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Traditional model predictive control cost functions, when utilizing long prediction horizons ( $N\geq 10$) in power inverter applications, have demonstrated harmonic performances approaching that of schemes based on offline-generated optimal pulse patterns. However, long prediction horizons often prohibitively increase computational load. A different approach to maximizing harmonic performance is taken in this paper. It is shown that shaping the output voltage spectra using a simple feedback mechanism can significantly reduce the length of the required prediction horizon, facilitating a feasible computational load. When a short-horizon cost function is augmented by the feedback mechanism an excellent tradeoff between harmonic performance and switching loss is achieved, even with a prediction horizon of one. It is also shown that the feedback mechanism can be used to improve input reference tracking. Experimental verification of the proposed modulator is performed on a two-level three-phase inverter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Model predictive control (MPC) has been widely advocated as a design strategy for many aspects of industrial electronics. The methodology has been strongly promoted by some researchers but has also attracted criticism from others. In this context, the purpose of this paper is twofold. First, we show that many existing and popular control strategies, including finite set MPC and linear controllers [proportional integral, proportional resonant (PR)], can be viewed as special cases of MPC. Second, we show that the predictive control framework allows one to embellish these classical control architectures with novel features and to design new and advanced control architectures to address various challenges posed by power electronics applications. The findings of the paper are supported by a practical example of designing of a novel form of PR controller with superior tracking performance and delay compensation, confirmed via simulation and experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The Matrix Converter is a power electronics topology that allows direct conversion of an alternating-current (AC) source to an AC load operating at a different frequency. The associated control problem is inherently difficult since it is both nonlinear and underactuated. This paper describes a novel control strategy for Matrix Converters based on Transient Power Balance. The scheme achieves the following design objectives: tracking of a desired load current, tracking of a desired supply (leading or lagging) power factor, rapid active damping of supply-current oscillations, arising from a supply-side resonant filter, without needing any additional resistance on the supply side, and mitigation of supply-current distortion arising from supply-voltage distortion. Achieving these goals simultaneously has hitherto been an open problem in this area. All of these goals are achieved in the face of significant errors in circuit component values. A proof of local asymptotic stability of the proposed algorithm is given and associated design constraints are addressed. The claims are illustrated by simulation studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Control technology underpins the operation of many, and arguably all, modern high technology systems. Such systems include transportation (aircraft, high speed trains, marine vessels, automobiles), telecommunication systems, electricity networks, mining, minerals processing and agriculture. A particular area where control is playing an increasingly important role is industrial electronics. In this paper we will give a tutorial introduction to the application of control engineering concepts to such systems and reflect on the opportunities and challenges that exist in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]