A multi-input converter (MIC) to process wind-PV power is proposed, designed, analyzed, simulated, and implemented. The MIC cannot only process solar energy but deal with wind power, of which structure is derived from forward-type DC/DC converter to step-down/up voltage for charger systems, DC distribution applications, or grid connection. The MIC comprises an upper modified double-ended forward, a lower modified double-ended forward, a common output inductor, and a DSP-based system controller. The two modified double-ended forwards can operate individually or simultaneously so as to accommodate the variation of the hybrid renewable energy under different atmospheric conditions. While the MIC operates at interleaving mode, better performance can be achieved and volume also is reduced. The proposed MIC is capable of recycling the energy stored in the leakage inductance and obtaining high step-up output voltage. In order to draw maximum power from wind turbine and PV panel, perturb-and-observe method is adopted to achieve maximum power point tracking (MPPT) feature. The MIC is constructed, analyzed, simulated, and tested. Simulations and hardware measurements have demonstrated the feasibility and functionality of the proposed multi-input converter.

This study proposes a dual-output single-stage bridgeless single-ended primary-inductor converter (DOSSBS) that can completely remove the front-end full-bridge alternating current-direct current rectifier to accomplish power factor correction for universal line input. Without the need for bridge diodes, the proposed converter has the advantages of low component count and simple structure, and can thus significantly reduce power loss. DOSSBS has two uncommon output ports to provide different voltage levels to loads, instead of using two separate power factor correctors or multi-stage configurations in a single stage. Therefore, this proposed converter is cost-effective and compact. A magnetically coupled inductor is introduced in DOSSBS to replace two separate inductors to decrease volume and cost. Energy stored in the leakage inductance of the coupled inductor can be completely recycled. In each line cycle, the two active switches in DOSSBS are operated in either high-frequency pulse-width modulation pattern or low-frequency rectifying mode for switching loss reduction. A prototype for dealing with an 85-265 V rms universal line is designed, analyzed, and built. Practical measurements demonstrate the feasibility and functionality of the proposed converter.