Autonomous Power Controller for Mission Critical Microgrids

In recent related efforts with NASA, PCKA has expanded its Automated State Model Generator (ASMG) Simulink-based electrical circuit simulation tool to support discrete real-time simulation of the Gateway electrical power system. The ASMG allows drag-and-drop creation of switched circuit models in Simulink and automatically calculates a state model for the circuit in its current switch configuration. When switches change state, the ASMG re-computes a new state model while maintaining continuity between topologies. For real-time simulation, the ASMG pre-computes discrete models based on the continuous state models for all relevant topologies. These models are stored and the appropriate one is used based on switch states as the real-time model evolves over time. The expanded ASMG capability can be used in conjunction with HIL testing techniques for the Autonomous Power Controller (APC) in the current STTR and expanded model development to meet the goals of PHIL testing for several NASA platforms.

The proposed Phase II-E effort will expand PHIL testing capabilities for NASA’s Gateway, Lunar Surface, and RVLT programs. Extensive component model libraries will be created for all three programs from which system and subsystem models can be created. Analysis of SpeedGoat system capabilities for real-time simulation with these model sets as well as hardware emulation (in conjunction with the DCE) will provide NASA with valuable information to plan testbed development and testing.

The flexibility and generality of the ASMG capability for creating electrical circuit models makes the technology developed in this effort applicable to a wide range of applications, such as DC microgrids for residential homes and small commercial buildings, and isolated human habitats. This capability could also be readily applied to AC microgrids expanding its potential applications further.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.