Patent attributes
A method for providing non-resonant zero-voltage switching in a switching power converter. The switching power converter converts power from input power to output power during multiple periodic switching cycles. The switching power converter includes a switch and an auxiliary capacitor adapted for connecting in parallel with the switch, and an inductor connectable to the auxiliary capacitor. The main switch is on. A previously charged (or previously discharged) auxiliary capacitor is connected across the main switch with auxiliary switches. The main switch is switched off with zero voltage while discharging (charging) the auxiliary capacitor by providing a current path to the inductor. The auxiliary capacitor is disconnected from the switch. The voltage of the auxiliary capacitor is charged and discharged alternatively during subsequent switching cycles. The voltage of the auxiliary capacitor stays substantially the same until the subsequent turn off of the main switch during the next switching cycle with substantially no energy loss in the auxiliary capacitor.
