Researchers unveil capacitorless solid-state power filter for single-phase DC-AC converters

A study led by Dr. Haitham Kanakri and Dr. Euzeli Dos Santos, Jr., has unveiled a novel capacitorless solid-state power filter (SSPF) for single-phase DC-AC converters. This innovative technology employs a high-frequency planar transformer to eliminate the need for both LC filters and dc-link capacitors. Operating at 30 kHz, the H-bridge converter injects voltage harmonics to generate a sinusoidal output voltage.

The research is published in the journal CES Transactions on Electrical Machines and Systems.

Theoretical analyses, simulations, and experiments conducted on a 60 Hz, 120 V system demonstrated an impressive total harmonic distortion of just 1.29%, meeting IEEE 519 standards. Additionally, the research reveals a significant reduction in three critical components, underscoring the SSPF’s potential to enhance both the efficiency and reliability of power electronics systems.

Looking ahead, the power electronics research team aims to expand the concept of capacitorless topologies to a wider range of power converters, enhancing their reliability. Currently, the team is exploring innovative strategies, including harnessing the stray capacitance naturally found in these converters to improve power density, reduce component count, and boost overall efficiency.

A key focus is to lay the groundwork for miniaturizing electric vehicle chargers by integrating stray capacitance into the operation of various DC-DC converters, effectively reducing or eliminating reliance on external capacitors. To achieve this, the team is introducing a novel material, calcium copper titanate (CCTO), which is expected to enhance stray capacitance and serve as a valuable component in multiple converter designs.

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CES Transactions on Electrical Machines and Systems