A bidirectional two‐input step‐up DC–DC converter with high gain, continuous input current, and common‐ground for EVs and renewable energy systems

Abstract

Here, a new two-input step-up DC–DC converter for electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy systems (RESs) is proposed. It requires few components and provides high step-up voltage gain and high efficiency. The topology includes two input channels connected to two energy sources based on the “switch-mode coupling” method. Sources supply the load via the proposed converter. Each source can charge another if it is rechargeable. The regenerative output side energy is also transmitted to the rechargeable source thanks to the bidirectional power transferring capability. Current sensitive resources can be employed as the converter operates with the continuous input current. The topology comprises only one main power switch located on the low-voltage side; therefore, it is exposed to low voltage stress and can be readily picked up from low voltage rating semiconductors with small on-resistance. Thanks to this feature, the conduction loss decreases considerably. The input and output terminals have a common ground. This paper demonstrates the theory and operating principle of the proposed topology. Experimental results are also presented and examined to verify the converter. For this purpose, a 48/400 V/1 kW prototype has been designed and built. Results confirm the converter and its operation.