A High-Gain Single-Input Dual-Output DC-DC Converter for Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle Applications with Reduced Input Current Ripple

Abstract

This paper presents a high-gain non-isolated single-input dual-output (SIDO) DC–DC converter based on a quadratic boost architecture for fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) applications. The converter is designed to interface a low-voltage proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) with two simultaneous loads: a high-voltage traction bus and a low-voltage auxiliary rail. Unlike conventional multi-output topologies that rely on transformers or coupled inductors, the proposed structure achieves significant voltage gain at moderate duty ratios using only two switches, four diodes, and three inductors in a common-ground configuration. Magnetic coupling is eliminated while continuous input current with reduced ripple is maintained, which is a critical requirement for PEMFC longevity. Comprehensive steady-state analysis, parasitic evaluation, component stress derivation, and dual-loop proportional–integral (PI) control design are presented to characterize and regulate both output ports independently. The converter is validated through MATLAB/Simulink simulation and a 120 W experimental prototype operating at 12 V input, 48 V and 6 V dual outputs, and 50 kHz switching frequency. Results confirm stable closed-loop regulation, strong inter-port decoupling, fast dynamic recovery under step load and input voltage disturbances, and a peak efficiency of 94%, demonstrating the practical suitability of the proposed converter for high-gain multi-output DC–DC conversion in FCEV powertrains.