Performance Evaluation of TCM-based, Zero-Voltage Switching (ZVS) Three-Phase Inverters for Electric Vehicle Drive Systems

Abstract:
This paper investigates the performance and applicability of a triangular current mode (TCM)–based zero voltage switching (ZVS) three-phase inverter, incorporated with novel autonomous gate drivers (AGDs), for electric vehicle (EV) drive systems. By integrating the controller into the gate driver, delays are minimized, enabling ZVS during the turn-on and turn-off operations. Sinusoidal output waveforms aid in reducing electromagnetic interference (EMI). This study examines the potential interference of the LC filter with torque control and evaluates the inverter’s ability to respond quickly and accurately to torque commands without introducing delays, overshoots, or oscillations. The proposed 10 kW inverter achieved over 99% efficiency without including filter inductor losses. Torque steps were executed significantly faster than required for practical applications. No delays or oscillations were observed, indicating the inverter’s suitability for EV drive systems.