A Class of Bidirectional Single-Phase Z-Source AC-AC Converter with Continuous Input Current and Reduced Component Count

In this paper, a class of single-phase Z-source ac-ac converters is proposed. Share ground and continuous input current are the common features of the proposed converters. The proposed converters have unique features that differentiate them from their counterparts. These features include the buck operation in both in-phase and out-of-phase mode, being bidirectional, the minimum component counts, the ability to boost without duty cycle limitation, and reducing total power ratting of switches is known as switching device power (SDP) parameter. Reducing SDP leads to a reduction in the voltage and current rating of the semiconductors and consequently to a reduction in converter' cost. A safe commutation strategy is applied to eliminate voltage and current spikes on the switches without snubber circuits. The experimental results verify the performance of the laboratory prototype of the proposed converters.