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Power Converters Design, Control and Applications

A special issue of Energies (ISSN 1996-1073). This special issue belongs to the section "F3: Power Electronics".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 May 2022) | Viewed by 22255

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Institute of Marine Engineering (INM), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy
Interests: power electronics; switching power converters; DC–AC and DC–DC power converters; modeling, design and control of power converters; power converters for renewable energy sources; power converters for fuel cell systems
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E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, viale delle scienze - edificio 9, 90128 Palermo, Italy
Interests: modeling, design and control of power converters; power converters for renewable energy sources; mathematical models of electrical machines, drives, control and diagnostics
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The Guest Editors are inviting submissions to the Special Issue of Energies “Power Converters Design, Control and Applications”. Submissions may include original research articles or comprehensive reviews.

Nowadays, power electronic converters are key components to determine the performances of whole energy systems in a wide variety of applications. Among these, renewable energy conversion, grid-connection, energy storage management, transportation and wave energy conversion can be cited as examples. Efficient conversion and control of electrical power is of key importance. High efficiency, high gain, high power density and fast transient response are only a few goals of modern systems. Advanced design criteria and control techniques are required to meet such conflicting requirements.

Based on these preliminary remarks, this Special Issue will focus on the modeling, analysis, design and control of power converters and their applications. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Innovative power converter topologies;
  • Power converters design;
  • Advanced control techniques for dc/dc, dc/ac and ac/dc converters;
  • Analog and digital control of power converters;
  • Power converters for renewable energy sources;
  • Grid-connected power converters;
  • Bi-directional power converters;
  • Multilevel power converters.

Dr. Valeria Boscaino
Prof. Dr. Vincenzo Di Dio
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Energies is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • Power converters
  • Switching power converters
  • Power converters for renewable energy sources
  • Grid-connected power systems
  • PV, wind and ocean wave energy systems
  • Bi-directional power converters
  • Innovative control techniques for power converters
  • Reliability-oriented design and control.

Published Papers (9 papers)

