A Graph-theoretic Method for Identification of Electric Power Distribution System Topology

In this paper, we present a graph-theoretic method for identification of the topology of electric power distribution system based on the real-time measurements. Instead of relying on the electric-circuit based approaches, this new approach utilizes the principles of network theory to find the connecting structure or topology of a distribution system. First, we put forth the theoretical foundation for the proposed approach. Second, applying some principles and methods of network theory, we develop and present the process of topology identification. Third, the algorithm for practical implementation of the concepts is offered with an illustrative example. Finally, the potential applications and the insights obtained from this work are discussed.