The CAP-SG Lab uses state-of-the-art real-time simulation and reduced-scale experimental platforms to design, test and verify the integration of new technologies into various types of power-electronic-based smart grids, from small microgrids to larger power networks.
The CAP-SG Lab facility operates around the Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) and real-time simulator that is fully compatible with the Matlab/SimPowerSystems, PowerFactory DIgSILENT and can be utilized for a broad range of smart grid applications. In particular, the real-time simulators can:
- Implement Rapid Control Prototyping (RCP)
- Simulate complex power grid and microgrid applications
- Simulate fast electromagnetic phenomenon to the transient stability of large power systems
- Test and optimize control and protection systems used in power grids, power electronics and drives
- Design a wide range of control structures, cybersecurity analysis, and protection systems
Hardware infrastructure includes six power converters that can be operated as a single distributed generation unit (DGU) or parallel connected operation, converter controller units (dSPACE and OPAL-RT), monitoring unit, and Host PCs.
Power converters are controlled through dSPACE MicroLabBox, suitable for high bandwidth control algorithm implementing, testing, and monitoring. Thus, advanced control structures can be designed and experimentally verified on this set-up.
OPAL-RT simulator OP5700 is operated via the host PC running islanded VSC-based microgrid applications, onboard power systems, protection systems, energy storage integration, and low inertia power grid studies.
The CAP-SG Lab can be used for research, development, and testing platform to develop new solutions for smart modern power systems and microgrids.
