Dir-MUSIC Algorithm for DOA Estimation of Partial Discharge Based on Signal Strength Represented by Antenna Gain...

Area of Science:

• Electrical Engineering
• Signal Processing
• Smart Grid Technology

Background:

• Partial discharge (PD) detection is crucial for substation insulation monitoring in smart grids.
• Conventional PD direction of arrival (DOA) algorithms (beamforming, TDOA) require large arrays and high computation, limiting use on inspection robots.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a computationally efficient PD DOA algorithm suitable for inspection robots.
• To design a miniaturized antenna array for PD localization in substations.

Main Methods:

• Proposed a novel directional multiple signal classification (Dir-MUSIC) algorithm utilizing signal strength instead of time difference of arrival (TDOA).
• Derived the Dir-MUSIC algorithm based on array manifold characteristics.
• Designed and optimized a miniaturized directional spiral antenna circular array.

Main Results:

• Simulations demonstrated the Dir-MUSIC algorithm's reliable direction-finding performance with a six-element array.
• Evaluated the impact of signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and array manifold errors on algorithm performance.
• Experimental validation achieved a PD direction-finding error of 3.39° using the designed spiral circular array.

Conclusions:

• The proposed Dir-MUSIC algorithm offers a reduced computational load and array size requirement for PD DOA estimation.
• The developed miniaturized antenna array and Dir-MUSIC algorithm effectively meet the needs of inspection robots for substation PD monitoring.
• This approach enhances the feasibility of real-time PD localization for smart grid equipment maintenance.