Improving DC power supply performance: insights into Cuk and modified Cuk converters' stability and power factor

Abstract The conversion of alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) is pivotal for modern electrical systems, significantly influencing power delivery efficiency and stability. As the reliance on DC-powered electronic devices grows, optimizing AC-DC converters becomes increasingly important. Various converter topologies, including buck, boost, buck-boost, Cuk, and SEPIC configurations, exhibit unique characteristics that affect their efficiency and impact on the power grid. This study examines the performance of Cuk and modified Cuk converters, utilizing PSIM software to simulate these converters for a 1.4 kW power supply. The simulations reveal that both the Cuk and modified Cuk converters achieve reduced ripple in voltage and current outputs, addressing a significant concern for DC power supplies. Additionally, the modified Cuk converter demonstrates a marked reduction in the total harmonic distortion (THD) of the source current. This study explored the interaction between converter topologies and varying load conditions, emphasizing their impact on power factor—a measure of electrical power consumption. A higher power factor indicates improved efficiency and reduced reactive power, benefiting both the electrical system and the grid. The research further investigates how load variations affect power factor and converter performance, providing insights into designing converters that enhance system reliability and efficiency. By validating the simulation results with experimental data, it has been established that the modified Cuk converter topology offers superior performance and stability. This advancement supports the development of converters that optimize power factor and energy consumption, which are crucial for advancing electrical infrastructure. By bridging the gap between simulation and real-world performance, this work aims to provide valuable insights that can inform future enhancements in domestic EV charging infrastructure, ultimately contributing to the broader adoption of electric vehicles.