Estimating Dynamic Load Parameters from Ambient PMU Measurements

In this paper, a novel method to estimate dynamic load parameters via ambient PMU measurements is proposed. Unlike conventional parameter identification methods, the proposed algorithm does not require the existence of large disturbance to power systems, and is able to provide up-to-date dynamic load parameters consistently and continuously. The accuracy and robustness of the method are demonstrated through numerical simulations.Comment: The paper has been accepted by IEEE PES general meeting 201

A survey on fractional order control techniques for unmanned aerial and ground vehicles

In recent years, numerous applications of science and engineering for modeling and control of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) systems based on fractional calculus have been realized. The extra fractional order derivative terms allow to optimizing the performance of the systems. The review presented in this paper focuses on the control problems of the UAVs and UGVs that have been addressed by the fractional order techniques over the last decade

Optimal greenhouse cultivation control: survey and perspectives

Abstract: A survey is presented of the literature on greenhouse climate control, positioning the various solutions and paradigms in the framework of optimal control. A separation of timescales allows the separation of the economic optimal control problem of greenhouse cultivation into an off-line problem at the tactical level, and an on-line problem at the operational level. This paradigm is used to classify the literature into three categories: focus on operational control, focus on the tactical level, and truly integrated control. Integrated optimal control warrants the best economical result, and provides a systematic way to design control systems for the innovative greenhouses of the future. Research issues and perspectives are listed as well

Novel measurement based load modeling and demand side control methods for fault induced delayed voltage recovery mitigation

The continuous increase in electric energy demand and limitations in the reinforcement of generation and transmission systems, have progressively led to a greater utilization of power systems and transmission lines. As a result, system conditions may arise where voltage collapse phenomena have a high probability to occur, either due to the accidents in the system structure, or to load becoming particularly heavy. Recently, Workshop on Residential Air Conditioner (A/C) Stalling of Department of Energy (DOE) reported that fault-induced delayed voltage recovery (FIDVR) is now a national issue since residential A/C penetration across U.S. is at an all time high and growing rapidly. The unique characteristics of air conditioner load could cause short-term voltage instability, fast voltage collapse, and delayed voltage recovery. In order to study and mitigate FIDVR problem, a systematic load modeling methodology utilizing novel parameter identification technique and an online demand side control scheme based on load shedding strategy are developed in this dissertation. As load characteristics change from traditional incandescent light bulbs to power electronics-based loads, and as the characteristics of motors change with the emergence of high-efficiency, low-inertia motor loads, it is critical to understand and model load responses to ensure stable operations of the power system during different contingencies. Developing better load models, therefore, has been an important issue for power system analysis and control. It is necessary to take advantage of the state-of-the-art techniques for load modeling and develop a systematic approach to establish accurate, aggregate load models for bulk power system stability studies. In this dissertation, a systematic methodology is provided to derive aggregate load models at the high voltage level (transmission system level) using measurement-based approach. A novel parameter identification technique via hybrid learning is also developed for deriving load model parameters accurately and efficiently. According to NERC\u27s definition, FIDVR is defined as the phenomenon whereby system voltage remains at significantly reduced levels for several seconds after a fault in transmission, subtransmission, or distribution has been cleared. Various studies have shown that FIDVR usually occurs in the areas dominated by induction motors with constant torque. These motors can stall in response to sustained low voltage and draw excessive reactive power from the power grid. Since no under voltage or stall protection is equipped with A/Cs, they can only be tripped by thermal protection which takes 3 to 20 seconds. Severe FIDVR event could lead to fast voltage collapse. In this dissertation, a novel online demand side control method utilizing motor kinetic energy is developed for disconnecting stalling motors at the transmission level to mitigate FIDVR and fast voltage collapse

Assessing Effectiveness of Research for Load Shedding in Power System

The research on loadshedding issues dates back to 1972 and till date many studies were introduced by the research community to address the issues. A closer review of existing techniques shows that still the effectiveness of loadshedding schemes are not yet benchmarked and majority of the existing system just considers the techniques to be quite symptomatic to either frequency or voltage. With an evolution of smart grids, majority of the controlling features of power system and networks are governed by a computational model. However, till date not enough evidences of potential computational model has been seen that claims to have better balance between the load shedding schemes and quality of power system performance. Hence, we review some significant literatures and highlights the research gap with the existing technqiues of load balancing that is meant for assisting the researcher to conclude after the selection process of existing system as a reference for future direction of study

