Performance Considerations of a Bi-Directional DC/DC Converter for Fuel Cell Powered Vehicles

Fuel cell powered vehicles require a bi-directional dc/dc power converter in order to provide initial fuel cell startup and then to provide 12 volt battery charging in key run state. An efficient dc/dc converter is required to produce improved vehicle fuel economy. This paper describes the power loss analysis and methods used to develop the key power handling components for the bi-directional dc/dc converter.