Search

This article presents a dynamic model and a current-mode control for a dc–dc modular multilevel converter with the ultimate aim of expanding the converter to a three-leg configuration to reduce the filtering requirements of the dc ports. A complete model of the converter including a systematic approach for the control of the power throughput is developed. It is then shown that the expansion from a single-leg to three-leg configuration requires no additional modeling, and that the three-leg converter significantly alleviates the filtering requirements on both the high-voltage and low-voltage sides. The proposed model and control technique are verified using simulation results based on the MATLAB / Simulink software environment for both the single and three-leg configuration. Further verification is carried out through a single-leg 1-kW experimental prototype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a control strategy for the autonomous (islanded) operation of a four-wire, electronically-coupled distributed generation (DG) unit which can feed a highly unbalanced load, e.g., due to the presence of single-phase loads. In the grid-connected mode, the power-electronic interface of the DG unit enables the exchange of real and reactive power with the distribution network, based on the conventional dq-frame current control strategy. The current control scheme is disabled subsequent to the detection of an islanding event, and the proposed controller is activated. The proposed control strategy utilizes: i) an internal oscillator to maintain the island frequency and ii) a feedback control system to regulate the island voltage. The proposed control strategy provides a set of balanced three-phase voltages for the load, despite the load imbalance and parameters uncertainties. The proposed control strategy also guarantees robust stability, fast dynamic response to disturbances, and zero steady-state error. A stability analysis is also carried out to determine the robust stability margin of the closed-loop islanded system. Effectiveness of the proposed control strategy is evaluated based on time-domain simulation studies in the PSCAD/EMTDC software environment and verified based on laboratory experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces and develops i) a novel unified dynamic model, and ii) new control schemes for a grid-connected static energy conversion system that is based on the voltage-sourced converter (VSC) configuration. The model and the controls are applicable to both the conventional two-level and the three-level neutral point diode clamped (NPC) VSCs. The model is unified since it represents the dynamic behavior of the VSC with respect to both positive- and negative-sequence components, due to unbalanced grid conditions and disturbances. To develop the unified model, the concepts of "generalized sinusoidal pulse-width modulation (SPWM)" and "VSC sequence subsystems" are presented. Based on the negative-sequence subsystem control, a new control strategy, to either balance the ac line currents or to mitigate dc-bus voltage ripples, is introduced. Application of the developed model and the controls to a variable-speed wind-power unit is presented in the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a comprehensive model of the Back-to-Back (BtB) HVDC system based on the three-level Neutral-Point Diode Clamped (NPC) converter. Based on the developed model, a systematic design procedure for i) the ac-side controllers, ii) the voltage balancer of the dc-side capacitors, and iii) the net dc-bus voltage controller, are presented. The model is developed based on the generalized state-space averaging method and the principle of power balance. The developed model precisely describes the system dynamics if the ac grids are strongly or moderately stiff, and offers acceptable precision otherwise. The averaged nature of the model inherently renders itself for analysis in the SIMULINK/MATLAB environment, and thus provides a computationally efficient tool for the design and the performance evaluation of the control. The accuracy of the developed model and the controls are validated by comparing the results from MATLAB/SIMULINK with those obtained from the exact switching model of the system, based on digital time-domain simulation studies, using the PSCAD/EMTDC software package. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an in depth analysis to show that the conventional power balance model for the dc-side control of the Neutral Point Diode Clamped (NPC) converter is not adequately accurate for all operating conditions. The inaccuracy is due to the fact that the instantaneous power of the ac-side inductors is assumed to be negligible in the power balance equation. This paper shows that this assumption obscures (i) the impact of operating point which is a direct consequence of the inherent nonlinear nature of the problem and (ii) the nonminimum-phase property of the plant in the rectifying mode of operation. Thus, the conventional dc-side control model may lead to unsatisfactory performance or even instability. To overcome the shortcoming, this paper also develops accurate nonlinear and linearized models for the dc-side controller design, including the impact of the ac-side interface reactors. The analytical results and the conclusions are validated by digital time-domain simulation of a study system in the PSCAD/EMTDC environment. The mathematical developments and conclusions of the paper are equally applicable to the conventional two-level VSC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comprehensive dynamic model of the three-level Neutral Point Diode Clamped (NPC) converter, based on the generalized state-space averaging method, is presented. The developed model mathematically describes (i) the reason for and (ii) the impacts of the system parameter tolerances on the drift/imbalance of the DC-side capacitor voltages. Then, based on the developed model (i) a novel controller to prevent DC capacitor voltage drift/imbalance and (ii) a decoupled current controller in the dq-frame are designed. The paper also presents a feed-forward control to eliminate the coupling between the voltage balancer and the current controller. The accuracy of developed NPC converter model and the effectiveness of the proposed controls are verified by time-domain simulations of a study system in the PSCAD/EMTDC environment. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Abstract: This paper proposes an integrated wind-photovoltaic-battery hybrid system that features a simple power management strategy, requires a lower number of power-electronic converters, and eliminates the need for dump loads. Thus, it is expected to offer a lower cost and higher efficiency, and to enable easier integration with distribution networks, as compared with a set of three stand-alone system. The power management strategy of the proposed hybrid system enables (1) rapid control of the wind and photovoltaic (PV) power outputs for tightly regulating the battery current, (2) off-grid operation with black-start capability, (3) grid-connected operation, and (4) safe transition from the grid-connected mode to the off-grid mode, and vice versa, without a need for communications with the host grid. Further, the proposed hybrid system is expected to have plug-and-play and power sharing capabilities and, therefore, suited for multi-generator remote electrification systems. The effectiveness of the proposed hybrid system is demonstrated through time-domain simulation studies in the PSCAD/EMTDC software environment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]