New boost type single phase inverters for photovoltaic applications with reduced device count

Area of Science:

• Electrical Engineering
• Power Electronics

Background:

• Single-stage boost inverters with common ground are popular due to high efficiency and simple control.
• Existing designs often involve complex circuitry and numerous switches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a new common-ground, boost-type inverter with a reduced component count.
• To evaluate the performance and efficiency of the proposed inverter design.

Main Methods:

• A novel inverter topology utilizing two parallel DC-link capacitors charged/discharged independently.
• Efficiency analysis using PLECS software across various output power levels.
• Experimental validation with a 400W prototype.

Main Results:

• The proposed inverter design features fewer switches compared to existing boost-type inverters.
• Simulations and experimental results show high efficiency, reaching up to 97%.
• Cost breakdown analysis is provided for the prototype.

Conclusions:

• The proposed common-ground, boost-type inverter offers a promising, efficient, and cost-effective solution.
• The reduced switch count and high efficiency make it competitive for market applications.