DEVELOPMENT OF A MULTIPORT BIDIRECTIONAL

DC-DC CONVERTER FOR PV APPLICATION ON A DC

DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM

by

SYAZANA AQILAH BINTI ABD RAHIM

(191291956)

A report submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree

of
Bachelor of Electrical Engineering Technology
(Industrial Power)

Faculty of Electrical Engineering & Technology

UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA PERLIS

2023
 UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA PERLIS

DECLARATION OF REPORT

Author’s Full Name : SYAZANA AQILAH BINTI ABD RAHIM

Title : DEVELOPMENT OF A MULTIPORT BIDIRECTIONAL
DC-DC CONVERTER FOR PV APPLICATION ON A DC
DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM
Date of Birth : 17 SEPTEMBER 1997
Academic Session : 2021/2022

I hereby declare that this report becomes the property of Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP)
and to be placed at the library of UniMAP. This report is classified as:
CONFIDENTIAL (Contains confidential information under the Official
Secret Act 1997)*
RESTRICTED (Contains restricted information as specified by the
organization where research was done)*
✓OPEN
 ACCESS I agree that my report to be published as online open
✓ access (Full Text)

I, the author, give permission to reproduce this report in whole or in part for the purpose of
research or academic exchange only (except during the period of _______ years, if so requested
above)
Certified by:

SIGNATURE SIGNATURE OF SUPERVISOR

DR. NURHAKIMAH
BINTI MOHD MUKHTAR
970917125380

(NEW IC NO. /PASSPORT NO.) NAME OF SUPERVISOR

Date: 09 JANUARY 2023 Date: 09 JANUARY 2023

2
 ACKNOWLEDGMENT

To begin, I want to thank my supervisor, Dr. Nurhakimah binti Mohd Mukhtar,

for all her help and encouragement in completing my thesis. As a result of her assistance,
and her willingness to answer my questions, I am grateful to her. Her knowledge and
skills were utilised to aid me in addressing my assignment's problems at this period. She
is always willing to check in on my progress and project reports and to provide
suggestions on how to craft an effective final year project report.

Moreover, UniMAP provided me all the tools I needed to complete my project,

and I'd want to thank them for their support and help. Through the UniMAP archive, I
had access to journal services such as the library explorer, science direct website and the
IEEE Explorer for obtaining prior research and publications that were relevant to my
study subject.

Lastly, but certainly not least, I would want to express my gratitude to my family
for being an unending wellspring of support and enthusiasm throughout the challenging
process of completing my project. During the challenging times I was having with the
project, I'd also want to express my gratitude to my friends for the advice and assistance
they provided.

3
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

PAGE

DECLARATION OF REPORT 2

ACKNOWLEDGMENT 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS 4

LIST OF TABLES 6

LIST OF FIGURES 7

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS 8

LIST OF SYMBOLS 9

ABSTRAK 12

ABSTRACT 13

CHAPTER 1 : INTRODUCTION 14

1.1 Introduction 14

1.2 Background History 14

1.3 Problem Statements 15

1.4 Objectives 16

1.5 Project Scopes 17

1.6 Report Outline 17

CHAPTER 2 : LITERATURE REVIEW 18

2.1 Introduction 18

2.2 Critical Review From Related Work 18

4
2.3 Boost Converter 20

2.4 Multiport Converter 21

2.5 Photovoltaic Solar System 22

2.5.1 PV Components and Standards 23

CHAPTER 3 : METHODOLOGY 25

3.1 Introduction 25

3.2 Overall project workflow 25

3.3 Block diagram of multiport bidirectional dc-dc converter 28

3.4 Configuration of multiport bidirectional dc-dc converter in Simulink 29

3.5 Calculation of components 30

CHAPTER 4 : RESULT & DISCUSSION 33

4.1 Introduction 33

4.2 Operating Principle for the simulation 33

4.3 Analysis result of the charging mode for the multiport

bidirectional DC-DC 35

4.3.1 Simulation of charging mode of multiport bidirectional DC-DC 35

4.3.2 Analysis for charging mode for three intervals 37

4.3.3 Analysis for discharging mode for three intervals 39

4.3.4 Analysis from charging simulation of Duty Cycle 10% to 90% 40

4.4 Hardware 41

CHAPTER 5 : CONCLUSION 44

5.1 Summary 44

5.2 Recommendation for Future Project 45

5
5.3 Commercialization Potential 45

REFERENCES 46

6
 LIST OF TABLES

NO. PAGE
2.1 The Advantages and Disadvantages of DC-DC Converters 21

3.1 The Parameter design for multiport bidirectional DC-DC converter 30

3.2 The budget for this hardware project 32

4.1 The operating principle 34

4.2 The specification parameter for the hardware of multiport

bidirectional DC-DC. 34

7
 LIST OF FIGURES

NO. PAGE
Figure 2.1 Boost Converter Circuit Diagram 19
Error! Bookmark not defined.

