Research
Overview
My research lies at the intersection of power systems, control, DERs, and intelligent algorithms for modern cyber‑physical grids. I work at the Smart Grid Lab within the Center for Energy Systems Research (CESR) at Tennessee Technological University, where I develop models, control strategies, and co‑simulation frameworks for next‑generation active distribution networks.
My work focuses on building intelligent, resilient, and communication‑aware energy management solutions for active distribution networks with high penetration of renewable energy and distributed energy storage. This includes developing multi‑domain power–communication co‑simulation platforms that combine the OpenDSS quasi‑static time‑series simulator for distribution system modeling and the OMNeT++/INET communication network emulator for packet‑level communication analysis. I also work extensively with Typhoon HIL for real‑time hardware‑in‑the‑loop (CHIL) simulations testing and advanced inverter control aligned with IEEE 1547‑2018 requirements.
I conduct my research at the HILLTOP (Hardware‑in‑the‑Loop Laboratory Testbed and Open Platform), which supports real‑time CHIL experiments using Typhoon HIL 606 devices, along with DSS. The testbed enables realistic evaluation of power electronic converters, DER systems, and communication protocols such as Utility DNP3 and Modbus TCP/IP and IEC 61850, allowing end‑to‑end validation of cyber‑physical grid control strategies.
Location: Smart Grid Lab, CESR — Clement Hall, Room 103, Cookeville, TN 38505
What I Do
DSO‑Centric Power–Communication Co‑Simulation for DER Scheduling and IEEE 1547 Evaluation
Coupled OpenDSS power flow, OMNeT++ packet-level communication, and Typhoon HIL inverter models under a DSO supervisory controller to evaluate DER scheduling and IEEE 1547‑2018 smart inverter functions in cyber‑physical distribution systems.
Real‑Time CHIL Simulation for Grid‑Forming/Grid‑Following Inverter Control and IEEE 1547 Compliance
Built Typhoon HIL real‑time models for grid‑forming and grid‑following inverters, performing closed‑loop CHIL testing for Volt‑VAR/Volt‑Watt control and IEEE 1547‑2018 ride‑through compliance across islanding and fault scenarios.
Multi‑Community BESS Scheduling, PV Hosting Capacity, and Active Distribution Network Optimization
Integrated OpenDSS with MILP optimization to schedule BESS across multi‑community networks, cutting peak demand ~18% and boosting PV hosting capacity 28%. Validated results against Typhoon HIL hardware measurements.
Deep Learning–Based Fault Detection and Powertrain Diagnostics in Cyber‑Physical Energy Systems
Developed LSTM and CNN models to detect and classify faults in Typhoon HIL EV powertrain simulations, achieving >98% accuracy. Enables real‑time predictive diagnostics for cyber‑physical energy systems.
Research Interests
Power Systems & Energy
- Renewable Energy Integration — Solar PV, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), wind energy integration into smart grids
- PV Hosting Capacity Analysis — Distribution network hosting capacity studies
- Peak Shaving Strategies — Demand response, BESS scheduling and load management
- Power System Operation & Planning — Economic load dispatch, optimal power flow
- Power Electronics Converters/Inverters — Dual Active Bridge converters for EV charging
- Energy Management Systems (EMS) — Developing optimal dispatch strategies for community microgrids
Control & Simulation
- Controller Hardware-in-the-Loop (CHIL) Simulation — Real-time hardware-in-the-loop testing using Typhoon HIL
- Smart Inverter Control — Voltage and Frequency regulation control, grid-forming and grid-following inverters
- DER Studies — Quasi-static and dynamic studies of DERs in active distribution networks
- AI & Machine Learning in Power Systems — Data-driven forecasting and optimization techniques for smart grid applications
Co-Simulation
- Multi‑Domain Power–Communication Co‑Simulation — DSO‑centric co‑simulation integrating OpenDSS‑PM QSTS power flow, OMNeT++/INET communication, and Typhoon HIL inverter models for IEEE 1547‑2018 and communication‑aware DER scheduling.
- Cyber‑Physical Validation & Real‑Time CHIL — Cross‑platform workflows combining OpenDSS, Typhoon HIL, and Python/MATLAB optimization for BESS scheduling, EV hosting capacity validation, and inverter control testing in active distribution networks.