Search

Abstract The model‐based sensorless control of permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) relies on the motor parameters. In practice, the considerable uncertainty of inductance and the difference between the apparent inductance and the incremental inductance exists. To overcome it, an online apparent inductance identification method for PMSM sensorless control is proposed. First, an initial incremental inductance table (IIT) is obtained offline. Then, an asymmetric high‐frequency square wave injection method is proposed to identify the incremental inductance at the operation point, and an adaptive minimum adjustment algorithm is proposed to adjust IIT automatically. Finally, the apparent inductance is calculated using the adjusted IIT. Based on it, the complete PMSM sensorless control is designed. The experimental results indicate this method is feasible and effective.

Matrix converters (MC) have been considered for applications in renewable power generation and microgrids. However, similar to other power electronic converter-interfaced power generation systems, the MC-interfaced system cannot provide inertia or damping effect to support the grid’s frequency or voltage. To improve the inertia and damping effect of the MC-interfaced distributed generation system and realize the grid-friendly connection of new energy power generation, a virtual synchronous generator (VSG) control strategy suitable for the MC-interfaced system is proposed. Aiming at the problem that the system frequency in the traditional VSG cannot be restored to the nominal value after the load power fluctuations, the VSG secondary frequency control strategy is introduced. To ensure a smooth grid connection, a synchronization control strategy based on virtual power has been designed. An experimental validation platform was built and the experimental results verify the correctness and effectiveness of the proposed control strategies for a grid-forming MC.

This paper presents a model predictive control (MPC) strategy to regulate output voltages in a multi-modular matrix converter topology for isolated loads. The converter system harnesses power from a six-phase permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) to deliver sinusoidal voltages to a three-phase load, with LC filters positioned at the output of each MC module within the multi-modular scheme. The proposed MPC approach ensures that the output voltages remain within acceptable ranges of magnitude, phase, and frequency, even under load variations and system faults. This control strategy is particularly suitable for uninterruptible power supply systems, microgrids or other applications where voltage regulation is critical. Experimental studies validate the effectiveness of the control strategy under various load conditions, reference voltage changes, and simulated system fault scenarios. The results highlight the robustness and reliability of the proposed voltage control using the multi-modular matrix converter.

In a scenario of energy inequality, countries require stability for development and quality of life for their inhabitants. This paper addresses the reality of access to electrical energy and the effect of climate change on the potential of renewables to propose strategies related to generation and transmission in Argentina, Chile, Colombia and Paraguay. This is done by analysing quantitative and qualitative aspects of the electrical energy matrix: installed capacity and technology for generation and transmission together with the penetration of renewable energies. Among the results, actions address energy poverty, energy efficiency, smart investment in energy, and the readaptation of transmission infrastructure.

The objective of this work is to analyze and compare AC microgrid (ACMG) solutions to introduce the topic to new researchers. The methodology used to achieve this goal is a systematic literature review using five questions: (1) How have ACMGs evolved in five years? (2) What are the standards for ACMGs? (3) What are the different schemes for connecting MGs to the utility grid? (4) What are the different control schemes in ACMGs? (5) What is an appropriate way to compare results when working with ACMGs? The articles were published in Q1/Q2 journals as based on either the Scimago Journal Rank (SJR) and/or the Journal Citation Report (JCR) between 2018 and 2022 and were from three databases: (1) Web of Science (WoS), (2) Scopus, and (3) IEEE Xplore. Publications not describing pure ACMGs, review papers, publications not related to the questions, and papers describing work that did not meet a quality assessment were excluded, resulting in 34 articles being included in this review. Results show: (1) the energy sources and AC bus nature of microgrids over five years, (2) the identification and quantification of cited standards for microgrids, (3) the pros and cons of different schemes for connecting an AC microgrid to the main grid, (4) the control schemes, classified in a hierarchical control structure, and (5) the simulation tools and experimental benches used in microgrids. Most studies considered a generic energy source and a low-voltage three-phase AC bus, 16 standards were found, and the most cited standard was IEEE Standard 1547. The most common connection scheme to the utility grid was a direct connection, most of the works proposed a modification to a hierarchical control system scheme, and the most common simulation tool was MATLAB. The preferred experimental setup consisted of parallel inverters for testing a control scheme, a prototype when proposing a power electronic system, and a laboratory microgrid for testing fault detection methods.