Figure 2.2 Block Diagram of Multiport Converter 20

Figure 2.3 PV generator assembly 21

Figure 3.1 Flowchart of designing a multiport bidirectional DC-DC converter

Error! Bookmark not defined. 25

Figure 3.2 Basic Configuration of Multiport Bidirectional DC-DC Converter

Error! Bookmark not defined. 26

Figure 3.3 The configuration of multiport bidirectional DC-DC for

charging mode by using LTspice

Error! Bookmark not defined. 26

Figure 3.4 The configuration of multiport bidirectional DC-DC for

discharging mode by using LTspice 27

Figure 4.1 The waveform of capacitor voltage for the charging mode 35

Figure 4.2 The waveform of inductor voltage for the charging mode 35

Figure 4.3 The waveform of output voltage for the charging mode 36

Figure 4.4 The waveform of capacitor voltage for the discharging mode 36

Figure 4.5 The waveform of inductor voltage for the discharging mode 36

Figure 4.6 The waveform of output voltage for the discharging mode 36

Figure 4.7 The waveform of inductor current 37

Figure 4.8 The waveform of capacitor current 37

Figure 4.9 The waveform of output voltage 37

8
Figure 4.10 The waveform of inductor current 37

Figure 4.11 The waveform of capacitor current 38

Figure 4.12 The waveform of output voltage 38

Figure 4.13 The waveform of inductor current 38

Figure 4.14 The waveform of capacitor current 38

Figure 4.15 The waveform of output voltage 39

Figure 4.16 The waveform of inductor current 39

Figure 4.17 The waveform of capacitor current 39

Figure 4.18 The waveform of output voltage 39

Figure 4.19 The waveform of inductor current 40

Figure 4.20 The waveform of capacitor current 40

Figure 4.21 The waveform of output voltage 40

Figure 4.22 The waveform of inductor current 40

Figure 4.23 The waveform of capacitor current 41

Figure 4.24 The waveform of output voltage 41

Figure 4.25 Graph of the Changing of Duty Cycle 41

Figure 4.26 Circuit implemented from simulation to hardware prototype 42

Figure 4.27 Experiment setup for triggering the MOSFET 43

Figure 4.28 Duty Cycle for Pulse Modulation 43

9
 LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS

RES Renewable Energy Source

PV Photovoltaic

DC Direct Current

AC Alternating Current

CCM Continuous Conduction Mode

LVDC Low Voltage Direct Current

10
 LIST OF SYMBOLS

V Voltage

A Current

W Watt

Ω Ohm

mH milli Henry

uF micro farad

kHz kilo Hertz

11
Pembangunan Penukar DC ke DC Dwiarah Pelbagai port untuk Aplikasi PV pada
Sistem Pengedaran DC

ABSTRAK

Menurut unjuran semasa, permintaan elektrik Malaysia dijangka meningkat

daripada 18,808MW pada 2020 kepada 24,050MW menjelang 2039. Pada skala yang
lebih luas, disebabkan oleh gabungan pertumbuhan penduduk global dan pertumbuhan
ekonomi negara-negara membangun, jumlah penggunaan tenaga dunia juga dijangka
meningkat sebanyak 48% menjelang 2040. Penukar DC-DC multiport telah digunakan
sebagai antara muka untuk panel solar, penyimpanan, dan beban. Tenaga fotovoltaik
(PV) adalah salah satu sumber tenaga bersih yang tidak bersuara, bebas pencemaran,
berskala, dan memerlukan sedikit penyelenggaraan. Penyimpanan tenaga bateri
kebanyakannya dikaitkan dengan penjanaan elektrik boleh diperbaharui luar grid untuk
lokasi terpencil dan hanya digunakan sebagai kuasa sandaran. Mereka adalah beberapa
cabaran Sumber Tenaga Boleh Diperbaharui (RES) seperti sistem tenaga solar, yang
menghasilkan voltan tahap rendah, yang tidak dapat menggerakkan kebanyakan peranti
elektronik yang memerlukan tahap voltan yang lebih tinggi untuk beroperasi dan
berfungsi dengan cekap. Berdasarkan cabaran yang telah diketengahkan sebelum ini,
projek ini akan terdiri daripada dua bahagian utama iaitu bahagian reka bentuk dan
pembangunan. Penukar galakan digunakan untuk meningkatkan tenaga. Manakala
induksi digunakan untuk menyimpan tenaga. MOSFET akhirnya mesti mengawal voltan
dan aliran arus antara sumber dan longkang. Ia berfungsi hampir seperti suis. Kapasitor
adalah komponen elektrik yang digunakan untuk menapis dan menyimpan cas elektrik.
Dan jenis diod yang digunakan dalam projek ini hanya membenarkan satu arah aliran
arus elektrik. Oleh itu, ia boleh digunakan untuk menukar DC-DC. Penukar pelbagai port
akan direka dan diuji menggunakan perisian LTspice. Ringkasnya, projek ini adalah
untuk mereka bentuk dan mensimulasikan dwiarah pelbagai port DC-DC untuk Aplikasi
PV. Untuk mendapatkan hasil yang diingini, PV dan bateri sedang digantikan dengan
input 24 V ke sumber kuasa DC. Seterusnya, adalah untuk membangunkan prototaip
perkakasan dwiarah pelbagai port penukar DC-DC. Dan juga, untuk mengesahkan dan
menganalisis hasil eksperimen prototaip perkakasan.