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Research

23 pages, 5800 KiB  
Article
A Unified Rule-Based Small-Signal Modelling Technique for Two-Switch, Non-Isolated DC–DC Converters in CCM
by Lebogang Masike, Michael Njoroge Gitau and Grain P. Adam
Energies 2022, 15(15), 5454; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15155454 - 27 Jul 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1354
Abstract
The inherent non-linear behavior of switch-mode power supplies complicates the task of computing their linear models, which are essential for a model-oriented control design of DC–DC converters. In a model-oriented control design approach, the accuracy of the plant model directly influences the performance [...] Read more.
The inherent non-linear behavior of switch-mode power supplies complicates the task of computing their linear models, which are essential for a model-oriented control design of DC–DC converters. In a model-oriented control design approach, the accuracy of the plant model directly influences the performance of the control system as the plant parameters tend to be linked to the controllers’ gains. Moreover, the extractions of linear dynamic models of high-order non-linear plants such as DC–DC converters are laborious and mathematically intractable. Therefore, in this paper, a generalized expression that represents either the audio-susceptibility or the control-to-output voltage transfer function for voltage-mode control is proposed. The proposed generalization reduces the task of computing the small-signal model of a given converter to simple calculations of coefficients of generalized transfer function/expression. It is shown that the coefficients of the generalized model can be deduced by inspection, directly from the circuit diagram, allowing the whole model to be computed by inspection. Additionally, the proposed modelling technique will be shown to have secondary use of verifying accuracy even when conventional modelling techniques such as state-space averaging or circuit averaging are used. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Power Converters Design, Control and Applications)
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19 pages, 6362 KiB  
Article
Development of a Bidirectional DC–DC Converter with Rapid Energy Bidirectional Transition Technology
by Hsuan Liao, Yi-Tsung Chen, Linda Chen and Jiann-Fuh Chen
Energies 2022, 15(13), 4583; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15134583 - 23 Jun 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1658
Abstract
Bidirectional DC–DC converters are key devices in the DC distribution system and the energy storage system (ESS). It is important to consider the safety of the elements in the converter for rapid conversion of the power direction. Damages may occur to the power-related [...] Read more.
Bidirectional DC–DC converters are key devices in the DC distribution system and the energy storage system (ESS). It is important to consider the safety of the elements in the converter for rapid conversion of the power direction. Damages may occur to the power-related components in the circuit if the direction of the inductor current or the capacitor voltage changes instantaneously. To make the power flow change smoothly and quickly, this research proposed a bidirectional DC–DC converter with rapid energy transition technology implemented in the circuit architecture. The rapid energy bidirectional transition technology added a resonance path based on the LC resonant circuit, allowing rapid energy conversion through the resonance path. Therefore, the energy in the energy storage element could be quickly converted without causing circuit surges. Analyses of the converter operating in the step-up mode, the step-down mode, and the transition operation mode are presented. The proposed circuit architecture had a high voltage-conversion ratio and a simple architecture. A prototype bidirectional DC–DC converter with a full load of 500 W, a low side voltage of 24 V, and a high side voltage of 200 V was developed to prove the concept. The feasibility of the rapid energy bidirectional transition technology was verified by the simulation results and experimental results using the prototype converter. The maximum efficiencies in the step-up mode and the step-down mode were 95.3% and 93.8% respectively. Under full-load conditions, the transient time of the energy transition from the step-up mode to the step-down mode was 17.7 μs, and the transient time of the energy transition from the step-down mode to the step-up mode was 19.3 μs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Power Converters Design, Control and Applications)
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20 pages, 4456 KiB  
Article
A Model of DC-DC Converter with Switched-Capacitor Structure for Electric Vehicle Applications
by Filippo Pellitteri, Vincenzo Di Dio, Christian Puccio and Rosario Miceli
Energies 2022, 15(3), 1224; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15031224 - 08 Feb 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2775
Abstract
In this paper, a DC-DC converter with an innovative topology for automotive applications is proposed. The goal of the presented power converter is the electrical storage system management of an electric vehicle (EV). The presented converter is specifically compliant with a 400 V [...] Read more.
In this paper, a DC-DC converter with an innovative topology for automotive applications is proposed. The goal of the presented power converter is the electrical storage system management of an electric vehicle (EV). The presented converter is specifically compliant with a 400 V battery, which represents the high-voltage primary source of the system. This topology is also able to act as a bidirectional power converter, so that in this case, the output section is an active stage, which is able to provide power as, for example, in the case of a low-voltage battery or a supercapacitor. The proposed topology can behave either in step-down or in step-up mode, presenting in both cases a high gain between the input and output voltage. Simulation results concerning the proposed converter, demonstrating the early feasibility of the system, were obtained in a PowerSIM environment and are described in this paper. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Power Converters Design, Control and Applications)
