A Single-Source Single-Stage Switched-Boost Multilevel Inverter: Operation, Topological Extensions, and Experimental Validation

In this article, we present a family of multilevel converters with the single-stage dynamic voltage-boosting feature, reduced number of circuit components, modular structure, bidirectional operation, continuous input current, and acceptable overall efficiency. The proposed structure is based on a three-level single-stage boost integrated inverter with an embedded quasi-H-bridge (QHB) cell. It is comprised of five unidirectional power switches and a floating capacitor. By differential connection of two or three QHB cells and with the aim of a single inductor/input dc source, several derived topologies for both the single and three-phase applications with different multilevel output voltage performances have been achieved. The aforementioned advantages make this converter a suitable candidate for renewable energy applications. Theoretical analysis, design consideration, comparative study, and several experimental results for a 3-kW laboratory-built system are presented to validate the effectiveness and feasibility of this proposal.

Automated summary

This article presents a family of multilevel converters that have a single-stage dynamic voltage-boosting feature, reduced number of circuit components, modular structure, bidirectional operation, continuous input current, and acceptable overall efficiency. The proposed structure is based on a three-level single-stage boost integrated inverter with an embedded quasi-H-bridge (QHB) cell. By differential connection of multiple QHB cells and utilizing a single inductor/input dc source, various topologies for single and three-phase applications with different multilevel output voltage performances have been achieved. This converter is suitable for renewable energy applications.