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Connection of an LC filter to the output of voltage source inverter (VSI) in squirrel cage induction motor (SQIM) drive converts the pulse-width modulated (PWM) voltages into smooth sinusoidal voltages. However, this connection may lead to closed-loop instability in the rotor flux-oriented (RFO) vector-controlled (VC) SQIM system. The closed-loop stability of the combined SQIM + LC filter (SQLC) system is complex and has not been analyzed properly in the literature. In this paper, a detailed closed-loop stability analysis of the SQLC system has been presented based on stability region (SR) and accordingly the PI gains of VC has been designed. The SR method is adopted to derive the common stability regions for the SQIM system and SQLC system. Thereby, the paper proves that connecting an LC filter in-between the VSI and the SQIM system does not always destabilize the closed-loop system. Further, for an SQLC system, the complete range of current controller gains is obtained at various operating points. The frequency-domain specifications have been used to select a proper stabilizing set and the effect of parametric variation of LC filter on the stabilizing set has also been discussed. The experimental results are provided to validate the analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dc-dc converters with high step-up DC-voltage gain play a vital role in integrating low voltage DC sources. Though several converter topologies are reported in the recent past, attempts have been made to reduce the components, especially the switching devices, passive elements, converter losses, etc., of the converter. A novel DC-DC converter topology, viz., single switched impedance network (SSIN)-based converter with n-stage is proposed in this paper. The operation of the SSIN based converter in continuous and discontinuous conduction modes are discussed. The effect of parasitic elements on DC-voltage gain and efficiency of the SSIN is carried out. The small-signal model of the SSIN converter is derived. The performance of the SSIN converter is compared with the similar converter topologies. The 500 W prototypes of the SSIN with n = 1 and n = 2 are fabricated, and the experimental results are presented in this paper. To improve the converter performance, SiC-based semiconductor devices are used. The SSIN converter with two-stage has low switch loss at 500 W load, improved efficiency during high power and high output voltage operation, the switch stress of Vo/2, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of Hall-based BLDC motors ranges from automotive accessory components such as oil and water pumps to high speed compressors. This paper proposes a new twelve-step unsymmetrical 160° commutation strategy using a single Hall-effect sensor method for brushless DC (BLDC) motor drives. The signal from the Hall-effect sensor is used to generate a number of pseudo Hall signals via a proposed speed-position estimator. The pseudo signals are then employed to control switching logic of a voltage source inverter (VSI). The effectiveness of the single Hall sensor method is examined on the unconventional 160° strategy, and on conventional 120°, 150° and 180° strategies with promising results. The paper presents a detailed comparison of the twelve-step unsymmetrical 160° commutation strategy with six-step voltage space vector that is used in conventional 120° and 180° strategies, and twelve-step symmetrical voltage space vector that is used in 150° strategy. Simulation results are validated via experimental measurements on a laboratory set-up using a real time dSPACE control environment, a representative BLDC motor prototype, a VSI and associated control components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Frequency-domain modeling is an effective technique in the dynamic analysis of power electronic converters-based power systems. In this paper, a unified single-input single-output (SISO) loop gain modeling for the three-phase grid-tied voltage source converters (VSCs) under both symmetric and asymmetric AC grids is presented, which facilitates the physical measurement and stability analysis. Based on the linear-time-periodic (LTP) modeling technique, the harmonic admittance model of the three-phase grid-tied VSC is developed in the stationary (αβ)-frame, which accurately captures the coupling dynamics. This model can be transformed into other existing models through coordinate transformations. According to the idea of mathematical induction, a two-by-two recursive admittance matrix (RAM) model is derived, which is easy to include frequency coupling components of arbitrary order. It is illustrated that the VSC admittance is coupled with the grid admittance due to the frequency coupling effect (FCE). Furthermore, the RAM is converted to its equivalent SISO models following the concept of loop gain. The system stability is thus assessed by the SISO stability criteria (e.g., Nyquist stability criterion). In addition, the loop gain allows the traditional SISO perturbation and measurement scheme to be used for detecting the stability margin information. Finally, simulation results verify the feasibility and correctness of the theoretical analysis presented above. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a circulating-current-excited switched reluctance generator system with the diode rectifier is comparatively studied with a field-current-separated switched reluctance generator. By using a DC power source connected in series with the winding to provide the circulating current, a controllable excitation field is established in the proposed generator. To highlight the influence of this DC voltage source, the injected field current of the field-current-separated generator is kept the same as the circulating current of the circulating-current-excited generator. Then, both advantages and disadvantages of the generators are summarized. The circulating-current-excited switched reluctance generator system inherits both the advantages of good reliability of the separated-winding generator by using the diode rectifier and low copper loss of the integrated-winding machine by combining the AC and DC current in one set of windings. Furthermore, two more practically conventional field-current-separated generators are also compared with the proposed generator in terms of the external characteristics. These two conventional generators have different winding configurations. At last, the analysis is verified by experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multi-terminal high-voltage direct current (MTDC) systems based on voltage source converters (VSCs) are increasingly utilized. In such a case, dynamic interactions among different VSCs of each terminal become one of the leading problems for the ac/dc interconnected system. This paper presents a frequency-domain small-signal model of MTDC-linked VSCs in dc voltage control (DVC) timescale based on the motion equation concept. Control schemes, including two typical dc voltage-droop control, phase-locked loop, and vector control in DVC timescale are taken into account adequately. By considering the dynamics of both input and output active powers across the dc capacitor, the proposed model aims to describe the external characteristics of MTDC-linked VSCs independent of grid conditions, which makes it easy to extend in various types of MTDC systems. Interaction analysis of a typical four-terminal HVdc system was conducted to validate the feasibility of the presented model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In islanded microgrids, voltage source inverters working in parallel are expected to provide regulation of the local