12
 Development of a Multiport Bidirectional DC-DC Converter for PV Application
on a DC Distribution System

ABSTRACT

According to current projections, Malaysia’s electricity demand is expected to

grow from 18,808MW in 2020 to 24,050MW by 2039. On a wider scale, due to a
combination of global population growth and the economic growth of developing
countries, the total energy consumption of the world is also expected to increase by a
whopping 48% by 2040. The multiport DC-DC converter has been employed as an
interface for the solar panel, storage, and load. Photovoltaic (PV) energy is one of the
clean energy sources that is noiseless, pollution-free, scalable, and requires little
maintenance. Battery energy storage has mostly been associated with off-grid renewable
electricity generation for remote locations and was only used as backup power. They are
several challenges of Renewable Energy Sources (RES) such as solar power system,
which generates low level voltage, that is unable to power most electronic devices that
require higher voltage level to operate and function efficiently. Based on the challenges
that have been highlighted previously, this project will consist of two main parts which
are design and development parts. Boost converter is used to step up the energy. While
the inductor is used to store energy. The MOSFET must eventually regulate the voltage
and current flow between the source and drain. It functions nearly like a switch. A
capacitor is an electrical component used to filter and store electric charge. And the types
of diodes used in this project only permit one direction of electrical current flow.
Therefore, it may be used to convert DC-DC. Multiport DC-DC converter will be
designed and tested using LTspice software. In a nutshell, this project is to design and
simulate a Multiport Bidirectional DC-DC Converter for PV Application. To obtain the
desired outcome, the PV and battery are being replaced by a 24 V input to the DC power
source. Next, is to develop a hardware prototype of the Multiport Bidirectional DC-DC
Converter. And also, to validate and analyze the experimental results of the hardware
prototype.

13
 CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Introduction

The problem statement, project background history, objectives, project scopes,

and report outline are all presented in this chapter.

1.2 Background history

Solar energy is converted into usable power by a photovoltaic, or PV, system by

using one or more solar panels, an inverter, and several other electrical and mechanical
components. Solar photovoltaic, or PV, systems may be as compact as those found on
rooftops or as large as those seen in utility-scale power plants. The photovoltaic effect is
produced when sunlight, which is made up of energy packets called photons, is allowed
to fall onto a solar panel, where it then causes an electric current to be produced. Although
each panel only produces a little amount of energy on their own, they may be connected
to one another to form solar arrays that produce much more power. Direct current (DC)
is the kind of power that is produced by solar panels (or solar arrays). Solar photovoltaics
(PV) are an advancement in technology that involves the use of solar cells to create
energy by directly converting sunlight into electric current. Photovoltaic (PV) energy is
enjoying one of the fastest growth rates among renewable energy sources due to cost
reductions and technological advances.

The combination of photovoltaic and energy storage systems is quickly

becoming one of the most talked about concepts in the field of renewable energy
producing technology. At night, the electricity that was created by solar energy during
the day is drawn from a battery. During the day, the battery is charged. To transmit power
in either direction, a bidirectional converter, or bi-direction direct current–to–direct
current converter, is implemented in such situations. There are non-isolated and isolated
topologies that fall under the category of bidirectional DC-DC converters respectively.
A non-isolated, transformer-less architecture has been shown to be more efficient than
14
an isolated BDC while also being simpler and having fewer components. When
considering factors like as weight or size, which are critical in high-power or spaceship
power system applications, these batteries are favoured.

Using a DC-DC converter, energy can be transferred between DC sources and

DC loads. The electrical upgrades converted power equipment from storage to charging.
Diodes and transistors serve as switches, while inductors and capacitors serve as storage
devices. Through the duty cycle percentage, this method gives an output voltage that is
the same as the input voltage. DC-DC converters are classified into several types. For
example, there are buck, boost, and buck boost converters. Stepping down voltage is what
the buck converter is for. Stepping up voltage is what the boost converter does. As an
outcome, buck boost converters are utilised for both stepping up and stepping down the
voltage. Control techniques that are used on a regular basis, such as control voltage and
control by injection current, need for in-depth understanding of the system in addition to
performance adjustment.

1.3 Problem Statement

DC Grid integration of renewable energy sources, as an example, solar energy

systems, has many advantages but also a number of disadvantages, including the fact that
the low voltage generated by these systems is insufficient to power most modern
electronic equipment. In order to combine this low-level renewable power with higher
voltage loads, you will need a boost converter that has the capability of stepping up the
voltage to application level [1].

Connecting renewable energy sources (RES) to the grid is not as straightforward

as it may first seem, and the efficiency of these sources is totally reliant on the prevailing
weather conditions. From this perspective, renewable energy sources are seen as
unreliable sources of energy, and it is possible that the operation of these sources, in the
absence of a sophisticated management system, might result in a significant imbalance
in the grid [2]. In addition, as a consequence of the intermittent nature of renewable
sources of energy, energy storage devices, like the batteries, are often utilised in order to
stabilise the weather-dependent fluctuations in power output. This is done by stabilising
15
the variations in power production. [3]. Morever, it lacks the capacity to share power
amongst input sources. Switches are used to regulate the input sources and loads
separately. The increase in the number of input sources leads to a decrease in the load
providing share of each input source. Additionally, to charge a battery, a bidirectional
multiport converter developed in employs an additional switch and diode. This increases
the number of switches, which reduces the converter's efficiency [4].

