Evaluation of a Single Inductor based Single-Input Dual-Output Buck Converter for DC Microgrid Applications

In this work we evaluate a Single inductor based Single Input Dual Output (SIDO) buck converter as a suitable alternative to a pair of Single-Input Single-Output (SISO) buck converters and SIDO buck converters involving multiple inductors. This SIDO converter has many applications but, in this work, we investigate its functionality for a typical solar powered DC microgrid application commonly seen for rural electrification in developing countries. In particular, we consider a 24V to 12V/5V application with detailed converter analysis. Simulated and measured results show a good match with measured efficiency of 95.8% and we believe that this will add significant value to future microgrid applications employing low voltage distribution with household loads at multiple voltage levels.