A Compact and Cost Efficient Multiconverter for Multipurpose Applications

Abstract

This paper presents a novel single-phase to single-phase multiconverter topology that can be applied in multiple areas. The proposed multiconverter is designed with only two soft power semiconductor switches (e.g. MOSFET or IGBT), four power diodes and a center-tapped transformer which makes it more compact in size, decrease the gate driving complexity, reduce the total equipment costs and enhance the energy conversion efficiency with minimized losses. Furthermore, the utilization of the transformer in the proposed converter mitigates the multiple AC source requirement problems and provides galvanic isolation which increases the reliability of the converter. Moreover, the presented multiconverter is applicable in various areas including electric traction as a speed controller, induction heating, AC and DC variable power supplies, etc. which signify the competence of this converter in energy conversion appliances. However, a comparative analysis of the offered converter with the existing AC-AC converters is also introduced in this paper with respect to the number of components, equipment costs, gate driving complexity, and application areas. In order to evaluate the performance of the proposed multiconverter, the simulation-based results carried out in MATLAB/Simulink are presented and analyzed in this paper with proper descriptions. Finally, a scaled-down prototype is developed in the laboratory to validate the simulation results and the feasibility of the proposed multiconverter. INDEX TERMS Cycloconverter, controlled rectifier, electric traction, matrix converter, multiconverter, static frequency changer (SFC), voltage regulator.

A Simple Two-Stage AC-AC Circuit Topology Employed as High-Frequency Controller for Domestic Induction Heating System

“…Therefore, there is a need for eight and six gate driving and dc supply circuits, respectively. The cost against reducing the switching transistors in [19] is paid with an additional bulky low-frequency center tap transformer. The current and voltage rating of all operating diodes and transistors in the proposed circuit and converter in [17][18][19] equals load rms voltage and load rms current.…”

“…The cost against reducing the switching transistors in [19] is paid with an additional bulky low-frequency center tap transformer. The current and voltage rating of all operating diodes and transistors in the proposed circuit and converter in [17][18][19] equals load rms voltage and load rms current. The power losses caused by the solid-state devices are switching, conduction, and leakage losses.…”

“…The conduction of two transistors and two diodes in the proposed topology and converters in [17][18][19] helps realize the operation in any operating mode. Therefore, the total conduction losses of two transistors and two diodes in one PWM switching transition are realized as:…”

“…The switching losses of the two transistors and diodes of converters reported in [17][18][19] are computed as:…”

“…This converter operates in a similar fashion as in [17] but with fewer solid-state devices. A center tap transformer-based direct ac-ac topology, as depicted in Figure 3, is introduced in [19]. Here a single-phase full-wave diode rectifier is connected at the output of the center tap transformer.…”