Novel SWISS Rectifier Modulation Scheme Preventing Input Current Distortions at Sector Boundaries

This paper describes a new modulation concept for the uni- and bidirectional SWISS rectifier, which mitigates ac input current distortions at the mains voltage sector boundaries. An analytical model is derived and compared to simulations, which allows an estimation of the distortion's magnitude from design parameters, showing that these distortions increase the input current total harmonic distortion (THD) significantly. A modification of the original circuit topology is proposed, which decouples the operation of SWISS Rectifier's active third-harmonic current injection network and its dc-dc converter switches. An algorithm is presented which allows the calculation of a temporary pulse width modulation for the SWISS Rectifier's current injection network to mitigating the distortions. The concept is verified for both power flow directions and for operation with unsymmetrical and distorted mains voltages by measurement results taken on a bidirectional 7.5-kW SWISS Rectifier prototype. An ac input current THD of 1.3% results for symmetric sinusoidal mains voltages and 1.4% and 1.6% for operation with distorted and unsymmetrical mains voltages.