This dissertation addresses advanced switching strategies aimed at enhancing both power quality and efficiency in modern power electronic systems, which are increasingly required to satisfy stringent international standards for energy conversion. Two ...
This dissertation addresses advanced switching strategies aimed at enhancing both power quality and efficiency in modern power electronic systems, which are increasingly required to satisfy stringent international standards for energy conversion. Two complementary research themes are investigated, each targeting a critical limitation of conventional converter topologies.
First, a novel space vector modulation (SVM) scheme for three-phase current source converters is proposed. Conventional SVM requires overlap time to prevent arm-open, which inevitably introduces current distortion and increases total harmonic distortion (THD). The proposed method eliminates the need for overlap time, thereby significantly reducing waveform distortion and reducing THD. The scheme can be implemented with minimal additional logic compared with conventional SVM and does not require extra sensors, making it practical for industrial applications. Simulation and experimental results confirm reduced harmonic components and improved efficiency while maintaining robust operation under various load conditions.
One of the structural limitations of current source converters lies in the design requirements of the DC link inductor. To realize an ideal current source, a sufficiently large DC link inductance is required, which inevitably leads to an increase in system volume. Therefore, this study investigates the permanent magnet biased inductor (PMBI), hereafter referred to as the permanent-magnet inductor, as a potential alternative capable of reducing the overall size compared to conventional inductors. Through theoretical analysis and experimental validation, it is confirmed that the permanent-magnet inductor can achieve higher power density than traditional ferrite-core inductors, and its potential for performance comparison with powder core materials is also identified.
Second, the study explores the use of PMBIs in the single-phase boost power factor correction (PFC) converter. Unlike conventional powder core inductors, PMBIs provide higher and flatter inductance under high current levels by effectively extending the saturation point. This property enables the proposed variable frequency continuous conduction mode (CCM) control scheme, in which the switching frequency decreases as the input current increases. The proposed scheme can reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) and increase efficiency.
Overall, the proposed switching techniques—overlap-free SVM for current source converter and variable-frequency CCM for PMBI-PFC converter—demonstrate substantial advancements in both efficiency and power quality. By addressing harmonic distortion, EMI, and loss mechanisms simultaneously, this work provides valuable design guidelines and practical insights for the development of next-generation high-efficiency power converters.