Dispatcher Training Simulator Research Articles

Simulation of the New York Power Pool for dispatcher training

This paper describes the simulation of the operating environment of the New York Power Pool (NYPP) within the dispatcher training simulator (DTS) facility at the New York State Electric and Gas Corporation (NYSEG). The NYSEG control center uses real-time data received from the NYPP control center to control its internal generation. In addition, the NYSEG dispatchers work very closely with the NYPP dispatchers. The exact emulation of the generation control functions of the NYPP EMS, and the associated data exchange with the NYSEG ECS, contribute greatly to the high degree of realism achieved in the NYSEG DTS facility. The accuracy of the power system simulation in the DTS has been validated against actual power system disturbances recorded at NYSEG.< <ETX xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">&gt;</ETX>

An AGC implementation for system islanding and restoration conditions

An island AGC function has been implemented in a large-scale power system, Virginia Power Company (VP), to assist in system emergency and restoration situations. It is the first time that the conventional AGC function has been enhanced to be utilized, rather than to be suspended, under such circumstances. The island AGC function is designed to be implemented in both the real-time and the dispatcher training simulator (DTS) environments. The latter provides a realistic closed-loop simulation environment that mimics the real system behavior, offering an excellent opportunity for operators to be well-trained, aware and prepared for abnormal situations. This implementation has been tested on the VP system model, which consists of 4400 buses and 775 generators. It has successfully completed custom factory tests, and it is the user's opinion that the island AGC will provide a valuable additional capability for use during system restoration. >

Experiences using the dispatcher training simulator as a training tool

There is a need to provide more directed power system operation training than that provided by on-the-job experience. The experiences of New York Power Pool have shown the dispatcher training simulator to be an effective tool in the training of power system operators and dispatchers, particularly in areas such as voltage control, stability, and system restoration. The authors share some thoughts and experiences gained in the area of operator training using a simulator. Detailed descriptions are provided regarding the simulator capabilities, training objectives, and training environment. In addition, a case study is presented which proved the value of the simulator as an operator training tool.< <ETX xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">&gt;</ETX>

Water system modeling for dispatcher training simulators

The authors address the need for training dispatchers in the operation of power systems where it involves managing large water systems. The problem formulation and implementation of water system modeling for dispatcher training simulators (DTSs) are presented. The method systematically builds the water network descriptions. The model periodically calculates the water system flows, storage values, and currently available hydro generation capacities. The model is controllable by the instructor and provides the simulated telemetry of water system data to the control center functions in the DTS. The water system modeling enhances the power system modeling subsystem of the DTS. The method is validated on a large water system and power system data. The results and the benefits of water system modeling are discussed.< <ETX xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">&gt;</ETX>

Dispatcher training simulators: lessons learned

Five reports are presented which direct attention to the problem areas being experienced by utilities in effective utilization of dispatcher training simulators as part of the overall dispatcher training programs. Each report focuses on a different aspect of dispatcher training and utilization of power system simulation in the training curriculum. The first report addresses the justification of a training simulator and focuses on the reasons a utility should incorporate the use of a simulator in the dispatchers' training program. In the second report, the issues associated with simulation modeling of a real power system versus generic power system modeling are identified. The third report is a description of the problems experienced with use of a simulator for power system simulation drills. The fourth report gives a set of criteria for establishing an adequate training staff to support training using a power system simulation tool. In the final report, the challenges in establishing a facility that is suitable for dispatcher training are explained.< <ETX xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">&gt;</ETX>

An online implementation of transient stability in a dispatcher training simulator

An online implementation of transient stability in a dispatcher training simulator

An online implementation of transient stability in a dispatcher training simulator

An integrated online transient stability program in the power system dispatcher training simulator (DTS) environment is presented. The DTS stability simulation completes the training system by allowing engineers and training specialists preparing the various scenarios with an opportunity to validate the events sequence for each scenario and to review and evaluate the operator's performance during a training session. The simulation can be directly initialized from the DTS state. The computer program uses the same models which are used in the DTS augmented by the extra modeling needed for the transient capabilities of the generators and DC systems. The interactive user interface is compatible with the DTS/energy management system environment. The output events of the simulation can be directly inserted into the events database of the DTS. Easy data entry capabilities for model building exist. Data security and organization via a database management system is provided. The results of testing are very favorable under various system conditions.< <ETX xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">&gt;</ETX>