Recent advances in high-power applications employing voltage source converters have been primarily fuelled by the emergence of the modular multilevel converter (MMC) and its derivatives. Model predictive control (MPC) has emerged as an effective way of controlling these converters because of its high response. However, the practical implementation of MPC encounters hurdles, particularly in MMCs featuring many sub-modules per arm. This research introduces an approach termed folding model predictive control (FMPC), coupled with a pre-processing sorting algorithm, tailored for modular multilevel converters. The objective is to alleviate a significant part of the computational burden associated with the control of these converters. The FMPC framework combines multiple control objectives, encompassing AC current, DC current, circulating current, arm energy, and leg energy, within a unified cost function. Both simulation studies and real-time hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing are conducted to verify the efficacy of the proposed FMPC. The findings underscore the FMPC’s ability to deliver fast response and robust performance under both steady-state and dynamic operating conditions. Moreover, the FMPC adeptly mitigates circulating currents, reduces total harmonic distortion (THD%), and upholds capacitor voltage stability within acceptable thresholds, even in the presence of harmonic distortions in the AC grid. The practical applicability of MMCs, notwithstanding the presence of a large number of sub-modules (SMs) per arm, is facilitated by the significant reduction in switching states and computational overhead achieved through the FMPC approach.

Abstract The design of an on‐line generalised predictive control (GPC) technique with a novel identification method is presented in this paper for a single‐phase full‐bridge inverter in the presence of different disturbances. The controller uses system discrete‐time model to reach the control variables with a prediction over these values, followed by computing a cost function for control aims. However, in this controller, the need for the mathematical model of the system is removed since the black‐box identification strategy is used. Moreover, GPC structure has many advantages including low computational complexity, systematic design procedure, and fixed switching frequency that makes it a good alternative for practical applications. Various disturbances can have a negative impact on a DC–AC inverter; thus, considering robust dynamics and ease of implantation, the GPC scheme is used along with an improved exponential regressive least square identification algorithm as an adaptive strategy in the controller. Moreover, the prediction horizons of this controller have been increased, resulting in its low steady‐state error and better performance. Furthermore, harmonics in the sinusoidal signal can decrease the total efficiency of the system; thus, an LC filter is used to reduce the level of total harmonic distortion. However, the stability of the filter is the most challenging issue in designing a suitable controller. Finally, the strength of the current controller is verified using experimental and simulations results.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) techniques in power converter-based systems has the potential to revolutionize the way these systems are optimized and controlled. With the rapid advancements in AI and machine learning technologies, this article presents the analysis and evaluation of these powerful tools as well as in computational capabilities of microprocessors that control the converter. This article provides an overview of AI-based controllers, with a focus on online/offline supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement-trained controllers. These controllers can be used to create surrogates for inner control loops, complete power converter controllers, and external supervisory or energy management control. The benefits of using AI-based controllers are discussed. AI-based controllers reduce the need for complex mathematical modeling and enable near-optimal real-time operation via computational efficiency. This can lead to increased efficiency, reliability, and scalability of power converter-based systems. By using physics-informed methods, a deeper understanding of the underlying physical processes in power converters can be achieved and the control performance can be made more robust. Finally, by using data-driven methods, the vast amounts of data generated by power converter-based systems can be leveraged to analyze the behavior of the surrounding system and thereby forming the basis for adaptive control. This article discusses several other potential disruptive impacts that AI could have on a wide variety of power converter-based systems.

This article presents an alternative ac–ac converter topology and its control for low-speed three-phase induction motor drives fed from single-phase ac mains. The proposed matrix converter based drive system eliminates the dc link capacitor, thus facilitating high power density and system reliability. The primary challenge in controlling a $1\phi$ to $3\phi$ matrix converter is to navigate the discrepancy of instantaneous power across the $1\phi$ grid and $3\phi$ load via a direct ac–ac converter. In order to address this concern, it is proposed to use mathematical modeling of the motor and input LC filter for state selection, in order to deliver improved current waveforms. Enhanced performance is demonstrated through simulations, and further validated using experimental results. Particularly improved power quality performance is achieved at low motor speeds, where precise low-speed sensorless operation is ensured through suitable speed observer.

Solar energy can be captured by Photovoltaics (PV) and converted into electrical power. This electrical power can then be connected to grids by power electronic converters, which can also operate the PV panels at around their maximum power point (MPP), maximizing the harvested energy. When the PV panels are connected in an array, the partial shading effect generates a distortion of the power curve can result in a power loss since tracking algorithms might not be able to detect the MPP. To solve this issue microinverters have been proposed, with a small power electronic converter being connected to each PV panel, this arrangement enables independence for maximum power point tracking and electrical isolation. This paper presents a double output multiport microinverter capable of feeding DC and AC loads or providing connection to a single-phase AC grid and energy storage. The proposed structure can be operated in grid-connected and islanded modes. This paper describes the microinverter controlled with the exact linearization technique on both the DC and AC sides, obtaining a lineal transfer function representation of the nonlinear and coupled power electronic converters. The operation of the proposed topology and its control strategy is validated using a laboratory proof-of-concept prototype.

