Hyper-efficient (98%) and super-compact (3.3kW/dm3) isolated AC/DC telecom power supply module based on multi-cell converter approach

In this paper, a multi-cell converter approach for a telecom rectifier module breaking through the efficiency and power density barriers of traditional single-cell converter systems is shown. The potential of the multi-cell approach for high efficiency is derived from fundamental scaling laws of the system performances, such as the losses generated by the semiconductors and the harmonic spectrum, in dependence of the number of converter cells. Furthermore, a comprehensive optimization of the entire system with respect to efficiency and volume has been performed and the applied component loss models are described in detail. The achievable performance of the system is compared to a leading edge state-of-the-art single-cell converter system which currently sets the benchmark in terms of efficiency and power-density. In addition, the degrees of freedom of multi-cell converter systems in terms of converter operation are outlined and optimum control schemes are derived.