Framework and Function Design of an Intelligent Network Planning Software for Power Distribution

Distribution network planning is used to scientifically guide the development of distribution networks. The smart software to actualize Distribution network planning is significant for improvement of result scientificity, as well as efficiency of planning work. This paper reviews the characteristics of well-known distribution network planning softwares including IPSA, DPlan and SINCAL. The development trends of distribution network planning software are also analyzed. As a conclusion, the continuous improvement of informatization and intelligence of distribution network planning is the future trend, in the circumstance of the continuous application of new technologies such as data management, distributed processing, display and interaction, artificial intelligence, and the actualization of new functions such as accurate load forecasting, distributed power generations planning, and differentiated planning strategies. An intelligent planning software scheme of function and architecture for distribution network is proposed. The functions of intelligent planning software are attributed by eight modules: diagnosis of power distribution situation, power demand forecasting, network planning and substation allocation, mathematic calculation, investment estimation, input and output benefit analysis, planning results management, and graphic display. The functions of the above modules are designed in detail. The framework of the intelligent planning software is given. The proposed structure of the distribution network planning function is holonomic, and these functions can realize the closed-loop operation from the analysis of current distribution network problems to the proposal of the network planning scheme. The research results can provide reference for the power planning researchers to study the intelligent planning function of the distribution network and can be used as top-level guidance for the network planning software design.