1.4 Objectives

The objectives of this project are:

a) To design and simulate a Multiport Bidirectional DC-DC Converter for 24 V

input voltage.
b) To observe the simulation results with different switches combination.
c) To analyze the performance of the Multiport Bidirectional DC-DC Converter
during charging and discharging modes.

1.5 Project Scopes

For the first scope is target output to be generated. This project is limited to a
particular scope. So, this project is focussed to create and evaluate energy storage in
batteries and connect them to the DC source. The limitation is to build a 100 W hardware
prototype that obtains ~95% efficiency. The second scope is choosing the materials.
However, all the material selections such as battery with 24 V, solar panel with 24 V,
DC-DC converter such as boost converter, mosfet, diode, capacitor, resistor and inductor
depend on cost consideration. Last but not least, the third scope is software tools. There
are two modes that need to be applied in LTspice software. Firstly, the first operated
mode, the power is considered to be transferred from the DC source to the battery in the
daytime. The converter will be in Continuous Conduction Mode (CCM). The simulation
will be carried out in LTspice software. In the meanwhile, the power is only transmitted
from the battery to the load when the system is switched to the second mode that is on a
night-time. The mode of operation of the converter is set to continuous conduction
(CCM).

16
1.6 Report Outline

This report is divided into five major chapters: 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. Each chapter's
main topic was indeed different. The Chapter 1 introduces the project. The Chapter 2 is
about a literature review that is relevant to the project. The Chapter 3 is about
methodology. The Chapter 4 discusses the project's outcomes and data collection.
Finally, in Chapter 5, the project's conclusion has been obtained.

The project's background, objectives, scopes, and a report outline are all covered
in Chapter 1.

The literature review, or what is known as a result of the previous research and
earlier projects that are practically exactly the same that have been finished, has been
discussed in Chapter 2. For this reason, all research on multiport bidirectional DC-DC
converters is cited. In this chapter, you'll find all of the research and information
necessary to complete this project.

Chapter 3, about the methodology, is a step and method used to complete the
entire project research. This chapter explained the process of how the performance of the
multiport bidirectional DC-DC converter is decided. The process flowchart, block
diagram and parameter design has been presented in Chapter 3.

Chapter 4 is about collecting the data and result of this project. All the data has
been collected and has been analyzed in Chapter 4.

Chapter 5 is about the conclusion. The conclusion of this project has been made
based on the result and data that have been analyzed. The recommendation has been made
upon the result to get improvement in an upcoming project.

17
 CHAPTER 2

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Introduction

This section will sort out on the most important aspects of the project and provide
an overview of the whole process. Past work research may help obtain project -related
knowledge and abilities.

2.2 Critical Review from Related Work

To ensure that there is always electricity available, a photovoltaic (PV) system

must be combined with an energy storage system (ESS). Another issue with the PV
system is that it produces an insufficient amount of voltage. Boosting the low-level PV
produced voltage to a higher level so that it may be utilised in applications is
accomplished using DC-DC converters.

Moreover, this project describes a unique isolated multiport bidirectional DC-DC

converter for photovoltaic battery systems. The suggested converter is designed to
manage parallel electricity from a PV panel, a battery, and a load. It achieves zero current
switching for the converter primary switch using a resonant circuit consisting of two
inductors and one capacitor (LCL). As a result, this system has several drawbacks,
including decreased efficiency due to the usage of discrete DC-DC converters for each
source, a large design, lower power density, and high cost. Therefore, multiport DC-DC
converters are employed to get around the stated limitations. Because this converter has
several input ports for integrating diverse DC energy sources, it offers low losses, a high-
power density, a compact construction, and a low cost [5].

In addition, for their propulsion systems, plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) commonly use
three-phase off-board DC fast chargers. In most circumstances, an off-board charger
architecture includes an AC-DC power factor correction (PFC) converter, an isolated or
18
non-isolated DC-DC converter, and, in certain cases, PV systems. Various integrated DC-
DC converters have been researched for PEV charger systems as well as interface
between renewable energy like as PV systems and the power grid. Regarding this, a PWM
switching method and a phase angle shift control system are described for integrated
multiport DC-DC converters, and an on-board reconfigurable battery charger for electric
cars with traction-to-auxiliary mode is examined. However, most of these converters
require additional switching devices and are incapable of providing isolation between
grid DC-link, car batteries, and other low voltage DC demands [6].

Other than that, the main objective of this study is to offer a continuous power flow with
increased performance while resolving issues with power quality. In light of this, the LES
(Local Energy System) or ESS (Energy Storage System) has been introduced. A DC-DC
converter connected to this system is run by the PV system. Now that the energy has been
split in two, it is transmitted to the ESS and the load. In the event of a fault brought on
by overvoltage, the converter only supplies the maximum amount of energy to the load
while feeding the surplus to the ESS, where it is stored. To ensure that the load receives
consistent power, less power is delivered to the power from the ESS if the PV system's
voltage drops or its output decreases. In earlier systems, there was power flow between
the PV system and the load (the grid or domestic load). In this instance, there were two
types of power quality problems that destroyed the communication between the PV
system and the load. The converter system is also impacted by it. One is voltage sag,
which disrupts the device's power flow and creates power outages for users. A
malfunction in the system, such as a single line to field, lighting strikes on transmission
lines (DC line bus), or the installation of heavy loads, can cause voltage sag. In some
situations, the machine might not be able to deliver the load [7].

