The Influence of Controller Parameters on the Quality of the Train Converter Current

This paper presents a stability analysis of train converters in order to evaluate how the controller parameters affect the absorbed current. The new dynamic model presented in this paper is capable of considering the time-variant nature of the system for the correct tuning of the feedback proportional-integral PI controller, applying a current controlled modulation technique never used in high-power traction converters. The reduction of the harmonic content of the current absorbed by a converter employed at the input stage onboard high-speed trains is really important, considering the interaction with the signaling system set up for traffic control. A computer model of the converter, considering both the power and the control structure, has also been implemented in order to deliver a validated tool for the developed theoretical analysis

Control of AC/DC microgrids with renewables in the context of smart grids including ancillary services and electric mobility

Microgrids are a very good solution for current problems raised by the constant growth of load demand and high penetration of renewable energy sources, that results in grid modernization through “Smart-Grids” concept. The impact of distributed energy sources based on power electronics is an important concern for power systems, where natural frequency regulation for the system is hindered because of inertia reduction. In this context, Direct Current (DC) grids are considered a relevant solution, since the DC nature of power electronic devices bring technological and economical advantages compared to Alternative Current (AC). The thesis proposes the design and control of a hybrid AC/DC Microgrid to integrate different renewable sources, including solar power and braking energy recovery from trains, to energy storage systems as batteries and supercapacitors and to loads like electric vehicles or another grids (either AC or DC), for reliable operation and stability. The stabilization of the Microgrid buses’ voltages and the provision of ancillary services is assured by the proposed control strategy, where a rigorous stability study is made. A low-level distributed nonlinear controller, based on “System-of-Systems” approach is developed for proper operation of the whole Microgrid. A supercapacitor is applied to deal with transients, balancing the DC bus of the Microgrid and absorbing the energy injected by intermittent and possibly strong energy sources as energy recovery from the braking of trains and subways, while the battery realizes the power flow in long term. Dynamical feedback control based on singular perturbation analysis is developed for supercapacitor and train. A Lyapunov function is built considering the interconnected devices of the Microgrid to ensure the stability of the whole system. Simulations highlight the performance of the proposed control with parametric robustness tests and a comparison with traditional linear controller. The Virtual Synchronous Machine (VSM) approach is implemented in the Microgrid for power sharing and frequency stability improvement. An adaptive virtual inertia is proposed, then the inertia constant becomes a system’s state variable that can be designed to improve frequency stability and inertial support, where stability analysis is carried out. Therefore, the VSM is the link between DC and AC side of the Microgrid, regarding the available power in DC grid, applied for ancillary services in the AC Microgrid. Simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed adaptive inertia, where a comparison with droop and standard control techniques is conducted.As Microrredes são uma ótima solução para os problemas atuais gerados pelo constante crescimento da demanda de carga e alta penetração de fontes de energia renováveis, que resulta na modernização da rede através do conceito “Smart-Grids”. O impacto das fontes de energia distribuídas baseados em eletrônica de potência é uma preocupação importante para o sistemas de potência, onde a regulação natural da frequência do sistema é prejudicada devido à redução da inércia. Nesse contexto, as redes de corrente contínua (CC) são consideradas um progresso, já que a natureza CC dos dispositivos eletrônicos traz vantagens tecnológicas e econômicas em comparação com a corrente alternada (CA). A tese propõe o controle de uma Microrrede híbrida CA/CC para integrar diferentes fontes renováveis, incluindo geração solar e frenagem regenerativa de trens, sistemas de armazenamento de energia como baterias e supercapacitores e cargas como veículos elétricos ou outras (CA ou CC) para confiabilidade da operação e estabilidade. A regulação das tensões dos barramentos da Microrrede e a prestação de serviços anciliares são garantidas pela estratégia de controle proposta, onde é realizado um rigoroso estudo de estabilidade. Um controlador não linear distribuído de baixo nível, baseado na abordagem “System-of-Systems”, é desenvolvido para a operação adequada de toda a rede elétrica. Um supercapacitor é aplicado para lidar com os transitórios, equilibrando o barramento CC da Microrrede, absorvendo a energia injetada por fontes de energia intermitentes e possivelmente fortes como recuperação de energia da frenagem de trens e metrôs, enquanto a bateria realiza o fluxo de potência a longo prazo. O controle por dynamical feedback baseado numa análise de singular perturbation é desenvolvido para o supercapacitor e o trem. Funções de Lyapunov são construídas considerando os dispositivos interconectados da Microrrede para garantir a estabilidade de todo o sistema. As simulações destacam o desempenho do controle proposto com testes de robustez paramétricos e uma comparação com o controlador linear tradicional. O esquema de máquina síncrona virtual (VSM) é implementado na Microrrede para compartilhamento de potência e melhoria da estabilidade de frequência. Então é proposto o uso de inércia virtual adaptativa, no qual a constante de inércia se torna variável de estado do sistema, projetada para melhorar a estabilidade da frequência e prover suporte inercial. Portanto, o VSM realiza a conexão entre lado CC e CA da Microrrede, onde a energia disponível na rede CC é usada para prestar serviços anciliares no lado CA da Microrrede. Os resultados da simulação mostram a eficácia da inércia adaptativa proposta, sendo realizada uma comparação entre o controle droop e outras técnicas de controle convencionais

