A 20-kHz Memristor-based Pulse Width Modulation for Power Converters

Memristors have shown significant potential for energy savings ( 1000× reduction in power consumption) in areas such as in-memory AI computing. However, due to the lack of PWM function, their use in power electronics remains limited. This paper proposed a 20-kHz memristor-based PWM modulation for the power converter. A key challenge is the lack of a high-frequency memristor-based PWM generator, as existing memristor-based PWM circuits operate at only around 10 Hz, which is too low for most switch-mode power converters. The limited frequency is due to the inherent dynamics of memristors, which restrict the amplitude swing of the carrier signal. Our new design implements the memristor as a programmable resistor, replacing the fixed resistor in a conventional analog PWM circuit. It can achieve a frequency of approximately 20 kHz, which is sufficient for power converter control. The proposed design is analyzed and validated through LTspice simulations, demonstrating its feasibility as a high-frequency PWM generator. Experimental results using KNOWM memristors further confirm the effectiveness of the design.