FPGA based fault detection and fault tolerance operation in DC-DC converters

Single-ended non-isolated DC-DC converters are used in embedded and safety critical applications. In more applications like airplanes, trains, electric vehicles, ships and distributed power systems fast fault detection is a mandatory step in order to make a suitable response to a switch fault. On the other hand, a fault tolerant topology is necessary to prevent further damage and to guaranty continuity of service. This paper proposes a very fast and efficient open circuit switch fault detection method associated to fault tolerant converter topology. Fault detection method is based on the shape of the inductor current. To perform very fast switch fault detection a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) digital target is used for the implementation of the proposed method and control. No additional sensors, which increase system cost and reduce reliability, are required for this detection method. Results show that the proposed method is fast, robust, and can be done in a few microseconds.