Switching DC-DC power converter and battery charger for use with direct oxidation fuel cell power source

摘要

This invention presents a method and apparatus for controlling the operating point, i.e. the output voltage or current, of a fuel cell to a desired value, efficiently transferring the available fuel cell power to a rechargeable battery and load, and isolating the fuel cell from the battery and load. Active control of the operating point of the fuel cell allows for optimized power output and fuel cell efficiency. This invention uses feedback from the input to regulate the input voltage or current. The output of the DC-DC converter either charges the battery or helps the battery supply the load, and is maintained equal to the battery voltage as the output of the DC-DC converter is directly connected to the battery.