A low-cost online estimator for switch-mode power supplies with saturating ferrite-core inductors

Ferrite-core inductors are largely used in switch-mode power supplies (SMPSs) and can be fruitfully exploited also when working in partial saturation. Several behavioral models have been recently proposed to represent both inductance and power losses in saturation conditions. In this paper we exploit this kind of models for estimating online relevant features of the SMPS inductor, such as current ripple and power loss, which are difficult to monitor through acquisition of easily-measurable quantities only. The method works at electrical steady-state, but is able to follow the thermal transients. Models are implemented on a low-cost microcontroller and tests are performed on a boost converter, for different operating conditions.

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