frequency while granting active power sharing. This paper presents a local control approach at each inverter based on an event-driven operation of a parameter-varying filter. It ensures perfect active power sharing and controllable accuracy for frequency restoration without requiring the exchange of control data between inverters over the communication network. This paper includes stability analysis and design guidelines for the control parameters using a modeling approach that considers the interaction between inverters. Selected experimental results on a three-inverter laboratory microgrid corroborate the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme, and outlines its advantages with respect to previous similar schemes and the performance cost that implies not using communications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents Space Vector Modulation (SVM) sequences that reduce Common Mode Voltage (CMV) in Dual Three-phase Asymmetrical Induction Motor (DTAIM). At first, two existing SVM techniques such as Reference SVM (RSVM) and CMV1 are studied. Additionally, three new switching sequences are developed as CMV2, CMV3 and DCMV3, which reduce peak magnitude of CMV by 66.8% in comparison with RSVM technique. In SVM techniques, to obtain least CMV, zero vectors are usually replaced by two opposite large Active voltage Vectors (AV) with equal time duration. In such topologies like CMV1, total six AVs are utilized to synthesize the reference vector. The proposed SVM technique CMV2 utilizes only five large AVs to synthesize the reference vector and reduces CMV. Selection of five neighbouring AVs is reflected in reduction of harmonic flux trajectories and stator current ripple in proposed techniques. Additionally, two more switching sequences (CMV3 and DCMV3) are developed related to utilization of specific zero voltage vectors in all sectors (7 and 56) that produce zero CMV. These two switching sequences also provide easy implementation feature during the development of c-code program. In this study, CMV and stator current ripple are considered as performance parameters for different SVM techniques. All SVM techniques are analysed by analytical results, computer simulations, and using prototype test setup of DTAIM fed by Dual Three-phase Voltage Source Inverters (DTVSIs). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

–This paper proposes an efficient and optimal reduced control set model predictive flux control (RCS-MPFC) for a three-level neutral-point-clamped voltage source inverter (3L-NPC VSI) fed induction motor. The proposed algorithm reduces the computational time in the prediction stage without causing any suboptimality. The optimal voltage vector selected by the proposed method produces the same cost function value as that of the conventional FCS-MPFC which requires enumerating all 27 voltage vectors. Therefore, the proposed algorithm achieves the same performance as the conventional method in the entire range of operation of IM drives while the computational effort is significantly reduced. Experimental results verify the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm and its superior performance compared to the existing RCS-MPFC scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The implementation of finite-control-set model predictive control (FCS-MPC) in voltage source inverters (VSIs) can make the system suffer from poor current harmonics performance, which may complicate the design of the required AC filter. To overcome this shortcoming, a carrier-based modulated model predictive control (CB-MMPC) strategy is proposed in this paper. This method enables the utilization of existing PWM modulation techniques with FCS-MPC, where a modulation waveform with zero-sequence signal injection is generated and compared to a triangular carrier wave, while optimizing the selection of the switching states. As it is shown, the studied CB-MMPC strategy not only considerably improves the current total harmonic distortion (THD) but also attains the performance of fast current dynamic response and robustness as the traditional FCS-MPC. Herein, the detailed implementation of the CB-MMPC control strategy is given, while considering its application to the current feedback control loop of a three-phase three-wire two-level VSI modulated at constant switching frequency. Finally, PLECS circuit simulation and a 3-kW VSI prototype are used to verify the superiority and the effectiveness of the presented CB-MMPC strategy. This is also benchmarked to the FCS-MPC and dead-beat based controllers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, an improved magnetic equivalent circuit (MEC) model of a coreless axial-flux permanent-magnet synchronous machine (AFPMSM) with printed circuit board (PCB) winding is presented, which considers the curvature effect, fringing effect, leakage flux, and rotor yoke's magnetic saturation. The axial air-gap flux density distribution, no-load back electromotive force, winding inductances, and electromagnetic torque are predicted by the proposed MEC model. The steady-state performances of the machine under heavy load, as well as the dynamic response of the machine with a connected voltage source and mechanical load, are calculated. All the results obtained from the proposed model are in good agreement with those issued from the 3D finite element method (FEM). The computation time of the proposed model is greatly reduced compared to 3D FEM. Finally, a coreless AFPMSM prototype with a PCB stator is manufactured, and experiments are carried out to verify the predicted results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a novel and non-invasive stator inter-turn short circuit (ITSC) online detection method is presented for an induction machine (IM), driven by a two-level voltage source inverter (2L-VSI) via finite control set model predictive control (FCS-MPC). The main idea of the proposed method is to utilize the controller itself as an observer: under the presence of a fault, the distribution of inverter switching states significantly deviates from the original balanced case. Therefore, by inspecting the inverter switching vectors, which are the outcomes of the FCS-MPC routine's online optimization procedure, a stator fault can be detected efficiently. It is observed that both the zero-vector allocation over the complex plane and the allocation among the active vectors are influenced by the presence of a stator short-circuit fault. The proposed fault detection strategy introduces little to no extra burden for processor and memory. Experimental results verify the proposed method, and inter-turn short circuits of two and three turns are confidently detected and located for a 500 W, two-pole IM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impedance analysis has been proposed and proved to be an effective way to analyze the grid-connected stability of Voltage Source Converter (VSC) based energy conversion systems. Most of the existing impedance analyzes are discussed based on vector oriented control, while there are few discussions about the impedance analysis of Direct Power Control (DPC). In this paper, an impedance modeling approach of VSC using the DPC is firstly proposed and analyzed, which fills the gap of impedance analysis of the DPC based converters and provides a basis for studying the corresponding grid-integration stability problems. Since there is no need for PLL and Park transformation, the impedance matrix is built directly using the $\alpha \beta$ reference frame and features symmetrical characteristics. The proposed impedance matrix can be transformed into a positive-sequence impedance and analyzed by using SISO Nyquist criteria. The stability of a