Optimal control theory approach for power grid EMP protection
OwnerTimothy James Donnelly, David Gerald Wilson +2inventors
InventorsTimothy James Donnelly, David Gerald Wilson, Rush Robinett, III, Wayne Weaver
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A high altitude electromagnetic pulse (HEMP) or solar-geomagnetic disturbance (GMD) can introduce geomagnetically-induced currents (GICs) flowing through grounded power transformers that have the potential to severely impact the operation of large-scale electric power grids. A top-down mitigation design strategy considers grid-wide dynamic behavior during an HEMP/GMD event and uses optimal control theory to determine the compensation signals required to protect critical grid assets. As examples, the approach is applied to both a standalone transformer system, small power 3- and 4-bus systems, and large-power 20-bus system.
Claims10
An electric power grid, comprising:
- at least one transformer comprising a transformer core and a transformer neutral, wherein a low frequency current pulse generates a magnetizing flux in the transformer core;
- and
- at least one of:
- a blocking device comprising a voltage source providing a neutral-path control signal between the transformer neutral and ground;
- or
- a flux-blocking device comprising a current source providing a magnetizing-path control signal to the transformer core;
- wherein the neutral-path control signal and the magnetizing-path control signal are optimized to keep the magnetizing flux below a saturation limit in response to the low frequency current pulse.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.