data manipulation unit for determining a location of a fault.
9. A power distribution line fault locating system as claimed in claim 8, wherein:
said electromagnetic radiated signal data comprises electromagnetic radiation data which is generated by a lightning-caused fault on said power distribution line; and said at least one second data manipulation unit comprises at least one electronic lightning locating system that manipulates said electromagnetic radiation data such that said second set of fault location data comprises a precise time of occurrence and location of lightning which produced said lightning-caused fault on said power distribution line.
said electromagnetic radiated signal data comprises electromagnetic radiation data which is generated by a lightning-caused fault on said power distribution line; and said at least one second data manipulation unit comprises at least one electronic lightning locating system that manipulates said electromagnetic radiation data such that said second set of fault location data comprises a precise time of occurrence and location of lightning which produced said lightning-caused fault on said power distribution line.
10. A power distribution line fault locating system as claimed in claim 8 or claim 9, wherein:
said conducted electrical signal comprises a conducted electrical signal which is generated by said lightning-caused fault on said power distribution line, and said first set of fault location data comprises a time of arrival at said at least one first data manipulation unit of said lightning-caused conducted electrical signal;
said time of arrival of said lightning-caused conducted electrical signal and said time of occurrence of lightning which produced said lightning-caused fault being accurate to microsecond accuracy as made possible by said at least one first data manipulation unit and said at least one second data manipulation unit being provided with, and utilizing, clocks that are synchronized by Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers; and said fault location centre comprises a power line fault locating analyzer, which is operative to determine a first path length between said at least one first data manipulation unit and said lightning-caused fault, and a second path length between said at least one second data manipulation unit and said lightning-caused fault, by utilizing:
(a) said time of arrival of said lightning-caused conducted electrical signal at said at least one first data manipulation unit;
(b) said time of occurrence of lightning which produced said lightning-caused fault as determined by said at least one second data manipulation unit; and (c) placement and path data of related individual power lines which are associated with said power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system.
said conducted electrical signal comprises a conducted electrical signal which is generated by said lightning-caused fault on said power distribution line, and said first set of fault location data comprises a time of arrival at said at least one first data manipulation unit of said lightning-caused conducted electrical signal;
said time of arrival of said lightning-caused conducted electrical signal and said time of occurrence of lightning which produced said lightning-caused fault being accurate to microsecond accuracy as made possible by said at least one first data manipulation unit and said at least one second data manipulation unit being provided with, and utilizing, clocks that are synchronized by Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers; and said fault location centre comprises a power line fault locating analyzer, which is operative to determine a first path length between said at least one first data manipulation unit and said lightning-caused fault, and a second path length between said at least one second data manipulation unit and said lightning-caused fault, by utilizing:
(a) said time of arrival of said lightning-caused conducted electrical signal at said at least one first data manipulation unit;
(b) said time of occurrence of lightning which produced said lightning-caused fault as determined by said at least one second data manipulation unit; and (c) placement and path data of related individual power lines which are associated with said power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system.
11. A power distribution line fault locating system as claimed in claim 8 or claim 9, wherein:
said conducted electrical signal comprises a conducted electrical signal which is generated by said lightning-caused fault on said power distribution line, and said first set of fault location data comprises a time of arrival at said at least one first data manipulation unit of said lightning-caused conducted electrical signal;
said time of arrival of said lightning-caused conducted electrical signal and said time of occurrence of lightning which produced said lightning-caused fault being accurate to microsecond accuracy as made possible by said at least one first data manipulation unit and by said at least one second data manipulation unit being provided with, and utilizing, clocks that are synchronized by Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers; and said fault location centre comprises a power line fault locating analyzer, operative:
(a) to receive said communicated time of arrival of said radiation at said at least one arc detection sensor;
(b) to manipulate stored longitudinal and latitudinal information on said at least one arc detection sensor; and (c) further to manipulate placement and path data of related individual power lines which are associated with said power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system for purposes of determining an exact location of said fault.
said conducted electrical signal comprises a conducted electrical signal which is generated by said lightning-caused fault on said power distribution line, and said first set of fault location data comprises a time of arrival at said at least one first data manipulation unit of said lightning-caused conducted electrical signal;
said time of arrival of said lightning-caused conducted electrical signal and said time of occurrence of lightning which produced said lightning-caused fault being accurate to microsecond accuracy as made possible by said at least one first data manipulation unit and by said at least one second data manipulation unit being provided with, and utilizing, clocks that are synchronized by Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers; and said fault location centre comprises a power line fault locating analyzer, operative:
(a) to receive said communicated time of arrival of said radiation at said at least one arc detection sensor;
(b) to manipulate stored longitudinal and latitudinal information on said at least one arc detection sensor; and (c) further to manipulate placement and path data of related individual power lines which are associated with said power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system for purposes of determining an exact location of said fault.
