Piezoelectric Resonator-Based Power Factor Correction

Abstract

Power factor correction (PFC) converters maximize grid utilization but can also add significant volume to space-constrained applications. As such, the demand for higher power density PFC converters has led researchers to higher switching frequencies to shrink the bulky boost inductor and EMI filters. However, the sublinear scaling of inductors to small volumes and high frequencies leads to lower efficiency, creating a bottleneck for further miniaturization. Designing converters around piezoelectric resonators instead of inductors provides a path towards higher switching frequency and power density. While previous research has implemented piezoelectric-based DC-DC converters, this paper presents an analysis of circuit topologies and closed-loop control methods for piezoelectric resonator-based power factor correction.