Contents Introduction
The IEEE Dielectrics and Electrical Insulation Society (DEIS) organized a five-day IEEE DEIS Summer School on Extra-High Voltage DC Transmission (EHVDC), from August 21 to 26, 2023, bringing together young researchers and professionals interested in the field of electrical insulation and high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission. This year, for the second year in a row, the event was hosted in the beautiful town of Monmouth, Wales.
The summer school brought together a diverse group of participants, from both academia and industry. The participants group consisted of PhD students, early-career postdoctoral researchers, and young industry professionals, who came from various countries, such as China, France, Greece, Italy, Sweden, the UK, and more. A team of experts in the fields of HVDC and electrical insulation organized, led, and moderated the program, namely, Thomas Andritsch, John Fothergill, Peter Morshuis, Istebreq Saeedi, and Alun Vaughan.
Objective
This year's summer school's objective was to create an environment that fosters brainstorming sessions among groups of participants, either in large or small groups. The traditional one-way transfer of knowledge from a “teacher” to a “student” is not the direction in which the organizers steered the sessions. A more innovative approach, one reminiscent of the way Socrates taught, was used, which encouraged creative thinking and generation of new ideas, with dynamic discussions on a wide plethora of topics. These topics, of course, had at their core the complex issues in HVDC and EHVDC transmission and dielectrics. Among other things, the applications discussed were electrical insulation matters, novel material development, and the application of diagnostic techniques. Three main topics were spawned from these discussions and were explored in much more detail:
Exploration of the combined effects of thermal and electrical aging on space charge accumulation behavior on HVDC cables, with low-density nano-particles of polypropylene;
Investigation into the aging of superconductor cable materials and the accumulation of partial discharges, with a particular emphasis on Kapton; and
Endeavors to extend the lifetime of HVDC converters by establishing correlations between health indicators of their capacitors and their monitorable parameters.
This collaborative environment aimed to inspire innovative ideas and cultivate research networks capable of fostering joint research projects, presentations, and specialized sessions at upcoming IEEE DEIS conferences.
The“dark Side”of Hvdc
The modern trend in power generation is the production of sustainable and “green” electric energy. This development is accompanied by a constant effort to make the power production from renewable energy sources more reliable, to improve electrification and reduce carbon emissions. By extension, the power grid is transforming as well. The power generation is more decentralized, to harness the power from renewable sources such as wind and solar energy, across multiple locations. This decentralization necessitates that the transmission lines should be able to handle more power for longer distances through areas where up to now no transmission lines of such power were installed before (i.e., mountains, under the sea, and so on). One of the most appealing solutions at hand are the HVDC and EHVDC lines, which have larger capacity to efficiently transmit substantial energy quantities cost effectively, whether through overhead lines or cable systems.
At first glance, the proposed solution appears to be highly favorable for addressing the evolving energy needs. However, a fundamental challenge arises from the fact that the anticipated transition toward more sustainable energy generation over the coming years necessitates cable technology that is not always presently available in the commercial market [1]. This technology gap is most apparent in the field of insulation technology, and as a result, the discussions during the summer school predominantly revolved around this specific area of expertise. These formidable obstacles will serve as critical tests for the scientific community in the years ahead, demanding innovative solutions and technological advancements to bridge the gap between current capabilities and future energy demands.
Research Topics and Motivations
The participants of the summer school were organized into three separate research groups. Each one of the groups was dedicated to an in-depth exploration of a specific research area. In group A, the focus revolved around the combined effects of electrical and thermal aging on the efficiency and lifetime of the cables, especially in regard to space charge accumulation.
Meanwhile, group B directed its investigative efforts toward unravelling the mysteries surrounding the aging of supercon- ductor cable materials, with a special emphasis on the characteristics of Kapton insulation.
Simultaneously, group C embarked on a mission to protract the operational lifespan of HVDC converters by establishing crucial correlations between various health indicators of their capacitors with monitorable parameters.
The selection of these research domains, for each group, was a conscientious choice, based on the shared passion of the participants for advancing the frontiers of knowledge in the domains of electrical insulation and HVDC transmission and their different fields of expertise. Each member possessed a different set of skills, and so, each one of them viewed these topics from their own point of view, contributing in a unique way in the analysis of the subject.
Methodologies and Tools
The summer school attendees were introduced to a diverse array of research methodologies and tools that allowed them to fine tune their research proposals. The participants were grouped according to their backgrounds to make each group have people with various fields of expertise. Each group was shown how to craft a proper research proposal. Afterward, they were presented the mental tools of the Six Thinking Hats decision-making method [2], the application of SMART criteria and the “known and unknowns” mental model.
The Six Thinking Hats, a structured thinking method, played a pivotal role in guiding participants toward a more thorough examination of their research questions. This cerebral framework encouraged individuals to explore their inquiries from a variety of viewpoints, including the emotional, conceptual, and critical dimensions. By donning these metaphorical “hats,” participants were able to engage in holistic thinking that yielded comprehensive and intricately woven research questions. This method essentially acted as a mental tool, facilitating a deeper analysis of their topics and enabling the formulation of questions that could withstand rigorous scrutiny. It encouraged a well-rounded approach to problem solving, fostering a more profound understanding of the subject matter. The six metaphorical hats that the participants had to wear for the duration of the summer school were as follows:
The White Hat represents a neutral and objective perspective. When wearing the White Hat, thinkers focus on facts, data, and information. They aim to gather and analyze data without introducing personal opinions or emotions.
