Broad band opto-capacitive power line communication coupler for DC nanogrids

Abstract

The restructuration of power systems from their traditional topology combined with the technological evolution in terms of power electronics and information technology has led to the recurrence of Direct Current (DC) networks in form of micro and nano as well as smart grids of which the functioning relies on communication systems. Power line communication system (PLC) being a matured and competitive technology is viewed as the backbone of future communication systems whose role will go beyond the actual power network operational purpose, towards an integration of more commercial services such as communication services for end-users. Though PLC technology has received attention from researchers, few focused on its main part namely the coupling. With new perspective applications, an emphasis should be put on economic and safety aspects of the couplers in new grids topology. Hence, this paper proposes a PLC opto-capacitive coupling method in application for DC nanogrids; that improves the safety of a transformerless capacitor coupling by providing a galvanic isolation between the line and devices under all conditions as proven through modelling and simulations using PSIM environment. The proposed coupling method also provides an economic alternative to PLC capacitive transformer coupling with the same degree of safety.

Keywords

• PLC coupling
• Opto-isolators
• DC nanogrid
• Broad band communication
• PSIM
• Electrical communication