Enhancing Mode Transition Dynamics in Non-Inverting Buck-Boost Inverters for PV Systems

Quasi-single-stage inverters (QSSIs) are notable for their simple structure and bidirectional operation capability in applications such as photovoltaic (PV) systems. Among these QSSI, the non-inverting buck-boost inverter (NIBBI) or four-switch buck-boost inverter (FSBBI) is often preferred due to its ability to perform both step-down and step-up operations. However, when traditional control is used, achieving a smooth transition and efficient conversion becomes challenging as the output voltage approaches the input voltage. The pulse width ratio limitations and non-idealities of active and passive components are the cause of this. In this paper, a comparative analysis of the mode transition techniques in FSBBI is presented using methods available for DC/DC converters. System efficiency and output voltage signal quality are selected as performance metrics. A 2-kW FSBBI is installed and controlled using single, two, modified two, three, and four-mode techniques. Simulation and experimental studies were conducted to validate the results. Based on these studies, the four-mode control technique was observed to be the most effective in eliminating dead zone effects, reducing total harmonic distortion (THD), and achieving the highest system efficiency in a PV system where a battery powers the AC load. Experimental results indicate that the four-mode modulation attained an efficiency of 95.49% with a THD of 2.97%.