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17 pages, 8238 KiB  
Article
DC-DC 3SSC-A-Based Boost Converter: Analysis, Design, and Experimental Validation
by Lucas Carvalho Souza, Douglas Carvalho Morais, Luciano de Souza da Costa e Silva, Falcondes José Mendes de Seixas and Luis De Oro Arenas
Energies 2021, 14(20), 6771; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14206771 - 17 Oct 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2033
Abstract
A detailed analysis and validation of the DC-DC boost converter based on the three-state switching cell (3SSC) type-A are presented in this paper. The study of this topology is justified by the small amount of research that employs 3SSC-A and the advantages inherent [...] Read more.
A detailed analysis and validation of the DC-DC boost converter based on the three-state switching cell (3SSC) type-A are presented in this paper. The study of this topology is justified by the small amount of research that employs 3SSC-A and the advantages inherent to 3SSC-based converters, such as the division of current stresses between the semiconductors, the distribution of thermal losses, and the high-density power. Therefore, a complete static analysis of the converter is described, as well as the study of all voltage and current stresses in the semiconductors, the development of a loss model in all components, and a comparison with other step-up structures. Additionally, the small-signal model validation is accomplished by comparing the theoretical frequency response and the simulated AC sweep analysis. Finally, implementing a simple controller structure, the converter is experimentally validated through a 600 W prototype, where its overall efficiency is examined for various load conditions, reaching 96.8% at nominal load. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Power Converters Design, Control and Applications)
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14 pages, 1149 KiB  
Article
Impact of Control Loops on the Passivity Properties of Grid-Forming Converters with Fault-Ride through Capability
by Mebtu Beza, Massimo Bongiorno and Anant Narula
Energies 2021, 14(19), 6036; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14196036 - 23 Sep 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1806
Abstract
Due to the increasing integration of renewable energy sources (RES) and a corresponding reduction of conventional generating units, there is nowadays a demand from the power-electronic converters to provide grid-forming properties through proper control of the converter systems. This paper aims to evaluate [...] Read more.
Due to the increasing integration of renewable energy sources (RES) and a corresponding reduction of conventional generating units, there is nowadays a demand from the power-electronic converters to provide grid-forming properties through proper control of the converter systems. This paper aims to evaluate the impact of various control loops in a grid-forming control strategy equipped with a fault-ride through capability on the passivity properties of the converter system. Through the analysis of the frequency-dependent input admittance of the converter, the main factors affecting the passivity properties are identified. A simplified analytical model is derived in order to propose possible control modifications to enhance the system’s passivity at various frequencies of interest and the findings are validated through detailed time-domain simulations and experimental tests. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Power Converters Design, Control and Applications)
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20 pages, 6260 KiB  
Article
Design and Realization of an Inductive Power Transfer for Shuttles in Automated Warehouses
by Massimo Ceraolo, Valentina Consolo, Mauro Di Monaco, Giovanni Lutzemberger, Antonino Musolino, Rocco Rizzo and Giuseppe Tomasso
Energies 2021, 14(18), 5660; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14185660 - 09 Sep 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1979
Abstract
The inductive power transfer (IPT) is expected to greatly contribute towards electrification in transportation. In fact, IPT charging technology has the potential to overcome several limitations of conductive charging: in particular, the process can be fully automatable, and both static and dynamic charging [...] Read more.
The inductive power transfer (IPT) is expected to greatly contribute towards electrification in transportation. In fact, IPT charging technology has the potential to overcome several limitations of conductive charging: in particular, the process can be fully automatable, and both static and dynamic charging are allowed, thus reducing the size of the battery pack. Additionally, safety is increased due to the absence of safety issues related to loss of cable insulation or to the unwanted interruption of the plug-socket connection. This paper presents, from a systematic approach, the design and realization of a prototype for IPT charging of autonomous shuttles in automated warehouses. First of all, the typical mission profile of the shuttle was properly identified, and a storage system based on power-oriented electrochemical cells was sized. Based on that, the architecture of the IPT system was chosen, both for transmitting and receiving sections. The pads were designed for this purpose, by considering the geometric constraints imposed by the manufacturer, through the utilization of the finite elements method. Finally, the power electronic circuitry was also designed. Numerical simulations of the components, as well as of the complete system, were performed and a prototype was built to widely verify the correspondence of the simulation outputs with the results obtained from an experimental measurements campaign. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Power Converters Design, Control and Applications)
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29 pages, 3508 KiB  
