Dual-Input High Gain DC-DC Converter Based on the Cockcroft-Walton Multiplier

Abstract

Recent advancements in renewable energy has created a need for both high step-up and high efficiency dc-dc converters. These needs have typically been addressed with converters using high frequency transformers to achieve the desired gain. The transformer design, however, is challenging. This paper presents a high step-up current fed converter based on the classical Cockcroft-Walton (CW) multiplier. The capacitor ladder allows for high voltage gains without the need of a transformer. The cascaded structure limits the voltage stresses in the converter stages, even for high gains. The converter (unlike traditional CW multipliers) allows the output voltage to be efficiently controlled. In addition, the converter supports multiple input operation without modifying the topology. This makes the converter especially suitable for PV applications where high gain, high efficiency, small converter size and MPPT are required. Design equations and possible control algorithms are presented in this paper. The converter operation was verified using digital simulation and a 450 W prototype converter.

Meeting Name

6th Annual IEEE Energy Conversion Congress and Exposition (2014: Sep. 14-18, Pittsburgh, PA)

Department(s)

Electrical and Computer Engineering

Sponsor(s)

National Science Foundation (U.S.)

Comments

This work was supported in part by the National Science Foundation under award ECCS-0900940.

Keywords and Phrases

Algorithms; Cascade Control Systems; High Frequency Transformers; HVDC Power Transmission; Cascaded Structure; Current-Fed Converter; Digital Simulation; High Voltage Gain; Multiple Inputs; Prototype Converter; Renewable Energies; Transformer Design; DC-DC Converters; Equations; Mathematical Model; Capacitors; Stress; Voltage Control; Inductors; Approximation Methods; Voltage Multipliers; Electric Current Control; Ladder Networks; Maximum Power Point Trackers

International Standard Book Number (ISBN)

978-1479957767

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

2329-3721; 2329-3748

Document Type

Article - Conference proceedings

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2014 Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Sep 2014

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