The production of software that aids in the design of low voltage distribution networks by optimising the locations of junctions

[摘要] The use of computer-based tools in the design of electrical distributionnetworks results in the cost effective production and implementation ofdesigns. This is because they help automate time-consuming routine tasksand enable the optimisation of certain aspects of a network design.The production of a tool that performs an optimisation on the low voltage (LV)portion of a distribution network is discussed. It uses the influence that anetwork's topology has on its associated cost, by applying a search thatmodifies the topology to result in a minimum cost. The modification of thenetwork's topology is achieved through changing junction positions toalternative locations. It operates on an entire radial LV network, and thereforeconsiders the coupling between junctions in the same network. The user ofthe tool must specify the alternative locations for each junction in the network,as well as information about the network, such as cable lengths and cabletypes.The search algorithm is based on an adaptation of the branch and boundmethod, which is a reduced search algorithm. It has been chosen as opposedto an exhaustive search algorithm to reduce computational requirements.The tool Is most useful for optimising completely underground distributionsystems. Test results revealed a 7% saving in the cost of cables for a specificcase study.The software has been developed with the application of object-orientedanalysis and design within an ISO 9001 accredited software developmentenvironment.iii

[发布机构] University of the Witwatersrand