In a significant stride towards enhancing electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, researchers have developed a novel isolated DC-DC converter that promises improved efficiency and reduced losses. This innovation, published in the journal *IEEE Access* (which translates to *Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Open Access*), could play a pivotal role in the burgeoning EV market, addressing key challenges in battery charging technology.
The study, led by Pulipaka Srikanth from the School of Electrical Engineering at the Vellore Institute of Technology in India, introduces a hybrid DC-DC converter that merges the H-bridge converter with the bridgeless Luo converter. This combination is designed to stabilize current and voltage reversals at high-frequency transformer terminals, a common issue in EV charging systems. The H-bridge converter’s gate pulses are phase-shifted to ensure precise control of the output, a feature that sets this converter apart from existing technologies.
“The proposed converter is characterized by its low output ripples and lower losses, making it suitable for low-voltage electric vehicle battery charging,” Srikanth explained. The research not only discusses the different operating modes of the proposed converter but also delves into the associated dynamic equations, providing a comprehensive understanding of its functionality.
One of the standout features of this converter is its use of silicon carbide (SiC) MOSFETs and diodes, which facilitate high-frequency switching operations. This choice of components makes the converter lighter and smaller, addressing the space and weight constraints often encountered in EV charging applications. The prototype, with a power output of 100 W, was tested for charging a lithium-ion battery at 48V, demonstrating its efficacy in real-world scenarios.
The commercial implications of this research are substantial. As the EV market continues to grow, the demand for efficient and reliable charging infrastructure is escalating. The proposed converter’s ability to reduce losses and improve stability could significantly impact the energy sector, making EV charging more efficient and cost-effective. This innovation could also pave the way for further advancements in DC-DC converter technology, potentially leading to broader applications in renewable energy systems and other high-frequency power conversion scenarios.
Srikanth’s work highlights the importance of continuous innovation in the field of power electronics. As the world shifts towards cleaner energy solutions, such advancements are crucial for overcoming technical challenges and ensuring the seamless integration of renewable energy technologies into global energy systems. The research not only contributes to the academic discourse but also offers practical solutions that could shape the future of the energy sector.
In the quest for sustainable and efficient energy solutions, this novel DC-DC converter represents a significant step forward, embodying the spirit of innovation and the pursuit of technological excellence.