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The focus is on the maximum power point tracking implementation for the buck-boost voltage mode control of a single-phase multilevel inverter based on a three-level neutral point clamped quasi-Z-source topology. To utilize shoot-through states only when boost function is needed and avoid it in the buck mode, two different control approaches are required. This article proposes merged control system which provides switching between different control algorithms in the buck and boost modes. In particular, a hysteresis band between the buck and boost modes is proposed which provides smooth and stable performance. It also includes features of the implementation of the global maximum power point tracking, which can scan the entire input voltage range in up to 10 s. Experimental results showed that proposed control system provides high and stable maximum power point tracking efficiency in different operation points. Finally, the key features are verified, the advantages, drawbacks, and an eventual potential for other applications are presented in conclusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New emerging power inverter topologies are aiming at high-power density and efficiency with reliable performance. The recently proposed family of single-phase single-stage buck–boost inverters with output unfolding circuits have promising features for application in different fields. Nevertheless, the incapacity of injecting reactive power by the classical unfolding inverters has been assumed as its main drawback. Thus, our focus is on the reactive power injection capability of the single-stage buck–boost inverters with unfolding circuits. This attribute enables the converter to provide some extra ancillary services for friendly integration of the renewable energy resources and energy storage systems, providing support to the smart grid/microgrid, thus contributing to its power quality welfare. By means of a comprehensive analysis and implementation of proper closed-loop model predictive control, together with an adequate selection of the output capacitor, the single-inductor unfolding buck–boost inverter is capable of delivering reactive power to the utility grid. We used the simulation and experimental tests to validate the theoretical aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a novel concept of a universal solar converter suitable for application in both in the dc or single-phase ac grids using the same terminals. The idea lies in the utilization of the same semiconductors in the dc–dc and in the dc–ac configuration, resulting in minimal redundancy. Possible semiconductor stages are considered. The particular attention is focused on the output filter design along with proper protection circuit selection for dc and ac grids. The design example and comparative analysis between dc–dc, dc–ac, and universal solutions are given. The experimental prototype of the universal solar converter that is rated for 3.6 kVA power in the ac mode and 5 kW in the dc mode is presented. The experimental results demonstrate the ability of operation in ac or dc grids with main correspondent modes. Possible fields of application along with main benefits are addressed in conclusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article studies the model predictive control (MPC) for a twisted buck–boost inverter based on unfolding circuit. The focus is on the practical implementation of the MPC algorithm for the microcontroller designed for application in power electronics. Selection of proper cost function parameters along with a continuous control set reduced prediction horizon, at the same time keeping good quality of the grid current. The results showed that simplified differential equations and a multicore microcontroller contribute to the sample time reduction, which in turn increases the sampling frequency with the corresponding increase in the output current quality. The simulation and experimental results confirmed theoretical predictions. In conclusion, the MPC technique suits for reducing zero-crossing distortion and in applications based on unfolding circuit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article describes an example of a solar inverter design based on the quasi-Z-source network taking into account multi-objective optimization. An overview of the solar inverter market is provided. Based on this overview, the specification of the most important parameters of commercial solutions is derived. The target efficiency profile and operation range are selected as the main criteria for the design of a competitive solution. The theoretical losses model is designed for preliminary estimation of efficiency profile at any operation point. Optimal switching frequency range is defined. Active and passive components are selected according to the defined efficiency profile and the switching frequency range. The experimental setup including a pre-industrial prototype is built and tested. Experimental results demonstrate the performance of the solar inverter with different photovoltaic string profiles. Finally, the results and feasibility in the commercial application are discussed, and conclusions are drawn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the tuning process of the proportional-resonant controller, taking into account the significant computational delay from the digital control system. Different structures of the controller and related contradicting results are discussed. Particular attention is paid to the stability domain and its dependence on different parameters of the proportional-resonant controller. The main outcome of this paper consists in the tuning approach guidelines for selection of controller parameters in case of significant digital system delay. An optimal controller structure and start-up current optimization are proposed. All results are confirmed by simulation and experimental setup. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes a novel family of single-phase single-stage buck–boost inverters using output unfolding circuits. Operation principles and component design guidelines along with modulation techniques are presented and discussed. The simulation results confirm all theoretical statements. Experimental setup of the most promising solution is assembled and tested, where the efficiency for different operation modes is analyzed. Finally, the pros and cons along with applications of the proposed solutions are discussed in the conclusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents new space vector pulsewidth modulation (PWM) strategies for a single-phase three-level buck-boost neutral point clamped inverter coupled with impedance-source (IS) network. These strategies can be implemented for systems with any IS network with neutral point. The case study system is based on the quasi-Z-source inverter with continuous input current. To demonstrate an improved performance, the strategies are compared with a traditional PWM strategy. The advantages lie in reduced switching number, without output voltage quality distortion. The simulation and experimental results confirm the theoretical predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a novel power conditioning unit (PCU) for variable-speed micro wind turbine applications. It contains a simple generator-side rectifier, galvanic isolation with a simple dc–dc converter, and a single-phase full-bridge inverter at the grid side. Variable-speed micro wind turbines based on a permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) are increasingly used in residential and small commercial buildings, despite their relatively low output voltage. Therefore, they can be used easily for battery charging, while their grid integration requires a PCU with galvanic isolation. Most of available PCUs provide no galvanic isolation, or use relatively complicated topologies or four stage energy conversion for that purpose. The dc–dc converter proposed allows reducing the complexity of the PCU. Steady-state analysis shows that the converter is capable of regulating voltage in a wide range suitable for micro wind turbines, which is supported by experimental results within the input voltage range of 40–400 V. The prototype built for integration of a 1.3-kW PMSG-based micro wind turbine shows good performance over the entire 1:5 range of the given wind turbine output voltage. A study of efficiency and power losses was conducted according to the wind turbine power profile. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Impedance-source networks are an increasingly popular solution in power converter applications, especially in single-stage buck–boost power conversion to avoid additional front-end dc–dc power converters. In the survey papers published, no analytical comparisons of different topologies have been described, which makes it difficult to choose the best option. Thus, the aim of this paper is to present a comprehensive analytical comparison of the impedance-source-based buck–boost inverters in terms of passive component count and semiconductor stress. Based on the waveform of the input current, i.e., with or without a transformer, and with or without inductor coupling, the impedance-source converters are classified. The main criterion in our comprehensive comparison is the energy stored in the passive elements, which is considered both under constant and predefined high frequency current ripple in the inductors and the voltage ripple across the capacitors. Two-level and multilevel solutions are described. The conclusions provide a “one-stop” information source and a selection guide of impedance-source-based buck–boost inverters for different applications. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper describes novel single-phase solutions with increased inverter voltage levels derived by means of a nonstandard inverter configuration and impedance source networks. Operation principles based on special modulation techniques are presented. Detailed component design guidelines along with simulation and experimental verification are also provided. Possible application fields are discussed, as well as advantages and disadvantages. Finally, future studies are addressed for the new solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper focuses on the galvanically isolated quasi-Z-source dc–dc converter with a novel zero voltage and zero current switching technique. The unique feature of the impedance network lies in combining the buck–boost operation capability with the short- and open-circuit immunity of transistors; at the same time, it can perform zero voltage and zero current switching on the primary side. The boundary conduction mode of the current in the second inductor of the quasi-Z-source network was used along with snubber capacitors in the two out of four transistors and a special control algorithm to achieve full zero-switching operation of the inverter. Simulation and experimental results prove the discussed ideas. Possible modifications of the algorithm and future applications are also described. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]