T35.4 - A Parametric Discrete-Time Solver for Analysis, Control, and Fast Hardware-in-the-Loop Simulation of Flying Capacitor Multilevel DC–DC Converters

In this digest, a parametric discrete-time solver with an adjustable step size is developed using compact and generalized state space models of FCML DC-DC converters and their solution vectors. The proposed solver can accurately characterize the dynamics of FCML converters using a smaller step-size, thereby enabling fast and accurate controller hardware-in-loop (HIL) simulation using substantially reduced hardware resources for high-frequency applications. The proposed solver utilizes a single hardware block with parameterized matrix elements using all possible switching configurations, which is scalable with an increasing number of voltage levels. Four-level boost and buck converter case studies are considered along with circuit parasitics. The accuracy of the proposed solver is demonstrated, even using a larger step size. The proposed technique is used to analytically obtain steady-state solutions using adjustable step-sizes. Experimental steady-state results of a three-level boost converter are found to closely match the analytical steady-state solutions.