Zero-voltage-switching three-level converter for
This technology is a power converter circuit that efficiently transforms electrical energy between different voltage levels using a three-level architecture — think of it as a smarter, faster power inverter. The key innovation is an auxiliary circuit that briefly activates during each switching cycle to ensure the main switches turn on only when there is zero voltage across them, eliminating the energy lost as heat during normal switching. It also prevents a damaging electrical effect called diode reverse recovery. The practical result is that the converter can run at much higher frequencies than conventional designs, which means the bulky magnetic components (inductors, transformers) can be made significantly smaller and lighter while delivering the same power output.
What you could build
A compact, high-efficiency power inverter module for industrial motor drives, solar inverters, or EV charging stations where size, weight, and thermal management are critical constraints; buyers would be power electronics OEMs and industrial drive manufacturers.
Who in Virginia should care
Defense contractors and naval systems integrators in the Hampton Roads area, plus data center power electronics suppliers in Northern Virginia, would have interest in compact, high-efficiency power conversion.
Readiness: Prototype likely
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Jin Li, Dushan Boroyevich, Jinjun Liu
- Granted
- January 6, 2015
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 8929114
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.