New unidirectional step-up DC-DC converter for fuel-cell vehicle: Design and implementation

Supplying electric vehicles from renewable energy sources including fuel cells (FCs) is one of the significant challenges for large automotive companies. To match FC and electric vehicle's energy level, a DC-DC converter is needed, so the specifications of electric vehicles and FCs have to be considered. The present study proposes a new design for unidirectional DC-DC non-isolated boost converters with reasonable conversion rate, lower semi-conductor stress, ripple-free input current, and higher efficiency. This paper analyzes the converters in continuous conduction mode (CCM), and critical mode is then evaluated. Next, the proposed converter and some other converters are compared. The inductance and capacitance values are calculated and the relationships of efficiency and losses are obtained. The performance of the proposed converter is evaluated using a dynamic analysis. The results of experiment and Matlab/Simulink simulation are used to confirm the accuracy of the theory under 94.5% implemented efficiency.

Automated summary

This study proposes a new design for unidirectional DC-DC non-isolated boost converters, which can achieve reasonable conversion rate, lower semiconductor stress, ripple-free input current, and higher efficiency. The analysis is conducted in continuous conduction mode (CCM) and the relationship between efficiency and losses is examined.