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Superjunction MOSFETs in cascode configuration with low-voltage silicon MOSFETs are evaluated in this paper. The proposed structure combines the good switching performance provided by the cascode configuration with the benefits of the silicon technology such as its robustness, maturity, and low cost. This paper aims to explain and to demonstrate the reduction of switching losses of superjunction MOSFETs in cascode configuration with respect to their standalone counterparts (directly driven). A detailed simulation analysis of power loss contributions is carried out under hard-switching operation. Moreover, experimental evidence is provided using a boost converter (100–400 V) operating in continuous conduction mode for different switching frequencies (100–400 kHz) and output power levels (180–500 W). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we demonstrate how latency insertion method (LIM) can be used for real-time simulation of high switching frequency power electronics systems and how this approach can be implemented for scalable Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) execution. We first present a summary of the LIM and how this method can be developed into a solver for high-performance FPGA execution. We then present how common power electronics topologies—buck and boost—can be modeled using the LIM approach, followed by how the LIM model of a three-phase dc/ac converter is created. Afterward, we demonstrate the accuracy of the developed FPGA solver through a set of power electronic system examples, with each example compared with near ideal results of same example provided by a traditional electromagnetic transient type solver. We complete the paper analyzing the scalability of the proposed approach on FPGA devices, both in terms of achievable time step as well as of resource usage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In several electrical dc–ac power conversions, the ac output voltage is higher than the input voltage. If a voltage-source inverter (VSI) is used, then an additional dc–dc boosting stage is required to overcome the step-down VSI limitations. Recently, several impedance source converters are gaining higher attentions [1], [2], as they are able to provide buck-boost capability in a single conversion stage. This paper proposes the merging of the boost stage and the VSI stage in a single stage dc–ac power conversion, denoted as split-source inverter (SSI). The proposed topology requires the same number of active switches of the VSI, three additional diodes, and the same eight states of a conventional space-vector modulation. It also shows some merits compared to Z-source inverters, especially in terms of reduced switch voltage stress for voltage gains higher than 1.15. This paper presents the analysis of the SSI and compares different modulation schemes. Moreover, it presents a modified modulation scheme to eliminate the low frequency ripple in the input current and the voltage across the inverter bridge. The proposed analysis has been verified by simulation and experimental results on a 2.0-kW prototype. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The main objective of this work is to provide an overview and evaluation of discrete model-predictive control (MPC)-based maximum power point tracking (MPPT) for photovoltaic systems. A large number of MPC-based MPPT methods have been recently introduced in the literature with very promising performance; however, an in-depth investigation and comparison of these methods has not been carried out yet. Therefore, this paper has set out to provide an in-depth analysis and evaluation of MPC-based MPPT methods applied to various common power converter topologies. The performance of MPC-based MPPT is directly linked with the converter topology, and it is also affected by the accurate determination of the converter parameters; sensitivity to converter parameter variations is also investigated. The static and dynamic performance of the trackers is assessed according to the EN 50530 standard, using detailed simulation models, and validated by experimental tests. The analysis in this work aims to present useful insight for practicing engineers and academic researchers when selecting the maximum power point tracker for their application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces a hybrid modular multilevel converter (MMC) with the full-bridge submodules (FBSMs) inserted in the ac side. It is intended for redistributing arm powers of the MMC system to reduce the submodule (SM) capacitor voltage fluctuation by injecting high-frequency powers in upper and lower arms without disturbing the output voltage. New power distribution of the hybrid MMC system can be realized by controlling the SMs and FBSMs working under the high-frequency powers. The proposed FBSMs in the hybrid MMC system also perform as the harmonic power generator to eliminate the common-mode voltages in the ac side. Since the FBSMs locate in the ac side of the hybrid MMC system, the traditional MMC control method can be directly applied in arm control of the hybrid MMC system. Meanwhile, relationship between the arm powers and SM capacitor voltage has been analyzed in detail to reduce the SM capacitor voltage ripples by redistributing the frequency spectrum of arm powers. Simulation and experimental results have also verified the effectiveness of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an alternative approach to address the control and modulation problem of single-phase three-level converters applied in the high-speed railway electrical traction drive system. Following the principle of deadbeat predictive direct torque control of ac motors, this paper discusses an improved direct power control (DPC) method based on a deadbeat active and reactive power prediction technique. Comparing with the conventional PI-based DPC scheme, the proposed deadbeat predictive DPC scheme can provide these advantageous features: lower current harmonics and THD index, lower active and reactive power ripples, and fewer adjusted parameters. Moreover, compared with PI-based DPC with the PI parameters optimization, this approach can also easily obtain fast dynamic response but without the main voltage orientation. A single-phase three-level space vector pulse width modulation (SVPWM) with inherent neutral-point voltage balancing capability is adopted, which can be combined with DPC scheme as an overall control and modulation system. A series of simulation and experimental tests have been conducted to demonstrate an excellent performance of the deadbeat predictive DPC. In addition, the neutral-point-voltage balancing ability of the adopted SVPWM method has been verified. