Platform for Hardware In Loop Simulation

Over the last two decades, general purpose computer has become both increasingly powerful and affordable. This, in turn, has led to the emergence of highly sophisticated applications that not only enable high-fidelity simulation of dynamic systems but also automatic code generation for implementation in real time control of electric machine-drives. Today, electric drives, power electronic systems and their controls have become more and more complex, and their use is widely increasing in all sectors such as distributed power generation, traction, hybrid vehicles, industrial and home electronics, automotive, marine and aerospace systems, etc. Advances in Microprocessors, Microcomputers, and Microcontrollers such as DSP, FPGA, etc. and Power Semiconductor devices have made tremendous impact on performance electric motor drives. Due to advancement of the software tools like MATLAB/SIMULINK real time simulators are used extensively in many engineering fields, such as industry, education and research institutions. As a result, inclusion of the real time simulation applications in modern engineering provides great help for the researcher and academicians. An overview of the Real Time Simulations of Electrical Machines Drives is herewith presented which is used in modern engineering practices. This paper discusses various existing real time simulation techniques and proposes a general purpose computer based platform for real-time simulation. Its benefits and performance are covered in detail.