Article
Modeling, Analysis, and Control Design of a Single-Stage Boost Inverter
by Md. Rasheduzzaman, Poria Fajri, Jonathan Kimball and Brad Deken
Energies 2021, 14(14), 4098; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14144098 - 07 Jul 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2699
Abstract
A single-phase, single-stage, differential boost inverter comprises two independently-controlled boost DC-DC converters, with the load connected between their outputs. The net voltage on the load is sinusoidal and has a controllable frequency and magnitude that is larger than that of the DC source. [...] Read more.
A single-phase, single-stage, differential boost inverter comprises two independently-controlled boost DC-DC converters, with the load connected between their outputs. The net voltage on the load is sinusoidal and has a controllable frequency and magnitude that is larger than that of the DC source. The present work first derives steady-state and small-signal models of the inverter with parasitic elements. The results obtained from the line-to-output transfer function, control-to-output transfer function, open-loop input impedance, and open-loop output impedance models are compared with that of the ones obtained from the experimental testbed. Using the new models, a voltage mode controller is designed in the synchronous reference frame. The regulator design is explored through the use of an example. The results are verified against the small-signal model, then PLECS simulations, and finally a laboratory experiment. The results indicate excellent agreement between the model and experiment during transients in voltage reference, input source voltage, and output load. A sensitivity analysis is performed based on the inverter model considering the parameter variation. Finally, loss and efficiency estimations are provided in this work. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Power Converters Design, Control and Applications)
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18 pages, 15098 KiB  
Article
Current Sharing Control of an Interleaved Three-Phase Series-Resonant Converter with Phase Shift Modulation
by Jing-Yuan Lin, Kuan-Hung Chen, Pin-Hsian Liu, Hsuan-Yu Yueh and Yi-Feng Lin
Energies 2021, 14(9), 2470; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14092470 - 26 Apr 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2597
Abstract
Recently, three-phase series-resonant converters (SRCs) have been proposed for high power applications. Three-phase SRCs can achieve zero-voltage-switching (ZVS) of the primary power switches and regulate the output voltage by pulse-frequency modulation. The interleaving technique is also a conventional method for DC-DC converters to [...] Read more.
Recently, three-phase series-resonant converters (SRCs) have been proposed for high power applications. Three-phase SRCs can achieve zero-voltage-switching (ZVS) of the primary power switches and regulate the output voltage by pulse-frequency modulation. The interleaving technique is also a conventional method for DC-DC converters to achieve a high power level, reducing the output voltage ripples due to operating out of phase at the same frequency between the two converters. However, an interleaved three-phase SRC cannot easily synchronize switching instants between the two modules due to the component tolerances of circuits. In the proposed control method, phase shift modulation (PSM) is used to solve the output current imbalance caused by component tolerances. The power switches of the converter can also maintain synchronizing switching instants between the two modules. Therefore, the lower output voltage ripple can be achieved. A detailed analysis and design of this new control method for interleaved three-phase SRCs are described. Finally, prototype converters with a 2.4 kW total output were built and successfully tested to verify the feasibility of the current sharing modulation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Power Converters Design, Control and Applications)
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25 pages, 14173 KiB  
Article
Stacked Buck Converter: Current Ripple Elimination Effect and Transient Response
by Chien-Chun Huang, Yu-Chen Liu, Chia-Ching Lin, Chih-Yu Ni and Huang-Jen Chiu
Energies 2021, 14(1), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14010064 - 24 Dec 2020
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3041
Abstract
To balance the cost and volume when applying a low output current ripple, the power supply design should be able to eliminate the current ripple under any duty cycle in medium and high switching frequencies, and considerably reduce filter volume to improve power [...] Read more.
To balance the cost and volume when applying a low output current ripple, the power supply design should be able to eliminate the current ripple under any duty cycle in medium and high switching frequencies, and considerably reduce filter volume to improve power density. A stacked buck converter was eventually selected after reviewing the existing solutions and discussing their advantages and disadvantages. A stacked buck converter is used as a basis to propose the transient response and output current ripple elimination effect, boundary limit control method, and low output ripple dead time modulation method to make individual improvements. The principle, mathematical derivation, small-signal model, and compensator design method of the improvement method are presented in detail. Moreover, simulation results are used to mutually verify the correctness and effectiveness of the improvement method. A stacked buck converter with 330-V input, 50-V output, and 1-kW output power was implemented to verify the effect of the low output current ripple dead time modulation. Experimental results showed that the peak-to-peak value of the output current ripple was reduced from 2.09 A to 559 mA, and the RMS value was reduced from 551 mA to 91 mA, thereby effectively improving the output current ripple. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Power Converters Design, Control and Applications)
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