Showing papers by "ABB Ltd published in 2002"

A Power Electronic-Based Distribution Transformer

Abstract: The distribution transformer has been in use by utilities throughout the twentieth century. Until now, it has consisted of a configuration of iron or steel cores and copper/aluminum coils, with mineral oil serving as both coolant and dielectric medium. Inherent in this type of construction are regulation, significant weight, losses, environmental concerns, and power quality issues. A new kind of distribution transformer is proposed for the twenty-first century, one that can be made self-regulating, oil-free, and able to correct power quality problems. A power electronic transformer has been analyzed, simulated, prototyped, and tested. Results of this effort, as well as the novel features of this new type of transformer, are discussed herein.

Automating data warehouse conceptual schema design and evaluation.

Abstract: The popularity of data warehouses for analysis of data has grown tremendously, but much of the creation of data warehouses is done manually. We propose and illustrate algorithms for automatic conceptual schema development and evaluation. Our creation algorithm uses an enterprise schema of an operational database as a starting point for source-driven data warehouse schema design. Candidate conceptual schemas are created using the ME/R model, extended to note where additional user input can be used to further refine a schema. Our evaluation algorithm follows a user-driven requirements approach that utilizes queries to guide selection of candidate schemas most likely to meet user needs. In addition, we propose a guideline of manual steps to refine a conceptual schema to suit additional user needs, for example, the level of detail needed for date fields. The algorithms are illustrated using the TPC-H Benchmark schema and queries. Our algorithms provide a foundation for a software tool to create and evaluate data warehouse conceptual schemas.

Components for embedded software: the PECOS approach

Abstract: Software is more and more becoming the major cost factor for embedded devices. Already today, software accounts for more than 50 percent of the development costs of such a device. However, software development practices in this area lag far behind those in the traditional software industry. Reuse is hardly ever heard of in some areas, development from scratch is common practice and component-based software is usually a foreign word. PECOS is a collaborative project between industrial and research partners that seeks to enable component-based technology for a certain class of embedded systems known as "field devices" by taking into account the specific properties of this application area. In this paper we introduce a component model for field device software. Furthermore we report on the PECOS component composition language CoCo and the mapping from CoCo to Java and C++.

Performance evaluation of electric distribution utilities based on data envelopment analysis

Abstract: In this paper, a method for benchmarking performance of electric distribution utilities based on data envelopment analysis (DEA) is presented. Basic theory of DEA is followed by case studies addressing performance analysis of the 50 largest (based on megawatt-hour sales) electric distribution utilities in the U.S. The results include performance efficiency, gaps in inputs and outputs of inefficient utilities, sensitivity-based classification of utilities, and a gap report. Also, peer-to-peer comparison of inefficient with efficient utilities is provided. Based on these results, inefficient utilities can develop strategic plans to improve performance.

A Component Model for Field Devices

Abstract: Component-based software development is becoming mainstream for conventional applications However, components can be difficult to deploy in embedded systems because of non-functional requirements Pecos is a collaborative project between industrial and research partners that seeks to enable component-based technology for a class of embedded systems known as "field devices" In this paper we introduce a component model for field devices that captures a range of non-functional properties and constraints

Robotic wash cell using recycled pure water

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a robotic wash cell including a six-axis robotic arm and end effector equipped with nozzles that spray unheated, solvent free, pure water at high-pressure to clean or debur objects by maintaining the nozzles in close proximity and substantially normal to each surface being cleaned or edge being deburred. The robotic cell wash is particularly useful for cleaning contaminants such as oil and grease from items having more complex shapes. The six-axis robotic arm positions the nozzles and their sprays substantially normal to each surface being cleaned or deburred. The nozzles produce a multi-zone spray pattern with a continuous effective cleaning zone. A water recycling and pressurizing system collects the used water, separates out the oil and grease contaminants to a level of about 5 ppm, and pressurizes the pure water to about 3,000 psi for washing operations or about 6,000 psi for deburring operations.

