Bidirectional DC-DC converter

Bi-directional DC to DC voltage convertors typically convert a lower DC voltage (i.e. 12-48V) into a higher one (i.e. 100-400V) and vice-versa, at high (+95%) efficiency. These devices could be used in a decentralized grid system to allow for efficient transfer of energy over longer distances and to provide isolation.

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Existing systems

Several modules exist with this functionality, most of which find their typical usage in the electrical automobile industry for applications like regenerative breaking.

Examples

• TDK’s bi-directional DC-DC converters https://nl.tdk-lambda.com/products/product-details.aspx?scid=351

• BRUSA’s Bidirectional Auxiliary Supply Converter

• Vicor’s BCM chips

Papers and articles

• A new high efficiency isolated bi-directional DC-DC converter for DC-bus and battery-bank interface (Vicor)

• Converting 380 V Bus to Low Voltage for Point-of-Load Applications

• Bidirectional DC/DC conversion enables efficient back-up power configurations

• Bidirectional DC-DC Converters for Energy Storage Systems

• TI Designs Bidirectional DC-DC Converter