Self- and mutual inductances are major design parameters for wireless power transfer (WPT) systems. To optimize a WPT system and estimate its performance in terms of received power and efficiency, it is essential to obtain a simple, fast, and accurate calculation of these two parameters. The polarized double-D (DD) coils were selected due to their simplicity of structure, high efficiency, and low sensitivity to misalignment conditions. This paper presents analytical calculations of self- and mutual inductance using the Biot-Savart law for DD coils. The results of the analytical calculations of mutual inductance in different distances between coils were investigated, and the results of the calculations were verified using experimental and finite element method (FEM) simulation results. This paper also presents analytical and FEM-based optimization guidelines for the coupling coefficient of the transmitter coil.

The Dual–Vector model predictive control (DV–MPC) method can improve the steady–state control performance of motor drives compared to using the single–vector method in one switching cycle. However, this performance enhancement generally increases the computational burden due to the exponential increase in the number of vector selections, lowering the system’s dynamic response. Alternatively, limiting the vector combinations will sacrifice system steady–state performance. To address this issue, this paper proposes an enhanced DV–MPC method that can determine the optimal vector combinations along with their duration time within minimized calculation times. Compared to the existing DV–MPC methods, the proposed enhanced technique can achieve excellent steady–state performance while maintaining a low computational burden. These benefits have been demonstrated in the results from a 2.5k rpm permanent magnet synchronous motor drive.

Large-scale integration of renewable generation interfaced to the network through power electronic converters has led to drastic changes in power system dynamics. In islanded microgrids or weak grids, different control concepts for the synchronization of converters have been proposed to provide virtual inertia and improve their resilience against transient events, ensuring safe operation without heavy redundant design. The complexity of these power-related control algorithms and their interaction with the inner control loops causes problems in frequency components above the range of traditional studies which calls on modeling techniques with a wider bandwidth. This work aims to provide an outline of modeling methods for grid-connected converter dynamics from subsynchronous to switching sideband frequency range and relevant analyzing tools. The major contributions of this work are: 1. Theoretical foundations and the derivation processes are discussed for each of the modeling methods within the time domain, frequency domain and harmonic domain. 2. Similarities and differences between these methods are highlighted and recommendations are given regarding different grid situations. 3. A case study with an active front end converter is shown and the analysis results are validated by simulation and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HiL) test, illustrating the effectiveness of these methods.

Abstract Wireless power transfer (WPT) system based on a dynamic wireless charging (DWC) scheme, eliminates waiting time for charging electric vehicles (EVs), increases the range of motion, reduces the size of Li‐ion battery, and automates the charging process. In the DWC method, an EV frequently passes the charger transmitter pads at maximum speed to charge the onboard battery. The charger must have a quick and smooth transient response that employs the proper charging strategy for the battery. Here, a model predictive controller (MPC) is proposed to deploy a suitable DWC based on constant current/voltage (CC/CV) charging protocol. The designed MPC functionality is demonstrated by simulation and experimental results for both CC/CV strategies while battery state of charge (SOC) is estimated by a simple and stable technique in the primary side. The applied CC/CV MPC scheme performs properly in all conditions with a fast critically damped start‐up, which makes it a potential choice to charge EV in dynamic and static modes. The simulation results of the proposed controller are verified by implementing a 90 W WPT testbed at 85.5 kHz switching frequency and 100 mm coils’ air gap.

The inclusion of solar systems in rural microgrids is becoming increasingly important to supply energy for irrigation, electric motors, lighting and other. This paper presents the implementation of an exact linearization technique for the modeling and control of a DC/DC converter for use in a microgrid based on a photovoltaic (PV) generation system where non-linear converters are used. The basic advantage of this technique is in linearizing the converter model, thus allowing different operating points to be considered under different conditions. This paper presents a general description of the implemented microgrid topology. The exact linearization theory adapted for power converters is applied to both a Single-Ended Primary-Inductor converter (SEPIC) to extract energy from PV modules and to a Boost converter to increase the voltage. Experimental results are also presented to validate the effectiveness of the proposed control.

Abstract Here, a soft switched three‐level boost converter with high voltage gain is proposed which is suitable for high step‐up applications with wide output power range. In this converter, a ZVT auxiliary circuit is used which provides soft switching in a wide range of output power independent of load variation. Utilizing coupled‐inductors with one magnetic core removes extra auxiliary core in the soft switching circuit and provides high voltage gain in conjunction with size reduction. Also, the secondary and tertiary leakage inductances of the coupled‐inductors minimize the reverse recovery problem of the output diodes. Due to its three‐level structure, it has very low voltage stress over semiconductor elements in comparison to the existing interleaved structures, resulting in using MOSFETs with low on‐resistance and thus lower conduction losses and cost. Operating modes as well as analytical analysis of the proposed converter are discussed. Finally, in order to validate the proposed converter performance, experimental results from a 200‐W laboratory prototype are presented.