The Red Hat symbolizes emotions and feelings. Thinkers wearing the Red Hat express their gut reactions, intuitions, and emotional responses to a subject. This hat allows participants to share their instincts and hunches without needing to justify or rationalize them.
The Black Hat represents a critical and cautious mode of thinking. Thinkers wearing this hat identify potential risks, weaknesses, and negative aspects of a situation. They play the role of the devil's advocate, helping to uncover potential pitfalls and challenges.
The Yellow Hat embodies a positive and optimistic perspective. Thinkers donning this hat look for the benefits, advantages, and opportunities in a given scenario. They highlight the constructive aspects and possibilities.
The Green Hat signifies creative thinking and generating new ideas. Participants wearing the Green Hat focus on brainstorming, innovation, and creative solutions. This mode encourages the exploration of fresh concepts and alternative approaches.
The Blue Hat is the control hat. The person wearing it serves as the organizer and manager of the thinking process. The Blue Hat thinker sets the agenda, defines the focus, and guides the sequence of thinking using the other hats. This hat ensures that the thinking process remains structured and productive.
Furthermore, the participants delved into the application of SMART criteria, a well-established benchmark against which research questions were meticulously evaluated and refined. This exacting criterion, denoting Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely attributes, served as a robust gatekeeper, ensuring that research inquiries were impeccably structured, discernible, and operationally feasible. It also warranted that these queries retained a contextual significance, addressing pertinent issues and complying with designated timeframes.
Additionally, the attendees embarked on an enlightening exploration of the intriguing realms of “known knowns,” “known unknowns,” “unknown knowns,” and “unknown unknowns.” These distinct conceptual categories assisted in the formulation of astute research hypotheses, shedding light on their respective attributes and nuances. Known knowns represented the domain of well-established facts and information, providing a foundation for empirical analysis. Known unknowns signified areas where knowledge gaps were perceptible, yet ascertainable with further investigation. Unknown knowns denoted concealed knowledge, warranting discovery and assimilation into the research process. Lastly, unknown unknowns represented uncharted territories, manifesting as enigmas awaiting unravelling through systematic inquiry.
Key Findings and Insights
Although the summer school did not yield immediate empirical research findings or conclusive results, its participants departed with invaluable insights and experiential knowledge. They departed with heightened comprehension regarding the intricacies inherent in their selected research domains, thereby reinforcing the pivotal significance of meticulously articulated research queries. Most notably, the attendees successfully forged robust professional networks, fostering relationships with like-minded peers and prospective research collaborators who share common research proclivities. This collaborative framework lays a solid foundation for prospective research undertakings and cooperative endeavors in the future.
Anticipated Next Steps
Following the summer school, the participants were eager to continue their research and apply the knowledge and skills they acquired during the event. They plan to refine their research proposals, conduct literature reviews, and initiate experimental work where applicable. These projects hold great promise, and the participants are enthusiastic about their potential contributions to the field of electrical insulation and HVDC transmission.
Additionally, the summer school left the participants with a network of like-minded individuals, providing them with a valuable resource for support, collaboration, and knowledge exchange. They plan to stay connected and collaborate on future research projects, ensuring the continued growth and advancement of the field.
Beyond Academics: Unforgettable Experiences
The summer school transcended the realm of pure research and academia, offering a unique platform for participants to forge enduring memories and foster meaningful personal relationships. During their leisure hours, the group actively participated in a diverse array of social activities, allowing them to delve into the quaint tapestry of Monmouth's town life. The participants embarked on excursions to local landmarks, indulged in the culinary delights of traditional fare, and partook in an unforgettable treasure hunt. This particular activity not only served as an entertaining endeavor but also served to acquaint the participants with the rich history and cultural tapestry of Monmouth. As they collectively navigated the treasure hunt's challenges and delved into the town's local history, a sense of camaraderie and unity among the participants flourished, bringing them closer together as a cohesive and synergistic team.
Conclusion
The 2023 IEEE DEIS Summer School in Monmouth, Wales, was a resounding success. Participants not only enriched their knowledge in the fields of electrical insulation and HVDC transmission but also formed connections that promise to drive the industry forward. This summer school was a testament to the importance of collaboration and networking in advancing research and innovation. As the participants look forward to the next stages of their research and careers, the bonds formed in Monmouth will serve as a strong foundation for their continued success and contributions to the field.
Michail Pitsikalis, Jenny Hedlund, Karyono, Haresh Kumar, and Bastien Neveux Representatives of the IEEE DEIS Summer School class of 2023
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The authors would first like to express their gratitude to the IEEE DEIS for their generous sponsorship, which made this event possible. They also extend their thanks to the event organizers, including Thomas Andritsch, John Fothergill, Peter Morshuis, Istebreq Saeedi, and Alun Vaughan, for their dedicated support. Last, the authors appreciate the Monmouth School for Boys for graciously hosting the participants.