For the future smart distribution network

a general object-oriented substation event (GOOSE) based adaptive directional interlocking scheme (GADIS) is proposed. By defining the rules for setting reference directions and interlocking directions

the novel protection scheme is enabled to adaptively change the interlocking direction according to the fault position. Furthermore

the interoperability between protections is achieved by exchanging the blocking signals using GOOSE. Well adaptable to both closed loop and open loop distribution networks composed of several microgrids

the proposed scheme functions properly both in the islanded and grid-connected modes of the distribution network and is capable of clearing various component faults such as line fault and bus fault. In cases of voltage transformer breaking

breaker failure and communication failure

the proposed scheme is still reliable. This work is supported by National Key Technologies R&D Program (No. 2013BAA01B04) and National Invention Patent (No. CN103022993A).