Besides that, microgrids have developed as a possible method of organising and

managing the use of distributed energy resources (DER). There are several benefits to
organising DERs into a microgrid before connecting to the current grid. First, adopting a
variety of energy sources helps reduce the risks associated with renewable energy. For
instance, solar and wind energy complement one another. Second, a microgrid has a
superior generating power profile than a standalone renewable energy system due to the

19
power management inside it. Power converters are needed to either ingest the excess
electricity produced by RESs or deliver insufficient power to the microgrid in order to
control power flow in the microgrid as well as the energy sources. However, these
multiport converters require an additional port extended in order to interface more than
three sources directly. Additionally, only a small number of four-port topologies may be
formed from three-port converters (TPC) without the addition of a significant number of
additional components [8].

Furthermore, a non-isolated multiport bidirectional DC-DC converter has been presented

that has been modified. The converter may be used to combine sources like as PV and
batteries for a 48V Low Voltage Direct Current Microgrid. In addition, the benefits of
multiple input sources are obtained by combining intermittent PV and batteries. Because
PV is intermittent, the electricity available from it is dependent on solar irradiance. So,
depending on demand variation and changes in solar insolation, the battery either absorbs
excess PV power or discharges to satisfy the increased load requirements. Therefore,
losses in the transformer's core and windings must be considered. Because of the apparent
problems of isolated multiport structures, non-isolated multiport DC-DC topologies are
likely to be more beneficial [9].

2.3 Boost Converter

Figure 2.1: Boost Converter Circuit Diagram [10]

20
 In this circuit, a solid-state device that acts as a switch, such as a power MOSFET,
is connected across the source. As a second switch, a diode is employed. The capacitor
and the load are both linked to the diode. As illustrated in the circuit diagram above, the
capacitor and load are connected in parallel. The inductor is linked in series with the
power supply, resulting in a constant input current. As a result, the boost converter serves
as a constant current input source, while the loads serve as a constant voltage source [10].

Table 2.1: The Advantages and Disadvantages of DC-DC Converters [11]

DC – DC CONVERTERS

ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES

It simplifies the circuit's power supply Noise increases as converters are

systems. switched.

It isolates the primary and secondary They are costly since they require an
circuits from one another. external circuit.

It provides a method for extending Choppers are ineffective owing to

potential (voltage) as needed. inconsistent voltage and current delivery.

It's also used to regulate and control DC Higher losses, increased input and output
voltage. capacitance, increased ripple current, etc.

The output is clearly structured as positive

or negative.

Using a converter can minimise the

amount of battery space needed.

2.4 Multiport Converters

Multiport dc-dc converters have lately generated a lot of research interest, which
might be linked to the growing need for renewable energy, the development of power
electronic systems, and the expanding usage of micro grids. Multiport dc-dc converters,
as opposed to numerous independent dc-dc converters, imply a compact construction

21
with a lower cost and fewer component counts. Switch voltage stress is a key difficulty
for multiport dc-dc converters at higher voltages. This is related to concerns such as the
high cost and inaccessibility of high voltage switches, which may also have a detrimental
impact on overall efficiency due to their high forward voltage drop and ON-state
resistance [12].

Figure 2.2: Block Diagram of Multiport Converter [12]

2.5 Photovoltaic Solar System

A photovoltaic (PV) system is made up of one or more solar panels, an inverter,

and other electrical and mechanical components that utilise solar energy to create
electricity. PV systems range in size from small rooftop or portable units to enormous
utility-scale power facilities. Although PV systems can function independently as off-
grid PV systems, this article concentrates on systems that are linked to the utility grid,
also known as grid-tied PV systems [13].

22
2.5.1 PV Components and Standards

PV modules are collections of PV cell assemblies, and they generally include 36

cells that are linked in four parallel rows that are connected in series. The area of a PV
module may range anywhere from 0.5 to 1 m2 , depending on its size. Panels are groups
of modules that are physically linked to one another and electrically connected in series.
PV generators are collections of multiple arrays, and arrays are collections of multiple
PV generators electrically linked in parallel to produce electricity. PV generators are
sometimes referred to as PV arrays. Figure 2.11 provides an illustration of the
configuration of the layout.

Figure 2.3: PV generator assembly [14]

PV cells, the construction of modules and arrays, and the same thing are not the
same thing at all. These accumulations of inequalities at the cell, module, and array levels
are the root cause of mismatch losses. Shades, array faults, and uneven irradiation in cells
may all produce voltage and current imbalances, which can cause modules to overheat
and incur damage. Shades can also generate array faults. External variables such as
temperature, illumination, and damaged cell surfaces may all contribute to the
deterioration of cells. Therefore, in order to effectively surround the cells, a metal frame,

23
which is commonly made of aluminium, and a back supporting substratum composed of
glass, metal, or plastic are used [14].

24
 CHAPTER 3

METHODOLOGY

3.1 Introduction

This chapter is about the methodology and procedures into develop of the
Multiport Bidirectional DC-DC Converter. At first, a flowchart will be proposed to
explain the process in this research. Next, the step of design and simulation of a Multiport
Bidirectional DC-DC Converter for PV Application will be explained.

