A Comparative Investigation of a New Continuous Voltage Conversion Ratio Approach in a Zero-Inductor Voltage Converter

This paper investigates the performance of the new pulse pattern strategy for a Zero-Inductor Voltage (ZIV) converter. Unlike the other methods introduced in the literature, this method does not need additional components or sensors. Moreover, it extends the voltage conversion ratio from zero to input voltage, just like a conventional buck converter, but eliminates its drawbacks. The new method will be discussed and compared to a 3-level buck converter, and its performance as a solar battery charger will be analyzed. The results for a 250W prototype (20-60V input voltage, 12V output voltage, 21A output current) with average efficiency over the full line and load (60W to 250W) of 97.54%, are presented to justify the merit of the new method.