weak-grid connected VSC using DPC is analyzed in this article. The main factors affecting system stability, including the grid and control parameters, are considered in the analysis. The effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated by the simulations carried out in the Matlab/Simulink Simscape Power Systems as well as a hardware-in-loop system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The instability issue of the grid-connected Voltage Source Converter (VSC) dominated by phase-lock loop (PLL) is investigated using the electrical torque method in this paper. The system dynamic model and steady-state relationship of variables are first established. Then, a basic two-order model representing the PLL natural oscillation mode is extracted. The impacts of the current control loop and altering current grid (ACG) on the PLL oscillation mode are derived using the electrical torque method. As a result, analytical expressions of the system synchronous and damping coefficients are obtained. Based on the derived synchronous and damping coefficient, qualitative evaluations of the impacts of the system parameters on the oscillation frequency and system stability can be achieved. It is drawn that a small PLL time constant, low infinite source voltage, heavy load, reactive power absorption, and long electrical distance will deteriorate system stability. Moreover, a sufficient analytical stability criterion for the grid-connected VSC is derived from the damping coefficient. The system stability can be directly evaluated through the operation points and system parameters, and the quantitative evaluation of the system stability is achieved. The eigenvalue analysis and electromagnetic transient simulation have verified the reliability and effectiveness of the theoretical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a novel dual input nine-level inverter (DINLI) topology which requires only seven controllable devices. The dual inputs are un-identical DC voltage sources in the ratio 1:3. A simple control scheme is derived by appropriately modifying the phase disposition pulse width modulation technique to generate high-quality 9-level output from the DINLI topology. At any given instant, a maximum of four switches conduct out of which only a maximum of two switches operate at high frequency, bringing down the switching and conduction losses significantly and improving the overall system efficiency. The bidirectional DINLI (BDINLI) topology with reactive power capability can be realized by replacing the unidirectional devices with the controlled switches (i.e., total nine switches). In addition, the proposed DINLI topology does not require extra voltage balancing circuits which further improves the efficiency. The DINLI operation is verified through MATLAB simulations for grid-connected applications and its extension to an n-level, 3-phase application is also investigated. Experiments performed on a 1KVA laboratory prototype to validate the theoretical claims. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With widespread application of voltage source converter (VSC) as a key energy-conversion power electronic device by using the phase-locked loop (PLL) technique for synchronization, the system dynamics has become much complicated. In this paper, the nonlinear dynamics and transient stability of the PLL-based VSC system are investigated, within a unified framework of the (normalized) generalized swing equation. It is found that there are three different types of bifurcation, including the generalized saddle-node, Hopf, and homoclinic bifurcations. Within the coexistence parameter region, the basin boundary of the stable equilibrium point shows either a closed-loop or a fish-like pattern. With the help of the equal area criterion (EAC), the transient stabilities under different transient disturbances including short circuit, voltage dip, and power rise are analyzed. Because the equivalent damping of the VSC is state-dependent, the theoretical results based on the EAC are examined. Furthermore, based on the analytical results from the generalized swing equation, the principle for all major transient stability enhancement methods is uncovered. All these findings are well verified by extensive electromagnetic transient simulations. Therefore, the generalized swing equation provides a deeper physical insight and plays a crucial role in transient stability problems in power-electronic-dominated power systems, similar to the swing equation in traditional power systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a dual-hysteresis band control method for multi-drive systems based on a nine-switch inverter. The drive system contains two independent three-phase induction motors fed by a nine-switch inverter. Independent control of torque, speed, and stator current of two load stages is achieved. The proposed strategy offers a reliable control operation of both induction machines under individual load profiles. Instead of using independent sets of three-phase voltage source converters, the nine-switch inverter is used to drive separate machines. Thus, the volume and size of the power stage are noticeably reduced due to the use of fewer semiconductors. The theoretical concept and design steps of the proposed method are presented. The performance of the closed-loop independent motor control scheme is experimentally validated using a 3.2 kW lab-scaled nine-switch inverter prototype and Altera Cyclone IV Field-programmable gate array. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the variable speed applications of a recently developed generator named Brushless Induction Excited Synchronous Generator (BINSYG) for offshore wind power applications. The machine is basically a Synchronous generator (SG) with its excitation fed from a three-phase Induction Machine (IM). Both the machines are embedded in the same machine frame and share the same magnetic core. The SG feeds power to the dc grid via a five-level Unidirectional Dual Flying Capacitor Active Neutral Point Converter. The converter is controlled such that the Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) of the current flowing through the stator of SG is below 5% and at unity power factor at SG terminal. The excitation developed by IM-type exciter is adjusted using a new control strategy that is proposed for Voltage Source Inverter, such that BINSYG can operate at wide speed range necessary for Wind Energy Systems (WES). The complete system is controlled without using ac voltage sensors and speed encoders. The proposed WES with its control algorithm is first modelled in MATLAB/Simulink. Further, rapid control prototyping verification in the form of real-time results using OPAL-RT is presented for a small scale (5.5 kVA) BINSYG feeding power to a 750 V dc grid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposed a hybrid subdomain model (HSM) for calculating the magnetic field distribution of interior permanent-magnet (IPM) machine accounting for slotting effect, rotor saliency, and iron nonlinearity. In the constant permeability region, i.e., slots, slot-opening, and air-gap, three subdomains are introduced to represent their magnetic field. By applying the subdomains interface conditions and nonlinear boundary conditions, the analytical air-gap field solution can be obtained based on the governing Laplace and Poisson equation. For the iron region, the magnetic reluctance network (MRN) is proposed to account for rotor saliency iron and nonlinearity. The magnetic voltage source is introduced to represent the permanent-magnet (PM) while the air-gap flux source is used to replace the air-gap reluctance network, which is the key to guarantee the computational