News in ATPDraw

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News in ATPDraw

 

Object oriented data structure

ATPDraw v7.0 introduced a completely new object oriented data structure. This implied that the the restrictions on the number of data, nodes and nonlinear points, number of LCC conductors, HFS frequency points etc. is removed (actual limit is restricted to 32-bit integer addressing). Moreover, groups are treated completely different in a more hierarchical way where group content (children) are properties of the group object (parent). This allows sorting of objects and an easier internal memory management.

 

Voltage and Current probes

ATPDraw v7. The Voltage and Current probes now read in (from LIS-file) steady-state values for all phases. For 3-phase probes the user can display sequence parameters and set the font size and format of the steady-state information on screen. The user can also specify a time T>0 to display the steady-state values. In this case a Model (WRITEPROBEI or WRITEPROBEV) is added behind the screen to calculate the phasors during the period (1/FREQ) prior to T.

 

Line3

ATPDraw v7 added steady-state (current and power) labels at both ends of the LINE3 component.

 

LCC

The data RHO, FREQ, LENGTH are in ATPDraw v7 standard data stored in LCC.SUP in ATPDraw.scl (default values can be set). All data in LCC can be assigned to Variables. Unlimited number of conductors. Semiconductor thickness parameters available for cables.

 

Unicode texts

ATPDraw v7 supports Unicode circuit texts.

 

Web connection to database: From version 5.8 ATPDraw is able to connect to a MYSQL database at www.atpdraw.net for uploads/downloads and discussion forums. The users can directly post their currently active project for sharing with other users. This option is a long sought-after solution for sharing and storing valuable knowledge and could open up a new area of co-operation. Registration is made via the www.atpdraw.net web.page and is required before access to the database is granted for upload/download of projects.

 

New file formats: From version 5 ATPDraw is based on a completely new file concept. The project file format now follows the pkzip 2 standard. Support-files no longer follows the project and are used only when initializing components (all their properties are inherited) and retrieving the help files. Some components like Groups and Models based on .mod-files use no support-file at all. External data for components like Models, LCC, BCTRAN, XFMR, User Specified etc. are no longer stored in global files, but are individual for each component and handled internally in memory. No components share data anymore (changes in one component will not affect others) and no conflicts occur between simultaneously open projects. The user is allowed to export to and import from a user maintained component library of resource files and a clear distinction is made between this library and the project data. The user can specify individual help text to all components. The results from ATPDraw (ATP-file and $Include files) are stored in an individual Result Directory.

 

Vector graphics: From version 5 vector graphic icons are supported for standard components, models and groups (default). From version 5.3 ATPDraw includes a preliminary graphical vector icon editor. Vector graphics results in better zooming capabilities and new possibilities for customizing the icon based on user selections. Version 5.4 enhances this editor significantly:

The number of points per shapes is extended from 4 to 255. This is further extended to integer (2G) in v7.

Selection and editing of multiple selected elements are supported

Copy/paste via the windows clipboard

Bezier curve drawing improved

Rotate and flip added

 

Output Manager: ATPDraw lists all output requests and gives the user direct access to each of them. Includes also a statistical tabulation option with scaling and grouping.

 

Optimization: Multi-variable, constrained optimization with either Gradient Method, Genetic Algorithm, or Simplex Annealing. Automatic execution of ATP and communication with Variables and built in cost function (Models|WriteMaxMin).

 

Multi-phase nodes: From version 5 ATPDraw supports up to 26 phase nodes as well as index X[1..26] for models. An enhanced connection is added to allow connection of single phase nodes to a multi-phase node. This will reduce the need of the SPLITTER. From version 5.7 an n-phase connection can have a phase offset.

 

Text in circuit: From version 5.3 ATPDraw supports multi-lined circuit text with limited text properties like font and color.

 

Text editor: From version 5.7 RichText (1.0, no graphics) is supported for help files and a syntax highlight feature is offered for MODELS.

 

XFMR: The advanced Hybrid Transformer model added in version 4.2. This is a topological correct transformer model with an advanced core model. The leakage inductance is modeled the same way as in BCTRAN. An initial attempt to model frequency dependent winding losses is added. The user can base the modeling on design data, test reports, or typical values. Version 5.6 updates the component significantly with new optimizer, final slope added to magnetization curve, type 96. Version 5.7 adds a new Shell-form core (type B), updates the help file, and gives new figures for core dimensions.

 

Windsyn: Gabor Furst's program for fitting an electrical machine model to manufacturers data is directly supported. From version 5.7 an improved and embedded version is available. This includes user-customizable fitter with support of slip and maximum torque, plotting of induction machine torque curve, complete revision of start-up condition, inclusion of exciter for synchronous machine and governor for both induction and synchronous machine.

 

Power System Toolbox: This toolbox was introduced in version 5.9 and enhanced in version 6.0. It contains FFT/DFT algorithms for 3-phase calculations of phasors, power, impedance etc. It has over-current, distance and differential relays with trajectory plotting and general phasor plotting.

