A Parallel Control Framework of Analog Proportional Integral and Digital Model Predictive Controllers for Enhancing Power Converters Cybersecurity

Digital control endows power electronic converters with networking capability and makes them potential for the Internet of Energy (IoE). However, the IoE provides many interfaces for hackers and increases the risk of cybersecurity. To defend networked converters against cyberattacks, this article proposes a control framework where the digital model predictive controller (MPC) and the analog proportional integral controller (PIC) are physically connected in parallel. Due to such a parallel structure, once the converter is cyberattacked, the digital MPC can be physically isolated from the control loop, while the converter can still persist working under the dominating of only the analog PIC. In addition, the digital MPC and the analog PIC can compatibly operate under normal conditions to achieve excellent dynamic performances and zero steady-state error. The validity of the parallel control is verified on a buck converter as an example, and the control performances are also verified by experiments.

Automated summary

This article proposes a control framework that protects networked converters from cyberattacks by physically isolating the digital model predictive controller from the control loop. It also demonstrates excellent dynamic performance and zero steady-state error under normal conditions.