Overcoming High Frequency Limitations of Current-Mode Control Using a Control Conditioning Approach -- Part I: Modeling and Analysis

Abstract: Current-mode control is one of the most popular controller strategies for power converters. With the advent of wide bandgap devices including GaN and SiC, higher switching frequencies have become more viable at higher power because of lower switching losses. However, the advantage of higher switching frequency for faster, higher bandwidth control is squandered because of current sensor interference. We present a framework for characterizing and analyzing this interference as uncertainties to the controller model. These uncertainties introduce additional dynamics and nonlinearity that can result in instability and poor transient performance of the current control loop. In this paper, we provide a model framework based on a new control conditioning approach that guarantees global stability and a strategy for optimizing transient performance. In Part II of this paper series, we present the analysis, design, and hardware validation of three effective solutions.