A Reduced-Order Generalized Proportional Integral Observer-Based Resonant Super-Twisting Sliding Mode Control for Grid-Connected Power Converters

This article presents a reduced-order generalized proportional-integral observer based resonant super-twisting sliding mode controller (RST-SMC) for the three-phase ac-dc converters. On the contrary to utilizing the proportional-integral controller in regulating the dc-link voltage, which may cause large undershoot/overshoot under the disturbance, the proposed voltage control strategy for the dc-link has high disturbance rejection ability and the settling time has been greatly reduced. In addition, the proposed RST-SMC in the current control loop not only preserve the merits of the sliding mode controller but also achieve the current tracking without steady-state error in the stationary \alpha - \beta frame. The effectiveness of the proposed method has been verified by a lab-constructed experimental prototype.This work was supported by Shenzhen Overseas High Level Talent Program. The work of Josep M. Guerrerork was supported by VILLUM FONDEN under the VILLUM Investigator Grant (no. 25920): Center for Research on Microgrids (CROM); www.crom.et.aau.dk

Design and Control of Power Converters 2019

In this book, 20 papers focused on different fields of power electronics are gathered. Approximately half of the papers are focused on different control issues and techniques, ranging from the computer-aided design of digital compensators to more specific approaches such as fuzzy or sliding control techniques. The rest of the papers are focused on the design of novel topologies. The fields in which these controls and topologies are applied are varied: MMCs, photovoltaic systems, supercapacitors and traction systems, LEDs, wireless power transfer, etc

Sliding Mode Control

The main objective of this monograph is to present a broad range of well worked out, recent application studies as well as theoretical contributions in the field of sliding mode control system analysis and design. The contributions presented here include new theoretical developments as well as successful applications of variable structure controllers primarily in the field of power electronics, electric drives and motion steering systems. They enrich the current state of the art, and motivate and encourage new ideas and solutions in the sliding mode control area

Design of Proportional-Resonant Control for Current Harmonic Compliance in Electric Railway Power Systems

This paper presents the process of designing proportional-resonant controller for a four-quadrant rectifier in electric railway traction system. In the context of ever-stricter power quality and electromagnetic compatibility standards in electric railway power systems, developers of electric locomotives need to adapt with new ways to comply. This paper develops on the process of designing a four-quadrant rectifier proportional-resonant control for mitigation of low frequency current harmonic distortion, a novel method in the field of railway EMC. The control parameters are determined through analytical modeling of the rectifier through transfer functions. For the purpose of studying the harmonic distortion mitigation effects, only the current control loop was modeled and designed. The modeling starts with simplification of the model via large-signal modeling of the power converter. The parameters of the circuit then were used to develop the transfer functions, and select the appropriate parameter values of the current loop plant. The control loop and parameters were evaluated on test locomotive to validate the control, with results confirming the improved impact on the electromagnetic compatibility and conformity to regulation

