GOALI: 1 MHz, GaN-Based, Modular, Cascaded Z-Source Inverters for Scalable Grid-Interactive Photovoltaic (PV) Applications

目的是研究新一代的并网光伏逆变器，以实现高效率和MHz的操作通过一个合作的大学产业项目。该方法是将宽带隙功率半导体应用于无变压器、级联、模块化DC-AC逆变器。我们将开发一种先进的控制策略，能够进行系统级的故障监测和检测，以最大限度地提高光伏输出功率，实现无功功率补偿，并减少对地泄漏电流。智力优点：这项研究利用了GaN功率开关器件的最新技术进步，并超越了传统的单直流母线逆变器拓扑结构。该模块化DC-AC逆变器中Z源网络的降压-升压功能和直通能力可以使逆变器在MHz系统输出开关频率下获得高效率、高性能和高可靠性。拟议的研究提供了机会，发现和发明新的概念，在新兴的功率半导体器件和先进的转换器拓扑结构/控制在并网光伏系统。更广泛的影响：拟议的研究将产生重大影响，光伏逆变器制造商提供新的电子功率转换器，提高转换效率和可靠性。 此外，这项研究还将通过解决新一代光伏逆变器的跨学科挑战来影响功率半导体行业。 该研究将被整合到FAMU-FSU工程学院的电力课程中，以满足不断增长的劳动力和技术需求。其他教育计划包括学生在合作公司实习，让女性和少数民族学生参与研究，向高中生提供外展服务，并刺激企业与行业的互动。

The objective is to research a new generation of grid-connected PV (photovoltaic) inverters to achieve high efficiency and MHz operation through a collaborative university-industry project. The approach is to apply wide band-gap power semiconductors in transformerless, cascaded, modular DC-AC inverters. We will develop an advanced control strategy that is capable of system-level fault monitoring and detection to maximize the PV output power, achieve reactive power compensation and to reduce the ground leakage current.Intellectual Merits: This research leverages the recent technological advances in GaN power switching devices and looks beyond the conventional single DC bus inverter topology. The buck-boost function and shoot-through capability of the Z-source network in the proposed modular dc-ac inverter can enable the inverter to obtain high efficiency, high performance and high reliability operation at MHz system output switching frequencies. The proposed research offers opportunities to discover and invent new concepts in emerging power semiconductor devices and advanced converter topology/control in grid-connected PV systems.Broader Impact: The proposed research will have a significant impact on PV inverter manufacturers by providing novel electronic power converters with increased conversion efficiency and increased reliability. Furthermore, this research will also impact the power semiconductor industry by addressing the cross-disciplinary challenges of the new generation of PV inverters. The research will be integrated into the power courses at FAMU-FSU College of Engineering to meet an increasing workforce and technology needs. Other education plans are to include student internships at the partner company, involve female and minority students in the research, provide outreach to high school students, and stimulate academia-industry interactions.