Hybrid-Cascade/Single-Switch Boost DC/DC Converter Based on Three-Winding Coupled Inductor

Abstract

This article introduces a novel hybrid-cascade/single-switch high step-up DC/DC converter. The converter leverages a voltage multiplier cell (VMC) integrated with a three-winding coupled inductor (T-WCI) to achieve significant voltage gain while mitigating the need for extreme duty cycles. Furthermore, the inherent passive clamping capability of the VMC effectively suppresses leakage inductance voltage spikes, thereby reducing switch voltage stress. By employing devices with low voltage ratings and low on-resistance (RDS–ON), the converter minimizes switching losses and physical size. Additionally, the reduced voltage stress alleviates the reverse recovery issues commonly associated with high-voltage diodes. The steady-state operation and analytical expressions of the proposed converter are derived and validated through experimental results obtained from a 40 V input, 400 V output, 480W prototype. © The Author(s) under exclusive licence to The Korean Institute of Electrical Engineers 2025.