Representativeness models of systems: smart grid example

Abstract

Given the great emphasis being placed on energy efficiency in contemporary society, in which the smart grid plays a prominent role, this is an opportune time to explore methodologies for appropriately representing system attributes. We suggest this is important for effective system development because the primary factor in correctly mapping between requirements and implementation is how representative the system design is of requirements. Since representativeness is an abstract term, it is imperative to identify ways to quantify it. We use several metrics. Among these is the priority of system elements (e.g., electric generator) in the set of elements, based on importance to system success. Secondly, fault tree analysis is employed to identify elements that operate in an unsafe state and the probabilities of reaching these unsafe states. Thirdly, state transition analysis provides traces of which elements are on the routes to unsafe states. These analyses provide the information needed to reduce element faults and failures on a priority basis.