12. A power distribution line fault locating system as claimed in claims 8 to 11, wherein:
said electromagnetic radiated signal data comprises low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) which is generated by arcing which is associated with a fault on said power distribution line; and said at least one second data manipulation unit comprises at least one electronic arc detection sensor having circuitry that detects said low level electromagnetic radiation and that manipulates said low level electromagnetic radiation for purposes of determining and communicating a time of arrival of said radiation at said low level electromagnetic electronic arc detection sensors.
said electromagnetic radiated signal data comprises low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) which is generated by arcing which is associated with a fault on said power distribution line; and said at least one second data manipulation unit comprises at least one electronic arc detection sensor having circuitry that detects said low level electromagnetic radiation and that manipulates said low level electromagnetic radiation for purposes of determining and communicating a time of arrival of said radiation at said low level electromagnetic electronic arc detection sensors.
13. A power distribution line fault locating system, said system comprising:
at least one first data manipulation unit for manipulating conducted fault signal data resulting from a fault on a power distribution line, and producing and communicating a first set of fault location data;
at least one second data manipulation unit for manipulating electromagnetic radiated signal data emanating from said fault on said power distribution line and producing and communicating a second set of fault location data; and a power line fault locating analyzer, which is operative to determine a first path length between said at least one first data manipulation unit and said fault, and a second path length between said at least one second data manipulation unit and said fault, by utilizing:
(a) said communicated first set of fault location data;
(b) said communicated second set of fault location data; and (c) placement and path data of related individual power lines associated with said power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system for purposes of determining a location of said fault.
at least one first data manipulation unit for manipulating conducted fault signal data resulting from a fault on a power distribution line, and producing and communicating a first set of fault location data;
at least one second data manipulation unit for manipulating electromagnetic radiated signal data emanating from said fault on said power distribution line and producing and communicating a second set of fault location data; and a power line fault locating analyzer, which is operative to determine a first path length between said at least one first data manipulation unit and said fault, and a second path length between said at least one second data manipulation unit and said fault, by utilizing:
(a) said communicated first set of fault location data;
(b) said communicated second set of fault location data; and (c) placement and path data of related individual power lines associated with said power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system for purposes of determining a location of said fault.
14. A power distribution line fault locating system as claimed in claim 13, wherein:
said conducted fault signal data comprises a conducted electrical signal which is produced by said fault; and said at least one first data manipulation unit comprises at least one fault recording sensor unit for manipulating said conducted electrical signal, and producing and communicating said first set of fault location data, said at least one fault recording sensor unit being responsive to said conducted electrical signal for determining the time of arrival of said conducted electrical signal at said at least one first data manipulation unit, said conducted electrical signal being one of a plurality of conducted travelling wave signals that travel in opposite directions from a location of said fault.
said conducted fault signal data comprises a conducted electrical signal which is produced by said fault; and said at least one first data manipulation unit comprises at least one fault recording sensor unit for manipulating said conducted electrical signal, and producing and communicating said first set of fault location data, said at least one fault recording sensor unit being responsive to said conducted electrical signal for determining the time of arrival of said conducted electrical signal at said at least one first data manipulation unit, said conducted electrical signal being one of a plurality of conducted travelling wave signals that travel in opposite directions from a location of said fault.
15. A power distribution line fault locating system as claimed in claim 13 or claim 14, wherein:
said electromagnetic radiated signal data comprises electromagnetic radiation data which is generated by a lightning-caused fault on said power distribution line; and said at least one second data manipulation unit comprises at least one electronic lightning locating system that manipulates said electromagnetic radiation data such that said second set of fault location data comprises a precise time of occurrence and location of lightning which produced said lightning-caused fault on said power distribution line.
said electromagnetic radiated signal data comprises electromagnetic radiation data which is generated by a lightning-caused fault on said power distribution line; and said at least one second data manipulation unit comprises at least one electronic lightning locating system that manipulates said electromagnetic radiation data such that said second set of fault location data comprises a precise time of occurrence and location of lightning which produced said lightning-caused fault on said power distribution line.
