In this paper, a hardware-in-the-loop simulation platform for distribution system is developed based on real-time digital simulation system (RTDS) and programmable logic controller (PLC). The hardware in the platform consists of NovaCor simulator, I/O, PLC, HMI, and PC. The NovaCor simulator can realize the simulation of the operation status of the distribution network in real time, and its data interaction is realized by I/O. The structure and loads of the distribution network can be adjusted using the touch screen and PLC, monitoring its real-time operation status. The modular-designed simulation platform can adjust the network and operation parameters according to experimental needs. The modular-designed simulation platform also improves its flexibility and operability by developing corresponding input and output interfaces for real-time information interaction on the platform.

The existing power system experimental platforms have the main problems such as deviation from engineering application, low effective utilization and poor flexibility. Based on modular and flexible networking method, a new integrated teaching experiment and research platform of power system is designed. The equipment in this platform have plug and play function, and the central-distributed architecture is adopted in the control system. The experimental platform can simulate the scenarios of different voltage levels and different power supply distances such as low-voltage AC/DC microgrid, medium-voltage flexible distribution network and high-voltage AC/DC network. With the help of experimental platform, teaching experiments and scientific research exploration experiments are designed respectively, which helps to enhance students’ cognition and understanding of the new power system and cultivate high-level talents under the construction of new engineering.

The contents of power flow calculation and analysis of novel distribution system with high penetration of distributed generators (DGs) are state-of-the-art, abstract and difficult to learn. In order to improve the teaching effect and enhance the electrical engineering students’ understanding of novel power distribution system, a virtual simulation experiment teaching platform for novel distribution system with high penetration of DGs is designed. Based on the experiment teaching platform, four experiments are designed preliminarily: ①Analyze topology of distribution system and verify the connectivity. ②Compare voltage fluctuation of distribution system with different penetration of DGs. ③Calculate power flow of distribution network with different penetration of DGs. ④Calculate distribution network operation status considering the fluctuation of DGs and load. With the establishment of the virtual simulation experiment teaching platform, the electrical engineering students' understanding of power flow calculation of distribution systems is improved, and the teaching effect is comprehensively enhanced.