 

Grouping:  The user can select a group of components and select Edit|Compress. This result in a single icon replacement of the group with user selectable external data and nodes. Multiple levels of grouping is allowed. A new example file Exa_4b.adp included in the ATPDraw 3.0 distribution. From version 3.1, ATPDraw supports non-linear characteristics and handling of data with equal labels. From version 5 ATPDraw supports Recompress; select a group and click Edit|Compress. This will bring up the Compress dialog and let the user modify the group interface. From version 5 the content of the group is also centred on the screen when Edit|Edit Group is selected. From version 7 the selection of component to inherit data, nodes and nonlinearities is graphical (by mouse clicks) and the Compress dialog is a stay-on-top window.

 

Variables:  The user can specify a text variable instead of a data value. The $Parameter cards are specified under ATP|Settings|Variables. The user does not have to think about resolution and the number of digits used in the ATP cards. This is a powerful method if the same data value is used several times in a circuit (the user does not have to click up all involved input windows). ATPDraw 5.9 introduced an internal parser (TbcParser). This uses the same input (except for different logical operators .GT. becomes > etc.) but replaces $PARAMETERS of ATP. This enables parametrization of all data (also those used in internal claculatinos with the Param flag set to zero, except the external data of BCT and XFMR).

 

Support of Cable Constants: Cable Constants is supported along with Cable Parameters for cable systems. This gives a more flexible grounding scheme and adds support of Semlyen cable models. Multiple PI-segments is supported.* Printed output for line modelling is supported for PI-equivalents. The PI-equivalent is still written as inductances in ohms, while the unit of capacitances is user selectable.

 

Verify line/cable data: Support of LINE MODEL FREQUENCY SCAN  or a special Power Frequency Calculation to get benchmark data. ATP is executed and ATPDraw reads the generated LIS file and displays the result. This enables the user to compare his line/cable model with an exact PI-equivalent as a function of frequency, or verify the power frequency benchmark data for zero/positive short circuit impedances, reactive open circuit line charging, and mutual zero sequence coupling. The LINE MODEL FREQUENCY SCAN feature of ATP does not work for Noda models.

 

Rubber band connections:  The user can select Rubber bands under Edit. A connection with one endpoint inside a selected region and one outside is treated as a rubber band (does not work for short cut single component selection).

 

Reload: The last 5 stored projects are found under File|Reload.

 

Support files:  The support files for all standard components (including TACS) are stored in a single file ATPDraw.scl (standard component library). Three files (ATPDraw.exe, ATPDraw.scl, and ATPDraw.chm) are required for the distribution of ATPDraw 5.6. From version 5 the support-files are used only when initializing components and they do not follow the project.

 

Nonlinear components: The characteristic page in the component dialog box is changed to be more flexible. The non-linear characteristic can be plotted and copied to the windows clipboard. New non-linear inductances (type 93, 96 and 98) with built-in initial flux condition and with fluxlinkage output option.

 

Auto-detect simulation errors: ATPDraw can be requested to automatically examine the LIS-file after a simulation and display  possible problems. The user can select 5 different error/warning flags. This is done under ATP|Settings/Output.

 

BCTRAN: The BCTRAN transformer component offers direct support of BCTRAN transformer matrix modeling. Automatic generation of external magnetizing inductance(s) is supported as well as manual possibilities.

 

Compatibility:  ATPDraw can read all old ATPDraw for Windows formats (1, 2, 2.4, 3, 4, 5, 5.4, 5.7), but older versions of ATPDraw CAN NOT read new files.

 

 

 

Other corrections/updates in version 3.5:

Bug in group copy/paste between circuits is fixed. When copying a group to another circuit and closing down the original circuit, the support file for the objects was unintentionally removed.

An erased ground symbol is no longer drawn when editing nodes.

The node naming warnings Same name on different nodes and Duplicate name of node appear once for each event.

Drag icon on/off works in View|Options

Circuit fonts user selectable in View|Set circuit font

Buttons for sorting line constants cards are added to the LCC dialog box.

The Delete button in the Characteristic page is fixed to avoid the never ending "Illegal numeric specification!" message when the first data point is deleted.

ATP now runs much faster under the LCC and BCTRAN windows. Instead of checking the process status continuously this is done only every second.

Two new type 15 sources, STANDLER and CIGRE are added to the standard library.

It is possible to customize the icon for the LCC components (Edit icon at the bottom of the LCC dialog box).

The node handling in LCC objects was wrong in patch 5 and 6. In some cases 5-character 3-phase names was written in the $Include call.

The delete temporary file option, awkwardly introduced in patch 2-3 and available as optional later is completely removed. The option is anyway dangerous when several instances of ATPDraw is launched. It is now up to the user to tidy up the directories. Still, all required files are stored in the projects, so deletion should be safe.

the format error (missing period) when ATPDraw created to ATP-file is fixed. This error has been present for a long time. Example 12345.678 was written 12345 instead of 12345.

Pocket Calculator placed after the /REQUEST card at the end of the ATP-file.

Transposition error corrected. Circular transpositions allowed if the phase sequence is correct.

An error in ATPDraw.scl related to the LCC_6.sup object corrected (Kind for nodes should reflect the circuit number).