16. A power distribution line fault locating system as claimed in claim 13, claim 14 or claim 15, wherein:
said conducted electrical signal comprises a conducted electrical signal which is generated by said lightning-caused fault on said power distribution line, and said first set of fault location data comprises a time of arrival at said at least one first data manipulation unit of said lightning-caused conducted electrical signal;
said time of arrival of said lightning-caused conducted electrical signal and said time of occurrence of lightning which produced said lightning-caused fault being accurate to microsecond accuracy as made possible by said at least one first data manipulation unit, and said at least one second data manipulation unit being provided with, and utilizing, clocks that are synchronized by Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers; and said power line fault locating analyzer further being operative to determine a first path length between said at least one first data manipulation unit and said lightning-caused fault, and a second path length between said at least one second data manipulation unit and said lightning-caused fault, by utilizing:
(a) said time of arrival of said lightning caused conducted electrical signal at said at least one first data manipulation unit;
(b) said time of occurrence of lightning which produced said lightning-caused fault as determined by said at least one second data manipulation unit; and (c) placement and path data of related individual power lines associated with said power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system.
said conducted electrical signal comprises a conducted electrical signal which is generated by said lightning-caused fault on said power distribution line, and said first set of fault location data comprises a time of arrival at said at least one first data manipulation unit of said lightning-caused conducted electrical signal;
said time of arrival of said lightning-caused conducted electrical signal and said time of occurrence of lightning which produced said lightning-caused fault being accurate to microsecond accuracy as made possible by said at least one first data manipulation unit, and said at least one second data manipulation unit being provided with, and utilizing, clocks that are synchronized by Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers; and said power line fault locating analyzer further being operative to determine a first path length between said at least one first data manipulation unit and said lightning-caused fault, and a second path length between said at least one second data manipulation unit and said lightning-caused fault, by utilizing:
(a) said time of arrival of said lightning caused conducted electrical signal at said at least one first data manipulation unit;
(b) said time of occurrence of lightning which produced said lightning-caused fault as determined by said at least one second data manipulation unit; and (c) placement and path data of related individual power lines associated with said power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system.
17. A power distribution line fault locating system as claimed in claim 13, claim 14 or claim 16, wherein:
said electromagnetic radiated signal data comprises low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) which is generated by arcing which is associated with a fault on said power distribution line; and said at least one second data manipulation unit comprises at least one electronic arc detection sensor having circuitry that detects said low level electromagnetic radiation and that manipulates said low level electromagnetic radiation for purposes of determining and communicating a time of arrival of said low level electromagnetic radiation at said electronic arc detection sensor.
said electromagnetic radiated signal data comprises low level electromagnetic radiation (VHF/UHF) which is generated by arcing which is associated with a fault on said power distribution line; and said at least one second data manipulation unit comprises at least one electronic arc detection sensor having circuitry that detects said low level electromagnetic radiation and that manipulates said low level electromagnetic radiation for purposes of determining and communicating a time of arrival of said low level electromagnetic radiation at said electronic arc detection sensor.
18. A power distribution line fault locating system as claimed in claims 13 to 17, wherein:
said power line fault locating analyzer is operative:
(a) to receive said communicated time of arrival of said radiation at said at least one arc detection sensor;
(b) to manipulate stored longitudinal and latitudinal information on said at least one arc detection sensor; and (c) further to manipulate placement and path data of related individual power lines which is associated with said power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system for purposes of determining an exact location of said fault.
said power line fault locating analyzer is operative:
(a) to receive said communicated time of arrival of said radiation at said at least one arc detection sensor;
(b) to manipulate stored longitudinal and latitudinal information on said at least one arc detection sensor; and (c) further to manipulate placement and path data of related individual power lines which is associated with said power distribution line as provided by a geographical information system for purposes of determining an exact location of said fault.
