This paper focuses on the study of the high frequency transformer incorporated in solid- state transformers, specifically on the development of the steps that enable the design of an optimized high frequency transformer and its equivalent model based on the desired characteristics. The impact of operating a transformer at high frequency and the respective solutions that allow this impact to be reduced are analyzed, alongside the numerous advantages that the utilization of these transformers has over traditional 50/60 Hz transformers. Furthermore, the power scheme of the solid-state transformer is outlined, focusing on the power converters, which are immediately before and after the high frequency transformer (HFT). We also investigate a control technique that allows for correct operation and the existence of power bidirectionality. In a novel approach, this paper demonstrates the systematic steps for designing an HFT according to the desired specifications of each given project, helping students and engineers achieve their objectives in power-electronic applications. Moreover, this paper aims at increasing the knowledge of this area of power electronics and facilitating the development of new topologies with high power density, which are very important to the integration of renewable power sources and other applications. Finally, a simulation is presented to validate a high frequency transformer and its control technique.

This paper presents predictive optimal control applied to field oriented controlled induction machine drives employing a matrix converter with input current control and near unity input power factor. The method uses a discrete-time model of the converter system to predict the future values of the output and input currents for all the 27 possible output voltage vectors generated by the matrix converter. The optimal controller minimizes output current (allowing the establishment of field oriented control) and input current errors using a cost functional with adequate weights. The performance of the proposed predictive control is validated by numerical simulations, which are also compared to Venturini modulation.

The increasing use of electrical vehicles aroused the problem of batteries charging and the consequent interface with the power grid. Commercial charging solutions are mostly based on unidirectional power flow converters; however, bidirectional power flow converters are an interesting solution when considering smart microgrid applications, with benefits in efficient energy use. In this context, the paper presents a bidirectional power flow converter for grid-to-vehicle (G2V) or vehicle-to-grid (V2G) applications. The conversion system is based on a three-phase voltage source inverter (VSI), which assures the grid connection with a unitary power factor. The direct current (DC) bus of the voltage source inverter is connected to a DC/DC converter that controls the battery power flow. This conversion system can operate in G2V mode when charging the battery or in V2G mode when working as an energy storage system and the power flow is from the battery to the power grid. The conversion system model is presented as well as the control strategy proposed. Simulation and experimental results showing voltages and currents in the circuit are also presented.