Local DC Distribution System in Presence of RES and Storage Devices: Multiport Converters Application

Control and fault analysis of multiport converters for low voltage DC distribution systems

“…Among many different system architectures, Multiport Converters (MCs), possibly with integrated electronic transformers, are considered with particular attention [14] - [35]. Those converters are particularly useful when it is necessary to interface different energy sources, storage devices and loads with one integrated topology [18], [20], [23], [25] - [27], [30], while the traditional approach would require many two-port converters. The introduction of MCs allows reducing dimensions and costs and enhancing efficiency [24] - [32].…”

“…The centralized control allows obtaining better system dynamics and higher power quality and continuity [9], [18] - [24], [32]. Among the many studies available, two main categories are recognizable: MCs based on a capacitive internal bus [18] - [23] and MCs based on an inductive internal bus [23] - [35]. The second category is then split among three sub-categories: isolated MCs [24], [25], [30], [31], non-isolated MCs [33] - [35] and MCs with a mix of isolated and non-isolated ports [26] - [28], [32].…”

“…The second category is then split among three sub-categories: isolated MCs [24], [25], [30], [31], non-isolated MCs [33] - [35] and MCs with a mix of isolated and non-isolated ports [26] - [28], [32]. Furthermore, considering the wide range of possible applications, some MCs exhibit modular topologies [18] - [23], [33] - [35], while others are designed with a specific number of ports and are not easily expandable [24] - [32]. From the control point of view, most MCs controls are based on voltage modulation techniques, often based on commutation phase-shift control [24] - [32], which is mandatory for isolated converters comprising a high-frequency transformer.…”

“…Some other studies, on the contrary, base their control algorithms on mean-value quantities [18] - [20], [33] - [35], manipulating the duty-cycle through suitable current and voltage loops. Finally, only few papers consider the converter behavior and control under external or internal fault condition [9], [20], [23], [35].…”

“…Furthermore, it has been pointed out that it is not easy to extend the number of ports. In order to overcome such limitations, a first study has been presented in [23]. In fact, for this specific application different topologies should be compared and evaluated considering components, control algorithms and fault behavior.…”