Simulation Analysis of Active Programmable Electronic AC Load

Problem:
 The research paper focuses on the simulation analysis of an active programmable
electronic AC load.
 It aims to investigate the performance of the load under different conditions and analyze
its behavior when subjected to various types of loads, such as resistive loads with step
changes.
Methodology:
 The study utilizes simulation techniques to analyze the behavior of the active
programmable electronic AC load under different scenarios.
 It includes testing the load with and without filters to observe the impact on the current
waveform.
 The methodology involves examining the harmonic distortion levels, fundamental
frequencies, and magnitudes of the load under varying conditions to understand its
performance characteristics.
Result:
 The simulation analysis reveals the harmonic distortion levels, fundamental frequencies,
and magnitudes of the active programmable electronic AC load under different load
conditions.
 The results showcase the behavior of the load when subjected to resistive loads with step
changes, providing insights into its performance under dynamic conditions.
Research Gap:
 The research paper highlights the need for further investigation into the impact of
different types of loads on the active programmable electronic AC load's performance.
 There is a potential research gap in exploring the optimal filter configurations to
minimize harmonic distortions and enhance the load's efficiency and stability.
Reference: Kanadhiya, M. C., & Bohra, S. S. (2018, April). Simulation Analysis of Active
Programmable Electronic AC Load. In 2018 3rd International Conference for Convergence in
Technology (I2CT) (pp. 1-6). IEEE.
Novel Control Architecture for Programmable Electronic AC Load to Achieve Harmonic Load
Profiles
Problem:
 The research paper addresses the need for a programmable power electronic load solution
to test generators and power supplies effectively.
 Specifically, the focus is on developing a control structure to emulate harmonic load
behaviors, such as resistive, inductive, capacitive, and harmonic loads.
Methodology:
 The study introduces an Active Programmable Electronic AC Load (APEL) based on a
Voltage Source Inverter (VSI) to emulate various load characteristics.
 A novel control structure is developed to emulate harmonic load profiles, with a resonant
control method presented to track high-order harmonic components.
 The control architecture is implemented in a digital microprocessor for real-time
operation, with circuit parameters listed for reference.
 The control method is based on a three-phase signal synthesis unit, allowing
programmable phase and amplitude of odd harmonics at different sequences to emulate
standard diode rectifier harmonic currents.
Result:
 An experimental prototype of the APEL is built, and the proposed control architecture is
successfully implemented for achieving harmonic load profiles in real-time operation.
 The control strategy is validated through experimental results, demonstrating the
effectiveness of the proposed approach in emulating harmonic load behaviors.
Research Gap:
 The paper successfully develops a practical control method for achieving harmonic load
profiles with APEL, showcasing the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy
through experimental validation.
Reference: Geng, Z., Gu, D., Hong, T., Teng, J., & Czarkowski, D. (2017, March). Novel
control architecture for programmable electronic AC load to achieve harmonic load profiles.
In 2017 IEEE Applied Power Electronics Conference and Exposition (APEC) (pp. 2888-
2893). IEEE.
Application of Voltage Space Vector PWM in Electronic Load

 Problem:
 The research paper addresses the issue of improving the dynamic performance of
current tracking and system stability in an AC electronic load system. The goal is
to eliminate current harmonics and achieve fast current response.
 Methodology:
 The study proposes a novel current control method that combines voltage space
vector PWM (SVPWM) and hysteresis current control technology. This method
involves selecting the most suitable voltage space vector based on the current
error vector or the differential of the current error vector to control the current
error within a hysteresis band.
 Result:
 Through simulations and experiments, the research demonstrates the effectiveness
of the proposed control strategy in achieving nearly sinusoidal supply currents
with unity power factor. The system shows improved dynamic performance, with
steady simulated resistance and low tracking error. The feedback current quality is
maintained with low total harmonic content even under voltage disturbances.
 Research Gap:
 The paper highlights the successful implementation of the SVPWM and hysteresis
current control strategy in improving system performance. However, there is a
potential research gap in exploring further optimizations to reduce switch
frequency and eliminate current harmonics even more effectively.
Reference: Jiang, G., & Zhang, X. (2009, March). Application of voltage space vector PWM in
electronic Load. In 2009 Asia-Pacific Power and Energy Engineering Conference (pp. 1-4).
IEEE.
Electrical Load Emulation using Power Electronic Converters

