Single-stage ZVS PWM full-bridge converter

A new soft-switched ac-dc single-stage pulsewidth modulation (PWM) full-bridge converter is proposed. The converter operates with zero-voltage switching (ZVS), fixed switching frequency, and with a continuous input current that is sinusoidal and in phase with the input voltage. This is in contrast with other ac-dc single-stage PWM full-bridge converters that are either resonant converters operating with variable switching frequency control and high conduction losses, converters whose switches cannot operate with ZVS, or converters that cannot perform power factor correction (PFC) unless the input current is discontinuous. All converter switches operate with soft-switching due to a simple auxiliary circuit that is used for only a small fraction of the switching cycle. The operation of the converter is explained and analyzed, guidelines for the design of the converter are given, and its feasibility is shown with results obtained from an experimental prototype.