Non-Ideal Push–Pull Converter Model: Trade-Off between Complexity and Practical Feasibility in Terms of Topology, Power and Operating Frequency

Abstract

Power converters are the basic elements of any power electronics system in many areas and applications. Among them, the push–pull converter topology is one of the most widespread due to its high efficiency, versatility, galvanic isolation, reduced number of switching devices and the possibility of implementing high conversion ratios with respect to non-isolated topologies. Optimal design and control requires very accurate models that consider all the non-idealities associated with the actual converter. However, this leads to the use of high-order models, which are impractical for the design of model-based controllers in real-time applications. To obtain a trade-off model that combines the criteria of simplicity and accuracy, it is appropriate to assess whether it is necessary to consider all non-idealities to accurately model the dynamic response of the converter. For this purpose, this paper proposes a methodology based on a sensitivity analysis that allows quantifying the impact of each non-ideality on the converter behaviour response as a function of the converter topology, power and frequency. As a result of the study, practical models that combine the trade-off between precision and simplicity are obtained. The behaviour of the simplified models for each topology was evaluated and validated by simulation against the most complete and accurate non-ideal model found in the literature. The results have been excellent, with an error rate of less than 5% in all cases.