Fast reconfigurable photovoltaic switching cell integrated within DC-DC converters

This paper introduces a concept of a switching cell that utilizes the reconfiguration of series and parallel connections in DC-DC converters. The switching occurs at high switching frequency and the switches can be integrated to be within the solar panels or in between the solar cells. The concept is generalized and applied to basic boost and buck topologies. Analysis and experiments for the reconfigurable boost converter are presented more extensively to illustrate proof of concept. Benefits and drawbacks of the new approach are discussed.