A Dual Inductor High Step-Up DC/DC Converter Based on the Cockcroft–Walton Multiplier

Abstract

A new nonisolated, high step-up dc-dc converter is proposed based on the current-fed Cockcroft-Walton Voltage Multiplier (CW-VM) that can be used as the boosting power stage of converter for low-voltage low power renewable energy sources such as photovoltaic and fuel cells. The proposed converter employs two low-voltage common-emitter switches. Utilizing the current-fed CW-VM eliminates some problems associated with the conventional voltage-fed type such as voltage ripple and load-dependent voltage droop. Other advantages of the proposed converter are continuous input current, high voltage gain, and high efficiency. Steady state operation principles, specifications, and design considerations of the proposed converter are illustrated. Furthermore, efficiency analysis of the converter is performed and discussed. Experimental tests for a 200 W prototype are carried out which confirm the theoretical analysis.