Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) and least power point tracking (LPPT) algorithms, implemented in the PV-bus direct differential power processing (DPP) architecture, is replaced by control schemes using a new, model predictive control approach. Since the proposed one step FCS-MPC, replacing the traditional LPPT, does not rely on the Perturb and Observe (P&O) algorithm, the interactions between the architecture controllers are minimized compared to the interactions between traditional MPPT and LPPT. Consequently, the proposed one step FCS-MPC schemes (one for LPPT and for MPPT) can work simultaneously without considering different sampling periods contrary to the simultaneous implementation of traditional MPPT and LPPT, offering a significant dynamic performance improvement when compared to traditional PI based control schemes. A PLECS simulation model of the DPP architecture has been implemented to validate that the proposed one step FCS-MPC schemes can work simultaneously using identical sampling periods with superior dynamic performance compared to classical P&O MPPT and LPPT.

This work presents the mathematical analysis and controller operation of the AC-link dc-dc converter, a parallel resonant converter, for which state plane trajectory control (SPTC) is proposed. The contribution is a simple, autonomous control technique achieving the benefits of bidirectional power flow, soft switching, and converter switching at its natural resonant frequency as opposed to conventional forced control operations. The switching sequence is implemented using an autonomous state machine triggered by the voltage and current state variables of the resonant LC tank, transitioning between modes of operation strategically to achieve said benefits. All results were simulated in MATLAB/Simulink utilizing the PLECS blockset.

This paper presents the development of a Flying Capacitor Multilevel Flyback Converter (FCMFC) that provides easily scalable peak output voltage for pulsed power. Based on a combination of the flyback and flying capacitor multilevel (FCML) boost converter topologies, the FCMFC achieves faster slew rates and peak power than previous pulsed power converters. FCMFC distributes the high voltage gain across the switch-diode-capacitor (SDC) stages, lowering device stresses and reducing the required magnetic component size compared to existing architectures. Two applications are addressed in this work: one for DC-DC boosting and one for pulsed power conversion. The FCMFC achieved a 100V to 1000V step-up while only utilizing half of the electrical hardware compared to existing topologies. Another FCMFC was developed to produce 36kV pulses at 8kV/μs, with a 50% decrease in the magnetic component size compared to an existing architecture from the literature.

Power electronic conversion units will serve as a key enabling technology for assisting in the continued growth of grid-scale energy storage. This paper presents existing and future power electronic conversion systems and components that aid the interconnection of grid-scale energy storage or utilize storage to minimize grid disruption at all voltage classes including transmission, distribution, and future grid architectures such as the microgrid. New R&D solutions to aid the interconnection process including efforts in bidirectional charger design and potentially solid-state transformers (SSTs) are emphasized. The role of energy storage to support microgrid research and growth, while highlighting power electronic behavior within this environment, is considered. Last, an example that bridges the microgrid and energy storage theme is given through the design and operation of a direct current (dc) electric vehicle (battery) charging station. When appropriate, manufacturer solutions and success stories of utilizing latest battery technologies interfaced via power electronic solutions at the utility scale are provided.