The ATP|Settings/Additional page is handled correctly when switching between circuits.

It is now possible to ground an input to Models from 3.5 p10.

A bug in line width for /STATISTICS output is fixed

The Additional ATP card window (free format input) is wider and thus easier to edit.

A bug related to Groups and gridsnap is fixed. All components was drawn in the neares 10 pixel position except for sub-circuits. This could result in a problem under Edit group if one of the component was moved.

The problem with the decimal point '.' is probably fixed! ATPDraw forces internal usage of '.' regardless of the (Regional) settings in the Windows control panel (no news here). However, it was discovered that this internal setting was changes if another program directly changed the registry setting of the decimal point to ',' while ATPDraw was running. This is really bad programing practice, but unfortunately typical for Office products. When the registry setting changed ATPDraw automatically updated it's internal setting. When realizing this I found out that it was possible to turn this automatic update "feature" off in ATPDraw.

A problem with $UNITS -1, -1 (reset of units) in BCTRAN output with AR option is fixed. ATP adds $UNITS -1, -1 at the end of the punch file always. This card is now removed by ATPDraw if no other $UNITS cards are found in the punch file (which is the case for AR output). This error was effective if Xopt and Copt had other values than zero, and in this case the single $UNITS -1,-1 card really reset Xopt and Copt to zero.

 

Other corrections/updates in version 3.7:

Version 3.6 was launched as a test version using an updated compiler (Delphi 6.0) after some reports on problems on the new Windows XP operating system. The version seemed to solve the problems and the following ATPDraw versions used Delphi 6.0

The removement of the Mutual button in Line/Cable verify introduced in 3.5p5 resulted in a run-time error the second time verify (LMFS) was selected.

Improved handling of $UNITS, -1, -1 cards for PI-models under line/cable modeling.

Hiding a group object resulted in a pointer error and program crash.

Transposition objects failed in large circuits. Fixed in patch 4.

The new nonlinear inductance components with initial conditions improved.

BCTRAN Triplex core fixed for three phase cases.

The new capacitor component CAP_RS failed when a parameter was specified for the capacitance rather than a value. Still it is not possible to combine an $Parameter specification with an automatic damping resistor, simply because the capacitance value is unknown to the component.

UM machines 6&8 failed due to true blank lines in the ATP-file in combination with sorting by cards (ATP version dependent problem?). Zeros added instead for the stator coils.

Type 94 branch output request stored in project file.

The BRANCH-request removed from LMFS data cases (Line/Cable Verify) (PI-models). This card in not needed and resulted in a runtime error with newer ATP versions.

Better support of multi-sectional cable constant pi-model. Cross bonding and non-homogeneous models supported.

Radio buttons replace the U/I-code for all sources.

TACS device 55 (digitizer) included.

GIFU switches (Valve and TACS switch) supported and a new example file Exa_13.adp included.

The View module for nonlinear characteristics is improved. The values are scaled to ensure a sufficient resolution.

 

Other corrections/updates in version 3.8:

An ATP-file error for small values fixed in version 3.8 (3.456E-5 was written as .00003 instead of 3.4E-5). For the new transfer function objects HI_PASS, LO_PASS, INTEGRAL, DERIV zero was written to the ATP-file when a small gain was specified. In general the problem occured when the negative exponent was one less than the number of characters available.

BCTRAN single phase case. Voltage devided by sqrt(3)

The number of phases editable in the LCC dialog box (the user do not have to select the number of phases first). Changing the number of phases will automatically update all objects and icons using the same LCC-file.

The file extension *.dat for ATP-files is supported in the built-in text editor.

Initial version of Line Check module. Select a line/cable group in the circuit window (several objects allowed). Then click ATP|Line Check.

Possible to edit node names, labels and free text directly on the screen. Select Edit|Edit label to place a free text in open space. Maximum 255 free texts with 255 characters in each. The action mode Move label changed name to Edit label.

ATPDraw draw gives a warning when creating the node names (Run ATP, Make names) when components overlap. Completely overlapping connections are automatically deleted. After this process overlapping components can be selected as a group in Edit|Select|Overlap obj.

 

Other corrections/updates in version 3.9:

The grid snap feature was wrong for some group operations causing the connections to be out of position.

The /INITIAL card is written to the ATP file only when required. An empty such card (followed by /OUTPUT) resulted in problems in Harmonic Frequency Scan for some ATP versions. Similarly, the BLANK INITIAL card is only written when required.

A wrong column format was written to the ATP file for frequency dependent RLC branches.

The Line/Cable object (LCC) had an error for Cable Constant when calculating the NGRND parameter for JMarti models and enclosing pipe cables.

The comments for LCC components are written to the ATP-file. Labels and the Hide features are also included for lines and cables.

The Group No input for all objects have changed name to Order to become more in line with the actual meaning (criterion for ATP file sorting). Order also added to LCC objects.

Semlyen models supported in Cable Constants.

An overwrite file warning added.

The Hi and Lo limits visualized in the Transfer Function dialog box.

Lock circuit option added in View|Options. When checked objects can not be selected and connections not drawn Useful for computer exercise situations.

