Multiple-Input Configuration of Isolated Bidirectional DC–DC Converter for Power Flow Control in Combinational Battery Storage

This paper proposes a multiple-input configuration of isolated bidirectional dual active bridge dc-dc converter (MIBDC) for power flow control in combinational battery storage. It can be operated in an independent source or combinational source mode of operation to control the power transfer, with the capability of bidirectional power flow and smoother transition. The proposed configuration has the benefits of reduction in circulation power and peak current stress in an independent mode of operation, which enhances the efficiency of dual active bridge converter. It also offers a wide range of power transmission as compared to the conventional IBDC. The proposed configuration can also be used with unequal voltage level sources by connecting them in series on multi-input side. The operation and investigation of the proposed configuration are presented in detail. In addition, the strategy of power flow control with multiple-input sources is discussed. The operation of the proposed MIBDC has been verified through simulation studies using PSCAD/EMTDC and experimentally demonstrated using ARM LPC 2148 processor.