Power Line Communication Research Articles

Adaptive Channel Division and Subchannel Allocation for Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access-Based Airborne Power Line Communication Networks

This paper addresses the critical needs of the aviation industry in advancing towards More Electric Aircraft (MEA) by leveraging power line communication (PLC) technology, which merges data and power transmission to offer substantial reductions in aircraft system weight and cost. We introduce pioneering algorithms for channel division and subchannel allocation within Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA)-based airborne PLC networks, aimed at optimizing network performance in key areas such as throughput, average delay, and fairness. The proposed channel division algorithm dynamically adjusts the count of subchannels to maximize Channel Division Gain (CDG), responding adeptly to fluctuations in network conditions and node density. Concurrently, the subchannel allocation algorithm employs a novel metric, the Subchannel Preference Score (SPS), which factors in both the signal quality and the current occupancy levels of each subchannel to determine their optimal allocation among nodes. This method ensures efficient resource utilization and maintains consistent network performance. Extensive simulations, conducted using the OMNeT++ simulator, have demonstrated that our adaptive algorithms significantly outperform existing methods, providing higher throughput, reduced delays, and improved fairness across the network. These advancements represent a significant leap in MAC protocol design for airborne PLC systems. The outcomes suggest that our algorithms offer a robust and adaptable solution, aligning with the rigorous demands of modern avionics and paving the way for the future integration of MEA technologies.

A cost-effective load side management solution based on power line carrier communication i-PLCC.

Conventional power systems are almost at the verge of their existence and are quickly being replaced by modern, especially smarter alternatives. Rapid and wide deployment of Load side management, which is a smarter and modern way to ensure efficient and economical use of power, is a classic example. However, there are several challenges which need to be addressed before it can be realized as a commercially viable solution. Suitable communication method, called "Home Area Networks", is a mandatory requirement which should be cost effective, robust and with ability to simultaneously handle large number of devices. Due to various inherent issues, communication protocols commonly used now-a-days, are not fully capable to address the requirements of HANs. Power Line Carrier Communications (PLCC) can be a suitable and efficient alternative of quick realization of HANs. In this paper, various aspects of PLCC have been analyzed for use in HANs. Modulation methods, materials, physical parameters and effect of noise have been analyzed. The paper evaluates performance and effectiveness of FSK modulation with aluminum transmission medium for PLC within a residential environment, focusing on the tradeoffs between distance, transmission medium diameter, and type of transmission medium, and cable gauge, which can degrade the performance of PLCC. A novel simulation model has been presented incorporating RLCG (Resistance, Inductance, Capacitance, and Conductance) tools and additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN). Performance parameter have been comprehensively analyzed of implementation using aluminum as a communication medium. This paper discusses cost effectiveness of PLCC by replacing copper by aluminum as the transmission medium. The study reveals that aluminum cables must be twice the size of copper cable in order to achieve same communication distances. Higher carrier frequencies in FSK modulation increase noise susceptibility, consequently reducing achievable communication distances. Cables with smaller diameters results in lower transmission ranges. These results highlight the trade-offs involved in implementing FSK for in-home PLCC (iPLCC). The study highlights how crucial it is to take these trade-offs into account while developing and refining FSK-based iPLCC systems for use in smart homes.

Research on Channel Modeling Technology for Three Core Cables Based on Q3D

Abstract The modeling and analysis of power line channels are key to ensuring efficient and reliable power line carrier communication. In the past, the modeling of power line channels mainly relied on analytical methods to obtain unit length power line parameters. This method has a complex calculation process and requires high mathematical skills. This article presents a fast channel modeling method for three core cables. Firstly, the transmission function of a two port network with parallel cables as transmission lines is established. Then, a detailed scheme for extracting RLGC using Q3D software is proposed. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed scheme is demonstrated through simulation analysis. This scheme is suitable for modeling complex shaped conductors and can reduce computational complexity, demonstrating significant advantages.

