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Electric Vehicle Power Conversion Technologies

A special issue of Energies (ISSN 1996-1073). This special issue belongs to the section "E: Electric Vehicles".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 November 2019) | Viewed by 44017

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
School of Engineering, The University of British Columbia, Okanagan, Canada
Interests: power electronics; electric vehicles; battery chargers; inverters; power systems smart-grid technologies

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Electric Vehicles (EVs) will play a critical role on the path towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions in transportation. In comparison to vehicles with internal combustion engines, EVs require many power conversion stages, therefore presenting significant new opportunities for researchers and the power electronics industry.

The Guest Editor is inviting submissions for a Special Issue of Energies on the subject area of "Electric Vehicle Power Conversion Technologies". This Special Issue will focus on emerging power conversion technologies focusing on topologies, power converter control strategies and power converter modelling techniques that are targeted to electric vehicle applications. Specific topics of interest for publication must focus on EVs and include, but are not limited to:

  • battery chargers
  • bi-directional converters
  • drives
  • cell balancing circuits
  • power conversion architectures

Prof. Wilson Eberle
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Energies is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • power electronics
  • electric vehicles
  • power conversion
  • power converters

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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13 pages, 8521 KiB  
Article
Nonlinear Characteristics Compensation of Inverter for Low-Voltage Delta-Connected Induction Motor
by Qiang Guo, Zhiping Dong, Heping Liu and Xiaoyao You
Energies 2020, 13(3), 590; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13030590 - 28 Jan 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2573
Abstract
This paper proposes a scheme that can compensate for the nonlinear characteristics of voltage source inverters (VSIs) for low-voltage delta-connected induction motors (IMs). Due to the nonlinearity introduced by the dead-time, the on/off delay, and the voltage drop across the power device, the [...] Read more.
This paper proposes a scheme that can compensate for the nonlinear characteristics of voltage source inverters (VSIs) for low-voltage delta-connected induction motors (IMs). Due to the nonlinearity introduced by the dead-time, the on/off delay, and the voltage drop across the power device, the output voltage of VSIs is seriously distorted, causing distortion in the phase current of the IM, which will lead to output torque ripple. However, the existing compensation methods for three-phase VSIs are derived from star-connected loads, or ignore the conducting properties of power devices. Moreover, the current polarity detection near the current zero is quite complex. In this paper, by taking such nonlinear characteristics into consideration, especially the conducting property of metal-oxide-semiconductor field effect transistors (MOSFETs), an output voltage model of VSIs for low-voltage delta-connected induction motors is presented. After that, in view of the difficulty in detecting the line current polarity near the current zero which might lead to the wrong compensation, an advancing current crossing zero (ACCZ) compensation is proposed. Subsequently, a compensation scheme which combines the compensation based on the VSI output voltage model and ACCZ compensation is proposed. Finally, the proposed compensation scheme is implemented based on a digital signal processor (DSP) drive system. The experimental results show that the proposed scheme has better performance than the common method in terms of suppressing the effect of the nonlinear characteristics of VSI, which demonstrates that the proposed compensation scheme is feasible and effective for the compensation of the nonlinear characteristics of VSI for low-voltage delta-connected IMs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electric Vehicle Power Conversion Technologies)
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17 pages, 2490 KiB  
Article
Design and Optimization of Three-Phase Dual-Active-Bridge Converters for Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
by Duy-Dinh Nguyen, Ngoc-Tam Bui and Kazuto Yukita
Energies 2020, 13(1), 150; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13010150 - 27 Dec 2019
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 5905
Abstract
In this paper, design and optimization method of a three-phase dual-active-bridge DC/DC converter is discussed. Three single phase transformers connected in star-star configuration were designed with large leakage inductance aiming to eliminate the need for external inductors. Switching frequency, peak flux density, number [...] Read more.
In this paper, design and optimization method of a three-phase dual-active-bridge DC/DC converter is discussed. Three single phase transformers connected in star-star configuration were designed with large leakage inductance aiming to eliminate the need for external inductors. Switching frequency, peak flux density, number of turns, number of layers, etc., were optimized using non-linear programming technique for minimizing the overall converter loss. Experimental results on a 10 kW prototype show that the optimized converter can operate efficiently an efficacy of up to 98.65% and a low-temperature rise of less than 70 degrees Celsius on both transformers and semiconductor devices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electric Vehicle Power Conversion Technologies)
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19 pages, 2294 KiB  
Article
Optimization of a Cascaded H-Bridge Inverter for Electric Vehicle Applications Including Cost Consideration
by Felix Roemer, Massab Ahmad, Fengqi Chang and Markus Lienkamp
Energies 2019, 12(22), 4272; https://doi.org/10.3390/en12224272 - 8 Nov 2019
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3782
Abstract
This paper presents a method to find the optimal configuration for an electric vehicle energy storage system using a cascaded H-bridge (CHB) inverter. CHB multilevel inverters enable a better utilization of the battery pack, because cells/modules with manufacturing tolerances in terms of capacity [...] Read more.
This paper presents a method to find the optimal configuration for an electric vehicle energy storage system using a cascaded H-bridge (CHB) inverter. CHB multilevel inverters enable a better utilization of the battery pack, because cells/modules with manufacturing tolerances in terms of capacity can be selectively discharged instead of being passively balanced by discharging them over resistors. The balancing algorithms have been investigated in many studies for the CHB topology. However, it has not yet been investigated to which extend a conventional pack can be modularized in a CHB configuration. Therefore, this paper explores different configurations by simulating different switch models, switch configurations, and number of levels for a CHB inverter along with a reference load model to find the optimal design of the system. The configuration is also considered from an economically point of view, as the most efficient solution might not be cost-effective to be installed in a common production vehicle. It is found that four modules per phase give the best compromise between efficiency and costs. Paralleling smaller switches should be preferred over the usage of fewer, larger switches. Moreover, selecting specific existing components results in higher savings compared to theoretical optimal components. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electric Vehicle Power Conversion Technologies)
