Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) Converter

The MIMO DC-DC Converter is a robust and intelligent energy management system capable of handling multiple energy sources and storage systems simultaneously. Developed for use in research-oriented microgrid and hybrid system labs, the converter features multiple isolated input/output ports, each programmable for source or sink operation. This platform allows researchers and students to study MPPT, power balancing, energy routing, and converter control strategies between combinations of solar PV, batteries, fuel cells, and supercapacitors.

Key Features

Multiple Configurable Ports
The system is equipped with 2 to 4 configurable bidirectional DC ports, allowing seamless interconnection with various DC energy sources and loads, such as: Photovoltaic (PV) arrays, Battery energy storage systems, Fuel Cells (FC), Supercapacitors (SC), DC electronic loads or industrial DC bus systems. Each port is independently addressable and programmable, enabling flexible setup for hybrid energy systems, microgrid applications, or research testbeds.
Bidirectional Power Flow
All DC ports support bidirectional power transfer, meaning:Energy can be both drawn from and sent to the connected device (e.g., batteries can be charged or discharged). Power flow direction is dynamically controlled based on the system’s logic or user-defined parameters. This capability ensures maximum operational flexibility, crucial for energy balancing, load sharing, and testing scenarios.
MPPT & Power Routing Algorithms
Inbuilt and programmable maximum power point tracking and energy balancing logic.
High-Efficiency Isolated Converters
Each power path is managed by high-efficiency, galvanically isolated DC-DC converters: Ensures electrical isolation between ports for safety and noise immunity. Designed with modular architecture for easy expansion and system scaling. Enhanced thermal management, including heatsinking and optional forced air cooling, allows for continuous operation in various environmental conditions. The result is a reliable and stable system with minimal energy losses.
Real-Time Monitoring
LabVIEW interface showing voltage, current, power, SoC, energy in/out per port with open-source editable code.
Control Integration
The MIMO converter is designed to be control-system friendly with support for: MATLAB/Simulink models for algorithm development and simulation-based hardware control. Digital Signal Processors (DSPs) and microcontrollers (MCUs) via analog/digital IO or communication protocols. This makes it suitable for rapid prototyping, advanced control research, and system-in-the-loop (SIL/HIL) applications.
Protection & Isolation
Overvoltage, reverse polarity, thermal shutdown, current limiting.

Learning Module

MIMO Converter Architecture and Power Flow

Understand the design and function of a multi-port, bidirectional DC-DC converter.
Configure ports to connect and manage energy sources such as solar PV, batteries, fuel cells, and supercapacitors.
Explore bidirectional power transfer for energy routing, charging/discharging, and load balancing.
Study system safety features including electrical isolation, current limiting, and overvoltage protection.

Monitoring, MPPT, and Energy Management

Use a LabVIEW-based GUI to monitor voltage, current, SoC, and energy flow in real time.
Apply and modify MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) and power routing algorithms.
Analyze energy balancing strategies across multiple inputs and loads.
Evaluate system efficiency and energy transfer performance under dynamic conditions.

Control Integration and Research Applications

Interface the converter with MATLAB/Simulink, DSPs, or microcontrollers for custom control development.
Conduct simulation-based hardware control (SIL/HIL) for advanced converter testing.
Explore research topics such as hybrid energy management, EV battery interface testing, and microgrid coordination.
Prototype and validate converter control strategies in real-world scenarios.

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