Step-Up DC-DC converters combining basic topologies with charge pump

Hybrid DC-DC converter topologies, combining inductor-based switching cells with Switched-Capacitor cells, are gaining an increasing attention in low to medium power applications where the miniaturization and possible integration of the power supply call for a reduction of the magnetic element energy and volume as well as an increase of the switching frequency. The latter, can be attained by reducing the device voltage stress, to keep the associated switching losses to a reasonable value. In this paper, a family of step-up DC-DC converters are derived combining a basic Buck and Boost cell with a charge pump. Lower DC and AC current levels are obtained in the filter inductor as well as lower device voltage stress compared to an equivalent standard Boost topology. The drawbacks are a floating load connection and possibly higher conduction losses. Simulations and experimental results are reported to validate the theoretical analysis and expectations.