DMS Analytical Functions System is the "brains" of DMS Software. This system is a fully comprehensive set of software and algorithms that enable the most efficient design, optimal operation and decision making referring to the whole equipment installed in the distribution network. This system is based on the Network Model and consists of 34 mutually compatible functions, organized as modular libraries (Figure 1). Such organization provides their very simple individual upgrading, extension with new functions and adjustment to any new market requirement. All analytical functions are developed on the basis of specialized algorithms aimed for distribution networks that enable performing of efficient analysis and optimization of very large radial and weakly meshed distribution networks.

DMS Analytical Functions System provides the set of very sophisticated tools for performing practically all technical tasks in distribution utilities in the following four modes of application: 1) Operation management; 2) Operation planning; 3) Development planning, 4) Simulation, Analysis and Training. The functions are classified in accordance with their technical properties as special tools in these operating modes in the sequel.

Monitoring Tools

Monitoring tools comprise functions: Topology Analyzer, State Estimation, Load Calibration, (Dispatcher) Load Flow, Performance Indices, Thermal Monitoring. Monitoring functions are used for observation of the network, providing insight into the state of every point in the network, regardless of whether it is covered by SCADA System. They provide visualization of the connectivity and energization state, as well as values of all system state variables (voltages, power flows, temperatures, etc). The accuracy of results provided by running of these functions is improved by verification and filtering of bad measurements, along with introduction of quasi-measurements. Values calculated by these functions represent basic data for running of all other analytical functions.

Dispatching Tools

Dispatching tools comprise functions: Switching Sequence Management and Under-Load Switching. Dispatching functions check the feasibility of switching operations and provide what-if analyses as well. Along with monitoring tools, these functions help the dispatcher to make the optimal decisions, and improves operation performances and security.

Emergency Tools

Emergency tools comprise functions Fault Management, Supply Restoration, Large Area Restoration and Load Shedding. These functions are used for efficient fault location, fault isolation and supply restoration, including load shedding in emergency conditions in distribution networks.

Optimization Tools

Optimization tools comprise functions Network Reconfiguration, Maintenance Scheduling, Volt Control, Var Control, Volt/Var Control, Load Management and Operation Improvement aimed for operation optimization; Relay Protection, AVR Settings for control parameters setting. Network Reconfiguration, Volt Control, Var Control, Volt/Var Control and Maintenance Scheduling for operation planning and maintenance management. Load Management and Operation Improvement provide management of different technical/business/maintenance objectives. Finally, setting functions provide optimal settings of relays and automatic voltage regulators.

Engineering Analysis Tools

Engineering analysis tools comprise functions Load Flow, Fault Calculation, Circuit Breakers/Fuse Capacity, Energy Losses, Motor Start, Security Assessment and Reliability Analysis. These functions are used for various analyses and studies in order to get more detailed insight into some global or specific aspect of network operation.

Development Planning Tools

Development planning tools comprise Load Forecasting, Network Development, Network Reinforcement and Capacitor Placement. These functions are used for design of the future network, in order to timely meet the forecasted load demand, with minimal investments from the constrained budget.

Network Automation Tools

Network automation tools comprise functions RTU Placement and Network Scanner. RTU Placement is used for determining of the optimal number, type and placement of remotely controlled switches and fault pointers. Network Scanner is used for discovering weak spots of the actual distribution network, suggestion of the optimal redesign of the existing elements and automation equipment, as well as for installation of new ones.

Training Simulator

Training Simulator is used for training of dispatchers, operative and planning engineers and other staff in the distribution utility. The main implication of this function is found in the fact that only well educated distribution utility's staff can successfully cope with the new sophisticated challenges of the distribution networks management, especially in the restructured and deregulated environment.

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