Distribution automation: Applications to move from today's distribution system to tomorrow's smartgrid
In 2008 the Hydro-Québec Distribution roadmap was completed. The resulting roadmap is based on customers' expectations, Hydro-Québec's business drivers, available technologies, Hydro-Québec's context and electrical distribution industry trends. This paper will present the distribution roadmap and then will focus on application and technology strategy to move from today's distribution network to tomorrow's Smartgrid.
General Space Vector Modulation of A High-Frequency AC Linked Universal Converter for Distributed Generations
A high-frequency (HF) ac linked universal converter is proposed for distributed generations interfacing three-phase ac with single-phase ac or dc. The primary and secondary of the HF isolation transformer are, respectively, formed by a three-to-single-phase matrix converter and a cyclo converter. Based on the operating principle, a general and simple to be implemented space vector modulation (SVM) is developed from that for the conventional indirect matrix converter and constantly operated virtual dual-active-bridge converter. Simulation studies carried out on different amplitudes and frequencies of single-phase ac output and dc output demonstrate effectiveness and simplicity of the proposed converter with the SVM solution.
Contractor Failure: Analysis
The possibility exists for any construction contractor to fail to filfill the contract requirements associated with a facility. Contractor failure occurs when a contractor is unable to perform his/her contractual duties, thus requiring the facility owner to invoke the contract's nonperformance clause. This paper provides aggregate contractor business failure statistics and outlines potential causes for failure. A framework to identify and quantify the associated costs is also introduced. Several case studies are presented to examine the cause and cost of failure and the means by which the facilities were completed. Alternatives available for project completion when contractor failure occurs are discussed. Recommendations to identify and monitor contractors at high risk for failure are outlined as well. This paper provides facility owners with a greater awareness of the possibility of contractor failure, how to quantify costs of contractor failure, and avoidance techniques.