Sistem Otomatis Penyimpanan Data Pendeteksi Fase Pelanggan Tegangan Rendah

Inaccurate phase detection due to manual data recording often led to errors, impacting load balancing processes in electrical distribution. This research aimed to develop an automated phase detection system for low-voltage customers, utilizing a MicroSD-Card for data storage to reduce human error and enhance data reliability. The device used Power Line Carrier (PLC) communication technology integrated with customer identity (ID PEL) and employed Arduino Uno for phase data processing. The research method involved designing and testing phase detection and data storage functions across various distances to assess system accuracy. Findings indicated the system accurately detected customer phases and stored data efficiently, with minor delays only at longer distances. This automated solution effectively minimized manual errors in phase data entry. Future applications of this system could significantly improve load balancing accuracy and data management in electrical distribution networks

A novel vehicle power line communication method based on switching ripple modulation

A novel vehicle power line communication method based on switching ripple modulation

A Case Study on the Integration of Powerline Communications and Visible Light Communications from a Power Electronics Perspective.

This paper presents a dual-purpose LED driver system that functions as both a lighting source and a Visible Light Communication (VLC) transmitter integrated with a Powerline Communication (PLC) network under the PRIME G3 standard. The system decodes PLC messages from the powerline grid and transmits the information via LED light to an optical receiver under a binary phase shift keying (BPSK) modulation. The load design targets a light flux of 800 lumens, suitable for LED light bulb applications up to 10 watts, ensuring practicality and energy efficiency. The Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter (UART) module enables communication between the PLC and VLC systems, allowing for an LED driver with dynamic control and real-time operation. Key signal processing stages are commented and developed, including a hybrid buck converter with modulation capabilities and a nonlinear optical receiver to regenerate the BPSK reference signal for VLC. Results show a successful prototype working under a laboratory environment. Experimental validation shows successful transmission of bit streams from the PLC grid to the VLC setup. A design guideline is presented in order to dictate the design of the electronic devices involved in the experiment. Finally, this research highlights the feasibility of integrating PLC and VLC technologies, offering an efficient and cost-effective solution for data transmission over existing infrastructure.

Experimental research of helicopter blade load in flight based on optical sensing

Abstract The actual flight measurement of blade load is an extremely important part of the new helicopter. In order to solve the problems existing in the traditional electrical measurement method, such as weak anti-interference ability, short life, and large added mass, a flight measurement method of blade load based on optical sensing is proposed. Firstly, the strain mode distribution law is obtained by calculating the dynamic response of the real blade. The optimal layout of the optical fiber measurement points is determined. Through theoretical analysis of strain transferring and experimental verification, a highly reliable fusion scheme of blade and fiber is designed to meet the flight requirements. Based on the power line carrier technology, the optical sensing test system for helicopter flight test is developed. The flight test of blade load is completed successfully. The results of optical fiber measurement are consistent with the results of traditional electrical measurement, which indicates that the optical sensing technology has good applicability in the measurement of helicopter blade load. At the same time, it has been proved that the optical measurement system set is reliable and durable. It is of great significance for the leap from electric measurement to optical measurement.

A Network Security Transmission Model Based on Improved Sparrow Search Algorithm

With the development of the socio-economic landscape, the demand for electricity supply is steadily increasing. The application of 5G networks in this field has gradually alleviated the supply-demand response issues associated with large-scale distributed power sources. However, the broadcast nature of 5G channels raises concerns about secure data transmission. Addressing these challenges, this paper establishes a collaborative communication model for large-scale Demand Response (DR). Using the distributed power source network as a foundation, a communication system based on Power Line Communication (PLC) and Generic State Machine (GenSM) is proposed. Building on this, a self-adaptive data transmission algorithm based on the sparrow algorithm is proposed. This algorithm uses swarm intelligence for efficient energy management and secure transmission. Simulation results show that, compared to traditional Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) models, under specific conditions, the proposed model achieves an energy efficiency improvement of 131% and 69%.

