Abstract
In this article, a new interleaved multilevel boost converter (interleaved-MBC) is suggested with minimal voltage multiplier (VM) cells for high-voltage step-up applications. The interleaved-MBC is derived in such a way that the maximum utilization of the VM circuit operation can be achieved by the interleaved structure. Furthermore, compared to existing multilevel interleaved converters, the reduced number of capacitors and diode with equal voltage rating makes it more attractive. Similar to the existing multilevel converter, the feature of the interleaved-MBC provides the extension of the number of levels to achieve the necessary voltages just by adding similar capacitor-diode stages (single capacitor and single diode are required to increase the stage by one). The features like continuous input current, low-input ripples, high voltage conversion ratio, and reduced stress on devices make the proposed converter more suitable for the voltage step-up applications, such as dc link, hybrid distribution systems, hybrid photovoltaic systems, etc. The detailed analysis of the converter is carried out by considering the nonidealities in the power circuit. The operation of the interleaved-MBC is presented for continuous and discontinuous conduction modes with boundary conditions. The components selection criterion and the comparison of converters are presented with suitable discussions. The converter is experimentally tested, and the obtained results validate its performance and functionality.