Open project warning. When opening a project ATPDraw extract the content to the disk (sup, lib, alc, bct). If files with equal name but different dates are already stored on the disk, ATPDraw gives a warning message and lets the user choose which file to keep. Earlier versions gave priority to the newer of the two files. Version 3.9, on the other hand, gives priority to the files stored in the project. If the user replies YesToAll the project files will always overwrite the files on disk. This is normally fine, but the user should be aware of the situation when working on two projects simultaneously both using the same files.

KIZILCAY F-DEPENDENT and HYSTERESIS HEVIA components added which originators both were elected as honorary members at the EEUG meeting in Graz, Dec. 2003.

Nonlinear resistance type 91 and 92 added

Find Node name option added. ATP|Find Node

Grid snap problem in copied groups corrected. The problem appeared when components in sub-groups where moved. All circuits are grid snap corrected when loading.

A serious bug identified in the zip-module that would result in 'Incompatible file format' when the number of Texts, Variables and FreeFormats exceeded 35, 116 and 123 respectively. Due to a too small buffer the circuit file (*.$$$) was not written to the project.

It is now possible to specify up to 5 rotor coils for universal machines 1, 3, 6, and 8, when the saturation is turned off.

3-phase nodes of Models supported. 3-phase inputs/outputs must be decleared by indexed variables [1..3].

 

Other corrections/updates in version 4.0:

A new component SATTRAFO (saturable 3-phase transformer) replaces the old GENTRAFO. This component supports all phase shifts for D and Y-couplings as well as Auto transformers and zigzag-couplings with phase shifts <-60,0> and <0,60> degrees.

The TACS nodes have a new color code. Positive input (type 1) and output (type 0) black/red as before. Negative input (type 2) blue color. Not in use (type 3) background color. Even if the node seems to vanish for type 3 specification it is still possible to click on it.

 

Other corrections/updates in version 4.1:

A new component TSWITCH with the RECLOSE option added Switches|Switch time controlled. The user can choose a single or a three phase switch with equal operation times for all phases.

Transmission lines with lumped parameters (type 1,2 .. and 51, 52 ..) have got a 'length' parameter. The length is set to unity for older projects. The distributed parameter transmission lines have got a new layout with a direct, visual support of the ILINE and IPUNCH flags.

Text labels are editable as other objects. They can be selected as a part of a group and copied (but not rotated). Holding down the Ctrl key in the selection process gives priority to the text labels.

BCTRAN. Several BCTRAN components can now share the same data file. This allows a true support of copy/paste. In previous versions the user had to save the data file (*.bct) with a different name for each components even if they were equal.

MODELS. A node naming problem in the INPUT section fixed. If several models were connected to a splitter and with more than one input from the same node (for instance current and voltage) a node naming conflict appeared.

LineCheck module. Xopt and Copt written to the ATP file. In earlier versions a node name starting with the letter 'C' was actually treated as  a comment. This resulted in an 'Unexpected file name encountered..' error message.

LCC verify. Two problems with lack of DOS-compatible paths corrected.

The Auto-detect LIS-file errors and frequency scan output flags (ATP|Settings) stored in the project.

 

Other corrections/updates in version 4.2:

The advanced Hybrid Transformer model added. Transformer data of leakage inductance, frequency dep. winding resistance, capacitances and topologically correct core magnetization and losses based on Design, Test report, or Typical values. Autotransformers and all Y- and D- couplings supported.

A node naming problem in circuits where the number of (ATPDraw) nodes exceeded 10.000 corrected. Now, up to 29.999 circuit nodes with node names provided ATPDraw are allowed. The first 9999 starts with the letter 'X', then from 10.000 to 19.999 with 'Y', and finally from 20.000 to 29.999 with 'Z'. This also means that the user should avoid giving nodes names starting by these letters followed by a four digits number.

 

Other corrections/updates in version 5.0:

New support and project file formats

64 data and 32 nodes supported for all components

Variable names (useful for Models) and labels increased to 12 characters.

A Unit string added to most data parameters with special support of XOPT/COPT.

Support of up to 26-phase nodes and Model variables X[1..26].

An extended connection can connect n-phase and single phase nodes. Dialog box added for selection of #Phases, Phase carried, color and label. Transposition will only take place through a 3-phase connection.

Possible to click on a connection's midpoint to draw a new connection with inherited properties. Click and hold required to select a connection.

CompileCircuit is rewritten to remove the Splitter back-to-back problem and to support the enhanced connection.

MakeATPFile rewritten for better handling of $Parameters (also for MODELS).

The probes are enhanced to support more than 3 phases and an (preliminary) option to read the lis-file and display steady state values is added. A Models probe added to monitor global MODELS variables.

The node dialog changed and combo boxes added for selection of TACS node signs (the color of the connection changed), Models input types and machine control setting.

Vector graphics introduced (this is a giant leap). A vector icon can have the size of 255x255 pixels (compared to the 41x41 for bitmaps). Combination of bitmaps and vector graphics supported and backward compatibility is ensured. An icon can consist of maximum 93 elements (lines, rectangles, ellipses, polylines, polygons, circle arcs, bezier curves and text in 256 colors in all pen and brush stiles). Multiple layers are supported that can be turned on/off dependent on user selection of data.

