Inductor Mismatch Compensation in Parallel Operation Multi-Phase DC-DC Converters Using Ripple-Based Self-Balancing Control

Interleaved DC–DC converters are increasingly adopted in advanced power electronics systems to deliver high current capability, improve efficiency, and accelerate transient performance. By employing multiple converter phases, each equipped with its own switches and inductor, the ripple frequencies are effectively multiplied, significantly reducing the output ripple. This enables the use of smaller filters, enhancing the power density. Sharing current across multiple phases reduces thermal stress and component stress, enhancing overall system reliability, making interleaved topologies particularly suited for electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and high-performance computing applications. However, achieving optimal phase balance is challenging due to inherent device mismatches and variability in external components. This paper identifies critical sources of imbalance and presents an effective correction strategy.