Advances in Non-Isolated DC-DC Converters Control Technologies: A Review and Future Perspectives

Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive review of control techniques, simulation mechanisms, and validation methods applied to DC-DC converters, with a focus on high-step-up topologies used in renewable energy systems such as photovoltaic and wind power applications. Control strategies including classical PID, fuzzy logic, sliding mode, and model predictive control (MPC) are analyzed in terms of performance, robustness, and implementation complexity. Simulation platforms and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) validation frameworks are also discussed as key enablers for rapid prototyping. The findings reveal a clear trend toward intelligent and hybrid control schemes that combine nonlinear techniques with artificial intelligence to address the inherent nonlinearities and parametric uncertainties of DC-DC converters. However, challenges remain in real-time implementation due to computational demands, which drives the need for future developments focused on the (i) integration of AI-based controllers with low-cost embedded platforms, (ii) standardization of HIL-based validation workflows, and (iii) optimization of converter topologies for specific applications such as electric vehicle charging and photovoltaic grid integration. Looking forward, the convergence of advanced control algorithms, real-time validation platforms, and application-specific converter design is expected to define the next generation of power electronics systems, enabling more efficient, reliable, and scalable renewable energy integration.