The vector icons are individually scalable (select the icon and move the mouse cursor to the border).

Flipping of icons added (left-to-right).

Several problems related to zooming corrected.

All standard icons are described by vectors (~200 icons!). Backward compatibility required that size and node positions were maintained.

Dynamic changes in the icons for RLC branches, sources, a time controlled switch, transformers (coupling symbol), electrical machines, statistical/systematic switches, TACS transfer functions and devices, and LCC.

The nodes position is described by a relative distance to the components center rather than a position on the icon border. This enables more than 12 nodes, but it can only be utilized by vector icons at the moment. Models and Groups can take advantage of this point at the moment but more work is probably required for grouping.

Black node No name given, Red node= user name given (just the opposite as previously), (Blue node (negative TACS input) no longer supported).

A type 1 source is added.

Rubber-band connection gridsnap problem corrected.

The multiple BCTRAN transformer problem fixed.

Recompress. Modify the interface of a group component.

Support of up to 21 phases for the LCC components.

The XFMR model fixed so that the core can be related to any winding. Previously the low-voltage winding had to be the inner winding. Unfortunately a sqrt(3) error was introduced for delta-couplings.

 

Other corrections/updates in version 5.1:

Bugs related to the new individual data handling introduced in version 5 corrected in several steps. User Specified components and LCC (Line/Cable) with the same name are represented by the same $Include file and should consequently be forces equal in the circuit as well. This also applies to Models which are written just once to the ATP file, and consequently the definition of equal Models must be the same.

Integrated support of MODELS. The user can directly edit the Model definition inside the Component dialog. The icon will adapt to changes. This adaption was initially too radical resulting in unnecessary destruction of the icon and node positions.

Support of indexed data in Models on the format X[1..number]. The total number of data still limited to 64.  

 

Other corrections/updates in version 5.3:

Version 5.2 was prepared for the EEUG meeting 2007. It was later on decided to skip this intermediate version. Version 5.2 was updated with a new main menu and toolbar but this upgrade is far more extensive in version 5.3.

Upgrade to a new compiler Delphi 2007, basically to better support the new help file standard.

Upgrade of this help file system from HLP to CHM (HTML format). The HLP format is not supported/recommended in Windows Vista and a separate program WinHelp.exe must be downloaded from Microsoft.

The main menu and toolbar are updated to Windows XP look and feel. New icons added for both toolbar and main menu. The toolbar is customizable. Elements are intentionally enabled and disabled.

Support of "themed" design and real Windows XP/Vista appearance of buttons and tabs.

Support of multi-lined text with individual font and color properties. Using the multi-line option will prevent older versions of ATPDraw to show the text correctly on screen.

The Zoom and Node size dropdown lists are correctly unfocussed when the user clicks the circuit window so the mouse wheel returns to up-down scrolling.

Alt+click to select texts, node names, or labels instead of the Ctrl key. Ctrl+P/V followed by a rapid click on the pasted component resulted in an unexpected shift to Edit Text mode.

It is once again possible to give node names directly in the Component dialog. User specified names are drawn with a red color.

Several corrections in the Hybrid Transformer model. Zero sequence. Core losses, saturation curve small transformers. Frequency dependent winding resistance.

Support of Triplex core added to the Hybrid Transformer model XFMR.

A connection's node dots can be individually forced on in order to produce a consistent drawing with all other node dots off.

A Vector Graphic Editor available. Drawing, selection, rescaling of individual or all elements. Handling of node positions together with the icon. Support of rotated ellipses and rectangles. Support of pie shapes.

Relations drawn as a dotted line. The relation property is available from the Connection dialog. A Relation can have a label and different colors just like a connection.

A third page 'Nodes' added to the LCC dialog which allows the user to change the node names and assign the individual conductors to the terminals. This could be useful for more complex cable systems.

The LCC dialog is rewritten to give a better handling of the Name and better support of Cancel.

Error in Copy/Paste nonlinear characteristic corrected.

Shortcut keys Alt+F1-F12 added to the Edit Definition/Support dialog (and Vector Graphic editor) to support the "old" icon border node positions (1-12) co-ordinates.

 

Other corrections/updates in version 5.4:

Vector graphic editor significantly enhanced.

Possible to add a standard bitmap background to component icons, including scaling and rotation.

Output Manager. ATPDraw lists all output requests and gives the user direct access to each of them. Includes also a statistical tabulation option with scaling and grouping.

Additional cards moved to separate new component under User specified in the selection menu. Follows standard edit operations including Hide and Sort. Inclusion of request templates via the built-in text editor's context menu (right click).

Models Record moved locally into each model component.

All results files stored in memory (also for LCC and BCTRAN). $Include files dumped to the result directory (user selectable ATP or project folder) each time the final ATP file is created. No more any risk of file sharing conflicts with simultaneously open projects. No initial request for ResultDir. BCTRAN result file stored in project.

User extendable Selection menu. Add frequent used sub-circuits to the selection menu.

Password protection of Groups, Models and User Specified components.

