State-of-Charge Balancing Control for Dual-Bus Battery System with Low-Voltage Output Regulation

Abstract

This article introduces a new method for balancing the state of charge (SOC) in a dual-bus battery system architecture. The system consists of multiple battery cells or modules connected in series to provide high voltage output. Additionally, low-power flyback converters are connected in series with each battery cell or module at the inputs, and their outputs are connected in parallel to provide lower voltage output. The SOC balancing algorithm ensures that the lower voltage output remains at a desired reference value by adjusting the average duty cycle of each power converter, while also balancing the rate of charge or discharge of each battery cell or module. This SOC balancing process does not affect the normal operation of the high voltage power output. In other words, the dual output (high voltage and low voltage) of the battery system can function independently, and the balancing current only flows through the low voltage power path. Experimental results from a prototype are provided and discussed to validate the proposed dual-bus battery system and controller.