Life-Cycle-based Solid Waste Management. II: Illustrative Applications

Abstract: A companion paper described the development of the integrated solid waste management (ISWM) model that considers cost, energy, and environmental releases associated with management of municipal solid waste. This paper demonstrates the application of the ISWM model to a hypothetical, but realistic, case study. Several solid waste management (SWM) scenarios are studied, including the variation in energy and environmental emissions among alternate SWM strategies; the effect of mandated waste diversion (through recycling and other beneficial uses of waste such as combustion to recover energy) on environmental releases and cost; the tradeoff between cost and the level of waste diversion; and the tradeoff between cost and greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, the flexibility of the model is illustrated by the identification of alternate SWM strategies that meet approximately the same objectives using distinctly different combinations of unit processes. This flexibility may be of importance to local solid waste management planners who must implement new SWM programs. Use of the model illustrates the potential impact of solid waste management policies and regulations on global environmental emissions.

System for providing a high-fidelity visual display coordinated with a full-scope simulation of a complex system and method of using same for training and practice

Abstract: Control panels of a simulated complex system are displayed as a texture mask over a three-dimensional visual representation of an environment in which the complex system is operating. The three-dimensional visual representation is displayed in an inactive window to a user practicing or training on the simulated system. An active window underlying the visual display is used to track user inputs to the control panels. Smart graphics translate the user inputs into data elements that are sent to a full-scope simulation, and simulation conditions are returned and used to update the display of the control panels and the visual representation of the environment.

Wide area measurement and protection system for emergency voltage stability control

Abstract: When a major power system disturbance occurs, protection and control systems have to limit the impact, stop the degradation and restore the system to a normal state by appropriate remedial actions. Wide area measurement and protection systems limit the severity of disturbances by early recognition as well as proposition and execution of coordinated stabilizing actions. These systems complement classical protection and SCADA/EMS applications. This paper proposes a system design based on phasor measurement units, encouraging system protection schemes for frequency, small signal angle and voltage instability. The system is compared to classical protection and SCADA/EMS systems showing its benefits. A new algorithm for long-term voltage stability prediction is introduced using the proposed system setup.

Integrating business and software development models

Abstract: Developing the right products the right way is challenging, not least in software product development. It requires sound business decisions as well as good engineering practices. Various software development life-cycle models can be mapped to business decision models by mapping business decision gates and major development milestones. Two well-known life-cycle models have been mapped to the ABB Gate Model, a business decision model for product development projects that was developed to ensure that released products could be successfully deployed into the marketplace.

Fuel cell system power control method and system

Abstract: A fuel cell (10’) is placed in parallel with a battery (14’) via a mechanical switch. The voltage is held nearly constant by the battery (14’) and the power flow is controlled by adjusting the fuel cell (10’) operating parameters (such as temperature or air flow) and by opening and closing the mechanical switch. The result is a system that operates at nearly constant voltage without the need for an expensive power conditioning system. The output of the system can then be processed via a traditional conditioning system such as an inverter or dc-to-dc converter without the need for a wide range of input operating voltages. This reduces the cost and size of the fuel cell (10’) power conditioning system.

Polymer compound with nonlinear current-voltage characteristic and process for producing a polymer compound

Abstract: The polymer compound contains a polymer matrix and a filler embedded in the matrix. The filler comprises two filler components with nonlinear current-voltage characteristics deviating from one another. By selection of suitable amounts of these filler components, a polymer compound with a predetermined nonlinear current-voltage characteristic deviating from these two characteristics can be formed in this way.

Real time asset optimization

Abstract: A technique to optimize both the production schedule and the maintenance of plant assets based on predetermined criteria which may be economic or otherwise. In one embodiment the technique receives at least one maintenance trigger (MT) and one production order and evaluates those inputs to propose one or more solutions for the joint scheduling of the asset maintenance and required plant production. In another embodiment a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) acquires a new MT and proposes a new maintenance schedule. The technique transmits a blocking order to a production scheduling (PS) system for converting the maintenance request into a production schedule. In another embodiment, a CMMS acquires a new MT and asks for confirmation of a time slot to perform the maintenance action. The technique evaluates the priorities and finds based on the predetermined criteria the right time slot and communicates a request for that slot to the PS.

