Convolutional neural network approach for fault detection and characterization in medium voltage distribution networks

Power outages significantly impact the power industry by disrupting social welfare and economic stability. Still, existing methods for fault detection face challenges due to load and network topology, conditions, and installed equipment. However, recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) are enabling researchers to create alternative approaches for fault detection and location strategies. Therefore, this paper introduces a novel method for detecting, classifying, and locating faults in power systems through voltage waveform analysis using a convolutional neural network (CNN) integrated with the Piecewise Function Put Together (PFPT) algorithm for fault detection and fault zone localization in a power distribution network. Utilizing Park's transformation, noise reduction PFPT sine fitting, and CNNs, the proposed method distinguishes between 'healthy' and 'faulty' conditions. Simulation results reveal that while the voltage Park's vector time behavior of a healthy system remains stable, it exhibits circular or mixed patterns under faulty conditions. These patterns enable the identification of four types of short circuit faults—single-line-to-ground (LG), line-to-line (LL), line-to-line-to-ground (LLG), and three-line (3L) faults—by analyzing 3D voltage Park's waveforms at network buses. The study validates fault type identification through the observation of rotating Park vectors from sine fitting of time-based voltage waveforms. By converting 3D voltage waveforms into high-resolution images, the method utilizes a CNN for fault recognition, achieving an accuracy of 93.1%. This innovative approach underscores the robustness and precision of combining traditional electrical engineering techniques with modern AI.