3.2 Overall Project Workflow

The flowchart for the project is shown here in Figure 3.1. Because it comprises
all of the data and the historical research pertaining to the project, the literature review
serves as the primary reference point for the whole project. At this point, the literature
review is being expanded to include an investigation into a multiport bidirectional DC-
DC converter for use in photovoltaic (PV) applications inside a DC distribution system.

In continuation of that, a multiport bidirectional DC-DC converter for use in

photovoltaic applications is constructed in LTspice using. It is not possible to design the
hardware until the simulation has been tested and shown to be accurate. The stage where
the circuit has been integrated, and where the prototype has undergone extensive
development.

In addition, after the creation of the hardware has been successfully finished, an
analysis of the hardware's performance will be carried out. During the course of the
performance testing, if a problem is discovered, the circuit has to be rechecked before
moving on to the next stage. After the testing has been carried out effectively, the data
will next be gathered and examined.

25
 Last but not least, the documentation for this project based on the data acquired
has been converted from the analysis of the collected data into documentation.

26
 Start

Literature Review

LTspice Software

-To design/simulate a Multiport Bidirectional DC-DC Converter for 24 V input.

Parameters Calculation

- Calculate the duty cycle, Tperiod, Cout and Lmin.

NO
Simulation Testing

YES
Hardware Development

- Assemble the circuit of Multiport Bidirectional Converter

YES

NO
Performance Testing

Analyze the duty cycle for the pulse modulation

and determine the output voltage

Comparing and analyzing the result

End

Figure 3.1: Flowchart of designing a multiport bidirectional DC-DC converter

27
3.3 Block diagram of multiport bidirectional dc-dc converter

Figure 3.2 displays the general block diagram of the design. PV panel powers
DC-DC converter. The bidirectional DC-DC converter functions in two modes: charging
the battery and powering the PV. The PV panel will directly flow the energy to the battery
during charging mode. Then, when in discharging mode the battery is fully charge and
flow the energy to the load.

Figure 3.2: Basic Configuration of Multiport Bidirectional DC-DC Converter

Figure 3.3: The configuration of multiport bidirectional DC-DC for charging and
discharging mode by using LTspice Software
28
3.4 Configuration of multiport bidirectional dc-dc converter in LTspice

The three-port converter that was designed has three controlled switches: S3,
which is used to manage power movement away from the PV source; S1 and S2, which
are used to control power flow into and away from the battery, respectively; and S2,
which is used to manage power movement away from the battery. Either two switches or
one switch will be controlled depending on the modes in question. The converter's tiny
design is the consequence of the fact that it has only a single inductor. In addition, the
photovoltaic panel and the battery have been replaced in this LTspice with a DC voltage
supply. Figure 3.3 shows a multiport bidirectional DC-DC in charging mode, while
Figure 3.4 shows it in discharging mode. When the device is in the charging state, the
voltage shown for the output is indicated to be 46.69 V. When the power of the load is
less than the power of the PV, the battery needs to take up the extra power. As was said
before, S2 and S3 will be on in this mode, while S1 will stay off for as long as the situation
lasts. When PV power exceeds load power, the battery doesn't need to absorb any more
power. In contrast, while the battery is being discharged, the display indicates that the
output voltage is 45.87 V. S1 and S3 will be active in this mode, as was stated before;
however, S2 will remain inactive for the length of the condition as long as the load power
is higher than the PV power. PV power must be less than the load power for this situation
to continue to exist. This phenomenon takes place when the power generated by the PV
system is more than the power generated by the load.

In LTspice, the configuration parameter of a multiport bidirectional DC-DC

circuit is shown in Table 3.1. The inductor is set to 330 μH, the capacitor is set to 470
uF, the resistor for charging mode is set to 47 Ω, and the resistor for discharging mode is
set to 22 Ω. The DC source voltage is set to 24 V, and the battery voltage is set to 24 V.
The switching frequency is 20 kHz, and the duty cycle is set to 0.5. The charging mode
and the discharging mode of a multiport bidirectional DC-DC are both critical modes to
determine using these characteristics.

29
 Table 3.1: The Parameter design for multiport bidirectional DC-DC converter

Parameters Values

Duty Cycle 0.5

Switching frequency 20 kHz

Output power 100 W
Dc source voltage 24 V
Battery voltage 24 V
Output voltage 47 V
Inductor 192 μH
Capacitor 344.24 μF
Load resistance 30.72 Ω

3.5 Calculation of components

The duty cycle of the switch with an estimated efficiency of 90% to 95% is given
by the equation (3.1). V IN is the input voltage, V OUT is the desired output voltage,
and η is the efficiency of the converter.

(3.1)

24 × 0.95
𝐷=1−
47

D = 0.48 ≈ 0.5

30
The Tperiod, where f is representing for the frequency.

Tperiod = 1 / f (3.2)

Tperiod = 1 / 20kHz

Tperiod = 50 μS

Io is the output current, where V O = Voltage Output and the RL is the load resistance.

