Interactive Visualization of Electrical Power Flow Using A Schematic Map

ABSTRACT

This article introduces EFlux, an interactive visualization software that uses a diagram-oriented representation of the Swiss extra-high-voltage electric grid. We explain the design principles used to visualize the network. Built on the seminal work by Harry Beck (London Underground tube map), it loosely maintains geographical locations, while conveying the topology of the network in a readable manner. The software blends quantitative and qualitative data with the map information, showing the dynamics of the network. Measurements at the substation and power line levels are mapped to graphical features (colour, thickness, line style). Animation is used to show how energy flows through the network. We describe how we use interactivity to navigate the schematic map, revealing more details upon zooming and selection, as well as how history can be replayed at comparable time intervals. Finally, potential improvements are discussed as part of our future plans.

KEYWORDS:

• Information visualization
• schematic layout
• power grid
• power systems

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Luc Girardin

Luc Girardin began his career at the Graduate Institute of International Studies in Geneva and later joined the UBS research laboratory (Ubilab), where he focused on novel approaches to support intuitive and interactive ways of thinking. Subsequently, he co-founded Macrofocus, a company that develops interactive visualization tools. Luc is currently CTO at Macrofocus and a researcher on complex adaptive systems at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH). He holds a Master's degree in Computer Science and Telecommunications.

Christoph Haefeli

Christoph Haefeli is an R&D manager at Swissgrid. He graduated with a PhD in Theoretical Physics from the University of Bern. Over the course of his career in the industry, he became increasingly interested in how interactive visual interfaces, combined with analytical techniques, empower users to gain a deeper understanding of critical business processes to make data-driven decisions efficiently.

Peter Schult

Peter Schult is an electrical engineer and holds a degree in Computer Science from the University of Applied Sciences in Brig. His interests lie in the development of technical visualizations in the area of grid operation management for a transmission system operator, where he has been able to gain experience in the ‘System Management’ function and tool development for Swissgrid-Control for almost 20 years.