Neural Networks: Training and Application to Nonlinear System Identification and Control

This dissertation investigates training neural networks for system identification and classification. The research contains two main contributions as follow:1. Reducing number of hidden layer nodes using a feedforward componentThis research reduces the number of hidden layer nodes and training time of neural networks to make them more suited to online identification and control applications by adding a parallel feedforward component. Implementing the feedforward component with a wavelet neural network and an echo state network provides good models for nonlinear systems.The wavelet neural network with feedforward component along with model predictive controller can reliably identify and control a seismically isolated structure during earthquake. The network model provides the predictions for model predictive control. Simulations of a 5-story seismically isolated structure with conventional lead-rubber bearings showed significant reductions of all response amplitudes for both near-field (pulse) and far-field ground motions, including reduced deformations along with corresponding reduction in acceleration response. The controller effectively regulated the apparent stiffness at the isolation level. The approach is also applied to the online identification and control of an unmanned vehicle. Lyapunov theory is used to prove the stability of the wavelet neural network and the model predictive controller. 2. Training neural networks using trajectory based optimization approachesTraining neural networks is a nonlinear non-convex optimization problem to determine the weights of the neural network. Traditional training algorithms can be inefficient and can get trapped in local minima. Two global optimization approaches are adapted to train neural networks and avoid the local minima problem. Lyapunov theory is used to prove the stability of the proposed methodology and its convergence in the presence of measurement errors. The first approach transforms the constraint satisfaction problem into unconstrained optimization. The constraints define a quotient gradient system (QGS) whose stable equilibrium points are local minima of the unconstrained optimization. The QGS is integrated to determine local minima and the local minimum with the best generalization performance is chosen as the optimal solution. The second approach uses the QGS together with a projected gradient system (PGS). The PGS is a nonlinear dynamical system, defined based on the optimization problem that searches the components of the feasible region for solutions. Lyapunov theory is used to prove the stability of PGS and QGS and their stability under presence of measurement noise

Research on hybrid manufacturing using industrial robot

The applications of using industrial robots in hybrid manufacturing overcome many restrictions of the conventional manufacturing methods, such as small part building size, long building period, and limited material choices. However, some problems such as the uneven distribution of motion accuracy within robot working volume, the acceleration impact of robot under heavy external loads, few methods and facilities for increasing the efficiency of hybrid manufacturing process are still challenging. This dissertation aims to improve the applications of using industrial robot in hybrid manufacturing by addressing following three categories research issues. The first research issue proposed a novel concept view on robot accuracy and stiffness problem, for making the maximum usage of current manufacturing capability of robot system. Based on analyzing the robot forward/inverse kinematic, the angle error sensitivity of different joint and the stiffness matrix properties of robot, new evaluation formulations are established to help finding the best position and orientation to perform a specific trajectory within the robot\u27s working volume. The second research issue focus on the engineering improvements of robotic hybrid manufacturing. By adopting stereo vision, laser scanning technology and curved surface compensation algorithm, it enhances the automation level and adaptiveness of hybrid manufacturing process. The third research issue extends the robotic hybrid manufacturing process to the broader application area. A mini extruder with a variable pitch and progressive diameter screw is developed for large scale robotic deposition. The proposed robotic deposition system could increase the building efficiency and quality for large-size parts. Moreover, the research results of this dissertation can benefit a wide range of industries, such as automation manufacturing, robot design and 3D printing --Abstract, page iv

Optimisation of Mobile Communication Networks - OMCO NET

The mini conference “Optimisation of Mobile Communication Networks” focuses on advanced methods for search and optimisation applied to wireless communication networks. It is sponsored by Research & Enterprise Fund Southampton Solent University. The conference strives to widen knowledge on advanced search methods capable of optimisation of wireless communications networks. The aim is to provide a forum for exchange of recent knowledge, new ideas and trends in this progressive and challenging area. The conference will popularise new successful approaches on resolving hard tasks such as minimisation of transmit power, cooperative and optimal routing