A comprehensive method for optimal expansion planning using particle swarm optimization

Abstract: This paper proposes a holistic approach to planning transmission networks. This is necessitated by the need for entrepreneurs to evaluate the costs and returns of a merchant transmission project, before committing actual investment. Most papers addressing this problem are probably limited in scope to subsets of the total gamut of relevant issues. Although some of the cost items, mentioned here, deal with average cost, the parametric approach, which is adopted here, enables easy introduction of stochastic variation on these mean values. Thus the proposed approach is amenable to a more thorough risk analysis. The entire problem is formulated as an optimization problem and solved using particle swarm optimization. The results of a few case studies are presented.

Micro-electromechanical system and method for production thereof

Abstract: A micro-electromechanical system comprises a substrate (S) and at least two micro-elements ( 1, 2 ) of which a first is bistably switchable. The micro-elements ( 1, 2 ) have faces ( 3 a, 4 a ) facing one another, which are produced by a structuring method and thereby initially have at least one minimal distance from one another characteristic of the structuring method. The first micro-element ( 1 ) is then switched to the other stable state (B) whereby the distance between the faces ( 3 a, 4 a ) facing one another is smaller than the characteristic minimal distance for the structuring method. The micro-electromechanical system can be constructed as an electrostatically actuatable microswitch with improved switchability. Laterally and horizontally operating micro-electromechanical systems with new functionality and current-free closed relays can be implemented.

Non-contact sheet sensing system and related method

Abstract: A non-contact system (10) for sensing a property of a passing web of material (W) includes first and second sensors (14, 16) positioned on opposite sides of the web. The opposing sensors are repelled from the web and each other by gas bearings (22, 24) formed between the sensors and the web and attracted to each other by one or more polarized magnets (26, 25a, 25d, 25a', 27a-27d, 27a') embedded in the sensors. The resultant net force properly spaces the sensors from the web to ensure reliable and accurate sensing. The repelling force enables the sensors to react substantially instantaneously to changes in the pass line of the web. An automatic actuator/retractor (30) can be provided to withdraw the sensors, extend the sensors to or retract the sensors from adjacent the feed path.

A new breed of software tool for integrated electrical power system and market analysis-GridView

Abstract: Restructuring is causing fundamental changes in the rules of the game for the electric power industry and posing many tough decision making challenges to all parties having stakes in the new power market place, including policy makers, market designers, consumers, merchant plant and transmission investors, transmission owners, system planners and power marketers. To address many of the tough issues, it is critical to have an objective and systematic approach to analyze the electrical power systems and markets in an integrated environment, capturing both the economic and the engineering aspects of the problems. This paper attempts to address some of the key issues involved in developing a new breed of software tool for integrated electrical power system and market analysis, using GridView as an example.

Method for framing a car body

Abstract: A method for framing a car body from a plurality of separate body components includes the steps of attaching a bottom plate of the car body to a bottom plate support unit, then bringing at least a part of the separate body components into engagement with the bottom plate by a robot or similar apparatus. The body components are preassembled relative to the bottom plate and/or relative to each other so that a preassembled car body has an external shape of the car body. A support unit is formed from a plurality of separate support elements for supporting the preassembled car body such that at least a part of the support elements is brought into engagement with the bottom plate support unit and/or another support element by a robot or similar apparatus. The support elements are clamped to each other in order to form a support means net. The forming of the support means net is accomplished such that each of the support elements is clamped either to at least two other support elements and to the bottom plate support unit or to at least three other support elements by means of a locking unit provided in the support elements.