Hybrid Transformer model benchmarked and corrected.

Windsyn integration supported.

 

Other corrections/updates in version 5.5:

Visual feedback in Compress: The content is redrawn in the middle of the circuit window alone. The external nodes are drawn enclosed by a red ring. When the user selects a component in the list it is drawn in a lime color on screen. This is also the case when nodes are selected in the Available list. The already external data/node of the selected component is written with a lime color in the Added to lists. When the user selects a data/node in the Available lists that already is external this is highlighted in the Added to lists. UNDO for Recompress added. When Extract is selected the group should now always be visible in the middle of the circuit window.

A bug in earlier versions restricted the number of groups effectively to 255 in a circuit. This was only partly fixed in version 5.4 and now for new groups (Compress).

A new checkbox added to the Output Manager to force a more primitive drawing of the On-buttons for statistical studies, as this might fail on some windows systems.

Drag and drop feature for project files from Windows File Manager to ATPDraw. Drag the file to the circuit window to Import and the Header of background to Load.

 

Other corrections/updates in version 5.6:

Optimization. Optimization circuit variables with Gradient Method, Genetic Algorithm, or Simplex Annealing routines. Communicates with cost function and circuit variables.

Cost function Model|WriteMaxMin with value extraction and View option.

New handling of $PARAMETERS (variables). Internal variable syntax ($$) that allows nesting.

Loop control syntax under Variables (as function of simulation number). @[, @FILE, @LIN, @LOG, @EXP, @POW

Load flow components. Steady-state in selection menu + ATP|Settings/Load flow.

General AC source. Single/3-phase, grounded/ungrounded, rms and line voltage scaling.

Hybrid Transformer modification. Final slope parameter of magnetization characteristics. New, faster and better optimization of core model. Core loss topology modified. Support of type 96 added.

24 phases in the LCC module (increase from 21)

Zooming in the View nonlinearity dialog.

Bug-fix in vector editor (delete multiple items).

Two new examples added: Universal machine control, Resonance earth coil tuning.

New User Manual.

 

Other corrections/updates in version 5.7:

Direct implementation and improvement of Windsyn machine modeling. ATPDraw does the parameter fitting internally, offering higher accuracy and user control as well. Problems with decimal points and non-updating values are gone. The new induction machine model comes with a new fitting module that gives the user control of fitting parameters, including slip and maximum torque.  It also has a plotting function for Torque/speed characteristics. The synchronous machine comes with an exciter control for voltage or reactive power. Both models also have a governor speed controller. The user can easily switch between various starting conditions.

GUI features. There is a new 'center circuit' button. The circuit world size can be changed in the View window. The user can add lines, arrows, rectangles, ellipses, and pictures to the circuit (Tools|Drawing). There is a brand new side bar with tree-view quick access to the Component Selection menu, as well as a Simulate page with the most important ATP settings listed.

New components. Two new TACS sources: Constant and Models input. More important is that a new general fortran component called TFORTRAN has been added. With this the user can specify 1-9 inputs and 0-9 data and write the fortran code on the form OUT= ($I1-$I2)/$D1 etc. where $In are the inputs and $Dn are the data, automatically inserted by ATPDraw when creating the file. In this way the FORTRAN statement becomes transparent and can be copied or grouped without loss of consistency.

New properties of nodes and components. An n-phase node can be short circuited to a single phase node, and a component can be of type Multi-phase. A few components have this property implemented (rlc, nonlinear elements, diode, tacs source), but this will be extended in the future. The phase offset is now also generalized for multi-phase connections; a three-phase connection can be connected at a six-phase node starting at phase D.

A new Help and Text editor. Syntax highlights are available for Models and Help files can be RTF files (1.0) with different fonts, styles, bullets and colors.

Hybrid transformer: A shell-form type B added. Help file updated.

Important bug-fixes: Compress+Cancel resulted in node naming problems as reference to the (canceled) group was not removed. In previous version node overlap and equal node naming could happen with hidden and disabled nodes.

 

Other corrections/updates in version 5.8:

Web-connection to MYSQL database at www.atpdraw.net. Possible to easily upload/download cases for sharing knowledge. Discussion forums. Requires registration of ATPDraw software.

New Paste options for component dialog Data Grids. Not only paste raw data into fixed positions but use the Data Names for pasting similar data.

New Synchronous machine model type 58/59 with support of up to 4 masses. User control of output and external TACS connections.

New line-voltage 3-phase probe. Select A-B or A-C convention.

Branch voltage probe changes from large resistor branch voltage to true voltage difference.

Inclusion of MODELS in groups. The UseAs name is brought out as part of the attributes of the mother object. Internal MODELS will get UseAs names with a _n postfix. Also fixes bug where thename of Models were not visible in the Compress dialog.

Right click for rotate is removed (Shift has to be pressed), instead context popup is shown (more standard Windows behavior). Beginners have difficulties with unintentional rotate.

Edit group dialog changed. The user must actively check 'Set Order and Hide' button for the changes to take place. A new choice 'Set data of member type' is added. The user can select a component type in the group and perform common data editing of all of them simultaneously.