Hybrid energy storage systems via power electronic converters

In recent years, many research lines have focused their efforts on improving energy efficiency and developing renewable energy sources. In this context, the use of energy storage systems is on the rise, as they can contribute to the integration of renewables to the main electrical grid. However, energy storage systems are divided into high energy or high power devices. Due to the lack of a solution covering both aspects, researchers are forced to find alternatives. The hybridization of different energy storage technologies is presented as a suitable solution for this problem, since it combines high power and high energy within the same system. The main goal of this thesis is the design and implementation of a hybrid energy storage system (HESS), capable of improving the performance provided by a single storage technology. As a first step in this direction, this document reviews and classifies the most relevant HESS topologies found in the literature. This allows a better understanding of the drawbacks and benefits of each configuration. To ensure the optimal use of this HESS, it is essential to design a suitable energy management strategy and a proper power electronic converter control. To this end, the control structure has been analyzed from different approaches. On the one hand there would be the classic multilevel control structure, which usually consists of three levels among which are the operating constraints, the power sharing and at the lowest level the control of the converter. On the other hand there would be the single level control structure in which both, the power distribution and the control of the converter, are integrated within the same level by using modern MPC control algorithms. Finally, three different case studies are presented to show the practical application of the developed control strategies together with the main conclusions of the thesis.Azken urteetan, ikerketa-lerro askok eraginkortasun energetikoa hobetzeko eta energia berriztagarriak garatzeko ahaleginak egin dituzte. Testuinguru honetan, energia metatze sistemen erabilera geroz eta handiagoa da, berriztagarrien integrazioa sare elektrikoarekin erraztu dezaketelako. Hala ere, energia altuko edo potentzia altuko metatze sistemak bakarrik aukeratu daitezke. Horregatik, ikertzaileek alternatiba berriak bilatzera behartuta daude. Energia metatze sistema desberdinen hibridazioa, arazo horri irtenbidea ematen dio. Honekin, potentzia eta energia maila altuak sistema bakar batetan batu daitezke. Tesi honen helburu nagusia, energia metatze sistema hibrido (HESS sigla, ingelesetik Hybrid Energy Storage System) bat diseinatzea eta inplementatzea da. Sistema honek, teknologia bakar batek eskaintzen duen errendimendua hobetzeko gai izan beharko luke. Lehen urratsa bezala, dokumentu honek literaturan aurkitutako topologia hibrido garrantzitsuenak laburbildu eta batzen ditu. Honi esker, konfigurazio bakoitzaren abantaila eta desabantailak hobeto ulertzea ahal da. HESS honen erabilera optimoa bermatzeko, ezinbestekoa da energia kudeatzeko estrategia on bat diseinatzea bihurgailu elektronikoaren kontrol egokiarekin batera. Horretarako, kontrol egitura ikuspegi desberdinetatik aztertuko da. Alde batetik, maila anitzeko kontrol egitura klasikoa egongo litzateke, normalean hiru mailaz osatua dagoena. Goi mailan funtzionamendu eta segurtasun mugak egongo lirateke, erdiko mailan potentzia banaketa, eta azkenik bihurgailuaren maila baxuko kontrola. Bestalde, maila bakarreko kontrol egitura egongo litzateke non mugak, potentzia banaketa eta bihurgailuaren kontrola maila berean integratzen dira kontrol iragarleko algoritmoen bidez (MPC). Azkenik, hiru kasu desberdin aurkezten dira garatutako kontrolen aplikazio praktikoa erakusteko tesiaren ondorio nagusiekin batera.En los últimos años, numerosas líneas de investigación han centrado sus esfuerzos en mejorar la eficiencia energética junto con el desarrollo de fuentes de generación renovables. En este contexto, el uso de sistemas de almacenamiento de energía está al alza, ya que estos pueden contribuir a la integración de las renovables en la red eléctrica convencional. Sin embargo, la necesidad de elegir entre dispositivos de alta energía o alta potencia, obliga a los investigadores a buscar otras alternativas. La hibridación de diferentes sistemas de almacenamiento se presenta como una solución apropiada para este problema, ya que combina alta energía y alta potencia dentro de un mismo sistema. El objetivo principal de esta tesis es el diseño e implementación de un sistema híbrido de almacenamiento de energía (sigla HESS, del inglés Hybrid Energy Storage System), capaz de mejorar las prestaciones que proporcionaría el uso de una única tecnología. Como primer paso en esta dirección, en este documento resume y clasifica las topologías de hibridación más relevantes encontradas en la literatura. Esto permite una mejor comprensión de los beneficios e inconvenientes de cada configuración. Para garantizar el uso óptimo de dicho HESS, es esencial diseñar una estrategia adecuada de gestión de energía junto con un control óptimo del convertidor electrónico de potencia. Para lograr este fin, la estructura de control ha sido analizada desde diferentes enfoques. Por un lado se encontraría la estructura de control multinivel clásica, la cual generalmente consta de tres niveles. En el nivel más alto se encontrarían las restricciones operativas y de seguridad, en el intermedio se encontraría la división de potencia, y por último el control de nivel bajo del convertidor. Por otro lado, se encontraría la estructura de control de un único nivel, en la que tanto las restricciones, el reparto de potencia y el control del convertidor se integran dentro del mismo nivel mediante algoritmos de control predictivo (MPC). Finalmente, se presentan tres casos de estudio para mostrar la aplicación práctica de las estrategias de control desarrolladas junto con las principales conclusiones de la tesis

An Event-Based Synchronization Framework for Controller Hardware-in-the-loop Simulation of Electric Railway Power Electronics Systems

The Controller Hardware_in_the_loop (CHIL) simulation is gaining popularity as a cost_effective, efficient, and reliable tool in the design and development process of fast_growing electrified transportation power converters. However, it is challenging to implement the conventional CHIL simulations on the railway power converters with complex topologies and high switching frequencies due to strict real_time constraints. Therefore, this paper proposes an event-based synchronization CHIL (ES_CHIL) framework for high_fidelity simulation of these electrified railway power converters. Different from conventional CHIL simulations synchronized through the time axis, the ES_CHIL framework is synchronized through the event axis. Therefore, it can ease the real_time constraint and broaden the upper bound on the system size and switching frequency. Besides, models and algorithms with higher accuracy, such as the diode model with natural commutation processes, can be used in the ES-CHIL framework. The proposed framework is validated for a 350 kW wireless power transformer system containing 24 fully controlled devices and 36 diodes by comparing it with Simulink and physical experiments. This research improves the fidelity and application range of the power converters CHIL simulation. Thus, it helps to accelerate the prototype design and performance evaluation process for electrified railways and other applications with such complex converters