The performance specification of transmission line protection using a knowledge-based approach

This paper introduces an automated approach to transmission line protection design for implementation in the form of a performance specification. The need for automation is the result of the increased complexity of interconnected power systems and despite numerous proprietary computer programs, the analysis of power system behavior requires significant engineering time and effort. Many scenarios have to be investigated before selecting and setting a protective relay and its equipment. By automating the running of the various computer programs and analyzing the results in a specific manner, the design scenarios can be investigated relatively quickly, cover all possible cases, remove protection design redundancy, preserve protection design methods, and assure consistency in protection system design. Additionally, by changing the system loading to some future anticipated value, it can be determined if specified relays and their equipment can be adjusted or will have to be replaced. It is also clear that such a design tool is useful in training system protection design engineers.