A novel zero voltage switched PWM converter

A novel approach to realizing zero voltage switching for high-frequency PWM (pulse-width modulation) power converters is presented. By controlling an auxiliary circuit associated with the main switching devices, these devices can be turned off at zero voltage condition. The entire family of half- or full-bridge converters can be realized using the technique. The new converter topology differs from conventional hard switched converters only in that the snubber circuits are replaced with the auxiliary circuit. Converter analysis shows that the proposed converter has no voltage and current stress and low switching losses, and hence it is attractive in the application of high-voltage large-power converters. Simulation results have verified the proposed converter, which is to be realized in a 10 kHz 150 kW prototype.<
>