A Survey of Current Operational Problems

This paper is one of a series prepared for use in the Working Group on Current Operational Problems (COPS) forums with the goal of focusing attention of the industry on problems faced by those who are involved in actual power system operation. The questionnaire was sent to System Operation Subcommittee members and to North American Electric Reliability Council (NERC) key operating members. One hundred thirty responses were received. The high priority topics identified as problems by the survey can be divided up into three categories of people, analysis and control, and computer system. Some of the items, for example, Dispatcher Training Simulator could be assigned to any of these new categories. We arranged them as follows: People Problems-Dispatcher Training Simulators Management Problems due to Shift Work Evaluation of Training Programs Simulators to Practice System Restoration Job Desirability Dispatcher Selection Relations with Dispatchers Analysis and Control Problems - Key Monitoring Indicators Load Shedding System Condition Assessment Contingency Voltage Levels Transmission Access and Compensation Generation Cycling Resource Scheduling Computer System Problems - Alarms (present techniques need improvement) Alarming (Artificial Intelligence systems are needed) Performance Considerations (Computer systems handling inadequately during emergencies)

Power System Simulator for Realistic Dispatcher Training

The paper describes a training system which is incorporable into existing system control centers.The aspects considered for the system design are presented:-the man-machine-interface for training is the same as for real operation-the power system behaviour is realistically simulated-there is no interference with the actual operation during the implementation of the training system or during a training session.The selected system solution meeting above goals is detailed. It is based on the integration of a separate computer for the simulation of the power system into the dual computer system of a control center in such a manner, that during a training session the power system operation is performed via the main computer, the standby computer acts as training computer and the power system simulation computer replaces the frontend computer, providing simulated power system data to the training computer.The software functions for a realistic simulation of the power system are explained:-network configuration, state estimation and load flow calculation-frequency simulation, including partial networks-power plant simulation (hydro, coal and gas turbine)-load simulation as non-linear function of voltage and frequency-simulation of protection trippings by overload, underfrequency and undervoltageFinally, the creation of a training scenario and a training session are described.

The Pacific Gas & Electric Company Energy Management System Overview—Unique Features

This paper presents the salient features of the Energy Management System which is being developed for Pacific Gas and Electric Company by Control Data Corporation. This project consists of two phases: Phase I contains the basic SCADA/AGC, scheduling applications, and the suppliers standard Real-Time Sequence of Network Applications. Phase II contains the addition of customized Network Applications and Dispatcher Training Simulator software. Phases I and II are scheduled to be delivered in 1989.

Power System Operator Training Problems

This paper is one of a series prepared for use in Current Operating Problems (COP's) forums for the purpose of focusing the attention of industry on high priority problems faced by those who are involved in the actual operation of power systems. Five short note reports provide definition and discussion of problem areas of operator training. They are (1) evaluation of the training program, (2) limitations of dispatcher training simulators that are now in use, (3) problems of accurately modeling the dynamic response of the power system, (4) special needs of utilities with decentralized dispatching, and (5) new developments for next generation operator training simulators and the problems to be solved. These reports are intended to clarify the problems and concerns. The objective of the COPs forum is to communicate ideas, solicit discussion and stimulate others to devise responsive solutions to these problems. The Working Group on Operator Training (WG78-4) has identified specific problem areas in Power System Operator/Dispatcher Training. Key persons with experience in each of these problem areas have been identified and assigned the responsibility of preparing the five short note papers presented below.

Development of a Large-Scale Dispatcher Training Simulator and Training Results

The Tokyo Electric Power Co., Inc. (TEPCO) and Mitsubishi Electric Corp. developed a large-scale dispatcher training simulator ELDIS (Electric Load Dispatching Simulator) in February 1984 after three years of joint research. This simulator can be used not only for training in normal operating activities, but also for training in the handling of emergency and restorative operations under abnormal conditions. The simulator has been installed at the Dispatcher Training Center in TEPCO where it has been used for four to five days a week for training of about 250 dispatchers in the Central, Area, and Local Load Dispatching Centers. It has contributed greatly to achieving reliable power system operations. This paper gives an overview of the ELDIS and describes the training course, the simulator functions, and the training results.

Development of a Large-Scale Dispatcher Training Simulator and Training Results

The Tokyo Electric Power Co., Inc. (TEPCO) and Mitsubishi Electric Corp. developed a large-scale dispatcher training simulator ELDIS (Electric Load DIspatching Simulator) in February 198 after three years of joint research. This simulator can be used not only for training in normal operating activities, but also for training in the handling of emergency and restorative operations under abnormal conditions. The simulator has been installed at the Dispatcher Training Center in TEPCO where it has been used for four to five days a week for training of about 250 dispatchers in the Central, Area, and Local Load Dispatching Centers. It has contributed greatly to achieving reliable power system operations. This paper gives an overview of the ELDIS and describes the training course, the simulator functions, and the training results.

