Darlington Control Computers Development Systems and Applications as High-Fidelity Digital Twin of the Station

Abstract

The Darlington control computers development labs host development platforms for the unit Digital Control Computers (DCCs), Common Processes Control (CPC) computer, etc. The platforms consist of real control computers, physical IO chassis, a Darlington training simulator, a plant information system, as well as Input Output (IO) emulators that enable the control computers to interface with physical IOs, emulated static IOs, and dynamic IOs from the training simulator. The high-fidelity hardware-in-the-loop and software-in-the-loop simulation capabilities support development, verification, and validation of engineering changes to the control computers. The platforms had also been used in duplicating and troubleshooting abnormal station conditions.

This paper introduces the Darlington control computers development systems, with an emphasis on the IO Emulators design. Case studies are provided to demonstrate how the platforms are used to test software changes, validate new hardware design, and investigate station transients. This paper also discusses the potential of the development systems, as a Digital Twin (DT) of the Darlington station, to support deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies for improved operations and maintenance.