Efficient Dual-Input DC-DC Converter Design for Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle Integration

This paper examines integrating fuel cell stack and battery pack to power permanent magnet brushless DC motor (PMBLDC) motor in fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) through various converter topology designs and performance evaluations. In the conventional FCEV power-train, a dual converter system is used that consists of a boost converter for the fuel cell and a converter with bidirectional capabilities for the battery in regenerative braking. The feasibility of employing a dual input single output(DISO) converter with bidirectional features is investigated in the paper to streamline power conversion. Different configurations of dual input single output converters and a few topologies with bidirectional features are examined, and a comparative analysis is conducted to assess their performance and compatibility with the BLDC motor. Subsequent simulations integrate the selected converter topology with the BLDC motor, utilizing fuel cells and batteries as energy sources. Performance evaluations are conducted under diverse operating conditions, including efficiency, reliability, and motor compatibility. The proposed converter enables increased compactness, extended driving range, reduced complexity, and reduced vehicle cost.