This paper describes the selection and operation of a Boost Integrated with Flyback Rectifier/Energy storage/DC-DC converter (BIFRED) for piezoelectric energy harvesting purposes. This topology presents features like low-harmonic rectification, energy storage and wide-bandwith voltage control in an integrated single converter, leading to fewer components, weight and miniaturization of the entire system. This miniaturization makes the integrated topologies a suitable option for further developments in Wireless Sensor Network based Structural Health and Condition Monitoring applications. The operation of the BIFRED circuit in Discontinuous Conduction Mode (DCM) mode is described. A nonlinear model is derived and used to predict the DC gains between the input, storage and output voltages of the circuit. A simulation-based verification is carried out using MATLAB Simulink, the operation of the circuit is corroborated and the power factor is computed. Finally, the results of a piezoelectric implementation using the BIFRED circuit are presented.
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