A hypersimulation‐based learning environment for operator understanding of complex phenomena in power systems

Abstract

AbstractThis paper proposes a simulation‐based learning environment called hypersimulator, as a thinking tool to enhance operators' understanding of complex phenomena in power systems. The hypersimulator is literally a simulator fused with a concept of hypertext, a personal visual simulator with user interfaces viewing multiple aspects of the phenomena in power systems.In the field of power system engineering, training simulators are used for operators to obtain the so‐called skill‐based and rule‐based expertise of an operation. However, the training simulators are not effective enough to provide knowledge‐based expertise based on deep understanding of a mechanism of complex phenomena. An aim of the hypersimulator is help the novice operator obtain such expertise through examining the phenomena and developing effective mental models (internal models formed in a person's mind) of them. The approach here to designing the system is a user‐centered one based on cognitive science and analysis of characteristics of power system phenomena and operators' ways of thinking.In this paper, first, the characteristics of operators' ways of thinking are analyzed as the preliminary investigation to obtain a basic design concept. Second, the concept and the features of hypersimulator are discussed. Finally, the effectiveness of the system is demonstrated using simulation of phenomena in power systems.