Abstract
D.Ing. (Electrical and Electronic Engineering)
The non-linear resonant pole (NLRP) inverter is part of the family of soft switching topologies
based on resonant phenomena. The sequence of commutation that occurs between the
semiconductors of a conventional voltage source inverter is modified through the mechanisms of
energy exchange between added passive energy storage components. The NLRP inverter, through
its psuedo resonant behaviour (resonant transition), gives rise to zero voltage and zero current
turn-on of the switching devices as well as soft turn-off. The switching device voltage stresses
are around 1 p.u, while the current stresses are reduced to around 1.3 p.u, by feeding back a
portion of the load current. The rms current flowing through the inductor and switches is greatly
reduced by driving the inductor into saturation (non-linear mode of operation). The advantages
of soft switching, such as high switching frequency which allows greater dynamic response and
higher power densities, along with reduced EMI, are achieved with this topology. Detailed analysis
at multi- and sub-cycle levels is carried out, resulting in circuit equations and the criteria for
commutation success. The commutation boundaries of the inverter are defined and methods
discussed on how to extend them. The modulation of the NLRP inverter and some aspects
regarding its use as part of both low and high performance induction motor drives are presented.