Search Results (36)

This study explores an integrated multi-physics design approach for a high-speed Interior Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (IPMSM) optimized for marine diesel engine Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) blower systems. To satisfy the rigorous operational demands of marine environments, an IPMSM with a rated output of 150 kW and a base speed of 9000 rpm was developed. The design validity was rigorously verified through a comprehensive multi-physics framework using the Finite Element Method (FEM), ensuring a balance between electromagnetic, thermal, and mechanical performance. The investigation established a mathematical model for the IPMSM driven by a Space Vector Pulse-Width Modulation (SVPWM) inverter, facilitating a detailed analysis of steady-state characteristics within the EGR system. To guarantee long-term reliability at high rotational speeds, the study performed an integrated thermal analysis based on precise electrical loss separation and a rotor-dynamic evaluation focusing on unbalanced vibration responses of the shaft. Finally, the proposed design was validated by integrating the IPMSM into a full-scale EGR blower system. Experimental evaluations across the entire operating range confirm that the integrated design successfully achieves the high power density and mechanical robustness required for marine diesel applications. Full article

This paper investigates a five-level active neutral-point-clamped (5L-ANPC) converter operating in rectifier mode with unbalanced DC-side loads, where neutral-point (NP) deviation may deteriorate grid-current quality. Conventional space-vector pulsewidth modulation (SVPWM) is typically derived under the split-capacitor-voltage symmetry assumption; when NP deviation occurs, fixed sector boundaries and ideal volt–second balance calculations can lead to sector misclassification and synthesis errors. To address this issue, an NP-aware SVPWM scheme is proposed by reconstructing sector criteria using real-time capacitor voltages and correcting the vector dwelling-time computation to improve modulation accuracy under imbalance. Based on the power-transfer mechanism, an average-power boundary condition is further derived to quantify the admissible upper/lower load power ratio that allows NP regulation without additional hardware, and its validity is examined under resistive-load cases. Moreover, for battery-type loads exhibiting voltage-source characteristics, the control objective is extended from voltage symmetry to controllable power/charge allocation by establishing a mapping between the small-vector duty ratio and the branch average-power ratio, with constrained online solution and smoothing to mitigate coefficient jitter. Experimental validation is conducted on an OPAL-RT OP5707-based hardware-in-the-loop platform, where both single-phase and three-phase 5L-ANPC systems are implemented according to different verification objectives. The derived boundary condition for resistive loads is examined in the single-phase system, while the proposed modulation and battery-load power-allocation strategy are verified in the three-phase system. The three-phase arrangement is adopted for the battery-load case in order to avoid the second-order power ripple inherent to single-phase operation. Full article

The integration of renewable energy sources, including photovoltaic (PV) and fuel cell (FC) systems, into AC grids has attracted immense research interest in recent times. Furthermore, incorporating these renewable sources of energy into medium-voltage grids is garnering increased attention because of the obvious benefits of medium-voltage integration at elevated power levels. Photovoltaic applications entail the arrangement of solar panels capable of outputting voltages up to 1.5 kV; nonetheless, fuel cells display restricted output voltage, with a maximum market range of 400 to 700 V. Hence, the efficient integration of renewable energy sources into low-voltage or medium-voltage grids demands the utilization of a step-up direct current (DC–DC) inverter and a converter for connection to the alternating current (AC) grid, in which an efficient step-up converter is critical for the medium-voltage grid. Therefore, this study presents a three-phase buck-boost split-source inverter (BSSI) that resolves the constrained output voltage of the fuel cells. This study focuses on modifying the configuration of a conventional three-phase split-source inverter (SSI) circuit by adding a few components while maintaining the inverter’s modulation. This novel circuit design enables the reduction in voltage strains on the inverter switch components and improves DC-link use in relation to a traditional SSI configuration. For an 800 bus, maximal voltage stress on the primary inverter switches is lowered when compared with the standard SSI that delivers entire DC-bus voltage to switches. A rectifier-based model is employed to simulate the behavior of a renewable energy source. Combining these advantages with the conventional modulation of the inverter offers a more effective design. The buck-boost split-source inverter (BSSI) was analyzed using three distinct modulation techniques: the sinusoidal pulse-width modulation scheme (SPWM), the third-harmonic injected pulse-width modulation (THPWM) scheme, and space vector modulation (SVM). The proposed analysis was validated through MATLAB-SIMULINK and practical outcomes on a 5.0 kW model. The practical and SIMULINK data were found to be closely aligned with the analysis. The circuit developed in this study also ensures efficient DC-to-AC conversion, specifically with regard to low-voltage sources, like fuel cells or photovoltaic (PV) systems. Full article

