A new DC-DC power converter developed by researchers from Kobe University in Japan, in collaboration with the National Chung Hsing University in Taiwan, promises to revolutionize energy storage and conversion solutions. Electric power is typically supplied in either AC or DC form, with most power plants producing AC. However, many modern technologies, such as solar power systems, batteries, electric vehicles, and computers, rely on DC. This leads to the need for lossy AC-to-DC conversion. DC microgrids, which integrate various renewable DC energy sources and storage devices, offer a solution by delivering energy directly to DC appliances without the need for conversion. However, this requires a flexible bidirectional voltage conversion device capable of handling different voltages.
The team led by MISHIMA Tomokazu and LAI Ching-Ming achieved a significant breakthrough in developing a DC-DC power converter that excels in interfacing with a wide range of energy sources, ensuring system stability and simplicity with unprecedented efficiency. The design, characteristics, and prototype evaluation were published in the IEEE Transactions on Power Electronics. The converter’s superior voltage ratio allows it to efficiently interface with various energy sources, while the self-balancing of inductor currents enhances system stability and simplicity. Additionally, the asymmetrical duty limit control offers enhanced performance, especially for electric vehicle-connected DC microgrids. The prototype demonstrated an impressive efficiency of up to 98.3 percent, showcasing its practical feasibility for real-world applications.
The team has filed a patent for the design in Japan and is preparing for commercialization with UPE-Japan, a Kobe University startup. Their goal is to continue improving the design for higher power densities and a wider range of applications. Their long-term objective is to contribute to the transition towards more efficient, reliable, and sustainable energy storage and conversion solutions, particularly in the context of electric vehicles and renewable energy integration. This research is a step towards advancing bidirectional DC-DC conversion technology and paves the way for future advancements in energy storage and conversion.
The collaborative effort between Kobe University and the National Chung Hsing University allowed the team to approach the problem from multiple perspectives, utilizing cutting-edge facilities, resources, experiments, simulations, and analyses. Their expertise in power electronics and successful collaborations with industry partners and research institutions provided valuable insights and support for their endeavors. The new DC-DC power converter offers a practical and scalable solution for real-world applications, highlighting the potential for more efficient and sustainable energy storage and conversion solutions. The team’s dedication to improving their design and expanding its applications underscores their commitment to driving innovation in the energy sector.
Overall, the development of the new DC-DC power converter represents a significant advancement in energy storage and conversion technology. The efficient interface with various energy sources, system stability enhancements, and impressive efficiency make it a promising solution for future energy storage and conversion applications. The team’s collaborative approach, access to cutting-edge resources, and dedication to improving the design for commercialization demonstrate their commitment to facilitating the transition towards more sustainable energy solutions, particularly in the areas of electric vehicles and renewable energy integration. This research sets the stage for further advancements in bidirectional DC-DC conversion technology and its potential impact on energy efficiency and sustainability in the future.