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Conventional photovoltaic (PV) single/double stage grid – tie centralized and string inverters suffers from the problem of lower efficiency, high filter size, and limited depth of operation for remaining in connection with the grid, particularly under the lower insolation/partial shading condition. This paper proposes a staggered PV connection through cascaded multilevel converter (CMC) for PV-grid tie application utilizing independent maximum power point tracking controller, providing the larger depth of operation under partial shading condition with smaller filter size and electromagnetic interference (EMI). For dynamic and steady-state performance evaluation, a d-q frame-based control algorithm is investigated for the single-phase PV-CMC system. Furthermore, to establish the stability of the proposed controller, a detailed plant model is also investigated along with the detailed comparative analysis for operation of PV under partial shading condition for a conventional PV based centralized and string inverter vis-à-vis proposed PV-CMC approach. The improved performance analysis is demonstrated both through simulation and experimentation. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

An asymmetric three-level neutral point diode clamped converter for switched reluctance motor drives is proposed in this paper. The modulation method, the dc-link voltage balancing algorithm, and the current control scheme of this converter are presented. The proposed three-level converter is compared with the conventional two-level asymmetric half-bridge converter in terms of cost, current ripple, noise, and power losses. Compared to the conventional two-level converter, the proposed three-level converter has much lower current ripple, lower noise, and higher efficiency. The effectiveness of the proposed converter is verified by both simulation and experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper studies the techniques for modeling modular multilevel converter (MMC) based multi-terminal HVDC (MTDC) systems in the electromechanical transient mode. Firstly, the mathematical model of the MMC and its corresponding equivalent circuit are established, which are similar to those of the two level converters. Then, a power flow calculation method for AC/DC systems containing MMC-MTDC systems is developed. Two dynamic models for MMC-MTDC systems are developed in the paper. One is the detailed model, taking into account of the AC side circuit, the inner controllers, the modulation strategies, the outer controllers and the MTDC circuit. The other is the simplified model, which only reserves the outer controllers and partial dynamics of the MTDC circuit based on a quantitative analysis of the detailed model's dynamic processes, and it can be used in electromechanical transient simulation with a larger step size. Both the detailed and the simplified models are implemented on PSS/E and compared with the accurate electromagnetic transient models on PSCAD in a four terminal MMC-MTDC system; the result proves the validity of the developed models. Lastly, a stability study of a modified New England 39-bus system is executed, and the result shows that the AC fault can be isolated well in an MMC-MTDC asynchronously connected AC grid. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper discusses the extension of electromechanical stability models of voltage source converter high voltage direct current (VSC HVDC) to multi-terminal (MTDC) systems. The paper introduces a control model with a cascaded DC voltage control at every converter that allows a two-terminal VSC HVDC system to cope with converter outages. When extended to an MTDC system, the model naturally evolves into a master-slave set-up with converters taking over the DC voltage control in case the DC voltage controlling converter fails. It is shown that the model can be used to include a voltage droop control to share the power imbalance after a contingency in the DC system amongst the converters in the system. Finally, the paper discusses two possible model reductions, in line with the assumptions made in transient stability modeling. The control algorithms and VSC HVDC systems have been implemented using both MatDyn, an open source MATLAB transient stability program, as well as the commercial power system simulation package EUROSTAG. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Bidirectional inductive power transfer (IPT) systems are attractive for applications such as electric vehicles and vehicle-to-grid systems which preferably require “contactless” and two-way power transfer. However, in contrast to unidirectional IPT systems, bidirectional IPT systems require more sophisticated control strategies to control the power flow. An indispensible component of such control strategies is the robust and accurate synchronization between the primary- and pickup-side converters, without which the transfer of real power in any direction cannot be guaranteed. This paper proposes a novel technique that synchronizes converters on both the primary and pickup sides of bidirectional IPT systems. The technique uses an auxiliary winding, located on the pickup side, to produce a synchronizing signal which, in turn, can be utilized to regulate the real power flow. This paper also presents a mathematical model for the proposed technique and investigates its sensitivity for component tolerances. The viability of the technique, which is applicable to both single- and multiple-pickup IPT systems, is demonstrated through both simulations and experimental results of a 1-kW prototype bidirectional IPT system. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

