New design methdology for megahertz-frequency resonant dc-dc converters using impedance control network architecture

Abstract

This paper introduces a new design methodology for high-frequency resonant dc-dc converters utilizing the recently proposed impedance control network (ICN) converter architecture. This design methodology guarantees zero voltage switching (ZVS) and near zero current switching (ZCS) of all transistors across the entire operating range of the converter. As compared to previous ICN converter design techniques, the new methodology does not require frequency adjustment to achieve ZVS. In addition, it uses a rigorous analytical approach to minimize the phase lag required for ZVS, thus ensuring near-ZCS operation. The advantages gained from the proposed design methodology are validated using a prototype 1-MHz 90-W ICN resonant converter designed to operate over an input voltage range of 36 V to 60 V and output voltage of 1.8 V. This prototype ICN resonant converter employs a stacked inverter structure to further enhance performance.