Impact of Component Dispersion in DC to DC Low-Power Low-Voltage Power Converter Array

Abstract

The paper deals with arrays of numerous power conversion cells, associated in series and/or in parallel to build larger step up or step down direct current (DC)/DC isolated converters. The work focuses on the impact of the spread and distribution of the conversion cell characteristics on the characteristics and performance of the power converter array (PCA). Based on a characterization protocol, about 130 conversion standard cells (CSC) are characterized and classified from a statistical point of view. Three families are defined and representatives are chosen and implemented in various configurations, in open and closed loop control, to analyze the impact of their spread characteristic over the global converter, the PCA. The paper is based on an extended practical set up and protocols, all described in details. Guidelines on CSCs implementation with respect to their dispersion are provided at the end on the paper.

Keywords

• power converter array
• dc to dc converters
• conversion standard cells
• statistical analysis
• multicell converters
• characterization