Background
Smart Grids are becoming an important use case of the fourth-generation (4G) mobile network technology LTE. Smart grids are energy (electricity) networks that can automatically monitor energy flows and adjust to changes in energy supply and demand accordingly. In comparison to more conventional mobile broadband communications, Smart Grids pose different technical requirements on communications via mobile networks, incl. among others more stringent coverage, capacity, delay and reliability requirements. Such requirements will be considered in the design phase of next-generation mobile networks (i.e. 5G), but were not sufficiently considered in the development of legacy systems (2G/3G/4G)
Project description
The purpose of this study is to perform simulation-based performance assessment of selected mobile network technologies (LTE and its recent extensions) in Smart Grid applications. Such an assessment approach typically includes the modeling of data traffic generated by Smart Grids nodes, traffic scheduling and radio and network parameters, etc. Different runs of simulations will be performed with different combination of traffic, network and environment parameters. The obtained simulations will be used to assess how well or not various LTE and its extensions may support Smart Grid applications and in which conditions.
This study is part of the ongoing European FP7 SUNSEED project. The projection duration is 8 months, starting as soon as possible. Project location: Den Haag.
Requirements
You are pursuing Master degree in Electrical Engineering. You have built basic knowledge of wireless communications, and are motivated to build further knowledge and experience in this domain. You are good in programming with Matlab and Excel. You are team player, and proactive in making actions when needed.
Company information
TNO is an independent research organisation whose expertise and research make an important contribution to the competitiveness of companies and organisations, to the economy and to the quality of society as a whole. Innovation with purpose is what TNO stands for. With 3500 people we develop knowledge not for its own sake but for practical application. To create new products that make life more pleasant and valuable and help companies innovate. To find creative answers to the questions posed by society. We work for a variety of customers: governments, the SME sector, large companies, service providers and non-governmental organisations.
Project organisation
Daily guidance will be provided by dr. Haibin Zhang (TNO). Further agreements on planning, meetings, etc. will be discussed when the student is selected and before he or she starts.