High-power dc–dc converter is the essential component for connecting the renewable energy sources to medium-voltage dc (MVDC) grids. In this paper, a novel zero-voltage zero-current switching converter with two full-bridge cells sharing a bridge leg and connecting the secondary windings of two transformers in series is proposed for MVDC applications. One big feature of the proposed converter is that the required inductance used for energy transmission is reduced remarkably and even can be embedded in the transformer in some cases. Special but simple control strategy adopted by the converter makes it work in discontinuous current mode, which can realize zero-current switching for the main switches and rectifier diodes in the whole load range. Meanwhile, the auxiliary switches with small current rating can realize zero-voltage switching naturally. Hence, the switching loss is reduced, which is very important for high-power applications. The effects of the turns ratio of auxiliary transformer on the total loss and needed inductance are comprehensively analyzed and proved. With a detailed parameters design procedure, a simulation model is established in the software PLECS and the operation principle of the converter is verified. A 120 V–1200 V/1 kW prototype was built to validate the operation principle of the proposed converter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a startup sequence for a modular multilevel converter (MMC) HVDC-connected offshore wind farm (OWF) and demonstrates how it can be simulated using an electromagnetic transient-type tool. The objective is to analyze inrush currents of transformers and cables (HVAC and HVDC). Modeling accuracies and computational performances are examined using three existing modeling methods for the MMCs. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The stacked polyphase bridges (SPB) converter consists of several submodules that all are connected in series to a voltage source. The total dc-link voltage should split in a balanced way among the submodules. This does not always occur inherently. This paper presents an analysis of the capacitor voltage stability for the SPB converter. From the analysis, criteria for stability are derived and three alternatives of a suitable balancing controller are designed. The proposed controller alternatives and their associated stability properties are verified on an experimental setup and by simulation. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

A recently reported modeling methods for a switched capacitor converter either assume output as “firm” voltage or a resistor to facilitate calculation. When the size of output filter capacitor is moderate, accompanied by noticeable output ripple, previous modeling results may not provide accurate prediction and design guidelines. In this paper, a new modeling technique taking into account the output capacitor effect is proposed for simple dual-phase switched capacitor converters without complex coupling loops. The proposed model employs transient calculation, takes charge redistribution phase into account, and includes the duty cycle, switching frequency as well as output capacitor simultaneously in the final output impedance formula, which enhances accuracy of the model. It is suitable for interleaved and noninterleaved switched capacitor converters. The simulation and experimental results for the unity gain SC converter are provided to verify the proposed theory. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper describes a novel modeling approach for self-oscillating resonant power converters operating under a control method based on the variable structure of the system (VSS). Using a fundamental harmonic approximation, the link between control and switching frequency in steady state is found to be accurately described by an affine function that depends on the load. Besides, this link has been extended in order to characterize the control-to-switching frequency dynamics, resulting in a novel small-signal continuous-time model. The resulting control-to-switching frequency transfer function can be appended to the well-known models for frequency modulation, in order to obtain a complete control-to-output system. The new model exposes that the dynamics of the converter under the VSS-based control approach presents advantages with respect to the conventional methods as frequency modulation: 1) reduced dc gain variation for uncertain loads and 2) improved phase margin at high frequencies. The dynamic modeling is complemented with the design of a controller for regulating the output voltage of a parallel resonant converter, whose performance and robustness are compared with the standard frequency modulation. Numerical simulations and experimental results confirm and verify the analytical derivations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is the continuation of Part I in which a quasi-Z-source modular cascaded converter (qZS-MCC), comprising front-end isolated qZS half-bridge dc–dc converter submodules (SMs), for dc integration of high-power photovoltaic (PV) systems is proposed. The qZS-MCC-based PV system features modular structure, high-voltage dc collection of PV power, simple control with a unified and constant duty cycle for the front-end isolation converter of all SMs, and low qZS impedance due to no double-line-frequency pulsating power. Here, control scheme of the qZS-MCC PV system integrated into the dc collection grid is investigated. Dynamic model of the system is established for controllers design and time-domain transient simulation. Experimental tests are carried out on the downscaled prototype as a proof-of-concept of the proposed control and modeling, demonstrating the validity of the proposed approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Multiphase (more than three-phase electric power) electric drive system is the focus of a significant research in the last decade. Multiphase power transmission system is also investigated in the literature because multiphase transformers are needed at the input of rectifiers. In the multiphase power transmission and multiphase rectifier systems, the number of phases investigated is a multiple of three. However, the variable speed multiphase drive system considered in the literature are mostly of five, seven, nine, eleven, twelve, and fifteen phases. Such multiphase drive systems are invariably supplied from power electronic converters. In contrast, this paper proposes technique to obtain seven-phase output from three-phase supply system using special and novel transformer connections. Thus, with the proposed technique, a pure seven-phase sine-wave voltage/current is obtained, which can be used for motor testing purposes. In addition, a seven-phase power transmission and rectifier system may benefit from the proposed connection scheme. Complete design and testing of the proposed solution is presented. Analytical analysis, simulation, and experimental verifications are presented in the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Variable-speed multiphase (more than three phases) drive systems are seen as serious contenders to the existing three-phase drives due to their distinct advantages. Supply to the multiphase drives is invariably given from a voltage source inverter. However, this paper proposes an alternative solution for supplying multiphase drive system using a direct ac–ac converter called a