Interfacing PowerFactory
Interfacing and integrating power system software with other applications such as GIS (Graphical Information Systems) and SCADA (Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition) systems is an important requirement. Utilizing the implemented DGS, OLE and Shared Memory interfacing techniques, DIgSILENT PowerFactory features great flexibility in supporting any level of interfacing and integration needs. The following sections summarize some typical examples.
PowerFactory - GIS integration
PowerFactory – GIS integration is preferably implemented via the DGS-interface. As object and parameter definitions at the GIS side usually reflect user-specific needs, standardized interfacing is only provided when a standard application module/standard process model provided by the respective GIS manufacturer is in use. As soon as user-specific object and parameter definitions are applied, individual object mapping will be required.
Implementation Options
- Unidirectional GIS to PowerFactory data transfer via DGS format definitions (CSV or ODBC)
- Bidirectional data transfer (e.g. via the PowerFactory shared memory interface) when running PowerFactory in “Engine Mode” or “Hybrid Mode”, which features full integration of PowerFactory analysis functions and additional graphic display options in the GIS system
Characteristics
- Incremental data exchange utilizing PowerFactory’s user accounting, project management and merge tools featuring GIS -to -PowerFactory team working
- Combines and merges several data sources via PowerFactory’s data handling capabilities, thereby avoiding any middleware requirement
Application Aspects
- Sharing of data sources, thereby avoiding duplication of data entry and maintenance
- Utilizing key capabilities of PowerFactory and GIS while sharing data
- Amalgamating data from various sources at the PowerFactory level
As most applications require the merging of additional data such as customer load consumption, dispersed generation infeeds and SCADA readings, PowerFactory – GIS integration is often handled as a project implemented via clearly defined specification of data sources and overall workflow.
PowerFactory - SCADA integration
Interfacing with SCADA gives direct access to dynamic and/or static SCADA data, allowing both real-time system analysis and incident analysis from previous snapshots. As DIgSILENT PowerFactory already integrates topology processing, interfacing can be done on a point-to-point basis using foreign database keys. In addition to the option of exchanging data between SCADA applications and PowerFactory, a full SCADA integration of the PowerFactory engine is supported when using PowerFactory OPC link features. Typical applications are operators’ access to calculations such as load flow, contingency analysis, etc., including real-time simulation for operator training.
- Support of PowerFactory Engine Mode and Hybrid Mode
- SCADA – PowerFactory communication via OPC, executing PowerFactory as a client
- Direct 1-to-1 relation between SCADA network objects due to full substation topology support of PowerFactory
- Utilization of SCADA manufacturer’s state estimation functions, or, if not present, PowerFactory’s advanced state estimation features
- Operator’s access to all PowerFactory functions such as load flow, contingency analysis, optimal power flow, spinning reserve allocation
PowerFactory - Simulation Interface (SIMULINK, etc.)
Although PowerFactory offers great flexibility in controller modelling, some applications may require special control toolboxes from the Matlab/SIMULINK software package. The PowerFactory – Matlab/SIMULINK interface is a flexible and fully synchronized link for distributed simulation of linked models. The bi-directional communication link is easily implemented via the PowerFactory Frame and Slot technique with a built-in RPC interface block for Matlab/SIMULINK. A typical application example might be the simulation of a large network with a number of conventionally controlled generation units together with a fuzzy-controller implemented at a specific plant.
PowerFactory - A/D Signal Interfacing Capability
PowerFactory’s Frame and Slot technique utilizing the real-time capabilities of built-in blocks for data acquisition has become the basis for the PowerFactory Monitoring system (PFM). The portable or cabinet-mounted Control and Monitoring Units (CMU) along with different types of high precision Signal Units (SU), is featuring the configuration of highly-flexible plant measurement and grid performance analysis systems. Typical application aspects of the PowerFactory Monitor are system tests for simulation model validation, supervision of grid connection conditions, load parameter identification, fault recording, power quality observation analysis or system stability supervision.
Due to the superior flexibility in software setup, there is almost no limit in defining measurement and test applications including closed-loop operation with A/D-interfaced controllers, relays or other simulators.
