A novel low-loss modulation strategy for high-power bi-directional buck+boost converters

A novel low-loss, constant-frequency, zero-voltage-switching (ZVS) modulation strategy for bi-directional, cascaded, buck-boost DC/DC converters, used in a hybrid electrical vehicle (HEV), is presented and its benefits over state-of-the-art converters and soft-switching solutions are discussed in a comparative evaluation. To obtain ZVS with the purposed modulation strategy, the buck+boost inductance is selected and the switches are gated in a way that the inductor current has a negative offset current at the beginning and the end of each pulse period. This allows the MOSFET switches to turn on when the anti-parallel body diode is conducting. As the novel modulation strategy is a software-only solution, there are no additional expenses for active or passive components compared to conventional modulation implementations. Furthermore, an analytical and simulation investigation predicts an excellent efficiency over the complete operating range and a higher power density for a multi-phase converter equipped with the low-loss modulation. Experimental measurements performed with a converter prototype verify the mode of operation and the ZVS principle.