Universal-input single-stage PFC flyback with variable boost inductance for high-brightness LED applications

This paper presents a single-stage flyback power-factor-correction circuit with a variable boost inductance for high-brightness light-emitting-diode applications for the universal input voltage (90-270 Vrms). The proposed circuit overcomes the limitations of the conventional single-stage PFC flyback with a constant boost inductance, which cannot be designed to achieve a practical bulk-capacitor voltage level (i.e., less than 450 V) at high line while meeting the IEC 61000-3-2 Class C line current harmonic limits at low line. According to the proposed variable boost inductance method, the boost inductance is constant in the high-voltage range and it is reduced in the low-voltage range, resulting in discontinuous-conduction-mode operation and a low total harmonic distortion (THD) in both the high-voltage and low-voltage ranges. Measurements obtained on a 24-V/91-W experimental prototype are as follows: PF = 0.9873, THD = 12%, and efficiency = 88% at nominal low line (120 V_rms); and PF = 0.9474, THD = 10.39%, and efficiency = 91% at nominal high line (230 V_rms). The line current harmonics satisfy the IEC 61000-3-2 Class C limits with enough margin.