Control Method of Load Sharing between AC Machine and Energy Storage Bank in the DC Grid

Abstract

The article presents the issues related to load-power sharing in direct-current grid and a novel control method has advantages over known solutions. Unlike many similar-sounding papers, this article shows an attempt at creating fully controllable non-isolated system that allows for load-power sharing between a permanent magnet alternator equipped with machine-side converter (MSC) and a dual active bridge (DAB) tied to batteries or supercapacitor. The current-based load-power sharing is an essential feature of parallel-connected direct-current generators, and all types of voltage sources, in this way are contributing power to the system. To keep the optimal efficiency of the alternator, the rotational speed changes rely on proper mapping of the driving combustion engine. System components include a self-excited synchronous generator (SESG), operating at variable shaft speed, as well as batteries and supercapacitors that provide electricity for sudden electrical-load changes on the distribution grid. The core of the presented system is in a power-distribution method that consists of a programmed-controller structure allowing precise current distribution. A novelty of the proposed method is the use of a cascaded system of current and DC voltage regulators that allows for precise power-distribution control. In contrast with previously presented solutions, the proposed system allows for fast and accurate control of currents, loading parallel-connected DC voltage sources for wide-range generator speed changes. In the presented solution, both converters have been equipped with Schottky diodes, preventing the flow of equalizing currents between closed transistors in the parallel mode of operation. An experimental test-stand of the described system is presented with its theoretical basis and experimental results.