Power System Operator Training Problems

This paper is one of a series prepared for use in Current Operating Problems (COP's) forums for the purpose of focusing the attention of industry on high priority problems faced by those who are involved in the actual operation of power systems. Five short note reports provide definition and discussion of problem areas of operator training. They are (1) evaluation of the training program, (2) limitations of dispatcher training simulators that are now in use, (3) problems of accurately modeling the dynamic response of the power system, (4) special needs of utilities with decentralized dispatching, and (5) new developments for next generation operator training simulators and the problems to be solved. These reports are intended to clarify the problems and concerns. The objective of the COPs forum is to communicate ideas, solicit discussion and stimulate others to devise responsive solutions to these problems. The Working Group on Operator Training (WG78-4) has identified specific problem areas in Power System Operator/Dispatcher Training. Key persons with experience in each of these problem areas have been identified and assigned the responsibility of preparing the five short note papers presented below.

Applications of Dynamic Models in Dispatcher Training Simulator and in Other System Dynamic Performance Studies

A number of steam turbine prime-mover models for extended system dynamics simulation has recently evolved and been documented from planning type of studies. Significant effort has been expended in the development resulting in some general awareness of this applicability. However, the effective model structure as affected by limited data, and individual dynamic response characteristics of these state-of-the-art models remain to be considered. It was not known how these models individually respond dynamically in terms of closed-loop response time and nonlinear effects such as dead-bands and limits. It was also not known how well these models can be used in a dispatcher training simulation. This paper presents computed results of individual unit dynamic responses of two such models out to several minutes. Computations simulating load following and breaker opening are included. The responses show nonlinear effects due to dead-bands in series with major control paths. The closed-loop response times are found to be not directly related to any single time parameter of the model. Effects and limitations of integration time steps and integration methods are illustrated. The results of the computational study show that the models can be adapted for dispatcher training simulation, and time steps can be as long as two seconds with appropriate choice of integration algorithm. Computational interface consideration for these models in other power system studies is also included in this paper.

A Dispatcher Training Simulator Design with Multi-Purpose Interfaces

An advanced Dispatcher Training Simulator (DTS) design which also facilitates software testing is described in this paper. In other EMS enviromnents, special software must be developed to support facility installation and new applications software testing. The DTS is designed such that no substantial changes are required in order for it to be used as a Software Testing Simulator (STS). The key to such a design is a flexible communication interface.

A Large Two Computer Dispatcher Training Simulator

Recognition of the need for operator training and the introduction of Dispatcher Training Simulators (DTS) into the operations environment has lead to the implementation of several Training Simulator systems in the past decade. At the present time, DTS systems which have been implemented in the field or described in the literature are configured with a single CPU. A multi-computer configuration was recently recommended as the result of a separate, independent research effort sponsored by EPRI. This paper describes the implementation of a new training simulator which is the first actual use of a multi-computer approach embodying some of the concepts recommended by that research. The motivations for this unique configuration are presented along with key design considerations and an evaluation of the effectiveness of this approach.

Applications of Dynamic Models in Dispatcher Training Simulator and in Other System Dynamic Performance Studies

A number of steam turbine prime-mover models for extended system dynamics simulation has recently evolved and been documented from planning type of studies. Significant effort has been expended in the development resulting in some general awareness of this applicability. However, the effective model structure as affected by limited data, and individual dynamic response characteristics of these state-of-the-art models remain to be considered.

A Large Two Computer Dispatcher Training Simulator

Recognition of the need for operator training and the introduction of Dispatcher Training Simulators (DTS) into the operations environment has lead to the implementation of several Training Simulator systems in the past decade. At the present time, DTS systems which have been implemented in the field or described in the literature are configured with a single CPU. A multi-computer configuration was recently recommended as the result of a separate, parallel research effort sponsored by EPRI. This paper describes the implementation of a new training simulator which is the first actual use of a multi-computer approach embodying some of the concepts recommended by that research. The motivations for this unique configuration are presented along with key design considerations and an evaluation of the effectiveness of this approach.

A Dispatcher Training Simulator Design with Multi-Purpose Interfaces

A Dispatcher Training Simulator Design with Multi-Purpose Interfaces