Novel topology of ac-dc converter using direct power conversion

This study proposes a novel topology of the ac-dc converter using direct power conversion that has a simple structure and achieves high efficiency. The proposed converter is derived by integrating the step-down ac chopper and the output-voltage doubler. The proposed converter provides direct ac-dc conversion and isolated dc output voltage without using any full-bridge diode rectifier. The step-down ac chopper using an active-clamp mechanism serves to clamp the voltage spike across the main switches and provides zero-voltage turn-on switching. The resonant-current path formed by the leakage inductance of the transformer and the resonant capacitor of the output-voltage doubler achieves the zero-current turn-off switching of the output diodes. The operation principle of the converter is analysed and verified. A 500 W prototype is implemented to show the performance of the proposed converter. The prototype provides maximum efficiency of 95.1% at the full load.