Factors influencing risk of predation by subsidized predators on juvenile Mojave desert tortoises (Gopherus agassizii)

A persistent lack of juvenile recruitment in populations of the imperiled Mojave desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) has been attributed to artificially inflated populations of coyotes (Canis latrans) and common ravens (Corvus corax) in some areas. Subsidized by resources in the form of road-killed prey, movement corridors, or nesting perches provided by ever-expanding road and powerline networks, these “subsidized predators” threaten tortoises and other species thanks to subsidies that help support their populations in areas where they might otherwise have been less abundant. Here, we quantified the risk of predation from these subsidized predators on juvenile Mojave desert tortoises by quantifying attack rates on 3D-printed replicas. We evaluated predation risk as a function of replica size, distance from powerlines, and season—variables that can inform release strategies of head-started and translocated tortoises. We found significantly greater risk of predation from ravens in the spring than in the fall. Replica size did not significantly influence predation risk from ravens or coyotes. Replica distance from a powerline or road also did not significantly influence predation risk, supporting previous studies that have found the risk of predation can persist for up to 1.6 km from raven nesting structures. Our results support recommendations for releasing juvenile head-started and translocated tortoises in the fall and away from areas close to raven nesting structures. Our study provides insight into the interactions of prey and subsidized predators and helps guide management on potential mitigation strategies for minimizing the impacts of subsidized predators on species like the imperiled Mojave desert tortoise.

Enhancing safety in narrow-band transformerless PLC couplers with a passive symmetrical filter

As the demand for efficient data transmission over existing power infrastructure grows, power-line communication (PLC) systems have become increasingly vital. However, integrating communication signals with high-voltage power lines poses significant safety challenges, emphasizing the need for reliable, safe, and high-performance components. To address cost and safety concerns, this article introduces a symmetrical third-order band-pass filter design that employs a transformerless coupler, avoiding the expense and bulk of traditional transformers while enhancing both equipment and human safety in narrow-band PLC systems. The design, functionality, and safety considerations are discussed, with a focus on implementing a passive analog Butterworth filter, chosen for its flat frequency response in the passband. Additionally, we address the safety aspects of transformerless couplers in PLC applications, emphasizing their reliability and efficiency in maintaining signal integrity while minimizing the risks associated with high-voltage environments. Simulations validated the proposed design, confirming its effectiveness in achieving the desired frequency response. The design is cost-effective due to the elimination of the transformer and ensures safety through the strategic rearrangement of the coupler components, which isolates the power line from the communication side.

Noise mitigation method for power line communication based on cross-correlation analysis

Abstract Noise has a significant impact on the transmission rate and reliability of power line communication(PLC), which has become a crucial factor affecting PLC. In order to enhance the noise resistance of PLC, this paper proposes a noise mitigation method for PLC based on cross-correlation analysis. Firstly, the characteristics of OFDM signals based on PSK modulation are analyzed. Subsequently, reference signals are created for the purpose of cross-correlation with the PLC signal. Then, the phase of each subcarrier can be obtained. The PLC signal is reconstructed by utilizing the obtained phase, thereby achieving noise mitigation. Finally, the algorithmic program has been written for the simulation of the method in MATLAB. The simulation results show that the noise mitigation method can successfully remove the noise from PLC signals with signal-to-noise ratios within -20dB.

The Use of Data Transmission Technique Via Power Line Communication

The smart grid requires the use of communication methods. One of these communication methods is power line communication (PLC). In this study, TMDSPLCKITV4 evaluation boards are programmed with the G3-PLC standard and operated as transmitter and receiver in low voltage distribution grid. Then, the distances between the transceiver points, the load characteristics were changed and the received signal strength indication, signal noise ratio, bit error rate and package error rate values for each modulation type of the G3-PLC standard were measured in real time. According to these measured values, the success of the PLC has been demonstrated. In general, it is observed that the number of erroneous data bits increases in each modulation type under pulsed variable load. Robust mod and binary phase shift keying modulation types appear to be the most successful modulation types with the least number of erroneous data bits when all experimental conditions are considered.

