Improvement of accuracy and stability of Power Hardware-in-the-Loop Simulations via a dual-rate interface

Power Hardware-in-the Loop Simulation (PHIL) constitutes a complex integration of a classical, physical system test (hardware) in combination with a pure computer simulation (software). This article presents methods to reach applicable characteristics of stability and deals with the closely linked issue of the reachable system accuracy under these given circumstances. Basic requirements are stated in a powerful real time computing system, in a suitable power amplification stage, as well as in an adequate measurement system, whereas the performance of the used devices is of crucial importance for the quality of given conclusions based on PHIL simulations. Current areas of applications can be found in the industrial R&D sector or in the state-of-the-art fields of research of electric energy systems and electric drives as well as in advanced power electronics.