Bidirectional DC-DC Converter with Digital Droop Parameterization

The key for decentralized battery systems is a robust and communication-less control strategy for autonomous power sharing of parallel-connected DC-DC converters. Battery systems improve the reliability and quality of power supply in renewable energy systems and enable power supply for off-grid, mobile applications, including islanded grids, home storage, and electric vehicles. In many cases, components with different electrical properties require different voltage levels. An adaptation is consequently essential and is normally implemented in DC grids for the batteries via bidirectional DC-DC converters. The power flow in both directions can thus be ensured. To achieve a power distribution in parallel connected DC-DC converters, a droop control in the form of a virtual internal resistor can be used. This paper presents a novel approach of a DC-DC converter with a digitally parameterizable droop resistor, whose voltage regulation is based on an analog operational amplifier circuit to ensure low delays and robustness. The droop resistor is adjusted with a microcontroller, which offers the possibility to apply a higher-level control for load sharing via an interface. Mathematical correlations are used to clearly define the parameters of the control. Furthermore, the circuit was completely simulated and tested in the hardware setup. The shown results verify the functionality and indicate only minor deviations. Therefore, this circuit is important for future use in distributed battery systems.