An iterative observer for harmonic estimation in power distribution networks

A novel algorithm for harmonic estimation in power distribution networks is presented in this paper. This algorithm is based on an iterative observer to perform harmonic estimation in a measured signal. The fundamental frequency of the power distribution network is assumed to be known and harmonics are estimated from available measurements. This method is advantageous because estimation is carried out one harmonic order at a time. Also, if there is an infinite number of harmonics, iteration is terminated when the total harmonic distortion is below a threshold. Different parameters such as variations of the fundamental frequency, change in magnitude of harmonics with time and the effects of noise on the measurements are simulated to verify the robustness of the proposed method. Simulations are carried out on a simple distribution network and the results are included.