matrix converter. This paper proposes the pulsewidth modulation (PWM) algorithm for the matrix converter topology with three-phase grid input and five-phase variable-voltage and variable-frequency output. The PWM control technique developed and presented in this paper is based on space vector approach. This paper presents the complete space vector model of the three-to-five-phase matrix converter topology. The space vector model yield 2^15 total switching combinations which reduce to 243 states considering the imposed constraints, out of which 240 are active and 3 are zero vectors. However, for space vector PWM (SVPWM) implementation, only 90 active and 3 zero vectors can be used. The SVPWM algorithm is presented in this paper. The viability of the proposed solution is proved using analytical, simulation, and experimental approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a thermal model of power converter used in switched reluctance motor (SRM) drive under constant convective heat transfer. The distribution of the system temperature rise is derived based on the average heating power measured as SRM is running steadily, and the temperature rise is independent of ambient temperature which is proved in this paper. The accuracy of the thermal model is verified by comparing experimental data with the results derived from finite-element method (FEM) simulation. Furthermore, this study achieves optimization in heat sink geometry and the placement of power components with the present model. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper presents a new diagnostic technique for the diagnosis of open-circuit faults in matrix converters operating with an Optimum Alesina-Venturini modulation scheme. Compared to previous diagnostic techniques developed for matrix converters, the technique proposed in this paper has the major advantage of not requiring the installation of any additional sensors in the converter besides the ones already present for control purposes. Hence, it can be easily integrated into the control platform of the converter at no additional cost. In addition to the diagnostic approach, a new fault-tolerant switching strategy is also presented so that after the appearance of an open-circuit fault, the matrix converter can continue to run although with degraded performance, until a repair action can be taken. Several simulation and experimental results are presented, demonstrating the effectiveness and applicability of the developed techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increased penetration of nonlinear loads and power-electronics-based distributed generation (DG) systems may introduce power quality issues to the distribution power system. However, if controlled and regulated properly, the DG–grid interfacing converters are able to improve the distribution system efficiency and power quality. This paper focuses on the distribution system harmonic control through the DG–grid interfacing converters. Two alternative DG systems, namely, current-controlled DG and voltage-controlled DG, are considered. While most of the previous works on harmonic compensation are based on the current-controlled method, a novel harmonic control scheme using a voltage-controlled method is developed in this paper. The voltage-controlled method is more flexible and has similar compensation performance compared to the conventional current-controlled method. In addition, by avoiding the implementation of a harmonic current tracking loop, the proposed voltage-based method can be seamlessly incorporated into a voltage-controlled DG unit, which is important to provide direct voltage and frequency support in a microgrid. Moreover, the possible harmonic circulating current among multiple DG systems is also investigated in this paper. Simulations and experimental results from a three-phase 5-kVA laboratory DG prototype are provided to validate the discussion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiphase (more than three phases) power electronic converters are required mainly for feeding variable-speed multiphase drive systems. This paper presents one such solution by using a direct ac–ac converter that can be used to supply a nine-phase drive system. The input is a fixed-voltage and fixedfrequency three-phase input, and the output is a variable-voltage and variable-frequency nine-phase output. A simple pulsewidthmodulation technique is developed for the proposed ac–ac converter named as a nonsquare three-to-nine-phase matrixconverter configuration. The developed modulation technique is based on the comparison of a high-frequency carrier signal with the duty ratios. Although the carrier-based scheme is widely employed for the control of back-to-back converters, it has recently been used for controlling a three-to-three-phase matrix converter. This concept is extended in this paper for controlling a threeto-nine-phase matrix converter. With the two techniques that are proposed, one outputs 0.75 of the input magnitude and the other outputs reach 0.762 of the input. This is the maximum value of the output voltage in the linear modulation range that can be achieved in this configuration of the matrix converter. The viability of the proposed control techniques is proved analytically through simulation and an experimental approach. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper presents a hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation technique applied to a series-resonant multiple-output inverter for new multi-inductor domestic induction heating platforms. The control of the topology is based on a system-on-programmable chip (SoPC) solution, which combines the MicroBlaze embedded soft-core processor and a customized peripheral that generates the power converter control signals. The firmware is written in C, and the customized peripheral is described using a hardware description language. Simulating the whole system using digital or mixed-signal simulation tools is a very time-consuming task due to the embedded processor model complexity, and additionally, it does not support tracing C instructions. To overcome these limitations, this paper proposes a real-time simulation test bench. The embedded processor core, peripherals, and the power converter model are all implemented into the same field-programmable gate array (FPGA). Using the hardware and software debugging tools supplied by the FPGA vendor, currents and voltages of the power converter model are monitored, and firmware C instructions are traced while running on the embedded processor core. Then, it is presented a design flow that is proven to be an effective and low-cost solution to verify the functionality of the customized peripheral and to implement a platform to perform firmware verification. