Available at: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/theses/2984
Date of Award
6-2025
Degree Name
MS in Electrical Engineering
Department/Program
Electrical Engineering
College
College of Engineering
Advisor
Taufik
Advisor Department
Electrical Engineering
Advisor College
College of Engineering
Abstract
This thesis entails the study, design, and construction of a novel DC-DC converter topology, the Zero Voltage Switching Hybrid Voltage Divider (ZVS-HVD), with improved modularization, optimization, and compactness. The ZVS-HVD facilitates higher load currents and accomplishes DC-DC voltage division through switching inductors and capacitors. Low switching loss is achieved through zero voltage switching (ZVS) and the use of GANFET switches. An analysis of duty cycle and high-frequency operation is conducted, enabling 1 MHz switching and improvements in output voltage ripple, voltage drooping, board size, and efficiency at higher load currents. Two versions of ZVS-HVD prototypes were constructed with on-board signal generation: one optimized for efficiency (PCB1) and the other to demonstrate full ZVS capability (PCB2). Both prototypes achieve highly efficient voltage conversion of a 24V input to a 12V output at up to 120W with a board size of 70mm x 70mm. PCB1 reaches 95.87% efficiency at full load with a peak efficiency of 96.04% at 70% load. PCB2 achieves full ZVS operation across all loads, with 94.77% efficiency at full load and a peak efficiency of 95.02% at 80% load. Both versions maintain an output voltage ripple below 3% and an output error below 3.5%. Ultimately, the converter proposed in this thesis brings the ZVS-HVD closer to a state of practical integration for efficient high-current voltage conversion without the need for feedback circuitry.