Abstract Permanent magnet machines have been used in the high‐speed drive applications due to their high‐efficiency, high‐power‐density, and wide‐speed range characteristics. However, control of such high‐speed permanent magnet machines machine is always challenging and proper flux‐weakening controller design is essential to achieve high performance of these machines. In this paper, an improved feedforward flux‐weakening control scheme for interior permanent magnet synchronous machine (IPMSM) drives are proposed. The proposed method identifies optimal d‐axis and q‐axis currents under different operation regions using maximum‐torque‐per‐ampere curve, voltage limit, and current limit curves with a fast Newton–Raphson algorithm. To ensure the optimal performance of the control mechanism, effects of inductance variations due to the magnetic saturation are considered and an innovative high‐frequency staircase voltage injection method is used to identify the q‐axis inductance. The experimental results show that compared with other existing flux‐weakening methods, the proposed technique can improve the DC‐link voltage utilisation without the need to tune any controller gains and can fully utilise maximum available torque with desirable transient performance.

There is a global trend to reduce emissions from cars through the adoption of other alternatives, such as electric vehicles (EVs). The increasing popularity of EVs has led to a growing demand for electric vehicle chargers. EV chargers are essential for charging the batteries of EVs. Since the EV charger stays connected to the grid for long periods of time to charge the EV battery, it must be able to handle disturbances in the power grid. The goal of this paper is to present an overview of the impact of grid events on EV battery chargers. As well as the impact of grid unbalances on EV chargers, this paper also provides an overview of the impact of grid faults on other, similar power electronics interfaced resources such as PV and energy storage systems.

Abstract The design of a cascade controller is demonstrated for a buck–boost converter that is combined with two control loops consisting of inner and outer controllers. The outer loop is implemented by a fractional‐order proportional‐integrated‐derivative (FO‐PID) controller that works as a voltage controller and generates a reference current for the inner control loop. To provide faster dynamic performance for inner loop, a self‐tuning regulator adaptive controller, which tries to regulates the current with the help of a novel improved exponential regressive least square identification in an online technique, is designed. Moreover, in the outer loop, to tune the gains of the FO‐PID controller, a novel algorithm of antlion optimizer algorithm is used that offers many benefits in comparison with other algorithms. The system provided by the boost mode is a non‐minimum phase system, which creates challenges for designing a stable controller. In addition, a single loop controller is proposed based on a PID controller tuned by a particle swarm optimization algorithm to be compared with the cascade controller. Cascade loop can present significant benefits to the controller such as better disturbance rejection. Finally, the strength of the presented cascade control scheme is verified in different performing situations by real‐time experiments.

Pulsed electrolysis has become a promising research topic in recent decades due to advances in solid-state semiconductor devices. These technologies have enabled the design and construction of simpler, more efficient, and less costly high-voltage and high-frequency power converters. In this paper, we study high-voltage pulsed electrolysis considering variations in both power converter parameters and cell configuration. Experimental results are obtained for frequency variations ranging from 10 Hz to 1 MHz, voltage changes from 2 V to 500 V, and electrode separations from 0.1 to 2 mm. The results demonstrate that pulsed plasmolysis is a promising method for decomposing water for hydrogen production.

The systems used to distribute electricity are currently undergoing a series of changes that are aiding in the development of smart grids

Software Defined Networking (SDN) is a communication alternative to increase the scalability and resilience of microgrid hierarchical control. The common architecture has a centralized and monolithic topology, where the controller is highly susceptible to latency problems, resiliency, and scalability issues. This paper proposes a novel and intelligent control network to improve the performance of microgrid communications, solving the typical drawback of monolithic SDN controllers. The SDN controller’s functionalities are segregated into microservices groups and distributed through a bare-metal Kubernetes cluster. Results are presented from PLECS hardware in the loop simulation to validate the seamless transition between standard hierarchical control to the SDN networked microgrid. The microservices significantly impact the performance of the SDN controller, decreasing the latency by 10.76% compared with a monolithic architecture. Furthermore, the proposed approach demonstrates a 42.23% decrease in packet loss versus monolithic topologies and a 53.41% reduction in recovery time during failures. Combining Kubernetes with SDN microservices can eliminate the single point of failure in hierarchical control, improve application recovery time, and enhance containerization benefits, including security and portability. This proposal represents a reference framework for future edge computing and intelligent control approaches in networked microgrids.

This article presents a sub-module topology for switched DC source cascaded multilevel inverter configurations that require fewer switching devices and can generate a high number of voltage levels that are suitable for renewable energy sources. The proposed sub-module topology comprises eight semiconductor switches and four DC voltage sources that generate fifteen voltage levels. Furthermore, the cascaded topology is presented to increase the output voltage levels and to minimize the number of components. The proposed sub-module inverter and its cascaded topology are compared with several multilevel inverters to indicate the advantages and drawbacks of the proposal. The comparison studies show that the proposed topologies require fewer switching devices and gate drivers in comparison with other multilevel inverter topologies. In addition, the proposed cascaded topology reduces the cost of the inverter when compared to other multilevel inverter configurations. Furthermore, the power loss calculations and the implementation of the proposed topology in grid-connected photovoltaic applications are simulated and analyzed. Finally, the performance of the proposal is verified by simulation and experimental results for both symmetric and asymmetric sub-module topologies as well as for the proposed cascaded topology.