efficiency and high accuracy. The electromagnetic performances of both flat-shaped and V-shaped IPM machines are investigated to show the advantages of different IPM machine topologies analytically. The HSM predictions for both IPM machines are validated by finite-element (FE) analysis and experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grid connected voltage source converters are inevitable means now for expanding and supporting power systems. Nevertheless, their harmonic injection and high frequency switching may cause degradation of power quality and detraction of the equipment reliability. Therefore, the converters injected harmonics must observe the corresponding standards, while lower switching frequencies and rapid transient responses are desirable. In this paper, a new combined control method with a flexible switching table is presented for the converters to enhance the power quality and transient response. The method employs a virtual flux in connection with a combined control for the first time. In comparison with the conventional virtual flux direct power control, the proposed method provides better power quality, reduced THD and faster transient response, in addition to less grid parameters dependency. Compared to the conventional combined control method, it determines more accurately the converter voltage vectors, while avoiding grid voltage measurement and cumbersome controller tuning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Type-4 wind is claimed to be immune from subsynchronous resonances (SSRs) that have been experienced by Type-3 wind with radial connection to series compensated lines. In this paper, we examine this claim through simplified analytical model building, analysis based on linearized models, and validation against electromagnetic transient (EMT) testbeds with full details. Two analytical models of Type-4 wind farm with radial connection to a series compensated line are built in $dq$ -frames. The main difference of the two models is in grid-side converter (GSC)'s control mode, with one model assuming real power control and the other assuming dc-link voltage control. Relying on the analytical models, an efficient approach is demonstrated to obtain frequency-domain impedance models. Small-signal analysis is carried out using eigenvalue analysis and frequency-domain impedance model-based analysis. Potential stability risk is demonstrated, which is due to interaction of a mode associated to voltage source converter (VSC) in weak grid (termed as “weak grid mode”) and a mode associated to network LC resonance. The weak grid mode is influenced by grid strength and VSC control parameters, including phase-locked-loop (PLL) parameters. The small-signal analysis results are validated against two EMT testbeds with full details in MATLAB/SimPowerSystems and PSCAD/EMTDC, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reliability of power systems can be improved by the use of voltage source inverters (VSIs) with fast dynamic control, which can handle uncertainties induced by renewable energy resources and nonlinear loads. To ensure fast-dynamic response and simplified controller design, various model predictive control (MPC) methods are investigated in this paper. In the conventional MPC design for three-level VSIs, the cost function requires an additional term to ensure the balance of the neutral-point voltage (NP-V), which however can considerably impact the main goal of the MPC. To address this issue, an enhanced MPC using virtual space vectors is proposed, which allows the use of a significantly reduced weighting factor for the term in the cost function for NP-V balancing, while retaining fast-dynamic response. Additionally, the proposed MPC leads to reduced harmonic distortion in the VSI output voltage and current. Both simulation and controller hardware-in-the-loop studies are performed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed enhanced MPC in an operating microgrid under both steady-state and fast-transient conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transient motor current signature analysis has become a mature technique for fault detection in induction motors. By using start-up transients, the whole range of slip in the machine is exploited to generate well defined fault-frequency patterns. However, in the inverter-fed motor case, the fault patterns are always close to the supply frequency and often of low amplitude. Therefore, it is difficult to distinguish and localize the fault-patterns. In this paper, a novel method is proposed to create a new fault pattern; the proposed technique can concentrate the fault harmonic in a specific frequency bandwidth and avoid the spectral leakage by reducing the supply frequency amplitude. The methodology has been validated through experimental tests carried out to detect broken rotor bar in an induction motor started through a voltage source inverter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, emerging oscillation issues have been caused by subsynchronous interaction (SSI) between voltage source converters (VSCs) based renewable generators and ac/dc grids. To investigate the dynamics of SSI, several impedance models (IMs) of VSC have been developed in previous studies. They are established in different reference frames and consider the entire or just parts of the control systems. However, it is still an unanswered question whether or not the existing IMs are suitable for SSI analysis and to what extent the IMs with different modeling details affect subsynchronous dynamics. To fill in this gap, this paper, first, reviews the existing IMs of VSC and clarifies their relationship. Then, their frequency characteristics are examined so as to select the proper models for the studies of sub-/supersynchronous and high-frequency dynamics. Next, both zero-pole and IM-based SSI analyses are carried out on a simplified system and a real-world wind-farm system that suffered actual SSI incidents. The results indicate that the outer-loop control has a significant impact on the subsynchronous dynamics, and only those IMs taking full-scale controls and frequency-coupling effects into account can reflect SSI accurately. Finally, both modal analysis and electromagnetic transient simulations have been conducted to verify the theoretical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In AC microgrids, voltage source inverters (VSIs) have become widely employed to interface DC energy sources to the AC network. Apart from power generation, VSI-based energy sources can also perform ancillary services such as demand side management using conservation voltage reduction (CVR). In conventional distribution systems, CVR involves lowering the voltage levels of the system within permissible limits to reduce the amount of power consumed by certain loads. However, in autonomous microgrids, the application of CVR for demand side management has not been fully explored yet. Thus, in this paper, a CVR strategy for a droop-controlled VSI-based distributed generation (DG) operating in an autonomous microgrid is proposed. This strategy employs the deviation in DG output voltage magnitude and frequency, caused by an increase in power demand during peak and overloading conditions, to determine the amount of voltage compensation required to reduce the microgrid bus voltages. In addition, a controller to coordinate between the proposed CVR strategy and load shedding is also developed to operate the DGs during overloading conditions. The proposed strategy is verified with a microgrid test system, and its performance is validated on MATLAB/Simulink software environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a deadbeat finite set model predictive