Problem:
 The research paper addresses the problem of emulating electrical loads using power
electronic converters, focusing on machines like induction motors and complex systems
such as wind power generation systems.
Methodology:
 The study involves the design and implementation of a power electronic Voltage Source
Inverter (VSI) to emulate a three-phase induction motor connected to an AC grid. The
VSI operates in a mode where the current drawn from the grid is controlled by closed-
loop control.
 An experimental setup with specific power circuit ratings, motor parameters, and control
strategies is used to verify the accuracy of the proposed load emulation system. Real-time
simulations are conducted to observe the performance under steady-state and transient
conditions, including sudden torque applications to the rotor.
Result:
 The experimental results demonstrate that the measured currents closely match the
reference currents, validating the effectiveness of the load emulator. Waveforms of rotor
mechanical speed, electromagnetic torque, and active power drawn by the emulator are
analyzed. The control system is stable, and the system shows nominal ripple in current
waveforms.
Research Gap:
 The paper highlights the successful implementation of load emulation for a three-phase
induction motor model and discusses the use of a 32-bit floating-point DSP processor
interfaced to an FPGA for real-time verification. However, there is a potential research
gap in exploring further optimization methods for load emulation to enhance precision
and efficiency.
Reference: Rao, Y. S., & Chandorkar, M. (2008, November). Electrical load emulation using
power electronic converters. In TENCON 2008-2008 IEEE Region 10 Conference (pp. 1-6).
IEEE.
Title: Review on Electronic Load Controller

Problem:
The problem to be addressed in this study is the requirement for effective load control mechanisms in
small hydropower generation systems, with a focus on electronic load controllers. The efficiency,
reliability, and cost-effectiveness of self-excited induction generators in standalone micro-hydro power
systems could be optimized by developing and analyzing various aspects of ELCs. The project intends to
find answers regarding voltage and frequency regulation, power balance, and transient behavior in small
hydropower systems where the uncontrolled turbine is driving it.

Methodology:
The methodology used in this study involves a comprehensive review of existing literature on electronic
load controllers (ELC) for small hydropower generation systems. The researchers analyzed over 50
published articles to gather information on the design, modeling, testing, and performance analysis of
ELCs. The study provides a summary and application of each method for various aspects of ELC,
highlighting the assumptions made, strengths, weaknesses, and solution methods of each approach. The
researchers also conducted simulations and experimental validations to test the effectiveness of the
proposed ELC solutions in regulating voltage, frequency, and power balance in small hydropower
systems.

Result:
This paper presents an extensive review of the work in the area of load frequency control of small
hydropower generating stations. The ELC eliminates the mechanical load controller for the small
hydropower plants as mechanical speed governors are most costly (costs about 30% of total system cost)
and least reliable part of small hydro plants. Singh describes the transient analysis of SEIG with ELC
supplying the static loads as well as 3-phase induction motors (dynamic loads). Serban describes the
problems of harmonic current injection & also found that THD=41% & DF=.9% are less without
smoothing capacitance (with smoothing capacitance THD=90%, DF=3% with a duty cycle of 80%).
Singh introduces STATCOM as a reactive power compensator. Singh describes ELC using the IcosΦ
Algorithm. Singh proposed neural network (NN) based ELC.

Research Gap:
1.) Existing research lacks in-depth analysis, detailed modeling, thorough design considerations, and
comprehensive testing of ELCs, indicating a significant research gap in the field.

2.) The absence of a complete approach to studying ELCs hinders the development of efficient and
optimized control strategies for small hydropower plants.

3.) Implement a systematic approach that integrates all stages of ELC development, from
conceptualization to implementation, to ensure a thorough understanding of the control mechanisms.

4.) Emphasize the importance of real-world validation and field testing to validate the effectiveness
and reliability of advanced ELC designs in practical applications.