Io = V O / RL (3.3)

Io = 48 / 30.72

Io = 1.53 A

To reduce the voltage ripple caused by the circuit, the Output Capacitor (Cout ) value is
used. The ripple voltage on the ripple condenser (Vcpp) is 0.2 V, and the circuit functions
as intended with the minimal capacitor value. The calculation used is,

C= D max Vo
(3.4)
( fs × RL ) Vcpp

C= 0.9 47
(20k × 30.72) 0.2

C = 344.24 μF

31
The minimum inductance (L min ),
(𝐿𝐹)𝑚𝑖𝑛 = (1−𝐷min) 2 𝑅/2 (3.5)

𝐿 𝑚𝑖𝑛 = (1−𝐷min) 2 𝑅L/2𝑓

= [((1−0.5) 2 x 30.72) / (2 x20 k)]

= 192 μH

Table 3.2: The budget for this hardware project

No Material / Quantity Amount Per Total Amount

Software
Unit
1 Breadboard 1 RM 5.90 RM5.90

4 Coil Inductor 1 RM 6.50 RM 6.50

5. Capacitor 2 RM 0.20 RM 0.40
6. Jumper 1 set RM 14.00 RM 14.00
7. Resistor 4 RM 1.00 RM 4.00
8. Mosfet 3 RM 1.80 RM 5.40
9. Diode 3 RM 0.20 RM 0.60

Total (RM) RM 36.80

32
 CHAPTER 4

RESULT & DISCUSSION

4.1 Introduction

The gathered and documented results of the study are the subject of this project's
discussion. LTspice software’s simulation programme gathered and recorded the data.

4.2 Operating Principle for the simulation

Table 4.1 illustrates that the operation has two condition which is charging mode and
discharging mode. Battery Charging Mode in this mode of operation is recommended
when the PV power available exceeds the load demand and the extra power is utilised to
charge the battery. The entire switching time period (Ts) in this mode is separated into
three intervals: (1) S3 ON, (2) S2 OFF, S3 OFF, and (3) S2 ON, S3 OFF. The S1 is
always switched off in this mode of operation. While Battery Discharging Mode The
concerned mode indicates a circumstance in which the power requested by the load is
larger than the PV power. In this circumstance, the battery must power the load in
addition to the PV. The switch S2 is always switched off during the battery depletion
mode. Ts is separated into three intervals: (1) S1, S3 ON (PV not connected), (2) S1 OFF,
S3 ON, and (3) S1, S3 OFF.

33
 Table 4.1: The operating principle

PV panel Battery Intervals Duty Cycle Load

(replaced (replaced
as a DC as a DC
voltage voltage
source) source)
S1 S2 S3

1 OFF OFF ON
Charging
Mode 24 V 24 V 2 OFF OFF OFF 46.69 V
3 OFF ON OFF

1 ON OFF ON
Discharging
Mode 24 V 24 V 2 OFF OFF ON 45.87 V
3 OFF OFF OFF

Table 4.2: The specification parameter for the hardware of multiport bidirectional DC-
DC.

Parameters Calculated Hardware

Values Values
Switching frequency 20 kHz 20 kHz
Output power 100 W 100 W
Dc source voltage 24 V 24 V
Battery voltage 24 V 24 V
Output voltage 47 V 47 V
Inductor 192 μH 330 μH
Capacitor 344.24 μF 470 μF
Load resistance 30.72 Ω 47 Ω

Table 4.2 shows that the calculated values are derived from the calculation, but the
hardware values are derived from the real equipment that must be applied to the design
34
hardware. The hardware values increases because all the equipment’s must have a
specific value and the electronic shop only provide a round number values.

4.3 Analysis result of the charging mode for the multiport bidirectional DC-DC

In multiport bidirectional DC-DC, PV panel with 24 V and Battery with 24 V is

replaced by DC Source Voltage and will apply the value on the DC power supply when
the hardware is built. The result of the charging mode was presented.

4.3.1 Simulation of charging mode of multiport bidirectional DC-DC

By running a simulation in LTspice software, the pulse and output waveform are
shown in Figures 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6 and 4.7. These figures may be found in the
following tables. The waveforms of the current inductor, the current capacitor, the
voltage inductor, the voltage capacitor, and the voltage output are shown here. This is the
waveform for the charging mode, while the other one is for the discharging simulation.
Both the charging and discharging modes of the proposed system architecture are
investigated and examined. Control is exercised over both the power output and the
power input in accordance with the standards. The output voltage is set at 46.69 V while
the charging mode is active. In addition, the output voltage while the battery is in the
discharging mode is 45.87 V.

Figure 4.1: The waveform of capacitor voltage for the charging mode

Figure 4.2: The waveform of inductor voltage for the charging mode
35
 Figure 4.3: The waveform of output voltage for the charging mode

