Half-bridge vs. full-bridge inverters (same inverter family) Do half-bridge and full-bridge inverters of the same general type necessarily use different commutation methods?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: False

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
In power electronics, bridge topology (half-bridge or full-bridge) determines how devices are arranged across the DC link, while commutation method (how devices are turned off) is a separate design choice. This question checks whether topology inherently forces a different commutation method.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Same inverter “type” means same switching family (for example, line-commutated vs. forced-commutated resonant, McMurray/McMurray–Bedford, PWM, etc.).
  • Devices are thyristors/MOSFETs/IGBTs depending on application; DC link and load can be similar across topologies.


Concept / Approach:

Commutation refers to how switching devices turn off and transfer current. Forced commutation networks (auxiliary capacitors/inductors), self-commutated PWM with transistors, and resonant techniques can be implemented in either a half-bridge or a full-bridge arrangement. The choice of half-bridge vs. full-bridge is primarily about available DC-link voltage swings and device count, not an intrinsic change in commutation physics.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Identify the role of topology: half-bridge yields approximately ±Vdc/2 pole voltages; full-bridge yields ±Vdc.Recognize commutation independence: the same commutation network (e.g., complementary gating with dead-time for IGBT PWM, or McMurray forced commutation for SCRs) can be applied to both topologies.Conclude: there is no necessity that half-bridge and full-bridge of the same “type” use different commutation. They can use the same method.


Verification / Alternative check:

Industrial inverters are often available in both half- and full-bridge forms using the same switching devices and control (e.g., SPWM with IGBTs). Differences show up in voltage utilization and current paths, not in mandatory commutation changes.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

“True” implies a forced difference that does not exist. Options about DC-link voltage or load power factor mix system constraints with commutation method selection; they do not mandate different commutation just due to half vs. full bridge.


Common Pitfalls:

Assuming more devices in a full-bridge implies a new commutation scheme. In reality, switching and commutation principles can be retained across both topologies.


Final Answer:

False

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