This paper presents a robust sensorless control strategy for a dual-inverter doubly fed induction motor (DFIM) designed for high-performance electric vehicle (EV) traction systems. The proposed scheme eliminates the mechanical speed sensor by employing a sliding-mode observer (SMO) for real-time estimation of rotor speed and flux, ensuring accurate feedback under load disturbances and thereby enhancing reliability while reducing implementation cost. The DFIM is powered by two voltage-source inverters that independently control the stator and rotor windings through space vector pulse-width modulation (SVPWM). A power-sharing strategy optimally distributes the electromagnetic power between the two converters, ensuring smooth transitions between sub-synchronous and super-synchronous operating modes. Furthermore, a stator-flux-oriented vector control (SFOC) scheme incorporating a graphical torque optimization algorithm is developed to maximize torque while satisfying inverter and machine constraints across both base-speed and flux-weakening regions. The stability of the SMO-based estimation and closed-loop control is rigorously validated using Lyapunov theory. Comprehensive MATLAB R2024b/Simulink simulations conducted under the WLTC-Class 3 driving cycle confirm high accuracy and robustness, showing fast dynamic response, precise speed estimation, and smooth torque behavior across the full speed range. The results demonstrate that the SMO-based DFIM drive offers a cost-effective and reliable solution for next-generation EV traction applications. Full article

This paper addresses the challenges encountered by grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) systems, including the stochastic behavior of the system, harmonic distortion, and variations in grid impedance. To this end, an in-depth technical and pedagogical analysis of three linear multivariable current control strategies is performed: proportional-integral (PI), proportional-resonant (PR), and deadbeat (DB). The study contributes to theoretical formulations, detailed system modeling, and controller tuning procedures, promoting a comprehensive understanding of their structures and performance. The strategies are investigated and compared in both the rotating ($dq$) and stationary ($\alpha \beta$) reference frames, offering a broad perspective on system behavior under various operating conditions. Additionally, an in-depth analysis of the PR controller is presented, highlighting its potential to regulate both positive- and negative-sequence components. This enables the development of more effective and robust tuning methodologies for steady-state and dynamic scenarios. The evaluation is conducted under three main conditions: steady-state operation, transient response to input power variations, and robustness analysis in the presence of grid parameter changes. The study examines the impact of each controller on the total harmonic distortion (THD) of the injected current, as well as on system stability margins and dynamic performance. Practical aspects that are often overlooked are also addressed, such as the modeling of the inverter and photovoltaic generator, the implementation of space vector pulse-width modulation (SVPWM), and the influence of the output LC filter capacitor. The control structures under analysis are validated through numerical simulations performed in MatLab^® software (R2021b) using dedicated computational routines, enabling the identification of strategies that enhance performance and ensure compliance of grid-connected photovoltaic systems. Full article

This paper provides an overview of existing theories on various modulation strategies for current-source inverters (CSI), particularly focusing on space vector modulation (SVM). The emphasis is on the development of detailed simulation models that improve understanding and allow practical application. Three important modulators are analyzed: voltage-source inverter (VSI)-derived CSI SVM modulator, direct CSI SVM modulator, and direct duty ratio CSI PWM modulator (DDPWM). These models are important for researchers and practicing engineers as they allow simulation, modification and better understanding of CSIs. This paper begins with a theoretical overview of the functionality of CSIs and presents the modulation techniques needed to develop simulation models. These modulation techniques use modular components to create complete simulation models. Application examples are provided to use the correct/valid parameters such that the operation/waveforms can be compared with the theory. Integrating established mathematical models with effective simulation tools enhances the understanding and application of CSI modulators. This method not only makes it easier to employ these CSIs instead of conventional inverter systems, but it also increases the possibility of power electronics advancements by creating better and more reliable systems. Full article

