Ilan Aharon

A new type of single–conversion–step wide–input–range versatile step–up/down three–voltage–level power–factor correction stage is presented in this manuscript. The rectifier can operate both in continuous–conduction mode and discontinuous–conduction mode. First, the rectifier’s principle of operation is described, and then the innovative rectifier is analyzed in continuous and discontinuous–conduction modes. After, an average model for the innovative rectifier is developed. Lastly, the proposed theory is experimentally validated using a multiplier–less dual–control–loop mode at discontinuous–conduction modes. It is shown that although no multiplier is used in the control circuitry, the power factor is near unity. It is revealed that the rectifier can swing the output voltage from 50 V to 900 V while the input voltage is 230 Vrms. Although the rectifier output has a split DC bus with three voltage levels, the required control effort is low, and the output voltage is balanced. The innovative topology suits any standard power–factor correction rectifier application, dual–stage low–voltage power supply, and three–level voltage supplement for low–harmonic inverters. Since the rectifier’s output–voltage swing is extremely wide, energy storage systems and electric vehicle batteries are suitable applications.