A Z-source inverter is a type of power inverter, a circuit that converts direct current to alternating current. It functions as a buck-boost inverter without making use of DC-DC converter bridge due to its unique circuit topology.
Impedance (Z-) Source networks provide an efficient means of power conversion between source and load in a wide range of electric power conversion applications (dc–dc, dc–ac, ac–dc, ac– ac) [3], [4]. Z-source-related research has grown rapidly since it was first proposed in 2002 by Prof. F. Z. Peng. The numbersof modifications and new Z-source topologies have grown exponentially. Improvements to the impedance networks by introducing coupled magnetics have also been lately proposed for achieving even higher voltage boosting, while using a shorter shoot-through time [6]. They include the Γ-source, T-source, trans-Zsource, TZ-source, LCCT-Z-source (proposed in 2011 by Dr. Marek Adamowicz and utilizing high frequency transformer connected in series with two dc-current-blocking capacitors) [16], high-frequencytransformer-isolated, and Y-source [5] networks. Among them, the Y-source network (proposed in year 2013 by Dr. Yam P. Siwakoti) is more versatile and can in fact be viewed as the generic network, from which the Γ-source, T-source, and trans-Z-source networks are derived [6]. The incommensurate properties of this network open a new horizon to researchers and engineers to explore, expand, and modify the circuit for a wide range of power conversion applications.