A New ZVS Multi-input Converter with Modular Auxiliary Circuit and Low Voltage Stress for Renewable Energy Applications

Renewable energy sources like wind and solar power experience output voltage fluctuations due to changing weather conditions. To maintain a stable power supply, integrating multiple input sources is essential. A Multi-Input Converter (MIC) provides a more efficient solution by reducing the need for numerous passive components, which in turn minimizes cost, size, and weight compared to separate converters. This study introduces a dual-input boost converter with zero voltage switching (ZVS), utilizing a single auxiliary circuit to enable soft switching for all semiconductor elements. This design not only improves efficiency but also retains the advantages of multi-input converters. Additionally, a voltage multiplier is incorporated to enhance the voltage conversion ratio, achieving higher voltage gains. The theoretical analysis of the proposed converter is validated through experimental results, with efficiency measurements demonstrating a 3% improvement over conventional hard-switching designs.