A Novel Dual-Input Split-Source Multilevel Inverter With Single-Stage-Integrated Dynamic Voltage-Boosting Feature for Hybrid Energy Storage in Transportation Systems

Advanced and reliable power converter solutions are fundamental to advancing future transportation systems and facilitating the ongoing transition toward environmentally sustainable technologies. Transportation systems can employ multiple sources to improve their reliability and economic operation. Therefore, a novel dual-input multilevel inverter (MLI) configuration is proposed and designed in this article for multisource transportation applications. The proposed topology synthesizes the dual-input split-source MLI-based switching capacitor (SC-DSSMLI) units, resulting in a high voltage-boosting ratio due to its integrated boost converter stage. In addition, the layout is compact and cost-effective, leveraging a modular switched capacitor (SC) structure to produce multiple output levels without increasing the number of dc sources. Furthermore, the topology’s scalability is enhanced by stacking additional SC stages. The inductor duty cycle and SC unit performance can be adjusted to achieve the desired boosting factor. A modified level-shifted pulsewidth modulation technique ensures efficient operation of the proposed SC-DSSMLI topology, eliminating the complexity of the modulation schemes or additional calculations. The SC-DSSMLI’s capability to operate efficiently with single- or dual-input sources offers significant flexibility over existing dual-input topologies. The continuous input inductor current is another key feature, along with a method to mitigate inrush current, which can damage SCs. Experimental results, alongside topological comparisons and various performance criteria, are presented in the article, confirming the benefits of reduced component count and high operational efficiency. Furthermore, the article provides a comprehensive analysis of the stress experienced by all switches, along with a count of passive elements, offering a detailed comparison with other existing topologies.