PFC Rectifier Output Voltage Control for Fixed-Frequency ZVS

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional AC-DC power converters with PFC rectifiers face challenges in efficiently operating electronic switches under zero-voltage switching (ZVS) conditions, leading to increased complexity in EMI filters due to varying switching frequencies.

Innovation Solution

The method involves operating the PFC rectifier at a fixed switching frequency and regulating the output voltage based on operating parameters to ensure ZVS, reducing the complexity of EMI filters by maintaining a consistent switching frequency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If conventional PFC rectifier operating modes (TCM, CrCM, DCM) are used to achieve efficient switching, then switching losses are reduced through ZVS conditions, but switching frequency varies which increases EMI filter complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching lossesVSAvoidEMI filter complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the switching frequency parameter from variable to fixed. By operating the PFC rectifier at a fixed switching frequency regardless of operating conditions, the EMI filter can be designed with a确定的 cutoff frequency, significantly simplifying the EMI filter structure while maintaining ZVS conditions through appropriate component selection and control strategies

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces dynamic adjustment of the output voltage reference based on the detected input voltage level. When input voltage is high, the output voltage reference is reduced to maintain ZVS; when input voltage is low, the reference is increased. This dynamic parameter adjustment allows fixed-frequency operation while preserving efficient switching conditions across different operating ranges

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If output voltage is regulated to maintain ZVS conditions under varying input voltage, then switching efficiency is improved, but switching frequency varies increasing EMI filter complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveZVS condition maintenanceVSAvoidEMI filter complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent dynamically changes the output voltage reference parameter based on input voltage detection. The control circuit detects whether input voltage is high or low and adjusts the output voltage reference accordingly, enabling ZVS maintenance at fixed switching frequency without requiring complex EMI filtering

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the control circuit continuously monitors the input voltage level and adjusts the output voltage reference in response. This closed-loop control ensures ZVS conditions are maintained while operating at a fixed switching frequency, simplifying EMI filter design through the stable frequency characteristic

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach achieves efficient zero-voltage switching of electronic switches while simplifying EMI filter design, thereby reducing physical size and complexity.

Implementation Method 1

The switching losses can be reduced by operating the electronic switches under ZVS (zero voltage switching) conditions. ZVS includes switching on a respective switch when a voltage across the switch is zero (has decreased to zero).

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectZero voltage switching (ZVS):

Data Source

PatentUS12424931B2Operating parameter power conversion method and power converter
Publication Date: 2025.09.23 INFINEON TECH AUSTRIA AG
  • US12424931B2 patent drawing
  • US12424931B2 patent drawing
  • US12424931B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed is a method for operating a rectifier circuit, a control circuit for operating a rectifier circuit, and a power converter. The method includes operating the rectifier circuit (2) in a PFC mode, wherein operating the rectifier circuit (2) in the PFC mode includes regulating an output voltage (Udc) of the rectifier circuit (2). Regulating the output voltage (Udc) includes operating a switch (26) of the rectifier circuit (2) at a fixed switching frequency (fsw), and regulating the output voltage (Udc) includes regulating the output voltage (Udc) dependent on at least one operating parameter of the rectifier circuit (2) such that the switch (26) is operated under ZVS conditions.