Paralleling power converters for AC-DC step-down power conversion with inherent power factor correction

The authors describe the modular development of a single-stage AC-DC step-down power converter. The converter offers advantages such as simple DC-DC type switching control, electrically isolated output and inherent power factor correction. It also provides single-stage power conversion without using power devices with excessively high voltage and current rating, the flexibility for expansion of power capability, and a simplification of design and production procedure for the manufacturing of power converter products. The operating modes of the converter are described and analysed. Experiments have confirmed the validity of the modular converter operation.