Hybrid Transformer: Extended to 4 windings with support of zigzag. Initial support of 4W, not fully tested.

Hybrid Transformer: Enhanced fitting of frequency dependent winding resistance.

Hybrid Transformer: Core settings options for final slope added.

BCTRAN: Scaling of auto-transformer losses corrected. Corrected node-naming trouble (single-phase transformer conncted in 3-phase circuit).

LCC template and section. New option 'template' added to LCC objects. When this turned on the object just holds the model but not the length. The template has to be used by a new object called LCC section (LCC_) which carries the line section length.

Support of png-images in components. Better zooming and scaling of images.

 

Other corrections/updates in version 5.9:

Internal parser. An alternative to $PARAMETERS in ATP is added to ATPDraw based on the TbcParser component. This enables variation of all standard component data (all except those external in BCTRAN, LCC and XFMR) including those used in internal calculations and not restricted to the Param flag. To vary length of LCC lines, use the LCC_ (LCC section) component. The internal parser removes all restrictions on the special loop syntaxes; @[ ], @FILE. Logical operator differences apply.

TACS circuit variable (EMTP_OUT) is modified. Supports universal machine (with machine number and type of variable) and multi-phase connections.

Power system toolbox. 18 new components added mostly based on MODELS and a DFT algorithm (fundamental, harmonics, sequence, dq0, phasors, RX and power flow PQ). Voltage dependent PQ load. A special component added for output of phasor diagrams. Relay models (distance, differential, over-current) with trip-zone and trajectory plotting included.

Improvements in the plotting window. Better zooming and windows resizing enabled.

Bug-fixes in the new synchronous machine component. Power control, parallel operation.

 

 

Other corrections/updates in version 6.0:

Internal parser. Improved multiple run control to read data back in correct sequence with increased robustness. Avoiding multiple flickering pop-up DOS windows (if graphics.aux NODISK=1). Diagnosis output via the *.log file. Tool|Options/Preferences - 'Run ATP window hidden' option added.

Power system toolbox enhancements. New and improved DFT/FFT algorithms with SampleFreq added to all calculators. SampleFreq as low as 8*FREQ works fine in most situations. LOADPQ model substantially updated for increased robustness. Works also for 60 Hz. PQLOAD substantially updated for increased performance.

Power System Toolbox. New components. Phasor calculators with initial conditions and variable frequency support. PLLDQ module for frequency calculations. RX calculator with zero-sequence compensator for distance relay earth faults added. Distance relay with circular (ohm and mho) zone shapes, under/over voltage and frequency relays added.

Completely new plotting window. Better zooming and axis control. Change pen for all shapes by clicking on them.

Text editor updates for ATP and LIS file edit. Faster TMemo component used and text editor windows shown as non-modal (can go back to circuit without closing).

Auto-completion of 'UseAs' names for LCC_ sections and Idx for WriteMinMax components.

Xopt/Copt test and updates with copy/paste/import.

Serious bug-fix in Import of circuits containing groups.

Bug-fix in the Hybrid Transformer for zigzag windings. Xopt and Copt also set properly.

Bug-fix in Help editor. Cancel with Search/Replace window open.

Bug-fix with Variable in side-bar when switching between project windows. Further fix in path 2.

run ATP hidden option in Tools|Options/Preferences

plotting of BCTRAN characteristics had wrong 1000 scaling

general plotting scaling and offset (click on curve)

PQU_PHASOR component fixed so it only is present during steady-state

LF_PQ, LF_UP, LF_TQ components hidden option fixed (NB! patch 3 was incorrect)

/MODELS, MODELS header place in front of manually inserted User Specified|Additional models cards

Relay models 81, 59 and 27 fixed

Load flow transient continuation error due to extra BLANK card fixed

Open project gives warning instead of access violation if file does not exist

 

 

Other corrections/updates in version 6.1:

ATP connection wizard (goodby bat-files!). This is a step-by-step process to setup the connection to the solver tpbig.exe or tpgiga.exe directly without a bat-file. The ATPDIR environmental variable is set directly from ATPDraw. ATP can be executed in hidden mode and the otherwise dos-window output can be captured for debugging. The simulation can also be easily stopped. Beginners often find it difficult to modify one of the numerous bat-files distributed as the first step to get started.

Two new fundamental BUS3 and LINE3 for power systems. The LINE3 component behaves like a connection and contains symmetrical 3-phase data with lumped or distributed parameters. It has also CB and CT options as well as a flexible Fault option. The color of the line follows its kV rating and is set under View|Options/PS Colors. The BUS3 component contains a kV setting, P & Q loads, VTs and surge arresters. The number of bays is user selectable.

Power System color coding added to View|Options. 6 user-definable steps stored in ini-file.

A new zero-sequence direction over-current relay added; W1RELAY67N.

Import of power system from text file containing BUS3 and LINE3 data. In this "demo" version the bus positions have to be set by the user in Cartesian or GPS coordinates. Transformers are not directly supported.

Steady-state solutions from LIS-file to Probes. Several updates:

For the Current probe's Power option, the n-phase quantities are displayed not just phase A (users who added a scaling of 3 must change this).