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper provides an integrated algorithm to identify a cutset for a large power system for the application of a slow coherency based controlled islanding scheme. Controlled islanding is employed as a corrective measure of last resort to prevent cascading outages caused by large disturbances. The large scale power system is represented as a graph and a simplification algorithm is used to reduce the complexity of the system. Generators belonging to the same slowly coherent group are collapsed into a dummy node, and a graph partition library is used to split the graph into a given number of parts. Some extra islands formed by the partition library are merged into their adjacent large islands and the original cutset of the actual power system is recovered from the highly simplified graph. A software package was developed to test the efficiency of the algorithm, and dynamic simulations were run on the WECC system to verify the effectiveness of the cutset obtained. The WECC system has more than 15 000 buses and 2300 generators. Detailed steps to develop an islanding strategy for a specified contingency for a large system are described in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a low-cost energy-efficient variable-speed drive for high-volume applications, such as home appliances, fans, and hand tools. A new low-cost power converter is proposed, and the drive system is realized using a two-phase switched reluctance motor and the proposed converter. The motor is capable of self-starting at any rotor position and four-quadrant operation. The converter is unique in that it has two capacitors for the energization of each phase and uses the main phase winding as energy storage for the secondary capacitor C2. The converter employs a single-switch-per-phase configuration, hence requiring only two controllable switching devices in total. The converter is inherently suited for two-phase motors having asymmetric stator phases to realize self-starting and speed reversal. Simple starting and C2 voltage control schemes are presented. This paper describes the analysis, modeling, control algorithm, and design considerations for a prototype drive system. Experimental verification and correlation with simulation results are presented. The proposed drive system offers a low-cost brushless variable-speed drive that is a potential alternative for conventional brush-commutator motors in high-volume applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the control system based on the so-called repetitive control for a five-level flying-capacitor dynamic voltage restorer (DVR). This DVR multilevel topology is suitable for medium-voltage applications and operated by the control scheme developed in this paper. It is able to mitigate power-quality disturbances, such as voltage sags, harmonic voltages, and voltage imbalances simultaneously within a bandwidth. The control structure has been divided into three subsystems; the first one improves the transient response of the filter used to eliminate the modulation high-frequency harmonics, the second one deals with the load voltage; and the third is charged with maintaining balanced voltages in the flying capacitors. The well-developed graphical facilities available in PSCADIEMTDC are used to carry out all modelling aspects of the repetitive controller and test system. Simulation results show that the control approach performs very effectively and yields excellent voltage regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In photovoltaic power systems, both photovoltaic modules and switching-mode converters present nonlinear and time-variant characteristics, which result in a difficult control problem. This paper presents an in-depth analysis and modeling to discover the inherent features of a photovoltaic power system. The method of successive linearization simplifies the nonlinear problem back to the linear case. This paper also presents the use of Youla parameterization to design a stable control system for regulating the photovoltaic voltage. The experimental and simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the presented analysis, design, and implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a protection scheme which utilizes modern voltage-source converters as fast-acting current-limiting circuit breakers. This paper investigates the main challenges of detecting and localizing a fault, and interrupting it as quickly as possible in a multiterminal dc system. A system protection scheme consisting of smart relays associated with converters has been developed. The protection relays monitor local quantities to detect and isolate disturbances/faults. It is shown that overcurrent-based schemes can be adopted for these relays to meet the fast response requirements. The effectiveness of the proposed protection scheme is illustrated through simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a carrier-based modulation method for a matrix converter. By using the offset voltage and changing the slope of carrier, it is possible to synthesize the sinusoidal input currents with the unity power factor and desired output voltages. The proposed method is equivalent to the so called space vector pulsewidth modulation method. The proposed method uses a new point of view to understand the matrix converter modulation method such as the voltage source inverter (VSI) modulation method. Using the proposed method, this paper presents the two-phase/three-phase modulation method and dynamic/steady-state over-modulation method for the matrix converter. These methods are well developed in the study of a VSI. By the proposed steady-state overmodulation method, it is possible to synthesize the fundamental component of output voltage to be equal to that of input voltage at the cost of some distortion of input current. The feasibility of the proposed modulation method has been verified by a computer simulation and experimental results. These results show that the proposed carrier-based modulation method can be implemented easily without any tables. It can be used for the application where a higher voltage transfer ratio is essential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents two single-phase to three-phase conversion systems for a three-phase load application. The load is connected to a single-phase grid through an ac–dc–ac single-phase to three-phase converter. The single-phase rectifier is composed of two parallel single-phase