current control based on discrete space vector modulation (DSVM) in order to achieve robust characteristics from the grid impedance variation while guaranteeing high performance of output current waveforms and a fixed switching frequency. The proposed DSVM strategy enables to obtain a large number of virtual voltage vectors without complex initialization process or lookup table, which are the drawbacks of the conventional DSVM strategies. A deadbeat technique was adopted to minimize the number of candidate voltage vectors considered in the cost function in order to avoid the high computational burden caused by considering all voltage vectors. The simulation and experimental results were presented to verify the effectiveness and performance of the proposed method using a two-level grid-connected voltage source inverter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In future power systems, reduced overall inertia caused by an increased dominance of asynchronous generation and interconnections would make frequency control particularly challenging. As the number and power rating of voltage source converter (VSC) HVDC systems increases, network service provision would be expected from such systems and to do so would require overload capacity to be included in the converter specifications. This paper studies the provision of frequency services from modular multilevel converter (MMC)-based VSC HVDC interconnections using temperature-constrained overload capability. Overload of the MMC-based HVDC system is achieved through controlled circulating currents, at the expense of higher losses, and subject to a control scheme that dynamically limits the overload available in order to keep the semiconductor junction temperatures within operational limits. Two frequency control schemes that use the obtained overload capacity to provide frequency response during emergency conditions are investigated. The controllers’ performance is demonstrated in the context of the future Great Britain transmission grid through a reduced equivalent test system. Simulation results show that even modest temperature margins which allow overload of MMC-based HVDC systems for a few seconds are effective as a primary frequency reserve and also reduce the loss of infeed requirements of such interconnections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a two-stage three-phase solar photovoltaic (PV) system, which is controlled through a novel enhanced second order generalized integrator (ESOGI) based control technique. The proposed ESOGI is used for fundamental component extraction from nonlinear load current and distorted grid voltages. This integrator effectively and simultaneously manages to address the DC offset, inter-harmonic and integrator delay problems of the traditional SOGI. In addition, this control technique provides power factor correction, harmonic elimination, and load balancing functionalities. The ESOGI controller is used to generate reference grid currents for controlling the voltage source converter (VSC), interfacing the PV panel with the grid. Extensive experimental results on a developed prototype in the laboratory, depict that the total harmonic distortion (THD) of the grid injected currents and voltages are found well under IEEE-519 standard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For power conversion systems interfaced to four-wire supplies, four-leg converters have become a standard solution. A four-leg converter allows good compensation of zero-sequence harmonics and full utilisation of the dc-link voltage. These are very important features when unbalanced and/or nonlinear loads are connected to the system. This paper proposes a three-dimensional space vector modulation (SVM) algorithm and provides a comprehensive analysis of the algorithm implemented on a three-level, four-leg neutral-point-clamped converter. The algorithm allows a simple definition of the different switching patterns and enables balancing of the dc-link capacitor voltages using the redundancies of the converter states. A resonant controller is selected as the control strategy to validate the proposed SVM algorithm in a 6 kW experimental rig. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-frequency oscillations caused by voltage source converters (VSCs) in current control timescale (less than 20 ms) have brought great challenges to the security and stable operation of the VSC-dominated power systems. However, relevant studies on this multi-input multi-output (MIMO) system still lack enough mechanism cognitions of its voltage amplitude/phase dynamics. Thus, this paper will propose a single-input single-output (SISO) equivalent method of this MIMO system to separately study its amplitude/phase dynamics. First, a linearized VSC model based on internal voltage motion equation in current control timescale is derived. This model can explicitly depict VSC's self-characteristic, which is suitable for multi-VSC voltage amplitude/phase dynamic analyses. Then, with reserving and converting the interactions of other outputs into one output, the MIMO system based on this VSC model can be equivalent into the amplitude motion and the phase motion, respectively. These two SISO systems are extremely convenient for engineers to study the mechanisms of the voltage amplitude/phase dynamics. Besides, this SISO equivalent method of the MIMO system can also be used to quantitatively analyze the interactions among the multi-VSC. Finally, the application of this method is illustrated in a single VSC system and the time domain simulations validate the correctness of the analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The state-of-the-art magnetically linear voltage-behind-reactance (VBR) and phase-domain induction machine models for nodal-analysis-based electromagnetic transients programs (EMTP-type) offer an excellent combination of numerical stability, accuracy, and efficiency. However, incorporation of magnetic saturation in these models renders their interfacing circuits dependent on the operating segment of the piecewise-linear saturation characteristics. Consequently, refactorization of the network's conductance matrix is required during simulations, which reduces the numerical efficiency of the overall solution and limits the models' range of application. This paper presents a new VBR squirrel-cage induction machine model that includes main flux saturation and possesses a saturation-independent constant-parameter interfacing circuit. Case studies in PSCAD/EMTDC demonstrate that the proposed model offers similar numerical stability and accuracy to the state-of-the-art models, while considerably increasing simulation speed for practical multimachine systems. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper presents a decentralized current control approach for a nine-phase wind turbine generator. This type of generator has three different three-phase stators sharing the same machine yoke and connected to the grid by means of three different voltage source back-to-back power converters. Due to the machine configuration, magnetic couplings are present between the three stators, complicating the design and implementation of the machine current controllers. Rather than a centralized control approach, this paper proposes a methodology to design a decentralized machine control to regulate the active and reactive power flowing through each stator independently. A complete dynamic analysis is performed in order to design the controller to reduce the coupling effects within the machine, while ensuring a proper dynamic performance. The control strategy is validated through simulation and experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The disturbance voltage of voltage-source inverter operation exerts significant influences on the accuracy of motor parameter identification. In this paper, an accurate model is established for estimating the disturbance voltage that includes current harmonics and their derivative. The conclusion is drawn that the derivative of the d -axis current harmonics plays a major role in causing estimation error of the disturbance voltage. Based on this, two methods are proposed to reduce the estimation error of the disturbance voltage. One employs an iterative learning controller in the d-axis current control loop to suppress the harmonics of d-axis current, thus reducing their influence on the estimation of the disturbance voltage. The second estimates the disturbance voltage on the basis of the average value of the variables in q-axis equation of the motor, so that the estimation result is immune to current harmonics. Motor parameter identification accuracy is consequently improved by both. