Supported by Innovationsfonden Danmark (Innoexplorer programme) and completed at Aalborg University, Denmark.
Overview
FEST is a power converter concept designed to become the heart of smart buildings, by integrating different generation and energy storage technologies. The FEST power converter is suitable for bi-directional DC-AC, DC-DC, AC-DC, and AC-AC conversion with the same hardware configuration. The energy transfer is based on capacitors or similar energy storage elements, therefore inductors are not needed.
The multilevel output voltage ensures minimum grid side filtering requirements. The concept has been validated through an experimental laboratory prototype. The structure of the proposed converter enables direct integration of energy storage e.g. batteries without the need of a charger; other low-voltage generators such as fuel-cells can be integrated in similar manner.
Outcomes
Key features and advantages
- Capable of multiple different tvpes of inputs and outputs – the converter can handle both DC and AC inputs and outputs.
- Directly integrating energy storage – the structure of the converter allows integrating batteries or supercapacitors without additional charger circuitry.
- Flexible and scalable structure – the converter is made up of modules. Upscaling generation or load is possible by adding more converter modules.
- Flexible power routing – in case of multiple input / output terminals, more power can be routed to where it is needed.