Assessing the firm's strategic knowledge portfolio: a framework and methodology

Abstract: It is now widely acknowledged that knowledge rather than capital assets is the source of wealth in today's global economy in which firms increasingly are competing in knowledge-intensive markets. Consequently, firms are seeking to gain a better understanding of how their organisationally-embedded knowledge can be exploited to gain and maintain competitive edge in a turbulent marketplace. To be competitive and successful, firms are creating and sustaining a dynamic portfolio of knowledge repositories and processes. The authors contend that the outcomes can be much enhanced if this is based on a systematic approach to knowledge management. A consensus in leading edge firms about the importance of knowledge has resulted in considerable investment in the analysis of technology portfolios and such processes as technology mapping. Nevertheless many firms, particularly smaller and medium enterprises, have still not translated a concern for improved knowledge management into even the most rudimentary analysis. Consequently, many firms do not have the means for really understanding the strategic impact of their knowledge capital on their competitive performance. Practical tools and methodologies which assist in this process of assessing the breadth and depth of an organisation's knowledge portfolio can assist significantly in such cases in enabling firm's to get the key issues onto the board agenda. In this paper the authors present a conceptual framework for mapping a firm's knowledge portfolio in terms of four domains - content, process, infrastructure and culture. The mapping approach is designed to help guide the thinking process in the firm with respect to ways in which its knowledge is being created, stored and applied towards competitive advantage. The methodology begins with a mapping of the firm's business processes from a knowledge perspective. Core business processes are unbundled in terms of their specific knowledge domains. They are subsequently classified according to their degree of tacitness. Next, the competitive impact and competitive positioning of each area is evaluated and compared to the principal competition. Gaps in the firm's knowledge portfolio are identified; a strategic framework is provided for a proactive approach to strategic knowledge management. The methodology provides a systematic approach to building a strategic knowledge map. It represents a strategic tool for assessing a firm's knowledge portfolio - it is a map pointing to where knowledge resides in the firm; to key knowledge processes; and to the flow of knowledge between processes and between people.

Process for bending a workpiece

Abstract: A presently-preferred process for bending a workpiece comprises placing a first portion of the workpiece on a substantially flat surface so that a second portion of the workpiece overhangs an edge of the substantially flat surface, and securing the first portion of the workpiece on the substantially flat surface by clamping the workpiece between the substantially flat surface and a substantially v-shaped end portion of a male die. The presently-preferred process also comprises causing the second portion of the workpiece to pivot around a tip of the substantially v-shaped end portion by rotating a bending die around the tip while the bending die contacts the second portion of the workpiece.

Automated test sequence editor and engine for transformer testing

Abstract: A system and method for creating, editing, and/or executing a test program for testing a transformer is provided. The system includes an input that allows the user to select the desired test instructions and pre-existing sequences of test instructions to create or edit a test program having a sequence of test instructions. The processor executes the test program by generating commands that are performed in a predetermined order.

Method to generate synchronization contracts for software components and web services

Abstract: A method for automatically generating synchronization contracts for software components and Web services is provided. The method comprises the steps of: using UML diagrams to model permissible interaction scenarios; representing the relevant information from the UML models in XMI; generating path expressions wherein the interaction scenario in XMI is examined by parsing XMI for the static classifier type information and its defined messages; including these path expressions in a component or Web service description language; and using this enhanced component or Web service description at design time for verifying contract adherence and/or at run time for protecting the component or Web service from unwanted client behavior.

Power network parameter estimation

Abstract: In a method, computer program and apparatus for estimating parameters of an electric power network the steps of: repeatedly measuring, at a plurality of network locations, synchronous values of electrical network variables; identifying, during network operation, currently valid parameters of a mathematical model of the power network; are executed, wherein the measured variables are frequency, power absorbed by each of a plurality of observed loads, and a total active power loss; and the parameters identified comprise currently valid load parameters, representing a dependency of a load on frequency and voltage. This allows estimating load characteristics on-line during network operation. It therefore is possible to account for an inherent variation of the load characteristics with respect to voltage and frequency variations. This improves the precision of the estimate and the reliability of further actions and calculations based on the estimated state.

Open-loop and closed-loop control method, and a control device for starting up and shutting down a process component of a technical process

Abstract: An open-loop and closed-loop control method is described for starting up or shutting down a process component of a technical process. At least one manipulated variable that is fed to the process is formed by a control device and an upstream model-assisted pilot control. The pilot control contains an optimizer and a process model. The optimizer is fed at least one command variable for the technical process. At least one optimized model manipulated variable which the optimizer outputs is fed to a process model of the pilot control and, is added to at least one output variable of the control device to form the manipulated variable. A model output variable of the process model is fed to the control device as a set-point and fed back to the optimizer along with variables which cannot be measured in the technical process. A device for implementing the method is also described.

