Nonlinear analysis

Linear time invariant (LTI) circuits cannot convert AC power to DC power. Frequency conversion requires a nonlinear circuit element, or a time varying circuit element like a switch turning on and off repeatedly. The AC to DC converters presented here exploit the nonlinear response of diodes.

Single Diode Rectifiers

Below is a number of different rectifier circuits for converting from AC to DC. These circuits contain a single diode. These rectifiers are considered "uncontrolled" since the AC waveform itself is responsible for rectification (as opposed to, say, an external control signal turning on and off MOSFET switches).

Click on the picture below to see the simulations and analysis.

2. Simple rectifier with inductor - series diode configuration. (Click on pic below.)

3. Class C resonant rectifier - series diode configuration . (Click on pic below.)

4. Class C resonant rectifier - shunt diode configuration . (Click on pic below.)

To do list: I have four more single-diode resonant rectifiers that I intend to explore later (Class F, Class inverse F, Class E and Class inverse E).

References and related work

1. M. Liu, et al., A compact class E rectifier for Megahertz wireless power transfer
2. M. Liu, et al., Parameter Design for A 6.78-MHz Wireless Power Transfer System Based on Analytical Derivation of Class E Current-Driven Rectifier
3. J. A. Hagerty, Nonlinear circuits and antennas for microwave energy conversion, PhD Dissertation, University of Colorado, 2003
4. M. Roberg, et al., High efficiency harmonically terminated diode and transistor rectifiers, PhD Dissertation, IEEE Transactions on Microwave Theory and Techniques, vol. 60, no. 12, 2012
5. E. A. Falkenstein, et al., Low Power Wireless Delivery, IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON MICROWAVE THEORY AND TECHNIQUES, VOL. 60, N
6. E. A. Falkenstein, Characterization and design of a low-power wireless power delivery system, PhD Dissertation, University of Colorado, 2011.