Multiple-Output DC–DC Converters: Applications and Solutions

Abstract

Multiple-output DC–DC converters are essential in a multitude of applications where different DC output voltages are required. The interest and importance of this type of multiport configuration is also reflected in that many electronics manufacturers currently develop integrated solutions. Traditionally, the different output voltages required are obtained by means of a transformer with several windings, which are in addition to providing electrical isolation. However, the current trend in the development of multiple-output DC–DC converters follows general aspects, such as low losses, high-power density, and high efficiency, as well as the development of new architectures and control strategies. Certainly, simple structures with a reduced number of components and power switches will be one of the new trends, especially to reduce the size. In this sense, the incorporation of devices with a Wide Band Gap (WBG), particularly Gallium Nitride (GaN) and Silicon Carbide (SiC), will establish future trends, advantages, and disadvantages in the development and applications of multiple-output DC–DC converters. In this paper, we present a review of the most important topics related to multiple-output DC–DC converters based on their main topologies and configurations, applications, solutions, and trends. A wide variety of configurations and topologies of multiple-output DC–DC converters are shown (more than 30), isolated and non-isolated, single and multiple switches, and based on soft and hard switching techniques, which are used in many different applications and solutions.

A Comprehensive Review on Charging Topologies and Power Electronic Converter Solutions for Electric Vehicles

“…Bidirectional converters regulate the power in both directions, while unidirectional converters have a unique power flow direction [13], [25]. In contrast, special converters include multi-port and softswitching converters for specific industrial technologies [12], [13], [32], [97], [108]- [112]. Looking specifically at the unidirectional and bidirectional converters, they can be classified into isolated converters and non-isolated converters depending on the existence of the transformer in the power circuit [11].…”

“…MISO converters can be used for combining different voltage sources for EV applications while SI-MO converters are used for portable applications. Several studies present a comprehensive review related to the MPCs in various aspects such as types, design, and detailed comparison [31], [32], [18] - [19], [97], [131] - [134]. Most research trends associated with the MPCs for EV applications can be found in [32] and [18] supported by the current challenges.…”

“…To cope with the restrictions of the DC-DC converters such as switching losses, size, and electromagnetic interference (EMI), resonant converters and multiport converters (MPCs) have been extensively implemented in high-voltage EV applications depending on the number of reactive elements and independent voltage sources [22], [31], [32].…”

Isolated DC-DC Power Converters for Simultaneous Charging of Electric Vehicle Batteries: Research Review, Design, High-Frequency Transformer Testing, Power Quality Concerns, and Future

“…The basic flyback converter uses one active switch (MOSFET/IGBT), diode, capacitor, and transformer. Theoretically, 'k' number of batteries can be charged using a flyback converter if a transformer with 'k' number of isolated secondaries is used [103], as shown in Figure 15. Getting multiple outputs does not involve much difference in complexity, space, or cost since each additional output requires one HFT, one diode, and one capacitor.…”

“…Figure 17 shows the implementation of a forward converter with multiple winding to enable simultaneous charging of batteries. Similar to a flyback converter, the forward converter also has a power limitation of 100 W [103]. The output of the kth winding is related to the input as given by Equation (12).…”