Efficient power factor correction in single phase AC-DC boost converter for retrofitted electric bicycle battery charging: A finite element analysis approach

This research paper describes modifying a conventional bicycle into an electric bike by retrofitting it with a single-phase boost power factor correction (PFC) rectifier for low power battery chargers. The proposed work was designed and developed in a single stage, as opposed to the traditional two-stage chargers used to charge E-bicycle, to provide the desired outcomes of enhanced efficiency, good power quality, and dependability due to the charger's lower cost. Additionally, the proposed converter uses a single switch, which reduces not necessary body diode conduction and circulating current and enhances the PFC device's thermal management. Additionally, this research makes use of the diode bridge rectifier (DBR) arrangement, which offers low current stress and is suitable for electric bicycles. The converter operates at a low cost with reduced magnetics (DCM) by operating the charger in discontinuous conduction mode at such low voltage levels. It also accomplishes intrinsic power factor at the ac mains by employing a simple control method to maintain the battery in high power density constant current (CC) and constant voltage (CV) states. A thorough state space investigation is carried out in combination with modeling and testing to ensure that the electric bicycle charger operates effectively. Consequently, low power chargers are a good fit for the proposed single stage front-end converter, and a 250 W hardware prototype is used to verify the findings.