Nonsmooth pitchfork bifurcation in a DC-DC converter: Coexisting attractors and intermittency

In this paper we deal with the analysis of nonlinear dynamical behavior of a single inductor two inputs two outputs (SITITO) power electronics DC-DC converter. The system can be used to regulate generally two outputs (one positive and one negative). Under certain operating conditions, the switching model can be approximated by a one dimensional piecewise constant vector field and, as a consequence, the corresponding map is piecewise linear (PWL). This model is derived and then it is used to study a nonsmooth pitchfork bifurcation in the system. Coexistence of attractors are detected by using the same model. Intermittent chaotic behavior is also addressed. Analytical results are confirmed by one dimensional and two-dimensional bifurcation diagrams.