A Common Ground Four Quadrant Buck Converter for DC-AC Conversion

Abstract

With the increasing stand-alone and grid integrated low power renewable energy generation, the use of non-isolated DC-AC converters has increased multifold. However, the non-isolated power conversion with conventional DC-AC converters can cause high leakage currents due to parasitic capacitances. To resolve this problem, research on common ground converter topologies is gaining significance. This paper presents a novel single-phase DC-AC converter with common ground for the input and output terminals. There are only minor modifications required in comparison to the topology of the commonly used conventional H-bridge inverter for DC-AC conversion. In addition, the basic components and their counts remain the same. The gain ratio of the proposed inverter is such that it reduces the effect of switching delays. The availability of common ground for DC input and AC output sides provides the advantage of zero common-mode voltage and avoids leakage currents due to parasitic capacitances. The voltage gain ratio of the proposed converter is superior compared to the H-bridge inverter. Further, the switch stresses, switch utilization ratio and ratings of the constituent components have been derived for an accurate design of the converter. The proposed converter is observed to be more preferable when compared with other converters and modulation techniques for leakage current elimination based on the number of components and complexity of the circuit and control. The simulation and experimental results for different loads and load changes are presented to verify the theoretical claims. It is capable of supporting real and reactive power while operating competently under sudden changes in load. Therefore, the proposed common ground DC-AC converter can replace the H-bridge by modifying its circuit or replacing it with readily available half-bridge modules to obtain zero common-mode voltage and leakage currents. Hence, it is particularly attractive for low-power renewable generation and energy storage system applications.

Validation of Sliding Mode and Passivity Control in High-Power Quadratic Buck Converter Through Rapid Prototyping

“…Recent advancements in the design and development of DC converters have introduced features like dual modes of operation, DC ports, high voltage gain ratios, bi-directional conversion capabilities, and enhanced efficiency [1], [2], [3], [4]. These innovations play a pivotal role in advancing energy conversion technologies, with the potential to benefit a wide range of applications, including renewable energy, energy storage systems, and power electronics [1], [2], [3], [4]. Within the realm of power conversion, there have been notable developments in various techniques and topologies for direct current (DC) to direct current (DC) converters.…”

“…In the context of direct current to alternating current (AC) conversion, a four-quadrant buck converter with a common ground has been developed [3]. This topology facilitates bidirectional conversion between DC and AC, proving especially beneficial in renewable energy applications and energy storage systems.…”

Validation of Passivity-Based Control and Array PID in High-Power Quadratic Buck Converter Through Rapid Prototyping

“…Recent progress in the engineering and optimization of DC converters has led to the introduction of critical innovations. These include versatile operational modes, DC interfaces, elevated gain ratios for voltage, the ability to convert power in both directions and improved operational efficiency [1], [2], [3], [4]. Such advancements hold significant promise for transforming the landscape of energy conversion techniques, offering valuable benefits for multiple industries such as renewable energy sources, systems for storing energy, and the field of power electronics [1], [2], [3], [4].…”

“…These include versatile operational modes, DC interfaces, elevated gain ratios for voltage, the ability to convert power in both directions and improved operational efficiency [1], [2], [3], [4]. Such advancements hold significant promise for transforming the landscape of energy conversion techniques, offering valuable benefits for multiple industries such as renewable energy sources, systems for storing energy, and the field of power electronics [1], [2], [3], [4]. The domain of power conversion has witnessed the evolution of various strategies and configurations for converting direct current (DC) to direct current (DC), aiming to enhance efficiency and versatility for a broad range of uses.…”

“…This innovation is especially relevant in the context of renewable energy systems and energy storage solutions. Moreover, the unveiling of a non-isolated DC-DC converter that operates in two distinct modes and delivers a positive voltage output marks a significant improvement in the adaptability and performance of power conversion for targeted uses [3], [4]. Conventional methodologies for the design and production of converters usually require comprehensive empirical testing, precise measurements, and detailed experimental validation of every element within a quadratic converter [5].…”