Aircraft electrification has been a major trend in aviation industry for past 20 years. Given the increasing electrical power requirement for future more electric aircraft and hybrid electric aircraft, research efforts has been ongoing in high power electrical conversion for air-borne systems. Safety critical nature of aviation systems places reliability of aerospace power converters as a critical design concern. In this paper, power electronic system reliability is studied with emphasis on lifetime limiting factors of critical sub components. Reliability of voltage source power converters at different system voltage levels are modelled for a starter generator drive converter. A key observation is that Si IGBT devices are sufficient with respect to reliability requirements in low and medium voltage systems (up to 540 V). At higher system voltages (above 540 V), multi level topologies are necessary for designing with Si IGBTs. In constant power profile drive, system reliability is minimally affected by wear-out failure of film capacitors in converter DC links. In multi level topologies without enhanced voltage derating, system reliability is dominated by cosmic ray induced random failures. Simulation results demonstrate that at high system voltages (810 V), 2 L topology with SiC mosfets outperform Si IGBT based 3 L topology with respect to reliability.

This paper studies the excitation of torsional vibrations by electromechanical interaction after the connection of electrical loads. Electrical generation and power system in aircraft are becoming of key importance, especially considering the current roadmap for aerospace systems’ electrification. However, since the drivetrain which links electrical generators to the main engine is relatively flexible in most aircraft structures, torsional vibrations can be excited by the sudden connection or disconnection of electrical loads, thus increasing the drivetrain’s fatigue and reducing its reliability and lifetime. Because of the increased amounts of intermittent electrical loads on aircraft systems, which excite torsional vibrations through electromechanical interactions, the electrical load connections are investigated in this paper. Specifically, a method for reducing torsional vibrations in aircraft drivetrains is proposed to extend their lifespan. This method is applied directly to the load being connected and it proposes the connection of the electrical loads following a pulsating pattern, for which the pulse connection time is determined as a function of the drivetrain vibration modes. Simulations results show that the proposed method provides a significant reduction in the drivetrain shaft torsional vibrations. Experimental results validate the simulation data showing the benefits this method can provide in drivetrain reliability, weight reduction and cost.

Solid-state power controllers (SSPCs) have been received increasing attention as they can configure the electrical system and protect the system by fast tripping mechanism at the same time. Although the high-voltage direct current (HVDC) electrical system can bring sustainable savings on the cables’ weight and losses, the protection can be considerably challenging. SSPCs have been successfully utilized for 28V DC aircraft onboard network. However, high-voltage ones are impeded by the vast over-voltage and the excessive losses generated from SSPC switching. This paper tries to fill this gap and presents the development of high-power SSPCs for a ±270VDC network of a future turboprop aircraft. Comprehensive designs of proper over-voltage suppression along with SSPC thermal management are presented in this paper. Besides, a comparative study on the SSPC device is carried out. Two prototypes, including a single MOSFET module and paralleling several discrete MOSFET devices, are built and then tested in the experiment. It has been validated that the proposed voltage clamping design cannot only effectively suppress the over-voltage, but also limit the SSPC temperature increase during switching for both candidates. After comparing the conduction losses, maximum junction temperature, power density, weight and volume, the single device solution is recommended as a preferable SSPC option for future aircraft.

Drive system availability is critical in aerospace applications. Multi three phase machines are a known solution to provide redundancy and fault tolerance capability. Control of multi three phase machines is typically implemented in DQ domain or VSD domain. An alternate control approach is per phase current control using proportional resonant controllers in ABC domain. In this work, ABC domain current controllers are utilized to demonstrate key advantages in high reliability applications - fault reconfigurability with minimal controller modifications and ability to control multiple harmonic components. ABC domain control structure enables seamless transition from healthy mode to fault mode with only algebraic operations at the controller output unlike DQ/VSD domains. Furthermore, single-phase operating mode in ABC domain provides an additional fault mode for emergency operation which is unavailable in DQ/VSD control domains. The Fault mode operation under open circuit fault of one phase in each winding set is demonstrated. Simulation and experimental results validate the normal and fault condition operation of the proposed control method.