Development of underground communication system for data transmission using Wi-Fi direct and power line communication

Safety and productivity are of utmost concern to companies in the underground mining industry. To improve safety and productivity, it is important to understand the underground environment using sensing methods. Such sensors obtain important measurement factors such as temperature, humidity, and gas concentration that assist with accurate decision making. However, it still remains challenging to develop a communication system that can transmit data obtained by the sensors from the underground to the surface. In addition to that, the cost of maintaining a wireline communication system in an ever-expanding underground mine is high and there is a high risk of wire breakage. Hence, the introduction and use of wireless communication networks (WSNs) in underground communication systems. This study proposes a data transmission system for an underground communication system in which Wi-Fi Direct and power line communications (PLC) are selected as part of the system. The purpose is to conduct a demonstration experiment and analyze the performance of the system based on the conditions of the mine.In this study, it was developed a data transfer system with minimum cost by using PLC and Wi-Fi Direct as a means of communication as well as Wi-Fi Ad hoc. The result of the Wi-Fi Direct system was that the distance from a data logger to a smartphone was 140 m in a straight line. At this time, the communication speed was 9.1MB/s, which means that the miner could recover 230MB of data before the data loggers pass the data to the miner’s smartphone. The distance between smartphones was 130 m in a straight line, and they were able to communicate at 5.7MB/s. By the time the data is shared from one smartphone to another, 72MB of data can be shared. The necessary monitoring data in the underground mine can be transmitted reliably as text and image files.Moreover, based on the results of performance analysis, a design of a data transfer system for the underground mine is demonstrated. The costs of the proposed system are estimated and compared with the most common communication system (leaky feeder). The proposed system can achieve communication for only 3% of its cost and 2% of the maintenance cost. The proposed data transfer system can be installed in a complex underground mine including a dwarf space with low cost and can be easily expanded. This data transfer system can be diverted to other mines with the installation of equipment, making it the data transfer system that underground mining companies are looking for.

Channel Characteristics of Hybrid Power Line Communication and Visible Light Communication Based on Distinct Optical Beam Configurations for 6G IoT Network

In the envisioned 6G internet of things (IoT), visible light communication (VLC) has emerged as one promising candidate to mitigate the frequency spectrum crisis. However, when working as the access point, VLC has to be connected with the backbone network via other wire communication solutions. Typically, power line communication (PLC) is viewed as an excellent match to VLC, which is capable of providing both a power supply and backbone network connection. Generally, the integration of PLC and VLC is taken into consideration for the above hybrid system for channel characteristics analysis. However, almost all current works focus on hybrid PLC and VLC, based on a conventional Lambertian optical beam configuration, and fail to address the applications of hybrid PLC and VLC based on distinct optical beam configurations. To address this issue, in this paper, the channel characteristics of hybrid PLC and VLC, based on distinct optical beam configurations, are explored and illustrated. Numerical results show that, for a central position of the receiver, compared with an achievable rate of about 194 Mbps for hybrid PLC and VLC with a baseline Lambertian optical beam configuration, the counterparts of a hybrid channel based on Rebel and NSPW optical beams are about 173.4 Mbps and 222.4 Mbps. Moreover, the effect of azimuth rotation is constructed and estimated for hybrid PLC and VLC, adopting a typical rotating asymmetric beam configuration.

Meta-algorithmic optimized power allocation in cybertwin-based sixth generation cooperative communication system

The sixth-generation (6G) communication paradigm, powered by an Internet of Everything (IoE), promises unprecedented data density and transformative applications across various sectors like smart cities, healthcare, transportation, and agriculture. This study explores an emerging hybrid cybertwin-enabled 6G cooperative network architecture, focusing on secrecy capacity analysis. The approach involves Base Stations (BS) employing Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access (NOMA) techniques to transmit data to cybertwin hosts and servers via direct wireless links with Nakagami-m fading. Additionally, a Power Line Communication (PLC) link, subjected to Rayleigh fading, supplements the wireless link for communication between cybertwin hosts and servers. Bio-meta-heuristic optimization algorithms are introduced to optimize NOMA power allocation, specifically Grey Wolf Optimization (GWO) and a hybrid of Grey Wolf Optimization with Krill Herd Optimization (KHO). The system's capability to ensure secure data transmission while mitigating eavesdropping risks is assessed through thorough secrecy capacity and throughput analyses. Simulation results highlight the efficacy of the hybrid GWO-KHO-based NOMA power allocation scheme, showcasing superior efficiency over traditional methods. This study contributes novel insights into optimized power allocation and efficiency in cybertwin-enabled 6G networks, underscoring the significance of hybrid optimization approaches in future communication systems.