Reference: Bisht, V. S., Sood, Y. R., & Kushwaha, N. (2012). Review on electronic load controller.
International Journal of Scientific Engineering and Technology, 1(2), 93-102.
Title: Research on Power Electronic Load Simulation Algorithm

Problem:
The study is aiming to address the challenge of implementing accurate and feasible nonlinear load
simulation algorithms for power electronic loads (PEL). While linear load simulation algorithms are
relatively easier to achieve, the complexity of simulating nonlinear loads, especially in three-phase power
electronic systems, poses a significant challenge. The research focuses on developing a straightforward
and practical algorithm for nonlinear load simulation that can be easily implemented in engineering
applications. By proposing a novel algorithm and conducting software simulations and experiments, the
study aims to verify the feasibility and accuracy of the algorithm in simulating nonlinear loads in PEL
systems

Methodology:
The methodology employed in the study involves first introducing a linear load simulation algorithm as a
basis and then summarizing a novel algorithm specifically designed for simulating nonlinear loads in
power electronic systems. The researchers focus on the implementation of this algorithm, emphasizing its
simplicity and practicality for engineering applications. Software simulations and experimental
verification are conducted to assess the feasibility and accuracy of the proposed algorithm. By comparing
the simulation results with actual circuit waveforms, the study aims to validate the algorithm's ability to
accurately simulate the dynamic and steady-state properties of currents in nonlinear loads. Through this
approach, the researchers seek to address the complexity of nonlinear load simulation and provide a
straightforward and effective solution for power electronic load testing.

Result:
The study's results demonstrate the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed nonlinear load simulation
algorithm for power electronic loads. The algorithm successfully replicates the dynamic and steady-state
characteristics of currents in three-phase nonlinear loads, such as uncontrolled rectifier bridges with
various DC-side topologies through software simulations and experimental validation. The study
confirms the algorithm's ability to accurately simulate nonlinear load behavior by comparing the
simulation waveforms with actual circuit waveforms. The algorithm's simplicity, ease of implementation,
and ability to capture sudden load changes and diode conduction conditions make it a practical and
reliable tool for nonlinear load simulation in power electronic systems.
Research Gap:
The research paper highlights the gap in the existing literature related to nonlinear load simulation
algorithms for PEL. While linear load simulation methods have been discussed, there is a lack of
emphasis on nonlinear load simulation. The proposed algorithm fills this gap by providing a simple yet
effective method for simulating nonlinear loads accurately.
Reference:

Pengxian, S., Yaohua, L., & Ping, W. (2014). Research on power electronic load simulation algorithm.
In IEEE 9th Conference on Industrial Electronics and Applications (ICIEA) (Vol. 342, No. 347, pp. 9-
11).
Title: Implementation of a Programmable Electronic Load for Equipment Testing
Problem:
This study aims to implement an AC three-phase programmable electronic load (PEL) that
emulates load profiles for testing equipment in microgrids. The study focuses on the challenges
related to stability, generation, interconnection, and control of non-conventional renewable
energy sources (NCRESs) in microgrids, emphasizing the importance of verifying the correct
operation of devices before connecting them to the electrical power grid.
Methodology:
The methodology of the study involved the development and implementation of an AC three-
phase programmable electronic load (PEL) for testing equipment in microgrids. The study
focused on determining the operational modes and limits of the PEL, designing the PEL
topology with a voltage source inverter (VSI) and a Buck converter, implementing control loops
for regulating active and reactive power, and conducting experimental tests to validate the proper
operation of the PEL under various load profiles, including inductive, capacitive, and resistive
scenarios. The study also analyzed the transient behavior of the PEL with changes in load
profiles to ensure stability and performance.
Result:
 The experimental results of the implemented Programmable Electronic Load (PEL)
showed that it effectively emulated load profiles and maintained stability in the DC bus.
 The PEL demonstrated proper behavior when subjected to inductive, capacitive, and
resistive load scenarios, validating its functionality across different load types.
 The study successfully validated the three-phase currents of the PEL under various load
profiles, showcasing its ability to regulate and stabilize power outputs

Reference: Serna-Motoya, L. F., Ortiz-Castrillón, J. R., Gil-Vargas, P. A., Muñoz-Galeano, N.,

Cano Quintero, J. B., & López-Lezama, J. M. (2022). Implementation of a programmable
electronic load for equipment testing. Computers, 11(7), 106.