This paper introduces an advanced space vector modulation technique for three-level neutral-point-clamped (3L-NPC) converters. The studied 3L-NPC converters within aircraft electric starter generator (ESG) systems normally operate at high modulation index, low pulse ratio and full power factor range for most of the operation time. Conventional modulation techniques exhibit large neutral point voltage ripple and possible voltage imbalance under such conditions. The increase of neutral point voltage ripple implies significant increase in converter capacitor size and decrease in capacitor reliability. The modulation technique introduced in this paper achieves improved neutral point voltage balancing within each switching period through enhanced applications of small vectors and restriction on medium vectors. The advanced implementation of small vectors is achieved using a sharing factor aided by a robust incremental current prediction procedure. With the predicted machine currents, the proposed method enables the optimum application of small vectors to balance the neutral point voltages. Simulation results based on a PLECS/Simulink model and experimental results obtained from a 45kVA, 32krpm aircraft electric starter generator prototype platform validate the reduction of the neutral point voltage ripple.

Finite Set Model Predictive Control (FS-MPC) is a widely used technique in power electronic converter applications. One challenge in FS-MPC implementation is selecting appropriate weighting factors, as there is currently no established methodology for finding the best values. An alternative approach is to consider cost functions without weighting factors, as used by the Sequential Model Predictive Control (SMPC). In this paper, the performance of SMPC applied to induction motors is analyzed. The SMPC strategy involves sequentially evaluating simple cost functions by considering a limited number of available switching states for the power electronic converter. This number is the control parameter of the SMPC. The parameter’s domains and a selection criteria based on THD were established in this investigation. The power converter topologies studied include the Voltage Source Inverter (VSI) and the Neutral Point Clamped three-level (3L-NPC). Simulations performed in PLECS software and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) tests using an RT Box for valid parameters satisfy the characteristics of the classical predictive control, such as good control variables tracking and high dynamic response. For a VSI converter, increasing the control parameter results in reduced harmonic distortion, while for an NPC converter, optimal results are achieved with control parameter values within a specific range.

In previous articles, the concept of series Z-source network has been extended to conventional indirect matrix converter to raise the voltage gain to unity and beyond. In this paper, this idea is modified and applied to a three-level indirect matrix converter. Two series Z-source networks are placed on the virtual dc-link between a rectifier and a neutral point clamped inverter on the positive and negative dc rails. Partial shoot-through states are used for voltage boosting. The series Z-source capacitor voltages and starting current stresses are reduced. A virtual space vector PWM method has been developed to ensure voltage boost ability of the converter. Simulation results from SABER are used to demonstrate the superiority of the proposed converter over the existing topology.

Electric Vehicles are becoming increasingly popular due to their environment friendly operation. As the demand for electric vehicles increases, it has become quite important to explore their charging strategies. Since charging and traction do not normally occur simultaneously and the power electronics converters for both operations have some similarities, the practice of integrating both charging and traction systems is becoming popular. These types of chargers are termed ‘Integrated Chargers’. The aim of this paper is to review the available literature on the integrated chargers and present a critical analysis of the pros and cons of different integrated charging architectures. Integrated chargers for electric vehicles with three-phase permanent magnet synchronous machines, multi-phase machines and switched reluctance machines were compared. The challenges with the published integrated chargers and the future aspect of the work were been discussed.

Power electronic devices play an important role in energy conversion. Among the options, matrix converters, in combination with predictive control, represent a good alternative for the power conversion stage. Although several reviews have been undertaken on this topic, they have been conducted in a non-systematic manner, without indicating how the studies considered were chosen. This paper presents results from a systematic literature review on predictive control applied to matrix converters that included 142 primary papers, which were selected after applying a defined protocol with clear inclusion and exclusion criteria. The study provides a detailed classification of predictive control methods and strategies applied to different matrix converter topologies. Research findings require to be understood in combination to develop a common understanding of the topic and ensure that future research effort is based on solid premises. In light of this, this study identifies and characterizes different predictive control techniques and matrix converter topologies through systematic literature review. The results of the review indicate that interest in the area is increasing. A number of open questions in the field are discussed.

The authors would like to replace [...]

A modified virtual space vector modulation approach for the control of a Z-source neutral point clamped inverter is presented in this paper. This approach works perfectly for the traditional neutral point clamped inverter. In this paper, the effectiveness of the virtual space vector modulation technique in balancing the input capacitor voltages of the Z-source NPC inverter with no low-frequency oscillations superimposed in addition to voltage buck-boost capability is demonstrated through simulations in SABER®. A prototype converter is used to capture experimental results for validation.

An optimized space vector modulation technique for controlling a quasi Zsource NPC inverter for solar photovoltaic application is presented in this paper. The presented algorithm optimizes the number of switching transitions over a switching cycle by modifying the placement of the shoot-through states in some of the sub-triangles of the space vector diagram of a conventional neutral point clamped inverter. This approach leads to a reduction in the total losses of the quasi Z-source inverter by reducing the switching losses. The presented concepts are expected to be cheaper than existing methods because a reduction in losses will lead to the use of smaller and cheaper heat sinks in practical implementation. In this paper, the effectiveness of the proposed optimized space vector modulation technique has been demonstrated through simulations in SABER®.