Figure 4.4: The waveform of capacitor voltage for the discharging mode

Figure 4.5: The waveform of inductor voltage for the discharging mode

Figure 4.6: The waveform of output voltage for the discharging mode

36
4.3.2 Analysis for charging mode for three intervals

First interval when S1 and S2 are OFF while S3 is ON

Figure 4.7: The waveform of inductor current

Figure 4.8: The waveform of inductor capacitor

Figure 4.9: The waveform of output voltage

Second interval when S1, S2 and S3 are OFF

Figure 4.10: The waveform of inductor current

37
 Figure 4.11: The waveform of capacitor current

Figure 4.12: The waveform of output voltage

Third interval when S1 and S3 are OFF while S2 is ON

Figure 4.13: The waveform of inductor current

Figure 4.14: The waveform of capacitor current

38
 Figure 4.15: The waveform of output voltage

4.3.3 Analysis for discharging mode for three intervals

First interval when S1 and S3 are ON while S2 is OFF

Figure 4.16: The waveform of inductor current

Figure 4.17: The waveform of capacitor current

Figure 4.18: The waveform of output voltage

39
Second interval when S1 and S2 are OFF while S3 is ON

Figure 4.19: The waveform of inductor current

Figure 4.20: The waveform of capacitor current

Figure 4.21: The waveform of output voltage

Third interval when S1, S2 and S3 are OFF

Figure 4.22: The waveform of inductor current

40
 Figure 4.23: The waveform of capacitor current

Figure 4.24: The waveform of output voltage

4.3.4 Analysis from charging simulation of Duty Cycle 10% to 90%

GR A PH OF THE CHA N GI N G OF DU TY CYCL E

Output Voltage

250 231.5

200

150
118.5
V OUT

100 78.9
58.9
46.7
32.7 38.6
50 24.9 28.3

0
0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9
DUTY CYCLE

Figure 4.25: Graph of the Changing of Duty Cycle

Figure 4.7 depicts the duty cycle increasing from 0.1 to 0.9. According to the
graph above, the higher the duty cycle, the higher the output voltage, and the lower the
duty cycle, the lower the output voltage.

41
4.4 Hardware

Figure 4.26: Circuit implemented from simulation to hardware prototype

Figure 4.8 shows the circuit that created on Ltspice software and implement it on
a breadboard. There’s three MOSFET, three diodes, one coil inductor with 330 μH, two
capacitors with 470 μF and one resistor with 47 Ω.

42
 Figure 4.27: Experiment setup for triggering the MOSFET

Figure 4.28: Duty Cycle for Pulse Modulation

Figure 4.10 shows the result of the circuit that created for triggering the MOSFET.
It shows that the waveform for the duty cycle. The frequency is setting at 20 kHz, and
the duty cycle is at 50%. The time period is 50μs and the Ton will be at 25μs.

43
 CHAPTER 5

CONCLUSION

5.1 Summary

As conclude, the multiport bidirectional DC-DC, the PV panel with 24 V, and the
battery with 24 V have been replaced by the DC Source Voltage. In addition, there is one
piece of resistor with a value of 47 Ω for the charging mode and 22 Ω for the discharging
mode. There are three pieces of mosfets, three pieces of diodes, one piece of inductor
with 330 μH, one piece of capacitor with 470 μF, and one piece of diode.

A multiport, bidirectional direct current to direct current (DC-DC) converter has

been devised so that usage in 47 V may be maintained. Depending on the amount of load
power, the battery may be employed in either the charging or the draining mode. Battery
discharge occurs when the load power exceeds the amount of electricity that can be
produced by PV. Battery intake occurs when there is an excess of PV power, and the
battery remains in charging mode. When both charging and discharging modes were
monitored at the same time, findings were likewise obtained for a step change in the load.
These results were based on the power of the load. It was discovered that the average
power of the PV and battery systems combined was equal to the power of the load, which
is verification of power balance in the converter. Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in
conjunction with energy storage devices such as batteries have the potential for a solution
to the current energy problem. Solar panels are capable of delivering the power they
create into a DC source, or the electricity may be stored in batteries for later use. Because
of the way it's designed, it's possible to transmit power in both directions, from the DC
supply to the battery.

44
5.2 Recommendation for Future Project

In accordance with the results, some suggestions have been put up for furthering
the process of improvement. In addition, the value of each component has to be increased
and additional calculations need to be done in order to reach the output value that is
wanted. It is used in the functioning of battery power systems and comprises consumer
gadgets. Applications of this technology include adaptive control and power amplif iers.
Higher output voltage is one of the benefits that come with using a Buck Boost Converter.
MOSFETs that have a low operating voltage and duty cycle. Increasing the number of
ports on the circuit to either four or five is still another option to consid er. A variety of
ports are connected to a wide range of renewable energy sources, each of which has its
own specific voltage level. Because of the many phase differences that exist between
them, the interaction between these ports will be challenging. It is challenging to keep
track of the flow of electricity and to deal with the interaction between the ports. Limiting
and regulating the interaction between many ports may be accomplished by the method
of "shorting" one port, which was used in the first part of this research.

5.3 Commercialization Potential

The development of a buck boost DC to DC converter turned out to be quite helpful

in the long run. Buck-Boost converters feature an adjustable output voltage that could be
set to be either greater or lower than the input voltage. This allows the output voltage to
be altered in either direction compared to the input voltage. The chosen output voltage
can then be kept at its original setting. The primary motivation for making this project
commercially available is to provide service to regions in Sabah, more specifically on
local property, in which the electrical utility is cut off and is not approved by Sabah
Electricity Sdn. Bhd (SESB). Because of this scenario, the civilised population that lives
here is subject to several challenges throughout the night, the most of which involve
electrical equipment such as lights. This initiative aims to create eco-friendly
technologies that employ natural energy sources. This programme doesn't degrade the
environment and has minimal impediments, thus this location has good commercial
potential.

45
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47