I. Introduction
Many industrial applications of voltage regulation are accomplished via dc–dc power converters. For example, uninterruptible power supplies [1] are used in dc motor drivers for electric traction on trolleys [2]. Lighting systems using electronic ballasts also benefit from the use of such devices [3]. Today, switching devices are currently available, exhibiting high switching speeds and high power-handling capabilities. It is possible nowadays to design low cost, light weight, small size, and switched-mode power supplies with efficiencies beyond 90% [4]–[7]. The classic power converter topologies used are, generally speaking, “ buck,” boost, and buck–boost.