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Implementation of PID Controller Tuning for Buck Converter

Implementation of PID Controller Tuning for Buck Converter

Introduction

The buck converter is a DC-DC converter that steps down voltage while maintaining efficiency. In this tutorial, we will demonstrate how to design a buck converter, implement it in MATLAB, and apply a PID control strategy to maintain the desired output voltage.

Designing the Buck Converter

Key Specifications

  • Power Rating: 250 Watts

  • Input Voltage: 140 Volts

  • Output Voltage: 20 Volts

  • Switching Frequency: 10 kHz

Calculation of Component Values

To design the buck converter, we need to calculate the inductor (L) and capacitor (C) values based on the specifications. This involves determining:

  • Maximum output current (I_max)

  • Ripple inductor current and capacitor voltage

  • Load resistance using the formula: R=VoutImaxR = \frac{V_{out}}{I_{max}}R=Imax​Vout​​

The calculated values will guide the implementation in MATLAB.

Implementing the Buck Converter in MATLAB

Setting Up the Model

  1. DC Voltage Source: Set the input voltage at 40V.

  2. Switch: Use a MOSFET switch in the model.

  3. Diode: Connect the appropriate diode.

  4. RLC Branch: Create a series connection of inductor (L), capacitor (C), and resistor (R).

Generating the Control Signal

To maintain the output voltage at 20V, the system measures the load voltage and current. A reference voltage block is set to 20V, and a summation block compares this reference with the actual voltage, passing the result to the PID controller.

Tuning the PID Controller

Initial Response

After implementing the buck converter, the initial response showed an error of approximately 5V, with the output fluctuating around 19.5V. To reduce this error, we used MATLAB's built-in tuning method.

Data Identification and Tuning

  1. Identify Plant: Collect output data while adjusting the duty cycle.

  2. Estimate Transfer Function: Apply auto estimation to determine parameters (K, T, and θ) for the system's transfer function.

  3. Update Parameters: After tuning, the parameters were set to P=0.05479P = 0.05479P=0.05479 and K=8.72K = 8.72K=8.72.

Improved Performance

Post-tuning, the output voltage stabilized around 20V with minimal oscillation, significantly reducing the error.

Testing with Variable Loads and Inputs

Input Voltage Variation

We tested the system's response to varying input voltages from 45V to 25V. The buck converter maintained the output at approximately 20V, although minor fluctuations occurred.

Load Variation

We also simulated a load change from 50% to full load. The converter effectively adjusted its duty cycle to maintain the output voltage, demonstrating robustness in load management.

Conclusion

The MATLAB implementation of PID controller tuning for a buck converter illustrates the effectiveness of control systems in maintaining desired performance. By fine-tuning PID parameters, we achieved a stable output voltage even under varying conditions. This methodology can be applied to various DC-DC converter designs.

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