GaN-based Multiport Resonant Converter for Automotive Applications

The increasing demand for high efficiency and high power density is impelling converters and devices to a limit. Wide-band gap devices, such as GaN HEMTs, have the ability to increase power density without affecting power losses. In this context, multiport isolated converters based on multiwinding transformers (MWT) are able to increase the efficiency and power density of the converter, in particular for low-power applications. For this reason, this paper proposes a topology, which is particularly useful for high-current applications, such as those required by onboard systems in electric vehicle (EV) applications. Moreover, this paper evaluates the different multiport resonant converters taking into account their efficiencies, operation under distinct voltage levels, and parameter mismatches. Finally, the effectiveness of the converter is validated by using analytical simulations and experimental results. For this purpose, a hardware demonstrator was implemented.