Dynamic Injection and Permutation Coding for Enhanced Data Transmission.

In this paper, we propose a novel approach to enhance spectral efficiency in communication systems by dynamically adjusting the mapping between cyclic permutation coding (CPC) and its injected form. By monitoring channel conditions such as interference levels and impulsive noise strength, the system optimises the coding scheme to maximise data transmission reliability and efficiency. The CPC method employed in this work maps information bits onto non-binary symbols in a cyclic manner, aiming to improve the Hamming distance between mapped symbols. To address challenges such as low data rates inherent in permutation coding, injection techniques are introduced by removing δ column(s) from the CPC codebook. Comparative analyses demonstrate that the proposed dynamic adaptation scheme outperforms conventional permutation coding and injection schemes. Additionally, we present a generalised mathematical expression to describe the relationship between the spectral efficiencies of both coding schemes. This dynamic approach ensures efficient and reliable communication in environments with varying levels of interference and impulsive noise, highlighting its potential applicability to systems like power line communications.

Research on Power Line Communication Based on Deep Learning for Electromechanical Equipment Electricity Acquisition Terminals

Research on Power Line Communication Based on Deep Learning for Electromechanical Equipment Electricity Acquisition Terminals

Backpressure Learning-Based Data Transmission Reliability-Aware Self-Organizing Networking for Power Line Communication in Distribution Network

Backpressure Learning-Based Data Transmission Reliability-Aware Self-Organizing Networking for Power Line Communication in Distribution Network

Optimal Passive Power Line Communication Filter for NB-PLC Applications

Narrowband Power Line Communication (NB-PLC) involves transmitting data by overlaying a high frequency low amplitude signal (ranging from 9 kHz to 500 kHz) onto the low-frequency high amplitude signal (50 Hz to 60 Hz) of the power grid. While using the existing power grid for communication is convenient, it was not originally designed for this purpose, leading to challenges such as conducted emissions and infrastructure constraints. To overcome these technical obstacles, power line filters (PLFs) are a viable solution. The results of our research work, focusing on the optimization of PLFs for NB-PLC to ensure their design fits the needed use case while avoiding over-engineering, are presented in this article. Our study concentrates specifically on the filtering of PLC signal and conducted emissions up to 500 kHz. Building upon a PLC PLF extensively discussed in our previous work—which blocks the PLC signal in the CENELEC-A frequency band regardless of its placement within the electrical installation, sometimes leading to over-engineering—this research aims to adapt the filter order and components for a variety of real scenarios in CENELEC-A, FCC, and ARIB frequency bands. By characterizing different filters, our work provides tailored solutions for these scenarios and serves as a framework for future filter designs in PLC applications.

Empirical Characterization of Non-Intentional Emissions generated by PV Installations

Non-Intentional Emissions (NIEs) generated by solar photovoltaic (PV) systems have significantly increased concerns about disturbances in the 9-150 kHz band of the lowvoltage distribution grid, which can lead to failures or cause thermal stress in the devices connected to the grid. Moreover, these emissions can cause interference in narrowband power line communications (NB-PLCs). This paper presents a characterization of emissions generated by different real PV systems. Specifically, measurement campaigns were carried out in isolated PV systems, which employed different panel configurations, as well as in a grid-connected system. The analysis of the NIEs allows the identification of the frequencies and amplitudes of the emissions, as well as the evaluation of the NIEs variation over time. In addition, the impedances of the PV systems were also measured to correlate impedance variations with emissions.