Title: Performance analysis of novel MPC cost function for DC/DC converters using hardware-in-the-loop simulation

Authors: Jawhara El Hmidi; Anass Mansouri; Ali Ahaitouf

Addresses: Laboratory of Research in Science and Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, Morocco ' Laboratory of Research in Science and Engineering, School of Applied Sciences, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, Morocco ' Laboratory of Research in Science and Engineering, Normal Higher School, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, Morocco

Abstract: This paper presents a model predictive control (MPC) strategy specifically designed to maintain a fixed switching frequency in boost converters. Conventional MPC techniques often suffer from fluctuating switching frequencies, due to the need for frequent re-tuning of weighting factors as operating conditions change. To overcome this limitation, the proposed approach introduces an adaptive cost function which incorporates the inductor current ripple and its influence on the switching frequency. By minimising unnecessary switching operations, the controller ensures a stable and predictable frequency, even under load fluctuations, reference voltage changes, and input voltage variations. Unlike conventional methods, the proposed strategy eliminates the need for frequent parameter tuning, providing a more robust, efficient, and reliable control solution. The proposed method is implemented and validated using a hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) setup with a ZedBoard platform and external ADC for real-time measurement. Comparative results with conventional MPC approaches demonstrate that the proposed strategy achieves a stable average switching frequency and maintains robust performance under diverse operating scenarios.

Keywords: model predictive control; MPC; boost; weighting factor; cost function; hardware-in-the-loop; HIL.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVP.2026.152834

International Journal of Vehicle Performance, 2026 Vol.12 No.2, pp.256 - 278

Received: 07 Jul 2025
Accepted: 20 Oct 2025
Published online: 13 Apr 2026 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article