Expert system for the design of distribution networks

This paper is concerned with the design of the optimum conductor cross-section sizes for branched radial feeders and distributors (BRFs and BRDs) of a distribution system. The difference between a feeder and a distribution is that whereas the current loading of a branch of a feeder is the same throughout its length, the distributor has a distributed loading in its branch which results in variations of current along its entire length of that branch. Here, the design problem is first formulated mathematically followed by some definitions of used terminology. The method is then discussed in detail. Finally, the results of a case study using the proposed method are presented and discussed