The present trend of aerospace industries is being shifted towards a “More Electric Aircraft” system which needs to be high power dense. For this purpose, the integration technologies have gained massive interest, providing the benefits of reduced losses, weight, volume and cost. In this article, the integration concept of a passive filter inductor is presented for a permanent magnet synchronous motor. The integrated motor eliminates the need of an external inductor, thus, eliminates the added inductor losses, mass, volume and cost associated with it. The motor utilizes its’s inherent inductance to use it as a filter inductor instead of implementing a discrete inductor that is commonly placed between inverter and the motor terminals. Optimization study is carried out, where the filter branch windings are tapped, in terms of improving mass and volume and performance parameters such as power losses and torque ripple. From the optimization study, the motor with minimum weight and volume is experimentally validated at the rated conditions, in order to prove the concept feasibility. Total system weight and volume of integrated and traditional motor drives are compared, which gives the minimum weight of 2.26 kg and 3.14 kg respectively, and the minimum volume of 0.54 L and 1.1 L respectively.

Abstract Background Chronic tendinopathy is a significant problem particularly in active populations limiting sporting and occupational performance. The prevalence of patellar tendinopathy in some sports is near 50% and the incidence of lower limb tendinopathy is 1.4% p.a. in the UK Military. Management includes isometric, eccentric, heavy slow resistance exercises and extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT). Often these treatments are inadequate yet there is no good evidence for injection therapies and success rates from surgery can be as low as 50%. High Volume Image Guided Injection (HVIGI) proposes to strip away the neovascularity and disrupt the nerve ingrowth seen in chronic cases and has shown promising results in case series. This study aims to investigate the efficacy of HVIGI in a randomised controlled trial (RCT). Methods RCT comparing 40ml HVIGI, with or without corticosteroid, with a 3ml local anaesthetic sham-control injection. Ninety-six participants will be recruited. Inclusion criteria: male, 18–55 years old, chronic Achilles or patellar tendinopathy of at least 6 months, failed conservative management including ESWT, and Ultrasound (US) evidence of neovascularisation, tendon thickening and echogenic changes. Outcome measures will be recorded at baseline, 6 weeks, 3, 6 and 12 months. Primary outcome measures include The Victoria Institute of Sport Assessments for Achilles and patellar tendinopathy (VISA-A and VISA-P) and VAS pain. Secondary outcome measures include Modified Ohberg score, maximum tendon diameter and assessment of hypoechoic appearance on US, and Functional Activity Assessment. Discussion Despite previous interventional trials and reviews there is still insufficient evidence to guide injectable therapy for chronic tendinopathy that has failed conservative treatment. The scant evidence available suggests HVIGI has the greatest potential however there is no level one RCT evidence to support this. Investigating the efficacy of HVIGI against control in a RCT and separating the effect of HVIGI and corticosteroid will add high level evidence to the management of chronic tendinopathy resistant to conservative treatment. Trial Registration EudraCT: 2015-003587-36 3 Dec 2015

A three-immense configurations of boost converter for renewable energy application is presented here. The voltage lift switched inductor (VLSI) structure is pledged to extra high-voltage conversion. The proposed work represents the modified high-voltage conversion boost converter (MBC) and its three configuration with VLSI module namely, modified boost converter with XL configuration (MBC(VLSI)-XL), modified boost converter with LY configuration (MBC(VLSI)-LY), and modified boost converter with XY configuration (MBC(VLSI)-XY). The advantages of proposed converter configurations are (i) immense voltage conversion ratio for high-voltage and low-current renewable energy applications; (ii) single switch topologies; and (iii) input inductor to avoid reverse current flow from load to source. The detail mathematical analysis of proposed configurations is carried out with and without considering the internal voltage drop across the circuit components. The comparative investigation is carried out with existed high-voltage conversion ratio topologies. The Matlab simulation results validates the working of proposed MBC configurations.

The operation of single-phase Modular Multilevel Converter (MMC) is analyzed in the paper. A mathematical model of the converter is developed and described, based on which the structure and selection of parameters for Classical Control and Optimal Switching State Model Predictive Control (OSS-MPC) are defined. Additionally, the procedure for the determination of circuit parameters, such as submodule capacitance and arm inductance, is described and carried out. The listed control methods are designed and evaluated in Virtual Hardware-in-the-Loop together with single-phase MMC power circuit, regarding three control objectives: AC current control, voltage balancing control and circulating current control. Control methods are evaluated for both steady-state and transient performance and compared based on nine criteria: AC current reference tracking, THD of AC current and voltage, submodule capacitor voltage balancing, total submodule voltage control, circulating current magnitude and THD, number of control parameters and computational complexity. This is the first time that a fair comparison between Classical Control and MPC is considered in literature, resulting in superior performance of both control methods regarding four different criteria and the same performance regarding AC current reference tracking.

