Trans-Z-source-like Inverter with Built-in DC Current Blocking Capacitors

Many renewable generation units (e.g. PVs, fuel cells, small wind turbines) require integrated DC-AC converters providing efficient high step-up power conversion. The recently proposed Z-source-type integrated buck-boost inverters characterize one stage energy processing and wide range of output voltage regulation. This paper presents the possibility of further extending Z-source-type inverters application area through the topology reconfiguration. The unique property of the proposed Z-source-type inverter with applied high frequency transformer and built-in DC current blocking capacitors is that no energy is stored in the transformer windings. That prevents core saturation and enables high voltage gain. Simulation and experimental results are shown to verify the proposed topology.