ATP has changed its LIS-file format and inserted an extra blank line that caused the current probe display to fail. This is now handled by ATPDraw.

ATPDraw failed to read correct information in cases with multiple-frequencies involved (universal machines for instance). This is now fixed.

LCC Verify fix. Incorrect handling of the path to the xVerify files caused the Verify option to display previous cases not the new one. Important bug fix.

LCC View fix. Correction of english units in auto-bundling (1/12 instead of 1/100). Model output not affected.

Further improvements of the Sidebar variables problems with multiple circuits. Fix in several steps.

BCTRAN and Auto-transformers. ATP has changed in its handling of auto-transformers with automatic correction of parameters inside ATP. A check-box to select if these corrections are done in ATP (and thus not also in ATPDraw) is added. BCTRAN dialog Tab sequence improved

Statistical Variable functions added; UNIFORM, NORMAL, LOGNORMAL, WEIBULL in several variants including lightning statistics.

Toolbar Customize abandoned. This feature created too many complications for users when upgrading ATPDraw versions.

 

Other corrections/updates in version 6.2:

Power system toolbox update:

LINE3 fault expanded with single or double phase broken conductor.

Exa_20 expanded with CB with CZ detection to simulate a more realistic tripping scenario.

WIndSynI update:

Locate half of leakage inductance to rotor also for double-cage and deep-bar cases.

Remove the incorrect damping in Extra Load case.

XFMR bug-fix:

Typical Core with inner winding of different rating than primary gave matrix calculation error.

Transposition of PI-equivalents in LCC. This is not natively supported by ATP, but ATPDraw now does this manually. Supports individually transposed circuits also for more than two circuits.

6-phase RL and RLC lines with individually transposed circuits.

LCC verify misplacement of $$ flag corrected.

LCC_ template change forces recompilation.

Exa_ 15 now with optimized delay cell allocation.

 

Other corrections/updates in version 6.3:

Two new 3-phase RL-coupled line models according to MODEL Z0Z1Z2 and [R][L] full matrix input.

Two new nonlinear branches TACSIND and TACSCAP for TACS controlled inductor and capacitor.

LCC name length restriction removed (was set to 5 characters for an unknown reason).

Bug fix in current-probe steady-state information on screen for switches connected to the same node and involvement of switches to ground.

ATP Connection Wizard expanded with ResultDir and Plotter setup to complete program integration without Tools|Options involvement.

Power System toolbox component UI2PQ3 component had an alpha-beta option incorrectly implemented with claplace that is replace by laplace (needed because of the timestep downsample).

 

News in version 7.0:

Upgraded to Delphi XE8 and fully UniCode support

Completely new object oriented data structure. Limits on data, nodes, icon size/elements/colors, non-linear points, machine masses, HFS_Sour harmonics, Sour_1 points, LCC conductors removed

Groups are managed and stored hierarchically. Simpler IO, UnDo/ReDo, faster node naming (children inherit parent). Required unfortunately new node naming procedure.

Compress process by visual selection with improved feedback. Inherited nodes visualized (red circle) and inherited data/nodes color coded (lime) and locked in input dialogs.

Sequence control of circuit objects, first in first out, sorting. Sidebar with object tree inspector (Project).

Variable extensions. "Hide" feature and math expressions in fields. It is possible to write values like 200*sqrt(3)/PI.

ATP execution in parallel threads and folders. Progress control and tray icon (run ATPDraw minimized and still see progress in multiple runs).

Voltage and current probes with enhanced steady-state plotting, also beyond t=0 (FFT-calculator behind the scene). Very significant in power system studies.

LINE3 model with steady-state current and power flow at each terminal. Also Toolbar icon added to draw LINE3 instead of Connections.

LCC module extended to an infinite number of phases. Single-phase layout support. LENGTH, FREQ, GRNDRES as data, variables for all geometrical and material inputs.

MonteCarlo simulations of lightning strikes to overhead lines. LCC_EGM line section and WriteMonteCarlo counter.

Add file attachments to circuits. Drag&Drop from File Manager supported.

New MODELS editor! Very significant upgrade. Better syntax highlighter, code folding and debugging! Context menu with function and control insert.

Register software atpdraw.net abandoned, now just login under Web menu.

Many new components

oLCC_EGM, WriteMonteCarlo for lightning strikes to transmission lines and statistical insulation coordination

oWRITESCREEN show extremal simulation result on screen.

oACSRCMOD  modulated AC source, RAMPSTEP TACS source to connect for easy AC source ramp-up.

oRINF large resistance to ground for clearer layout in case floating sub-network problem fix is required.

oDHM96, Zirka-Moroz magnetic hysteresis model with many predefined materials.

oNew class. File attachment. Drag and drop any file into project.

Several new examples

oExa_17 upgraded to embedded WIndSyn

oExa_21 with Monte Carlo lightning study

oExa_22 Synchronous machine control

oExa_23 Induction machine control

oExa_24 IEEE 9-Bus system with advanced distance protection units

oExa_25 PV integration and inverter control.

New Users' Manual

o346 pages, significant upgrade.