Invention Description
Theoretical models of MAB converters usually assume ideal components, but real-world systems suffer from various parasitic effects that skew power transfer predictions. These include MOSFET on-state resistances, AC winding losses in inductors/transformers, and the ESR of both DC blocking and DC link capacitors, all of which introduce measurable conduction losses and voltage drops. Additionally, since DC blocking capacitors have frequency-dependent impedance, they do not behave as ideal short circuits at all frequencies. Thus, there is an inadequate representation of converter non-idealities in traditional models of MAB converters resulting in inefficient power flow control due to simplistic modulation techniques.
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed an enhanced unified modeling framework for analyzing and modeling multi-active bridge (MAB) converters by including real-world non-idealities such as resistive losses, dead time effects, and transformer parasitics. This framework was designed to accurately predict power flow and current behavior as well as fine-tune control parameters to improve converter efficiency in real-time digital control systems. It enables accurate representation of both resonant and non-resonant transformer-isolated H-bridge-based converters while taking into account non-idealities that are common in circuits.
This unified modeling framework for multi-active bridge converters incorporates non-idealities and optimizes control to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
Potential Applications
- High-efficiency power conversion systems for renewable energy integration
- Electric vehicle powertrains requiring precise and efficient energy transfer
- Industrial motor drives and variable frequency drives employing multi-port converters
- Smart grid applications involving advanced power management and conditioning.
- Consumer electronics requiring compact, efficient power converters with optimized control
Benefits and Advantages
- Accurate modeling of real-world converter non-idealities including resistive losses and switching dead time
- Unified framework for n-port MAB converter analysis
- Optimized control strategies to reduce computational load and improve converter efficiency in real-time digital control systems
- Real-time efficiency enhancement and loss minimization
- Enables a more realistic representation of both resonant and non-resonant transformer-isolated H-bridge-based converters
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