A two-input dual active bridge converter for a smart user network using integrated power modules

The current on the low voltage side of the high frequency transformer of a dual active bridge converter is subject to rapid rising and falling edge; in designing the converter, the peak current is a key factor to achieve robustness and reliability. To limit the peak current, the adoption of a further inductor in series with the transformer is a feasible solution. In this paper the authors propose a novel topology for a DAB converter useful to deeply reduce the peak current. The authors also present a 1kW prototype of a DAB converter implementing the proposed topology and built using integrated power modules in place of discrete ones. The results of a laboratory test clearly demonstrated the good dynamic response of the DAB converter considering a deep step change in power balancing.