The single-phase matrix converter is an AC-AC power topology which consists of six bidirectional switches and it is considered the key unit in cascade or multilevel configurations. In this paper, a comparison between two control techniques is presented, one based on a proportional-integral-derivative control module with a pulse width modulator, and the other known as finite-state model predictive control. Simulation and experimental results are presented and discussed to demonstrate the feasibility and performance of both techniques.

The modular multilevel matrix converter is a relatively new power converter topology suitable for high-power alternating current (AC)-to-AC applications. Several publications in the literature have highlighted the converter capabilities, such as full modularity, fault-redundancy, control flexibility and input/output power quality. However, the topology and control of this converter are relatively complex to realise, considering that the converter has a large number of power-cells and floating capacitors. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, there are no review papers where the applications of the modular multilevel matrix converter are discussed. Hence, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of the state-of-the-art of the modular multilevel matrix converter, focusing on implementation issues and applications. Guidelines to dimensioning the key components of this converter are described and compared to other modular multilevel topologies, highlighting the versatility and controllability of the converter in high-power applications. Additionally, the most popular applications for the modular multilevel matrix converter, such as wind turbines, grid connection and motor drives, are discussed based on analyses of simulation and experimental results. Finally, future trends and new opportunities for the use of the modular multilevel matrix converter in high-power AC-to-AC applications are identified.

This paper proposes an Indirect Matrix Converter (IMC)-based grid-tied Photovoltaic (PV) system for Smart Grids (SGs). The PV array injects current in the ‘dc link’ of the IMC through an inductive link, and is connected to the SG with shunt and series connections, allowing for the compensation of current- and voltage-related Power Quality (PQ) issues, respectively, for the sensitive loads and the SG connection. A direct sliding mode-based controller is proposed to guarantee nearly sinusoidal currents in the connection to the SG, and sinusoidal voltages guaranteeing compliance with international standards, when supplying the sensitive loads. Additionally, a novel control approach for the ‘dc link’ voltage is synthesised to allow for the control of both the PV array current and the power flow to the SG. To guarantee the semiconductors safe commutation an asynchronous commutation strategy is derived. Simulation and experimental results show that the proposed system significantly improves PQ in the SG, minimizing the total harmonic distortion of the currents injected in the SG, and guaranteeing the quality of the voltage supplied to the sensitive loads, even in the occurrence of voltage sags or overvoltages.

The Modular Multilevel Matrix Converter is a relatively new power converter topology appropriate for high-power Alternating Current (AC) to AC purposes. Several publications in the literature have highlighted the converter capabilities such as modularity, control flexibility, the possibility to include redundancy, and power quality. Nevertheless, the topology and control of this converter are relatively complex to design and implement, considering that the converter has a large number of cells and floating capacitors. Therefore multilayer nested control systems are required to maintain the capacitor voltage of each cell regulated within an acceptable range. There are no other review papers where the modelling, control systems and applications of the Modular Multilevel Matrix Converter are discussed. Hence, this paper aims to facilitate further research by presenting the technology related to the Modular Multilevel Matrix Converter, focusing on a comprehensive revision of the modelling and control strategies.

This paper presents an analyses of an Energy Storage System (ESS) for grid-tied photovoltaic (PV) systems, in order to harness the energy usually lost due to PV array oversizing. A real case of annual PV power generation analysis is presented to illustrate the existing problem and future solutions. Three PV modeling techniques have been applied to estimate non-measured non-harnessed PV power to provide an ESS energy and power sizing strategy. Moreover, a control strategy to store or release power from the DC-link, without modifying the Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) strategy, is presented. The results show an estimation of the annual power loss caused by oversizing the PV array. The ESS sizing strategy gives insight into not only the energy requirements, but also the power requirements of the system. Simulation results show that the proposed ESS control strategy is capable of harnessing the extra power without modifying the existing power converter of the PV plant nor its control strategy.

This paper presents a single-phase bidirectional current-source AC/DC converter for vehicle to grid (V2G) applications. The presented converter consists of a line frequency commutated unfolding bridge and an interleaved buck-boost stage. The low semiconductor losses of the line frequency commutated unfolding bridge contribute to the comparatively good efficiency of this converter. The buck and boost operating modes of the interleaved buck-boost stage provide operation over a wide battery voltage range. The interleaved structure of the interleaved buck-boost stage results in lower battery current ripple. In addition, sinusoidal input current, bidirectional power flow and reactive power compensation capability are also guaranteed. This paper presents the topology and operating principles of the presented converter. The feasibility of the converter is validated using MATLAB simulations, as well as experimental results.