Analysis and Design Optimization of Diode Front-End Rectifier Passive Components for Voltage Source Inverters

This paper presents a systematic design optimization approach for inductors and capacitors in diode front-end rectifiers for voltage source inverters. Analytical relationships between various design variables, operating conditions, and performance and physical constraints are established under nominal, overload, and inrush conditions. A new method to analytically calculate the inrush current is developed considering the nonlinear characteristics of the inductor core materials. A design optimization program based on the established analytical relationships and a genetic algorithm is developed. Examples show that the optimization process can lead to a smaller/lower cost inductor and capacitor design. Experiments are conducted to verify key analytical relationships and the optimized design.