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School of Electronic Engineering and Computer Science
  1. School of Electronic Engineering and Computer Science
  2. About Us
  3. Facilities
  4. Real-time Power & Control Systems (RPCS) Laboratory

Real-time Power & Control Systems (RPCS) Laboratory

The Real-time Power & Control Systems (RPCS) Laboratory is a specialised facility dedicated to advancing R&D and development of real-time control system and simulation of power electronic systems, battery management system and ac/dc microgrids. Moreover, the facility is equipped with high-power 3-phase system (100A per phase), and electrical machine test rig for the testing and development of powertrain systems for electric and hybrid transport. RPCS has 10 research stations and provides a dynamic environment for pioneering studies in energy applications.

Key Facilities

  • dSPACE real-time simulators: The lab is equipped with a powerful multi-core and versatile hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulator like dSPACE SCLALEXIO providing highly flexible channels, and a specialized I/O hardware. Control Desk Next Generation software let real-time simulation of MATLAB/Simulink models, e.g. dSPACE Electrical Power Systems Simulation Package allows the real-time simulation of electrical models developed in SimPowerSystems. The lab also has several dSPACE MicroLabBox systems as a small all-in-one development system for rapid control prototyping (RCP). Close-loop and open-loop control algorithms can be developed in MATLAB/Simulink and implemented on the freely programmable FPGA of the MicroLabBox to achieve the fastest possible control sampling rate. RTI E-Motor Control block set is used in combination with FPGA programming blockset to achieve the fastest possible control sampling rate of 16MHz for motor control.
  • Temperature and Humidity Test Chamber: This environmental test chamber provides precise temperature and humidity control, crucial for evaluating battery performance and durability under varied conditions. It features an adjustable temperature range from -40°C to +150°C and humidity control between 20% and 98% RH.
  • Battery Testing System: A robust battery testing system equipped with multiple channels and individual temperature sensors. It supports complex charge, discharge, and simulation models with high precision, essential for evaluating battery performance in real-time energy management applications.
  • DC Power Supply (EA-PS 9000 3U): A programmable DC power supply with a power rating of 15 kW, capable of delivering up to 750 VDC and 60 A. This supply is ideal for high-power testing and control applications in power electronics.

Accessibility

The RPCS laboratory is located on the lower ground floor of the Engineering Building (B9). The RPCS Lab is open from 9 AM to 6 PM, providing postgraduate students and researchers with access to advanced equipment and a conducive environment for conducting research and experiments. To find out more, check this page.

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