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18 pages, 15966 KiB  
Article
Rotor Speed Observer with Extended Current Estimator for Sensorless Control of Induction Motor Drive Systems
by Mohamed G. Hussien, Wei Xu, Yi Liu and Said M. Allam
Energies 2019, 12(19), 3613; https://doi.org/10.3390/en12193613 - 21 Sep 2019
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3589
Abstract
The aim of paper is to investigate an efficient sensorless control method with vector-control technique for the induction motor (IM) drive systems. The proposed technique relies on the indirect rotor-field orientation control scheme (IRFOC). All sensorless control techniques are greatly affected by the [...] Read more.
The aim of paper is to investigate an efficient sensorless control method with vector-control technique for the induction motor (IM) drive systems. The proposed technique relies on the indirect rotor-field orientation control scheme (IRFOC). All sensorless control techniques are greatly affected by the observation of the speed estimation procedure. So, an efficacy new algorithm for estimating the rotor speed of the adopted machine is proposed. In addition, a simple effective method to estimate the machine rotor currents is suggested. The adopted rotor-speed observer is based on the concept of IRFOC method and the phase-axis relationships of IM. To ensure the capability of the proposed sensorless speed-control system, a simulation model is developed in the MATLAB/Simulink software environment. The robustness of the new control method is analyzed under parameter uncertainty issue. Furthermore, comprehensive experimental results are obtained. The whole obtained results confirm the validity of the proposed observer for sensorless speed control capability. The given results also verify the effectiveness of the suggested sensorless control system-based IRFOC for speed-control drive systems of IM. Moreover, the results assure that the presented rotor-speed observer is effectively robust via any parameter changes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electric Vehicle Power Conversion Technologies)
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27 pages, 5075 KiB  
Article
Mitigation of Common Mode Voltage Issues in Electric Vehicle Drive Systems by Means of an Alternative AC-Decoupling Power Converter Topology
by Endika Robles, Markel Fernandez, Edorta Ibarra, Jon Andreu and Iñigo Kortabarria
Energies 2019, 12(17), 3349; https://doi.org/10.3390/en12173349 - 30 Aug 2019
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4691
Abstract
Electric vehicles (EV) are gaining popularity due to current environmental concerns. The electric drive, which is constituted by a power converter and an electric machine, is one of the main elements of the EV. Such machines suffer from common mode voltage (CMV) effects. [...] Read more.
Electric vehicles (EV) are gaining popularity due to current environmental concerns. The electric drive, which is constituted by a power converter and an electric machine, is one of the main elements of the EV. Such machines suffer from common mode voltage (CMV) effects. The CMV introduces leakage currents through the bearings, leading to premature failures and reducing the propulsion system life cycles. As future EV power converters will rely on wide bandgap semiconductors with high switching frequency operation, CMV problems will become more prevalent, making the research on CMV mitigation strategies more relevant. A variety of CMV reduction methods can be found in the scientific literature, such as the inclusion of dedicated filters and the implementation of specific modulation techniques. However, alternative power converter topologies can also be introduced for CMV mitigation. The majority of such power converters for CMV mitigation are single-phase topologies intended for photovoltaic applications; thus, solutions in the form of three-phase topologies that could be applied to EVs are very limited. Considering all these, this paper proposes alternative three-phase topologies that could be exploited in EV applications. Their performance is compared with other existing proposals, providing a clear picture of the available alternatives, emphasizing their merits and drawbacks. From this comprehensive study, the benefits of a novel AC-decoupling topology is demonstrated. Moreover, an adequate modulation technique is also investigated in order to exploit the benefits of this topology while considering a trade-off between CMV mitigation, efficiency, and total harmonic distortion (THD). In order to extend the results of the study close to the real application, the performance of the proposed AC-decoupling topology is simulated using a complete and accurate EV model (including vehicle dynamics and a detailed propulsion system model) by means of state-of-the-art digital real-time simulation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electric Vehicle Power Conversion Technologies)
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18 pages, 5539 KiB  
Article
A Ćuk Converter Cell Balancing Technique by Using Coupled Inductors for Lithium-Based Batteries
by Ali Farzan Moghaddam and Alex Van den Bossche
Energies 2019, 12(15), 2881; https://doi.org/10.3390/en12152881 - 26 Jul 2019
Cited by 43 | Viewed by 4916
Abstract
In this paper, a c ´ uk converter balancing method by using a coupled inductor for lithium based batteries is investigated. The proposed circuit is an active balancing circuit that will equalize eight battery cells in a series. In electrical vehicles (EV), a [...] Read more.
In this paper, a c ´ uk converter balancing method by using a coupled inductor for lithium based batteries is investigated. The proposed circuit is an active balancing circuit that will equalize eight battery cells in a series. In electrical vehicles (EV), a battery management system (BMS) is a vital task to achieve the best performance of the batteries and longer lifetime. The problem of voltage difference in a battery pack is an important issue to be improved. To overcome the voltage differences in battery string, an equalizing method is mandatory. The conventional c ´ uk converter requires 2(n − 1) switches to balance n cells, while the proposed circuit requires only n switches for n cells in series. In addition, the proposed developed topology uses coupled inductors instead of un-coupled inductors, unlike the traditional c ´ uk converter balancing method. Since the c ´ uk balancing transfers the energy among two adjacent cells, it requires a proportionately long equalization time particularly for long string battery packs, but the coupled inductor c ´ uk converter type overcomes this problem. The switches are N-channel metal-oxide field-effect transistor (MOSFET) to achieve lower drain-source on-resistance, R D S ( o n ) , and less voltage drop as compared to the P-channels. The switches are triggered by complementary signals. The coupled inductor is made in such a way to hold the same magnetizing inductance. It can be done by using five wires in one hand. The circuit contains five inductors, one magnetic core, with five winding for eight cells, and one capacitor for two cells. Therefore, the overall circuitry and complexity of the circuit are reduced, resulting in a more cost-effective and easy to implement circuit. The system also does not demand complicated control for battery equalizing. The experimental circuit was implemented and simulation results were obtained to confirm the validity of the proposed system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electric Vehicle Power Conversion Technologies)
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Review