half-bridge rectifiers. The first proposed topology is composed of a full-bridge three-phase inverter, i.e., three-leg inverter, while the other topology is composed of a two-leg inverter. Suitable modeling, including the circulation current, and control strategy are presented. A pulsewidth modulation (PWM) technique using a single or double carriers PWM implementation is presented. Proposed topologies permit to improve the harmonic distortion. In addition, the P5L converter can reduce the converter power losses. Finally, simulation and experimental results are presented for validation purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes an individual phase current control (IPCC) method based on optimal zero-sequence current separation for star-connected cascade STATCOMs under unbalanced grid voltage. The IPCC is adopted to get better adaptation to unbalanced conditions. Each cluster of the cascade STATCOM has its own phase current control loop and dc-voltage feedback loop, and it can generate the necessary negative-sequence current automatically to rebalance power. However, the zero-sequence current which is unnecessary and harmful in star configuration is introduced in the process. An optimal zero-sequence current separation is presented to remove the zero-sequence current by reconstructing the reactive current command. This improved IPCC enables star-connected STATCOMs adapt to unbalanced conditions without the need for any power balancing algorithms. Also, the operation range of the proposed control method is analyzed. Simulation research studies are performed to verify the operation range analysis, and the experimental operation is tested on a 25-level ±10 Mvar/10-kV STATCOM product installed at a wind farm. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Multilevel cascaded H-bridge converters are promising candidates for large-scale photovoltaic power plants. They allow direct connection to medium-voltage distribution networks without the presence of bulky line frequency power transformers. Owing to the stochastically variable nature of irradiance level, ambient temperature, and other factors, power levels in the three phases are expected to be unequal. The power imbalance condition creates unexpected problems with this topology, which was initially designed to operate under balanced power conditions. To deal with this issue, the paper proposes three novel zero-sequence injection methods as an expansion to the conventional zero-sequence injection method. Results obtained from simulations and a 430-V 8-kW three-phase seven-level cascaded H-bridge prototype are presented to verify the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Switched-capacitor (SC) converters are gaining popularity due to their high power density and suitability for on-chip integration. Soft-charging and resonant techniques can be used to eliminate the current transient during the switching instances, and improve the power density and efficiency of SC converters. In this paper, we propose a split-phase control scheme that enables the Dickson converter to achieve complete soft-charging (or resonant) operation, which is not possible using the conventional two-phase control. An analytical method is extended to help in the analysis and design of split-phase controlled Dickson converters. The proposed technique and analysis are verified by both simulation and experimental results. An 8-to-1 step-down Dickson converter with an input voltage of 150 V and rated power of 36 W is built using GaN FETs. The converter prototype demonstrated a five fold reduction in the output impedance (which corresponds to conduction power loss) compared to a conventional Dickson converter, as a result of the split-phase controlled soft-charging operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Voltage source back-to-back power converters are widely used in grid-tied applications. This paper presents a quasi-centralized direct model predictive control (QC-DMPC) scheme for back-to-back converter control without a dc-link outer-loop controller. Furthermore, the QC-DMPC is experimentally compared with a conventional proportional-integration (PI) dc-link controller-based DMPC (PI-DMPC) scheme. For the QC-DMPC scheme, the dc-link voltage is directly controlled by a grid-side predictive controller using a dynamic reference generation concept and load-side power estimation. For the PI-DMPC scheme, the dc-link voltage is controlled by an external PI controller. Both schemes are implemented on a field programmable gate array (FPGA)-based platform. Effectiveness of the proposed QC-DMPC is verified by both simulation and experimental data. Moreover, FPGA implementation issues (resource usage and timing information), dc-link control performance, and robustness to parameter variation of the two DMPC schemes are compared in detail. The results emphasize that the QC-DMPC may outperform the PI-DMPC scheme in normal operation but with a slightly higher usage of FPGA resources. However, PI-DMPC scheme is more robust when parameter variations are considered. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The feasibility of future multiterminal dc (MTDC) systems depends largely on the capability to withstand dc-side faults. Simulation models of MTDC systems play a very important role in investigating these faults. For such studies, the test system needs to be accurate and computationally efficient. This paper proposes a detailed equivalent model of the modular multilevel converter (MMC), which is used to develop the MTDC test system. The proposed model is capable of representing the blocked-mode operation of the MMC, and can be used to study the balancing control of the capacitor voltages. In addition, the operation of the MMC when redundant submodules are included in the arms can also be studied. A simplified model of a hybrid high-voltage dc breaker is also developed. Hence, the developed test system is capable of accurately describing the behavior of the MMC-based MTDC system employing hybrid HVDC breakers, during fault conditions. Using time-domain simulations, permanent dc-side faults are studied in the MTDC system. In addition, a scheme to control the fault current through the MMC using thyristors on the ac side of the converter is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper studies a regenerative cascaded multilevel converter that substitutes active front ends for the diode-based front ends only in part of cells, and proposes a power tracking control strategy that does not need any motor parameters. During the induction motor's deceleration, by controlling the two kinds of cells' output voltages according to the motor's power factor angle, the converter makes the motor-generated energy wholly collected by regenerative cells; thus, other cells' dc-link voltages remain stable. Regeneration limitation is analyzed. The simulation results of a 6-kV six-cell cascaded converter and experiments on a laboratory cascaded converter verify that the converter can transfer the motor power back to the grid and allows the motor to decelerate more quickly. Moreover, the control strategy is suitable for the drive systems whose regenerated power cannot be estimated or is varying. