Analysis of Generalized n-winding Coupled Inductor in dc-dc Converters

This paper investigates the design of multi-winding coupled inductor for minimum inductor current ripple in rapid traction battery charger systems. Based on the general circuit model of multi-winding coupled inductor together with the operating principles of dc-dc converter, the relationship between the ripple size of inductor current and the coupling factor is derived under the different duty ratio. The optimal coupling factor which corresponds to a minimum inductor ripple current becomes -(1/n-1), i.e. a complete inverse coupling without leakage inductance, as the steady-state duty ratio operating point approaches 1/n, 2/n, … or (n1)/n. In an opposite manner, the optimal coupling factor value of zero, i.e. zero mutual inductance, is required when the steady-state duty ratio operating point approaches either zero or one.