Open CAN-based communication architecture study for the association of modular open source power converters (OPEN-CANVERTER)

The OPEN-CANVERTER studied how a micro-grid can be expanded and be real time controlled (through distributed and centralized methods) by using software defined power converters and an open-source CAN-based communication system. Software defined power converters are re-programmable power hardware which can assume different power conversion functionalities, such as DC-DC and DC-AC. This generic power hardware can be used to create different types of micro-grids, from stand-alone solar home systems to more complex power converter based micro-grids. To expand a micro-grid from simple to complicated it can either have existing conversion function reinforced by parallel module connection (i.e. more power to a DC battery charger) or have the addition of new conversion functions (i.e. an inverter in a DC grid). A key to this expansion is a seamless communication system. A total of 5 tests conducted over the access period to assess the performance of such modular software defined power converters. The purpose, the exact scope, and the results of each one of the 5 tests are described in detail later in the document.