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper investigates the different control objectives, such as loss reduction, neutral point (NP) balance and noise reduction of the space vector modulation (SVM), for the three-level neutral point clamped (NPC) converter. A detailed loss model and simulation model is built for quantitative loss and NP voltage ripple analysis. An improved SVM method is proposed to reduce NP imbalance and switching loss/noise simultaneously. The coordinately selected small vectors consider both the NP charge and the pulse sequence so that the minimized NP ripple and switching events are guaranteed in one switching cycle. In addition, the switching events between switching cycles are also considered to reduce the total switching loss. This method ensures an evenly distributed device loss in each phase leg and also a constant system efficiency under different power factors. The control result for NP balance and loss reduction is verified by using both a simulation model and an experimental prototype on a 200-kVA three-level NPC converter hardware. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a generalized switching technique for cascaded H -bridge (CHB) converters is proposed. To take advantage of both low- and high-frequency modulation techniques, a hybrid modulation method is utilized. The proposed technique employs the low-frequency switching for voltage balancing of the dc-link capacitors, and the high-frequency sinusoidal pulse-width modulation switching for shaping the input ac current. Using the proposed technique, the stable operating region of CHB converters is extended. The proposed technique is capable of maintaining the dc voltages balanced even under critical operating conditions in which the load of one H-bridge cell is removed. The validity and effectiveness of the proposed method is confirmed by several simulation and experimental tests on a seven-level CHB rectifier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The modular multilevel converter (MMC) is a newly introduced switch-mode converter topology with the potential for high-voltage and high-power applications. This paper focuses on the design and control methods for fault-tolerant operation using redundant submodules (SMs), which is one of the most important features in the MMC topology. By comparing three design schemes of redundant SMs, the most economic and reliable scheme is identified. In addition, a mathematical model of the MMC with arms containing different numbers of SMs is developed. Based on the identified scheme and mathematical model, an energy-balancing control strategy is proposed to keep the MMC operating normally under SM fault conditions. Finally, time-domain simulations of a 61-level MMC system are performed, using the PSCAD/EMTDC software, while experiments are carried out on a 41-level MMC prototype. The simulation and experimental results validate the design scheme, mathematical model, and proposed energy-balancing control strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For flyback converter applications, an accurate model of the transformer is necessary for simulation studies, as well as a basis for model-based controller design. In general, transformer modeling has either focused on the winding model, using frequency-domain methods, or on the nonlinear core model, using time-domain methods. Nonlinear modeling is confined to the time domain and certain difficulties have precluded the use of time-domain methods for winding model estimation, resulting in the lack of integrated modeling approaches. This paper focuses on identifying a complete nonlinear dynamic model of a 3-winding transformer using time-domain system identification approaches. Our study demonstrates a possible way to handle the difficulties of working in the time domain and provides a model at least as accurate as that obtained with the frequency response data. In addition to the parameters of the Jiles-Atherton model, which is used to describe the nonlinear core behavior, the air-gap length is also computed from the experimental data to enhance the core model accuracy. The obtained transformer winding model, core model, and full model are experimentally verified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, an autoconnected-transformer-based 20-pulse ac–dc converter is proposed for harmonic current reduction in switched-mode power supplies (SMPSs) of moderate rating (10–15 kW). The proposed ac–dc converter is realized with a fractional magnetic rating of the load. The supply current is nearly sinusoidal with low total harmonic distortion, and the power factor is close to unity. A set of power quality indices at three-phase utility for an SMPS is presented for both 20- and 6-pulse converters to compare their performances. It is determined that the power quality indices at ac mains with a 20-pulse converter meet IEEE Standard 519 even at varying loads. A laboratory prototype of an autoconnected-transformer-based 20-pulse ac–dc converter has been designed and developed to validate the findings from simulation. Various tests have been conducted on it, and the test results conform to the simulation results. