How to detect and to localize a fault in a DC/DC converter?

The authors present an approach to detecting and localizing faults in a chopper and its supply. The proposed technique is based on an estimation of the state variables, a comparison with measured state variables, and a generation of residuals. These residuals are then treated in a diagnostic module where the defects are detected and a preliminary localization is performed. This localization is then confirmed in a confirmation module, in order to avoid false alarms and to distinguish between system defects and instrument defects. This approach is tested by a realistic simulation, and the results are verified experimentally