A new power systems modelling method

The paper is concerned with the research work carried out in the area of holistic modelling of electric drives and power systems. The novel method deals with the functional modelling of complete power systems using the behavioural features of Hardware Description Languages. Three examples of using VHDL for power electronic system modelling, simulation, controller design and implementation are given. The control systems, based on neural networks, fuzzy logic and vector control, are implemented using Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs). There are major advantages of the new approach, such as: a unique modelling and evaluation environment for complete power systems, the same environment (VHDL) is used for the FPGA rapid prototyping of the digital controller, fast design development, short time to market, a CAD platform independent model, reusability of the model/design, generation of valuable IP, Concurrent Engineering basic rules (unique EDA environment and common design database) are fulfilled. The new modelling approach is validated experimentally.