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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| US1683496P | 1996-05-08 | 1996-05-08 | |
| US60/016,834 | 1996-05-08 | ||
| US08/759,297 | 1996-12-02 | ||
| US08/759,297 US5729144A (en) | 1996-12-02 | 1996-12-02 | Systems and methods for determining location of a fault on an electric utility power distribution system |
| PCT/US1997/007217 WO1997042514A1 (en) | 1996-05-08 | 1997-04-28 | Systems for determining fault location on power distribution lines |
Publications (2)
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| CA2232683A1 CA2232683A1 (en) | 1997-11-13 |
| CA2232683C true CA2232683C (en) | 2000-10-17 |
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| CA002232683A Expired - Fee Related CA2232683C (en) | 1996-05-08 | 1997-04-28 | Systems for determining fault location on power distribution lines |
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| AU (1) | AU704528B2 (en) |
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| GB0606857D0 (en) * | 2006-04-05 | 2006-05-17 | Univ Belfast | Fault detection |
| CN102331542B (en) * | 2011-06-21 | 2014-01-22 | 山东电力研究院 | Transformer substation local discharging signal online monitoring and positioning method |
| CN104375055B (en) | 2013-08-15 | 2017-05-17 | 通用电气公司 | Fault locating device and method of power distribution network |
| CN103472361B (en) * | 2013-09-18 | 2016-08-17 | 上海申贝科技发展有限公司 | Based on Spatial Signal Detection and the transmission open acess system of high accuracy time service |
| CN103983901A (en) * | 2014-05-30 | 2014-08-13 | 智友光电技术发展有限公司 | Online failure positioning method for ring main unit cable line |
| CN104459462A (en) * | 2014-11-20 | 2015-03-25 | 云南电网公司楚雄供电局 | Triangular looped network ranging distance continuation method |
| CN105242137B (en) * | 2015-09-29 | 2018-04-06 | 昆明理工大学 | A kind of line fault recognition methods using polar curve fault current classified analysis on major constituents |
| CN106646110A (en) * | 2016-11-09 | 2017-05-10 | 国网山东省电力公司东阿县供电公司 | Low-voltage distribution network fault positioning system based on GIS and Petri technologies |
| CN108414897B (en) * | 2018-01-24 | 2019-08-02 | 武汉大学 | A kind of helicopter livewire work combination the air gap discharge voltage prediction technique |
| CN111983394B (en) * | 2020-07-03 | 2023-10-20 | 国网浙江省电力有限公司电力科学研究院 | SF-based 6 GIS discharge fault diagnosis method for analysis of decomposition products |
| CN113875743A (en) * | 2020-09-17 | 2022-01-04 | 广东电网有限责任公司广州供电局 | Power transmission line bird damage fault detection and early warning system and method |
| CN112363021B (en) * | 2020-11-13 | 2022-05-17 | 重庆大学 | Distributed line fault detection and positioning system and method |
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| US3609533A (en) * | 1968-12-11 | 1971-09-28 | Robert J Pardis | Fault locating system for determining distance of fault on a transmission line from a predetermined position thereon |
| FR2601460B1 (en) * | 1986-07-10 | 1988-12-02 | Onera (Off Nat Aerospatiale) | INSTALLATION FOR THE DETECTION AND LOCATION OF SPACE BY INTERFEROMETRIC MEASUREMENT, IN REAL TIME AND AT LARGE DISTANCE |
| US5138265A (en) * | 1988-11-30 | 1992-08-11 | Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd. | Apparatus and system for locating thunderstruck point and faulty point of transmission line |
| US5157334A (en) * | 1990-01-22 | 1992-10-20 | Atlantic Richfield Company | Image intensifier monitoring of power line insulator leakage |
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1997
- 1997-04-28 EP EP97922544A patent/EP0858605A4/en not_active Ceased
- 1997-04-28 WO PCT/US1997/007217 patent/WO1997042514A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 1997-04-28 AU AU28186/97A patent/AU704528B2/en not_active Ceased
- 1997-04-28 CA CA002232683A patent/CA2232683C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
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| EP0858605A1 (en) | 1998-08-19 |
| EP0858605A4 (en) | 1999-08-18 |
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| AU2818697A (en) | 1997-11-26 |
| CA2232683A1 (en) | 1997-11-13 |
| AU704528B2 (en) | 1999-04-29 |
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