Method for programming timer to execute timing operations

Abstract: In the present invention, several timer functions (e.g. delay on make, delay on break, recycle, single shot, etc.) are expressed in terms of a series of timer subfunctions, and code segments are developed for each identified subfunction. A program of a timer is established to include a plurality of subfunction code segments and a subfunction ordering table for determining the ordering of execution for the subfunction code segments. The ordering of subfunctions of the subfunction ordering table may be selectable in accordance with a model number input received at a program builder system adapted for use in programming the programmable timer. In one embodiment, the programming method provides for reprogramming of a timer including a control circuit having a one-time programmable processor.

Investigations on a unified controller for a practical hybrid multilevel power converter

Abstract: This paper is devoted to the investigation of a practically feasible and commercially viable hybrid multilevel power converter topology typically suitable for active rectifier or static reactive power compensation applications at distribution voltage levels. This system comprises a three-phase neutral point clamped (NPC) main inverter supported by three auxiliary single-phase H-bridge inverters fed from independent DC links. The main and auxiliary DC link voltages are configured in the ratio 3:1. A multilevel waveform is realized by adding the low-voltage, fast-switching auxiliary inverter outputs to the high-voltage, slow-switching main inverter output. A novel hybrid modulation scheme that incorporates stepped synthesis in conjunction with variable pulse width of the consecutive steps is described. In addition, the performance of a unified controller that enables the regulation of all the DC bus voltages is discussed.

Formulation of dynamic optimization problems using Modelica and their efficient solution

Abstract: Dynamic optimization problems often arise in ad- vanced model based control. For example in model based predictive control and in the estimation of pro- cess parameters or not measured process signals, the underlying problems can be treated with optimization. A process model formulated in Modelica (10) can be used as a core part in the formulation of dynamic op- timization problems. This allows an efficient engi- neering of advanced control applications as simulation models are reused for optimization. The paper discusses, how different types of dynamic optimization problems can be formulated based on a nonlinear dynamic system model. Furthermore, the efficient numerical solution of dynamic optimization problems as large-scale nonlinear programming prob- lems is outlined. The treatment of state constraints is emphasized in this context. Possibilities for obtain- ing model sensitivities as required by an optimization solver are discussed. However, the class of models that can be used for op- timization in this way is limited, compared to all mod- els that can be formulated in Modelica and used for initial-value simulation. Specific requirements by op- timization solvers are discussed together with features of the Modelica language supporting their considera- tion in model formulations. The optimal startup of a power plant serves as a prac- tical example.

The ABB Power Transmission Test Case

Abstract: 1 Introduction 22 ABB Test Case 32.1 Control Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42.2 Example Simulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42.3 Simulink Model Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Decomposition of Models into Continuous and Discrete Parts 83.1 Model of Continuous Open-loop Part . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83.1.1 Simulink Model Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83.2 Model of Discrete Part . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93.3 Future Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94 Acknowledgement 95 Voltage Stability Tutorial 115.1 Transfer of Active and Reactive Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115.2 Sources and Sinks of Reactive Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 155.3 Tap Changer Control Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185.4 Voltage Sensitivity of Loads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195.5 Voltage Stability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215.6 Case Study - BPA Test System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 255.7 Countermeasures Against Voltage Collapse . . . . . . . . . . . . 281

Wide area measurement and control system for increasing transmission capacity in deregulated energy markets

Abstract: Transmission congestions limit market ac- tivities and decrease possible benefits of energy market players. This paper introduces a portfolio of measures for a better use or increase of the transmission capacity of AC transmission lines. Novel approaches like stability monitor- ing, coordinated control and wide area protection are discussed. Their application to increase available transmis- sion capacity as well as their profitability is evaluated. All these techniques are basing on a fast acting, wide area platform using Phasor Measurements.

3-dimensional apparatus for self-paced integrated procedure training and method of using same

Abstract: An integrated procedure training apparatus provides a three-dimensional environment that facilitates the training of systems and integrated procedures required to operate and maintain complex systems. The three-dimensional environment is created by arranging a plurality of touch-sensitive display surfaces in a spatial arrangement that is similar to a spatial arrangement of real control panels of the complex system. The training of the integrated procedures is enabled by the use of a full-scope simulation of the complex system. Courseware or other training aids can be used in conjunction with the system to improve learning absorption and retention and reduce training time and reliance on skilled instructors.