Interfaz humano-máquina desarrollada en LabView para el control de la plataforma opal-rt en el laboratorio de microrredes eléctricas de la Universidad Distrital

Abstract

Currently, simulation in engineering plays a crucial role in the design process by anticipating potential problems or future challenges. In this context, the execution of real-time simulations emerges as a key tool for achieving more accurate results in our applications. The electrical microgrids laboratory at the Universidad Distrital faces various challenges in power converter-based electrical systems, relying on the real-time simulation platform OPAL-RT. This highlights the need to improve the monitoring and control of its experiments through the OPAL-RT platform. To address this need, the development of a Human-Machine Interface (HMI) has been undertaken to enable efficient monitoring and control of these applications. Currently, researchers at the electrical microgrids laboratory of the Universidad Distrital use Simulink to implement human-machine interactions with the OPAL-RT 4510 platform. However, several limitations have been observed, including restricted accessibility, delays caused by signal processing and visualization in Simulink, and the lack of necessary tools for effective control and monitoring of the applications in the laboratory. In this context, LabVIEW was chosen as the communication software between the OPAL-RT 4510 (a real-time controller and simulator of analog and digital signals) and MATLAB, which is used by researchers for project design. This strategic decision facilitates integration and workflow within the laboratory. Furthermore, it improves overall operation, optimizes coordination between the simulation and design systems, and provides a more intuitive user interface, thereby enhancing the monitoring and control experience.