This paper presents a method to extend the input voltage range of an always-dual-path hybrid (ADPH) DC-DC converter using phase-shift operation with soft charging through a sub-inductor. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method can achieve a regulated 12 V output even when the input voltage decreases to 40 V (nominal: 48 V) at a rated load of 8 A. Furthermore, the impact of duty-cycle and phase-shift combinations on efficiency is analyzed, and practical design guidelines are provided to improve overall system performance.
.jpg "Katsuhiro Hata (he/him/his) photo")