A New Strategy of Magnetic Design for DC Power Optimizers in Photovoltaic Applications

Abstract

This research introduces a novel approach to selecting and designing magnetic cores for DC power optimizers. Unlike traditional methods that depend on the Area Product ($ A_p $) and involve extensive trial and error to achieve the final design, the proposed methodology utilizes two essential parameters: the Core to Copper Loss Ratio ($ \gamma $) and the Window Utilization Factor ($ k_u $) for the inductor design process. The loss models of the inductor are formulated based on these variables, considering the impact of DC bias, a crucial factor that significantly affects the inductor in high magnetic field strength applications. To minimize the overall magnetic loss, a nonlinear programming technique is applied. The simulation results validate the effectiveness and rationality of the proposed magnetic models and optimization strategy. Therefore, this approach provides an efficient and effective alternative to the traditional trial-and-error approach for designing and selecting magnetic cores for DC power optimizers.