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A standard three-phase motor drive means a typical two-level voltage source inverter fed three-phase motor drive without any auxiliary circuits. Without fault-tolerant control, common open-circuit faults will cause the breakdown of the standard three-phase motor drives. Although the torque pulsation is theoretically inevitable under the open-circuit faults of standard three-phase motor drives, it's still meaningful to improve the fault-tolerant capability of standard three-phase drives to prolong the reliable operation. In this article, a current optimization based fault-tolerant control is proposed to minimize the proportion of torque loss for standard three-phase permanent-magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) drives under open-phase fault and open-switch fault conditions. Firstly, a two-mode current control is designed to minimize the proportion of torque loss without changing the mathematical model of the faulty motor. Secondly, a three-mode current control is proposed and combined with adjustment of pulse width to tolerate the open-switch faults. Instead of removing the faulty inverter leg directly, the remaining healthy switch in the faulty inverter leg is still utilized. In this way, the damage from torque pulsation can be relieved in the aspect of both frequency and intensity. Finally, the validity of the proposed fault-tolerant control is verified by experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern large wind farms are required to provide frequency regulation service like conventional synchronous generation units. The frequency support capability of modern wind farms has been widely investigated and implemented. Remotely located large offshore wind farms are probably connected to the onshore system grid through voltage-source converter-based–high voltage direct current (VSC-HVdc) transmission systems. Due to the decoupling of VSC-HVdc and signal transmission delay, offshore wind farms may not be able to respond to the onshore grid frequency excursion in time and, consequently, the stability and security of the power system will be put at risk, especially for those with high wind penetration. This paper proposes a coordinated control scheme to allow VSC-HVdc link to contribute to the system frequency regulation by adjusting its dc-link voltage. By means of this approach, the dc capacitors of VSC-HVdc are controlled to absorb or release energy so as to provide frequency support. To further enhance the system frequency response, the frequency support from VSC-HVdc is also finely coordinated with that from offshore wind farm according to the latency of offshore wind farm responding to onshore grid frequency excursion. The control scheme is evaluated for both underfrequency and overfrequency events, and results are presented to demonstrate its effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses characterization and operational envelope of an auxiliary electric transmission oil pump (eTOP) in a vehicle transmission system (VTS). The eTOP supplied by a DC voltage consists of a mechanical pump assembly with inner and outer rotor, a permanent magnet (PM) motor and a voltage source inverter (VSI). The PM motor supplies required torque and speed for the mechanical pump assembly whose output is an oil flow at a specified pressure. The eTOP in the VTS is used for different functionalities such as lubrication and cooling of gears and/or providing pressure for clutches and actuators. The eTOP operational envelopes are extracted for different loads, i.e., pressure and flow, and for different VTS environment temperatures. Characteristics are investigated when the eTOP operates continuously at normal condition and when the vehicle operates on New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). The simulated performance and characteristics are validated via measurements from a prototype system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The stability of an offshore wind power network connected through a high-voltage dc (HVDC) transmission line can be challenging since a strong ac collection (ACC) bus might not be available, when there is no rotating machine connected in that bus. In addition, the synchronization unit (phase-locked loop, PLL) has shown to have a significant impact in achieving satisfactory performance. To tackle this problem, this paper has proposed a wind energy conversion system (WECS) controller for such an ACC bus based on the synchronverter concept. A synchronverter—an inverter without PLL that mimics the synchronization mechanism inherent to synchronous generator—is introduced in the grid side of WECS voltage-source converter (VSC), where the wind farms are connected to ac network through a modular multilevel converter (MMC)-based HVDC system. In order to determine the stability of the interconnected system, an impedance-based stability method is adopted. The impedances of both the wind power inverter and the MMC-HVDC converter are analytically derived, and the analytical model is verified by comparing the frequency responses obtained from numerical simulation. The detailed analysis and the results presented show the benefits of this controller and its potential for stability. The results highlights the synchronverter's ability in keeping better performance compared to PLL-based dq-domain control in point of stability and control in integrating offshore wind farm through the MMC-based HVDC system, since the impedance of the synchronverter reflects a simple RL characteristic. On the other hand, the impedance of PLL-based dq-domain control impedance is inductive above 2 kHz and reflects composite characteristics below 2 kHz with different resonance points and with higher impedance magnitude at low frequencies, making it more vulnerable to voltage instability. Finally, time-domain simulation results are presented to validate the theoretical analysis and to show how the self-synchronization impacts on the system performance. