Abstract
This paper describes a new current control method that enhances the dynamic performance of a single-phase bidirectional AC-DC battery charger to provide a high-frequency link between the grid and electric vehicle. The single-stage structure and the bidirectional power flow make the matrix converter an attractive solution for electric vehicle (EV) battery charging applications in the context of smart grids. The operating principles and modulation method are analyzed and discussed in detail. Furthermore, a current controller improved with a Smith predictor is proposed to decrease the phase delay in the measurement of the average current in the battery pack. The SP reduces the rise time to around a third and the settling time to half when compared with a PI controller. Simulations and experimental results from a laboratory prototype are shown to verify the feasibility of the proposed control scheme. © 2017 Elsevier B.V.

Abstract
This paper presents a new modulation and control strategies for high-frequency link matrix converter. The proposed method aims to achieve controllable power factor in the grid interface as well voltage and current regulation for a battery energy storage device. The matrix converter is a key element of the system, since performs a direct AC to AC conversion between the grid and the power transformer, dispensing the traditional DC-link capacitors. Therefore, the circuit volume and weight are reduced and a longer service life is expected when compared with the existing technical solutions. A prototype was built to validate the mathematical analysis and the simulation results. Experimental tests developed in this research show the capability to control the grid currents in the synchronous reference frame in order to provide grid services. Simultaneously, the battery current is well regulated with small ripple which makes this converter ideal for battery charging of electric vehicles and energy storage applications. IEEE

Abstract
The development of the Smart Grid concept is the pathway for assuring high reliability, control and management requirements in future electric power distribution systems. The Smart Grid can be defined as an electricity network supported by an intelligent infrastructure, both hardware and software, capable of accommodating high shares of Distributed Energy Resources. Within this line, a Smart Grid laboratorial infrastructure was developed, being dedicated to advanced research and demonstration activities. The adopted laboratorial architecture was developed according to the Microgrid concept, where Electric Vehicles are regarded as active and flexible players. Following the laboratory implementation, this paper provides a detailed description of its infrastructure and experimental capabilities, presenting and discussing different experimental set-ups and associated results.

Abstract
One of the main constraints for Renewable Energy Sources (RES) integration in LV networks are overvoltages caused by changing the normal power flow of the network. In favourable weather conditions high voltages may lead to overvoltage trips thus preventing the injection of renewable energy into the grid. An optimized management of power injection from controlled RES to keep the grid voltage within regulatory limits enables a larger energy output and deployment of distributed generation. The SuSTAINABLE project developed a centralized algorithm based on a hierarchical methodology to control distributed power injection and solve the identified issue. A decentralized algorithm based on a coordinated droop control embedded in the inverters was developed as well. In order to evaluate the proposed algorithms a controllable PV µG and batteries were installed at the end of the feeder of a real LV network operated by EDP Distribuicao. The obtained results are presented in this paper and show that a hierarchical methodology to control power injection could optimize RES energy production while maintaining voltages within bounds, thus enabling a larger deployment of RES at the LV levels.

Abstract
This paper presents an approach to design the transformer and the link inductor for the high-frequency link matrix converter. The proposed method aims to systematize the design process of the HF-link using analytic and software tools. The models for the characterization of the core and winding losses have been reviewed. Considerations about the practical implementation and construction of the magnetic devices are also provided. The software receives the inputs from the mathematical analysis and runs the optimization to find the best design. A 10 kW / 20 kHz transformer plus a link inductor are designed using this strategy achieving a combined efficiency of 99.32%.