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Modular multilevel converters (MMC) are considered a top converter alternative for voltage-source converter (VSC) high-voltage, direct current (HVDC) applications. Main circuit design and converter performance evaluation are always important issues to consider before installing a VSC-HVDC system. Investigation into a steady-state analysis method for an MMC-based VSC-HVDC system is necessary. This paper finds a circular interaction among the electrical quantities in an MMC. Through this circular interaction, a key equation can be established to solve the unknown circulating current. A new steady-state model is developed to simply and accurately describe the explicit analytical expressions for various voltage and current quantities in an MMC. The accuracy of the expressions is improved by the consideration of the circulating current when deriving all the analytical expressions. The model's simplicity is demonstrated by having only one key equation to solve. Based on the analytical expressions for the arm voltages, the equivalent circuits for MMC are proposed to improve the current understanding of the operation of MMC. The feasibility and accuracy of the proposed method are verified by comparing its results with the simulation and experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a high-efficiency solar array simulator (SAS) implemented by an LLC resonant dc–dc converter is proposed to save the cost and energy of photovoltaic (PV) system testing. The proposed converter has zero-voltage switching (ZVS) operation of the primary switches and zero-current switching (ZCS) operation of the rectifier diodes. By frequency modulation control, the output impedance of an LLC resonant converter can be regulated from zero to infinite without shunt or serial resistors. Therefore, the efficiency of the proposed SAS can be significantly increased. The circuit operations are analyzed in detail to derive the theoretical equations. Circuit parameters are designed based on the practical considerations. Finally, an illustrative example is implemented to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed SAS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses charging modes of series-resonant converter (SRC) for an energy storage capacitor in terms of charging time, losses of switch, normalized peak resonant current, normalized peak resonant voltage, and switch utilization in three operational modes. Principles of operation on the full-bridge SRC with capacitor load are explained, and charging characteristics in discontinuous and continuous operational modes are analyzed. Based on the analysis and the simulation focused on the aforementioned five performance indexes, ms = 0.5 is evaluated to be the optimized operating frequency ratio for charging an energy storage capacitor. A 1.8-kJ/s SRC prototype is assembled with the TI 28335 DSP controller and a 40-kJ 7-kV capacitor. Design rules based on the comparative analysis are verified by experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper focuses on the common-mode voltage reduction and the power quality of matrix converters for a low-voltage transfer ratio of less than 0.5 by the direct space vector modulation (DSVM) method. The principles of selecting suitable switching configurations based on new space vector sectors are described, and an entire switching table for the new control strategy is developed. The matrix converter with the proposed method reduces peak-to-peak common-mode voltage remarkably. The new DSVM method has advantages over the conventional DSVM method, such as lower total harmonic distortion of line-to-line output voltage and a reduction in switching loss by a minimum number of switching commutations. The proposed DSVM method can be easily implemented in software. Simulation and experimental results are shown to verify the effectiveness of the proposed DSVM method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low system voltage in traction networks, mainly caused by active power absorption of locomotives, adversely affects the performance of the locomotives and also the power transmission capability of the catenary line. This paper introduces a voltage support scheme to compensate for the adverse effects of low system voltage. The proposed method is based on the injection of reactive power through the current-controlled line-side converter of locomotives. Comparing the catenary voltage with its reference value, the error is fed to a high-order controller. The controller generates the quadrature (q)-axis reference value of a current control strategy, which is responsible for the reactive power injection. To design the high-order controller, adopting the nonparametric models of the system at various locations, an optimization-based loop-shaping approach is used. The loop shaping guarantees the stability and the acceptable performance of the closed-loop system for various locomotive positions in the network. The performance of the proposed control strategy is evaluated based on simulation results in MATLAB/PLECS environment. Moreover, implementing a scaled-down laboratory setup, the performance of the proposed scheme is experimentally evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a novel dual-input matrix converter (DIMC) to integrate two three-phase ac type energy resources to a power grid. The proposed matrix converter is developed based on the traditional indirect matrix converter under reverse power flow operation mode, but with its six-switch voltage source converter replaced by a nine-switch configuration. With the additional three switches, the proposed DIMC can provide six input terminals, which make it possible to integrate two independent ac sources into a single grid-tied power electronics interface. The proposed converter has input-to-output voltage boost capability since power flows from the converter's voltage source side to its current source side. Commanded currents can be extracted from the two input sources to the grid. The proposed control and modulation schemes guarantee sinusoidal input and output waveforms as well as unity input power factors. The simulation and experimental results using a laboratory prototype are provided to validate the effectiveness of the proposed control and modulation schemes for the proposed converter. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper presents a sensorless bifilar wound permanent magnet brushless DC (BW-PMBLDC) motor fan for automotive engine cooling applications. The key is to incorporate the bifilar winding design into the conventional half-wave PMBLDC motor. Due to the perfect flux-coupling effect between bifilar winding, a regenerative capability is developed so that the trapped energy in the conducting winding during the turn-off period can be re-dumped to DC source through the other winding in the bifilar pair, hence effectively promoting the energy efficiency and repressing the voltage spikes. Moreover, the complementary scheme developed between the bifilar wound phases enables bipolar excitation on the unipolar converter topology. Therefore, the BWPMBLDC motor cannot only offer the advantages of full-wave motor in efficiency, voltage spike reduction, and low torque ripple, but also retain the advantages of simplicity and robustness of unipolar converter topology. Both simulation and experimental results are presented to validate the feasibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]