Abstract:
A low cost, solid-state variable input voltage inverter recharges each commutating capacitor through an impedance and a controllable semiconductor switch, preferably a resistor and a transistor in series with a commutating capacitor, to the value of a source of fixed or predetermined voltage to assure reliable commutation over the entire range of input voltage control. The inverter is constructed in single and multiphase versions and is especially suited for industrial applications such as a wide range variable speed AC motor drive.