A Hybrid Modulation Method for Single-Stage Soft-Switching Inverter Based on Series Resonant Converter

Pseudo-dc-link inverters are promising due to the single-stage configuration. The inverters can be isolated by high-frequency transformers, which also provide the freedom of step-up/down through winding turns ratio. Conventionally, a pseudo-dc-link inverter is based upon a pulsewidth modulation converter like flyback converter, but the accompanying switching losses can degrade efficiency and overall system performance. Alternatively, resonant converters (e.g., series resonant converter) seem to fit the need as they typically display soft-switching characteristics. However, the relevant research results are scarce because of two main reasons: high resonant current and limited soft-switching range. To overcome the difficulties, a hybrid modulation method is proposed in this article for a pseudo-dc-link inverter based on series resonant converter. In high-line region, the inverter operates with variable-frequency modulation, which leads to zero-voltage switching and relatively low-resonant current. In low-line region, the inverter operates with a short-pulse density modulation so that switching losses are greatly curtailed without excessive resonant current. The merits in both regions together contribute toward the high efficiency of the inverter. This article presents the operational principle of the proposed modulation as well as a comparison with other modulation methods. In addition, a 400 V-230 Vac, 2-kW prototype was built to verify the proposed modulation and the peak efficiency reaches 98.0%.