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17 pages, 1373 KiB  
Review
Extreme Fast Charging Technology—Prospects to Enhance Sustainable Electric Transportation
by Deepak Ronanki, Apoorva Kelkar and Sheldon S. Williamson
Energies 2019, 12(19), 3721; https://doi.org/10.3390/en12193721 - 29 Sep 2019
Cited by 151 | Viewed by 17391
Abstract
With the growing fleet of a new generation electric vehicles (EVs), it is essential to develop an adequate high power charging infrastructure that can mimic conventional gasoline fuel stations. Therefore, much research attention must be focused on the development of off-board DC fast [...] Read more.
With the growing fleet of a new generation electric vehicles (EVs), it is essential to develop an adequate high power charging infrastructure that can mimic conventional gasoline fuel stations. Therefore, much research attention must be focused on the development of off-board DC fast chargers which can quickly replenish the charge in an EV battery. However, use of the service transformer in the existing fast charging architecture adds to the system cost, size and complicates the installation process while directly connected to medium-voltage (MV) line. With continual improvements in power electronics and magnetics, solid state transformer (SST) technology can be adopted to enhance power density and efficiency of the system. This paper aims to review the current state of the art architectures and challenges of fast charging infrastructure using SST technology while directly connected to the MV line. Finally, this paper discusses technical considerations, challenges and introduces future research possibilities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electric Vehicle Power Conversion Technologies)
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