Half-Bridge Transistor Inverter for DC Power Conversion

Abstract

In the design of push-pull type or bridge type inverters for dc to dc or dc to ac power conversion, one serious problem arises as a result of the difference in saturation voltages and unsymmetrical switching times of the power transistors. A slight difference in one of these parameters will put different volt-seconds on the power transformer primary in the two half cycles and drive the transformer into saturation. This can result in excessive saturation current in the power transistors and can eventually cause circuit failure [5]. This paper describes a half bridge transistor inverter which serves the same purpose of dc power conversion but eliminates the power transformer saturation problem. The analysis of this inverter circuit is discussed in detail. Several proposed designs for the control and protection circuits are also included.