The application of resonant-mode techniques to off-line converters for the commercial market

This thesis presents the work performed by the author on the application of resonantmode techniques to commercially-orientated off-line converters. An extensive review of resonant-mode topologies leads to the development of a method of categorisation of these topologies which allows a greater comprehension of their properties. The categories of converter thus obtained are the conventional resonant converter, the quasi-resonant converter, and the gap-resonant converter. The gap-resonant converter is selected for further investigation. An analysis reveals the limited load and input voltage capabilities of this converter, and hence leads to the introduction of a pre-regulating converter to improve reliability and commercial viability. High-frequency techniques are explored and reported, and new techniques are developed in several areas in order to extend the concept of the gap-resonant converter to a realworld practical design. Subjects explored include the high speed driving of power MOSFETs, MOSFET and diode switching losses, high frequency magnetic materials and core losses, and skin and proximity effects. The techniques developed are used in the design of a 30OW, off-line converter with an input voltage range of 165V to 380V after rectification, and a ten-to-one output load range.