A new dual-input three-winding coupled-inductor based DC-DC boost converter for renewable energy applications

Background A new non-isolated high voltage dual-input three coupled-inductor based dc-dc boost converter for harvesting energy from a renewable source and an storage element is proposed here. Methods It employs only one integrated three-winding magnetic coupled-inductor and two power switches to interface a battery source, a renewable resource and the output load. The two PWM switching signals of the converter power switches are utilized to regulate the converter output voltage and realize MPPT performance for the renewable source. Results A laboratory prototype of the proposed converter was built and experimented in different operation conditions. Based on this, the capability of the converter in accurate and fast responding to the applied step changes and the effectiveness and validity of the proposed converter performance are recognized. Conclusion The proposed converter benefits from simple and compact structure, minimum number of power switches and magnetic elements, bidirectional power flow at the battery port, high voltage gain and acceptable power efficiency.