Power System Visualization Data Format

This repository defines a standardized data format for representing power system datasets, with a focus on supporting time-series visualizations and 3D visualization tools. By providing a consistent and extensible structure, this format aims to streamline the development and interoperability of visualization codebases in the power systems domain.

NREL SWR-25-92

Overview

The Cap’n Proto schemas in this repository describe the key elements of a power system, including:

• Generators: Representing power generation units with time-series data for voltage, power, and angles.
• Transformers: Including tap positions and voltage states on both sides of the transformer.
• Lines: Representing power lines with per-phase voltage, real and reactive power flows, and line loading data.
• Floor Plans: Allowing for the integration of geographical or schematic maps.
• Annotations: Providing metadata or visual cues at specific locations on the map.

The data format is designed to handle normalized coordinates and provide flexibility for alternate mapping systems, making it suitable for a variety of visualization scenarios.

Key Features

1. Time-Series Support
   The format supports time-series data for dynamic visualizations of key metrics such as voltage, real power (kW), and reactive power (kVars).

2. 3D Visualization Ready
   By integrating coordinates and normalization options, this format is ideal for rendering power systems in 3D environments.

3. Extensible Design
   Built on Cap’n Proto, the schema can be easily extended to accommodate additional data types or application-specific requirements.

4. Interoperability
   This format acts as a bridge for different tools and codebases to work with a shared understanding of the data structure.

Schema Highlights

Generator

Defines power generation units and their time-series data, including:

• Phase voltages (kW)
• Voltage angles
• Real and reactive power output (kW and kVars)

Transformer

Describes transformers with details like:

• Phase voltage states (on "from" and "to" sides)
• Tap positions and tap change counts
• Associated time-series data

Line

Represents power lines with:

• Voltage states (per phase, at both ends)
• Real and reactive power flows (per phase)
• Overall line loading and metadata

FloorPlan

Supports both embedded images and external URLs for maps, with:

• Primary and alternate coordinates for mapping.

Annotation

Allows for adding metadata or visual markers, supporting:

• Fixed textual content
• Time-series annotations
• Embedded or linked images

Getting Started

Dependencies

You’ll need the Cap’n Proto compiler to use or modify the schemas in this repository. Install it using:

# On Ubuntu
sudo apt install capnproto

# On macOS
brew install capnp

Compiling the Schemas

Compile the schemas to your desired target language using:

capnp compile -o c++:cpp_iface power_system.capnp
capnp compile -o rust:rust_iface power_system.capnp

Integration

• Use the generated code in your application to load, process, and visualize power system datasets.
• Extend the schemas as needed to support additional features.