A Power Transmission Line Fault Distance Estimation VLSI Chip: Design and Defect Tolerance

Abstract

This paper 1 presents a system-on-a-chip for fault detection and fault-distance-estimation for power transmission lines in the smart grid. Toward this goal we have designed and fabricated three chips: PGS4, PGS5 and PGS6, each successively more advanced than the previous one. PGS4 and PGS5 each have two spiral sensors, of which one is dedicated to sensing the transmission line current, and the other serves as a redundant sensor (in case of defects on the primary one), but also as a transmission line emulator in the test phase. In this latter role, i.e., as driver, a new model for the coupled coils is proposed. These chips seek to implement an advanced fault distance estimation algorithm proposed by Radojevic which utilizes frequency domain measurements of the transmission line voltages and currents. Specifically, the fault distance is estimated using the Fourier coefficients of the fundamental and third harmonic in an algebraic formula. PGS5 and PGS6 are able to perform this analysis, with some differences as delineated in the paper. The sensor spiral feeds into a high gain amplifier and a source follower, termed as the frontend, which is the key to the operation of the chip. Therefore three copies, actually variations, of the frontend, selectable with a multiplexer, are provided for defect tolerance. For the Fourier analysis needed for fault distance estimation, we have used a powerful digital macro, MA_PLUS, which has been presented in our previous papers. We have successfully tested PGS4, and some test results are included for PGS5. Test results for PGS6 will be presented at the conference. As stated earlier, these designs are successively more advanced with a view toward enhancing the probability of success of the final design. Results for defect tolerance for the coils and the frontends are included in the paper.

Enhanced Defect Tolerance through Matrixed Deployment of Intelligent Sensors for the Smart Power Grid

“…The PGS6 chip presented in a companion paper [4] determines the fault distance. Fabricated in 0.5 micron CMOS technology, its area is 14000 λ × 15400 λ = 4200 × 4620 micron 2 ≈ 19.4 mm 2 , where λ = 0.3 micron.…”

“…We envision D to be less than or equal to 10 km in which case this error may be bounded by 0.86 meter. The chips designed and fabricated for the estimation of fault distance are presented in a companion paper [4]. A 3-D chip is targeted to be submitted for fabrication this year, year 2011.…”

“…It is simply the collaboration of two or three sensors that results in these improvements. The chips designed and fabricated for fault detection and fault distance estimation are presented in a companion paper [4]. Although this paper focuses on fault detection and fault distance estimation, there are several related power grid challenges ranging from system stability analysis, harmonic analysis, reconfiguration, and power quality assessment [8]- [12] where the 3-D HSoC concept could be applied.…”

“…The resulting concept, deployed in a smart grid [3]. The paper specifically focuses on the application of the 3-D HSoC for fault-detection and fault-distance estimation, and the issues involved in the failure of such devices [4] -due to defects both within the chip and overall chip failure due to external stresses. We show that estimation from the use of multiple such devices brings benefits to both the detection and accuracy of fault distance and arc voltage estimates.…”

Theoretical and experimental comparison between power and degree of polarization based optical fiber current sensors

“…One essential parameter to be measured and monitored in those systems is the electrical current. It is important to know the amount of current that flows through an electric power system and to detect possible flaws and losses in its path [3,4]. A praiseworthy current sensor must present some specific Theoretical and experimental comparison between power and degree of polarization based optical fiber current sensors Carolina Franciscangelis, Fabiano Fruett, characteristics and attend some requests.…”