Initialization and synchronization of power hardware-in-the-loop simulations : a Great Britain network case study

The hardware under test (HUT) in a power hardware in the loop (PHIL) implementation can have a significant effect on overall system stability. In some cases, the system under investigation will actually be unstable unless the HUT is already connected and operating. Accordingly, initialization of the real-time simulation can be difficult, and may lead to abnormal parameters of frequency and voltage. Therefore, a method for initializing the simulation appropriately without the HUT is proposed in this contribution. Once the initialization is accomplished a synchronization process is also proposed. The synchronization process depends on the selected method for initialization and therefore both methods need to be compatible. In this contribution, a recommended practice for the initialization of PHIL simulations for synchronous power systems is presented. Experimental validation of the proposed method of establishing a PHIL simulation for a Great Britain network case study demonstrates the effectiveness of the approach in achieving stable operation

Facilitating the transition to an inverter dominated power system : experimental evaluation of a non-intrusive add-on predictive controller

The transition to an inverter-dominated power system is expected with the large-scale integration of distributed energy resources (DER). To improve the dynamic response of DERs already installed within such a system, a non-intrusive add-on controller referred to as SPAACE (set point automatic adjustment with correction enabled), has been proposed in the literature. Extensive simulation-based analysis and supporting mathematical foundations have helped establish its theoretical prevalence. This paper establishes the practical real-world relevance of SPAACE via a rigorous performance evaluation utilizing a high fidelity hardware-in-the-loop systems test bed. A comprehensive methodological approach to the evaluation with several practical measures has been undertaken and the performance of SPAACE subject to representative scenarios assessed. With the evaluation undertaken, the fundamental hypothesis of SPAACE for real-world applications has been proven, i.e., improvements in dynamic performance can be achieved without access to the internal controller. Furthermore, based on the quantitative analysis, observations, and recommendations are reported. These provide guidance for future potential users of the approach in their efforts to accelerate the transition to an inverter-dominated power system

Characterization of time delay in power hardware in the loop setups

The testing of complex power components by means of power hardware in the loop (PHIL) requires accurate and stable PHIL platforms. The total time delay typically present within these platforms is commonly acknowledged to be an important factor to be considered due to its impact on accuracy and stability. However, a thorough assessment of the total loop delay in PHIL platforms has not been performed in the literature. Therefore, time delay is typically accounted for as a constant parameter. However, with the detailed analysis of the total loop delay performed in this article, variability in time delay has been detected as a result of the interaction between discrete components. Furthermore, a time delay characterization methodology (which includes variability in time delay) has been proposed. This will allow for performing stability analysis with higher precision as well as to perform accurate compensation of these delays. The implications on stability and accuracy that the time delay variability can introduce in PHIL simulations has also been studied. Finally, with an experimental validation procedure, the presence of the variability and the effectiveness of the proposed characterization approach have been demonstrated

Synchronous reference frame interface for geographically distributed real-time simulations

The increasing complexity of power systems has warranted the development of geographically distributed real-time simulations (GD-RTS). However, the wide scale adoption of GD-RTS remains a challenge owing to the (i) limitations of state-ofthe- A rt interfaces in reproducing faster dynamics and transients, (ii) lack of an approach to ensure a successful implementation within geographically separated research infrastructures (RIs) and (iii) lack of established evidence of its appropriateness for smart grid applications. To address the limitations in reproduction of faster dynamics and transients, this study presents a synchronous reference frame interface for GD-RTS. By means of a comprehensive performance characterisation, the superior performance of the proposed interface in terms of accuracy (reduced error on average by 60% and faster settling times) and computational complexity has been established. This study further derives the transfer function models for GD-RTS with interface characteristics for analytical stability analysis that ensure stable implementations avoiding the risks associated with multiple RI implementations. Finally, to establish confidence in the proposed interface and to investigate GD-RTS applicability for real-world applications, a GD-RTS implementation between two RIs at the University of Strathclyde is realised to demonstrate inertial support within transmission network model of the Great Britain power system

Distributed negotiation in future power networks : rapid prototyping using multi-agent system

Technologies like multi-agent system (MAS) have the capability to deal with future power grid requirements such as frequency management and voltage control under a flexible, intelligent and active feature. Based on web of cells (WoC) architecture proposed by European Liaison on Electricity Committed Towards longer-term Research Activity Integrated Research Programme (ELECTRA IRP), a distributed MAS with distributed negotiation ability for future distributed control (including frequency management and voltage control) is proposed. Each cell is designed as an intelligent agent and is investigated in case studies with constraints, where each agent can only communicate with its neighbouring agents. The interaction logic among agents is according to the distributed negotiation algorithm under consideration by the authors. Simulation results indicate that the WoC architecture could negotiate resources in a distributed manner and achieve successful exchange of resources by coordinating distributed agents. Moreover, the prototype reported in this paper can be extended further for future grids' distributed control regimes. The option of MAS to be exploited for the support of the development and integration of novel power system concepts is explored

Transitioning from centralized to distributed control : using SGAM to support a collaborative development of web of cells architecture for real time control

This paper shares some early experiences of developing the Web of Cells (WoC) concept for real time implementation supported by the Smart Grid Architecture Model (SGAM) reference framework. One of the use cases identified for the WoC concept is elaborated upon and is mapped to SGAM, providing one of the first examples where the SGAM reference framework has been used to develop a future distributed control architecture for real time implementation in power systems. Furthermore, this paper offers some insight into the key contributions that this approach can bring, such as a more effective interdisciplinary collaboration, better understanding of the control problem, and its implementation and validation

Arthroscopic anterior talofibular ligament repair for lateral instability of the ankle

UNLABELLED: Although several arthroscopic procedures for lateral ligament instability of the ankle have been reported recently, it is difficult to augment the reconstruction by arthroscopically tightening the inferior extensor retinaculum. There is also concern that when using the inferior extensor retinaculum, this is not strictly an anatomical repair since its calcaneal attachment is different to that of the calcaneofibular ligament. If a ligament repair is completed firmly, it is unnecessary to add argumentation with inferior extensor retinaculum. The authors describe a simplified technique, repair of the lateral ligament alone using a lasso-loop stitch, which avoids additionally tighten the inferior extensor retinaculum. In this paper, it is described an arthroscopic anterior talofibular ligament repair using lasso-loop stitch alone for lateral instability of the ankle that is likely safe for patients and minimal invasive. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic study, Level V

Development of measurement-based load models for the dynamic simulation of distribution grids

The advent of new types of loads, such as power electronics and the increased penetration of low-inertia motors in the existing distribution grids alter the dynamic behavior of conventional power systems. Therefore, more accurate dynamic, aggregate, load models are required for the rigorous assessment of the stability limits of modern distribution networks. In this paper, a measurement-based, input/output, aggregate load model is proposed, suitable for dynamic simulations of distribution grids. The new model can simulate complex load dynamics by employing variable-order transfer functions. The minimum required model order is automatically determined through an iterative procedure. The applicability and accuracy of the proposed model are thoroughly evaluated under distinct loading conditions and network topologies using measurements acquired from a laboratory-scale test setup. Furthermore, the performance of the proposed model is compared against other conventional load models, using the mean absolute percentage error