A Novel Dual-Input ZVS DC/DC Converter for Low-Power Energy Harvesting Applications

In this paper, a novel dual-input dc/dc topology is proposed for low-power energy harvesting applications. The converter is able to interface with two different power sources simultaneously. In the proposed topology, two boost converters are integrated with a shared diode and a filter capacitor, while the gate signals of two power MOSFETs are complimentary with certain dead-bands. The proposed topology may operate either in discontinuous-conduction mode or in hybrid conduction mode. In each operation mode, zero-voltage switching is achieved for both MOSFETs, while zero-current switching is achieved for the power diode, without any additional auxiliary circuit. Theoretical analysis, circuit modeling, and design considerations are also addressed in detail in this paper. Finally, a 10.1-W, 200-kHz prototype is designed and tested to validate the proof of concept. Experimental results are in accordance with the theoretical analysis.