Input-Series-Output-Parallel DC Transformer Impedance Modeling and Phase Reshaping for Rapid Stabilization of MVDC Distribution Systems

This paper focuses on the instability problem of the medium-voltage DC (MVDC) distribution system and proposes an impedance phase reshaping (IPR) method. To obtain the load impedance model of the MVDC distribution system, the input impedance of the input-series-output-parallel (ISOP) DC transformer (DCT) is derived by the generalized average modeling (GAM). Based on the obtained model, the traditional ISOP DCT controller optimization (IDCO) approach is discussed and the IPR method is developed. An impedance phase controller is introduced based on the original control method. According to the optimized impedance stability criterion, the parameters of the impedance phase controller are determined. Compared with the IDCO approach, the proposed method weakens the negative resistance characteristic of the load impedance at the resonant frequency. Therefore, the MV bus voltage oscillation is rapidly mitigated. Besides, the dynamic performance of the system using the IPR method can be classified as good. The simulation results show that the mathematical model is correct, and the proposed method is effective for the rapid stabilization of MVDC distribution systems.

Off-Grid Electrical Cell Lysis Microfluidic Device Utilizing Thermoelectricity and Thermal Radiation

Microfluidic devices have enormous potential and a wide range of applications. However, most applications end up as chip-in-a-lab systems because of power source constraints. This work focuses on reducing the reliance on the power network and expanding on the concept of a lab-on-a-chip for microfluidic devices. A cellulose-based radiator to reflect infrared (IR) radiation with wavelengths within the atmospheric window (8–13 µm) into outer space was fabricated. This process lowered the temperature inside the insulated environment. The difference in temperature was used to power a thermoelectric generator (TEG) and generate an electric current. This electric current was run through a DC-DC transformer to increase the voltage before being used to perform electrical cell lysis with a microfluidic device. This experimental setup successfully achieved 90% and 50% cell lysis efficiencies in ideal conditions and in field tests, respectively. This work demonstrated the possibility of utilizing the unique characteristics of a microfluidic device to perform an energy-intensive assay with minimal energy generated from a TEG and no initial power input for the system. The TEG system also required less maintenance than solar, wind, or hydroelectricity. The IR radiation process naturally allows for more dynamic working conditions for the entire system.