Protection, Automation and Control Architectures with Functionality Independent of Hardware

Presently, Protection, Automation and Control (PAC) functions are coupled with hardware and related devices and their production life cycles are shorter compared to the operational life cycle of the installed PAC system and primary equipment. To improve the lifecycle of applications and to support flexibility, a separation of application functions and hardware will be necessary, allowing the development of new architectures and approaches. This Technical Brochure proposes two promising technical concepts for IEDs and Centralized Protection and Control (CPC) systems. Related requirements, limitations, reference architectures as well as expected opportunities, challenges, and further standardization and innovation areas are described.