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Abstract This paper presents the theoretical development and performance of novel Input–Output Linearization (IOL) AC voltage controllers applied to Dynamic Voltage Restorers (DVR) with Flywheel Energy Storage (FES). IOL performance is compared to decoupled proportional integral (PI) controllers, both relying on a backward Euler predictive current controlled AC–AC matrix converter. The critical load AC decoupled voltage control using IOL or PI is detailed as well as the backward Euler predictive current control. The matrix input and output current tracking control uses a backward Euler predictive current control minimizing a weighted cost functional. The stable backward Euler matrix vector estimation enables the AC–AC matrix to perform as a current tracking converter. Experimental results are obtained using a laboratory level DVR fitted with FES device made from a vertical axis rotating seamless steel hollow cylinder (flywheel) storing kinetic energy. The flywheel is coupled to a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine (PMSM) motor/generator, which is driven by the AC–AC matrix converter. The DVR was tested to mitigate voltage sags in isolated neutral critical loads, using IOL and PI controllers. The DVR is able to compensate the critical load voltage without noticeable delays, voltage undershoots or overshoots, overcoming the input/output coupling problem of matrix converters. IOL controller proves to be faster and more aggressive than the PI controller, which is softer introducing less voltage distortion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Voltage source multilevel power converter structures are being considered for high power high voltage applications where they have well known advantages. Recently, full back-to-back connected multilevel neutral diode clamped converters (NPC) have been used in high voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission systems. Bipolar back-to-back connection of NPCs have advantages in long distance HVDC transmission systems, but highly increased difficulties to balance the dc capacitor voltage dividers on both sending and receiving end NPCs. This paper proposes a fast optimum-predictive controller to balance the dc capacitor voltages and to control the power flow in a long distance HVDC system using bipolar back-to-back connected NPCs. For both converter sides, the control strategy considers active and reactive power to establish ac grid currents on sending and receiving ends, while guaranteeing the balancing of both NPC dc bus capacitor voltages. Furthermore, the fast predictive controller minimizes the semiconductor switching frequency to reduce global switching losses. The performance and robustness of the new fast predictive control strategy and the associated dc capacitors voltage balancing are evaluated. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]