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In order to better address the problem of many high-order harmonics’ concentration in the output voltage, a novel five-phase piecewise-random-switching-frequency space vector pulse width modulation (PRSF-SVPWM) strategy is proposed for a five-phase voltage source inverter. Compared to the conventional random switching frequency SVPWM (RSF-SVPWM), the entire fundamental period of this method is divided into two half-fundamental periods, so the original switching frequency in a single fundamental period is randomized in segments respectively. During this process, parameters named the offset frequency and random frequency are defined and assigned reasonably. In this way, high-frequency harmonics in one period are spread into a wider range. Subsequent simulation and experimental results verify that the proposed random modulation strategy can further reduce amplitudes of harmonics near switching frequency and its integer multiples, even though within a narrow switching frequency range, and a satisfactory effect of high-order harmonic dispersion is finally obtained, which contributes to the application and popularization of random pulse width modulation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents an energy regulator based on a Model Predictive Control (MPC) algorithm for a Voltage Source Converter (VSC). The MPC is formulated to optimise the converter performance according to the weights defined in an objective function that trades off additional features, such as current harmonic distortion, reactive power tracking and DC bus voltage oscillation. Differently from most approaches found in the research literature, the MPC proposed here considers the coupling dynamics between the AC and DC sides of the VSC. This study is focused on the example case of a single-phase VSC, which presents a nonlinear relationship between its AC and DC sides and a sustained double-line frequency power disturbance in its DC bus. To reduce the burden of the MPC, the controller is formulated to benefit from the slow energy dynamics of the system. Thus, the cascaded structure typically used in the control of VSCs is kept and the MPC is set as an energy regulator at a reduced sampling frequency while the current control relies on a fast inner controller. The computational burden of the algorithm is further reduced by using a linear time-varying approximation. The controller is presented in detail and experimental validation showing the performance of the algorithm is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A charge balancing method for series voltage source feeding multilevel inverters (MLI) based on current allocation control is presented. Unlike those MLIs based on isolated dc sources, the series-connected elements in a voltage source string, such as a battery or supercapacitor stack, cannot be by-passed individually. This brings the problems of source imbalance and limited redundant switching states for current allocation control at high modulation index. In this article, the source balance in the switch-ladder inverter is achieved by allocating the current distribution. Furthermore, the balancing effectiveness is enhanced by a novel configuration combining a switched-capacitor (SC) circuit. The working principle and modulation index limit for the current allocation method is elucidated with a flow diagram and mathematical representation. The feasibility and operation of the proposed method and topology are successfully validated by a simulation study and the experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, the transient synchronization process of the grid-connected voltage source converters (VSC) is studied detailly. Firstly, the phase-locked loop (PLL)-synchronized VSC is modeled according to the rotor motion equation of synchronous generator (SG). Furthermore, the VSC's damping ratio is derived, and the effects of the VSC's control parameters and the operation status on the equivalent power angle (EPA) is investigated. Moreover, the influence of the PLL's parameters and the voltage dips degree on the VSC's transient frequency behavior are analyzed. Analysis result reveals that the VSC's damping ratio decreases once the grid voltage drops, so that the EPA and frequency of the VSC may appear large overshoot and oscillation, which may trigger the frequency protection and deteriorate the VSC's transient stability. In order to ensure that the VSC can smoothly operate to new equilibrium points, an improved PLL is proposed, which can adaptively adjust the VSC's damping ratio for different voltage sags. The proposed method can not only reduce the overshoot of the EPA but also restrain the VSC's frequency dips degree. Finally, the simulations and experimental tests validate the effectiveness of the theoretical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A portable flux probe is proposed and investigated in this article to detect turn-to-turn fault in the rotor poles of the high rated salient pole synchronous machines. The rotor circuit is fed by a low amplitude sinusoidal voltage source with a fixed voltage amplitude which has a frequency more than a few hundred Hz to achieve the higher reaction of the shorted turns on the faulty pole, which results in a significant reduction of the magnetic flux in the air-gap. Numerous simulations and experimental tests are carried out to investigate the proposed probe and the related technique performance to specify the faulty pole versus the number of shorted turns, applied frequency and probable eccentricity in the rotor position. The obtained test results show that all stable turn to turn faults (weak or heavy ones) can be specified easily by applying a portable sinusoidal voltage source with the frequency in the range of more than a few hundred Hz. The experimental test results validate that the flux density can be reduced to about zero in the faulty pole face, even in the case of one shorted turn in the sample machine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a third order complex filter (TOCF) based control technique is used for a double stage grid tied solar photovoltaic (PV) system. The PV array generates the real power and provides it to the load connected and remaining to the utility. The voltage source converter functions as a distribution static compensator and improves power quality of the grid by mitigating harmonics, balancing of the grid currents with unity power factor. It also performs well under weak grid scenario like voltage distortion, grid faults, DC offset, voltage unbalances and swell/sag. The main objective of this work is positive sequence components extraction from unbalanced voltages for unit templates estimation and TOCF algorithm extracts the fundamental component of the load currents. A PV power term is applied for improved system performance. This work demonstrates the effectiveness of control algorithm at various dynamic conditions by simulating the behavior of the system in MATLAB. Tests are conducted on an experimental setup realized in the laboratory at different abnormal situations like load unbalancing, voltage unbalance, voltage distortions, voltage swell/sag, insolation change, DSTATCOM-PV mode and PV-DSTATCOM mode etc. The system operation is found satisfactory and distortion levels in grid currents are found in bounds, as suggested in IEEE standard-519. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable energy sources normally provide low inertia, which allows a little time for controlling the system. The inertia emulation has recently been introduced for photovoltaic (PV) generation to fight against the small inertia and improve the energy efficiency. The main purpose of this article is to analyze the stability of a virtual inertia-based three-phase two-stage PV system for smart grid applications. Dynamics of DC/DC converter, DC/AC converter, AC side filter, virtual inertia controller, and controllers of the DC/DC and DC/AC converters are considered in the modeling procedure. Eigenvalue analysis is performed to evaluate the sensitivity of the design parameters on stability of a grid-connected virtual inertia PV system. Time-domain simulations using MATLAB/Simscape Power System toolbox are used to validate the eigenvalue analysis results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Voltage source converters are presented as the key devices for the future massive integration of distributed renewable energy resources in the network. This article presents a novel approach to control a three-phase four-leg voltage source converter for grid-forming operation. The objective of the controller is to generate a balanced three-phase voltage with a given amplitude and frequency at the point of common coupling. The proposed control algorithm works over the stationary axes. It is based on full state feedback law in combination with a resonant control loop tuned at the fundamental frequency in order to guaranty zero steady-state error on the voltage. The main advantage of the controller with respect to the classical cascade controllers is that this strategy is not modified depending on the type of load connected at the point of common coupling. Moreover, a systematic methodology to compute the controller gains is presented by solving an linear quadratic regulator problem that considers an extended model. This method guarantees small signal stability and provides active damping to the system. A laboratory testbed with different type of loads is used to validate and compare the proposed algorithm with the classical one. The experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposal by achieving low levels of harmonic distortion and imbalances in steady-state as well as a fast transient response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, a fault tolerant deadbeat controller is proposed, which is able to compensate for both partial and uniform demagnetization faults in axial flux permanent-magnet synchronous machines with double rotor, even with asymmetric defects in both rotors. For this purpose, the system model used by the deadbeat controller is equipped with a look-up table of the back-emf, in function of the mechanical rotor position. This look-up table is generated by means of an analytical model based on the magnetic vector potential. With this information, the deadbeat controller can eliminate both the additional bias and ripple in the stator current components caused by demagnetization faults. The proposed control strategy is validated on a 4 kW test set-up of an axial flux permanent-magnet synchronous machine with yokeless and segmented armature topology fed by a three-phase two-level voltage source inverter, both by simulations and experiments. Key performance indicators concerning bias and ripple of the current components illustrate the superior performance of the proposed control strategy in comparison to a standard deadbeat controller without an up-to-date look-up table of the back-emf. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A multi-scale transients model of a doubly fed induction generator (DFIG)-based wind energy conversion system (WECS) is developed, implemented, and validated. All ac circuit and control quantities of the electrical part are modeled by analytic signals rather than just real signals. In addition to the real parts, the analytic signals also comprise orthogonal imaginary parts. While measured Fourier spectra of real ac quantities involve positive and negative frequency components, they only involve positive frequency components when extended and represented as analytic signals. With the introduced shift frequency operator, the analytic signal can now be shifted in the frequency domain to reduce its maximum frequency contents and thus allow for a larger time-step size in accordance with the Nyquist criterion. If the shift frequency is set equal to the ac fundamental frequency, then the affiliated ac voltages and currents become dynamic phasors. At a zero shift, however, instantaneous signals can be tracked as in an electromagnetic transients program (EMTP). This is illustrated here for the voltage sourced converters (VSC) of the WECS. By appropriate selection of the shift frequency, both electromagnetic and electromechanical transients are simulated efficiently. Studies involving wind power fluctuations, three-phase-to-ground fault and single-phase-to-ground fault confirm these claims. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Standalone operation of an inverted-based distributed generation unit is performed in voltage control mode. In this mode, it is important that the controller provides tracking and rejection of periodic signals. Strategies like Repetitive Control (RC) are well suited in the voltage control of power inverters. However, the robustness of repetitive controllers is importantly affected by the connected loads. The reason is that the load modifies the dynamics of the system where the design of the RC relies on. Having a low bandwidth action can reduce the problem but with the cost of degrading the voltage waveform and transient response. As an alternative, an $H_{\infty }$ design is proposed for the RC of voltage source inverters. In this proposal the load is directly treated as an unstructured uncertainty. With this approach, the design procedure directly maximizes the robust stability margin of the system against load variations/uncertainty. Additionally, the analysis provides some insight about the design of the inverter LC filter. Experimental results show that a remarkable Total Harmonic Distortion and good transient response are obtained for a large variety of loads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The instability issues of grid-connected voltage source converters (VSC) may easily occur during low voltage ride-through (LVRT), especially when connected to a weak ac grid. In this study, a small-signal model of the grid-connected VSC system was developed to deal with the stability problems during deep voltage sags. Based on the model, the interaction between the phase-locked loop (PLL) and current control has been illustrated. In addition, the eigenvalue and modal analysis method was employed to investigate the influencing factors of the VSC system stability, which include the bandwidths of the PLL and current control loop, grid strength, and voltage sags. Furthermore, on the basis of the interaction between PLL and current control loop, a novel additional damping controller that is placed in the active current control loop was proposed and designed. Finally, experiments were conducted to verify the theoretical analysis and proposed control strategy for enhancing VSC system stability during LVRT with a high impedance grid connection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A method for fast calculating the high-frequency harmonic loss (HFHL) in the permanent magnet (PM) of interior PM synchronous machine under the pulsewidth modulated voltage source inverter supply is proposed. The combination of the frozen differential reluctivity tensor method and the linear frequency finite-element analysis (FEA) is proposed to investigate the relationship between the high-frequency harmonic voltages (HFHVs) in the rotor reference frame and the flux density variations in the PM, which is described quantitatively with the proposed analytical model using several dimensionless parameters. Then, the PM HFHLs are calculated analytically with the models using the flux density variations as input. The relative errors between the HFHLs calculated analytically and those obtained from the time-stepping FEA are within 15% at eight arbitrary working conditions. The proposed method can be used to calculate the PM HFHL in both two- and three-dimensional cases, which is testified with the experiment. Quadratic polynomial is used to fit the relationship between the dimensionless parameters and the fundamental currents. With the fitted polynomial and the analytical spectra of the HFHVs obtained from the double Fourier integration method, the PM HFHL map over entire working range can be calculated in one hour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]