The main purpose of this research is to develop an improved space vector pulse-width modulation (SVPWM) algorithm for three-level (3L) neutral point clamped (NPC) voltage source inverters (VSIs). The results of experiments conducted on the three-level power converter laboratory setup showed that the proposed SVPWM algorithm with a seven-stage switching sequence (SS) can reduce a VSI’s switching frequency by 43.48% compared to the SVPWM algorithm with the base SS. It also improves the neutral point (NP) voltage balance in the VSI DC link by 4.2% by controlling the duty factor of distributed base vectors in each SVPWM period based on phase load currents. It reduced the values of the 5th- and 7th-order harmonics of the VSI output voltage by 19% and 15.7%, respectively. The results show that the usage of the improved SVPWM algorithm helps increase the efficiency of a 3L NPC VSI by 0.6% and reduce the higher harmonics. The obtained results confirm the efficiency of the suggested algorithm and its great potential for power converters in industry. Full article

Inverter-based systems encounter significant challenges in mitigating common-mode voltage (CMV) and minimizing inverter losses. Despite various space vector pulse-width modulation (SVPWM) techniques proposed to address these issues, a comprehensive comparative analysis has been lacking. This paper addresses this gap through an experimental and simulation-based evaluation of nine SVPWM techniques. A new discontinuous SVPWM technique, DSVPWM-K4, is introduced, which involves reversing the use of the two zero vectors in DSVPWM-K3. DSVPWM-K3 delivers superior performance in terms of CMV reduction, total harmonic distortion (THD), and inverter losses across all modulation indices (MI = 1, 0.75, 0.5, and 0.25), making it the most effective overall. Although DSVPWM-K4 is a novel approach, it ranks second in effectiveness. The RSPWM technique achieves the lowest CMV with a zero peak-to-peak value but is most effective at lower modulation indices (0.25 and 0.5) due to higher harmonic distortion at higher modulation indices. AZSPWM performs optimally at higher modulation indices, providing a 66.66% reduction in CMV compared to continuous SVPWM and significantly lower THD compared to RSPWM. In contrast, NSPWM exhibits nearly double the THD compared to continuous SVPWM. Full article

Voltage source converters (VSCs) have emerged as the key components in modern power systems, facilitating efficient energy conversion and flexible power flow control. Understanding the fundamental circuit model of VSCs is essential for their accurate modeling and analysis in power system studies. A basic voltage source converter circuit model connected to an LC filter is essential because it lowers the harmonic distortions and enhances the overall power quality of the micro-grid. This guarantees a clean and steady power supply, which is necessary for the integration of multiple renewable energy sources and sensitive loads. A comprehensive methodology for developing a basic circuit model of VSCs, focusing on the key components and principals involved, is presented in this paper. The methodology includes the modeling of space vector pulse-width modulation (SVPWM) as well as the direct quadrature zero synchronous reference frame. Different design controls, including the design of current control loop in the S-domain, the design of the direct current (DC) bus voltage control loop in the S-domain, and the design of the alternating current (AC) voltage control loop in the S-domain, are explored to capture the dynamic behavior and control strategies of VSCs accurately. The proposed methodology provides a systematic framework for modeling VSCs, enabling engineers and researchers to analyze their performance and assess their impact on power system stability and operation. Future studies can be conducted by using case studies and simulation scenarios to show the efficiency and applicability of the developed models in analyzing VSC-based power electronics applications, including high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission systems and flexible alternating current transmission systems (FACTS). The significance of this work lies in its potential to advance the understanding and application of VSCs, contributing to more resilient and efficient power systems. By providing a solid foundation for future research and development, this study supports the ongoing integration of renewable energy sources and the advancement of modern electrical infrastructure. Full article

In islanded operation, precise power sharing is an immensely critical challenge when there are different line impedance values among the different-rated inverters connected to the same electrical network. Issues in power sharing and voltage compensation at the point of common coupling, as well as the reverse circulating current between inverters, are problems in existing control strategies for parallel-connected inverters if mismatched line impedances are not addressed. Therefore, this study aims to develop an improved decentralized controller for good power sharing with voltage compensation using the predictive control scheme and circulating current minimization between the inverters’ current flow. The controller was developed based on adaptive virtual impedance (AVI) control, combined with finite control set–model predictive control (FCS-MPC). The AVI was used for the generation of reference voltage, which responded to the parameters from the virtual impedance loop control to be the input to the FCS-MPC for a faster tracking response and to have minimum tracking error for better pulse-width modulation generation in the space-vector form. As a result, the circulating current was maintained at below 5% and the inverters were able to share an equal power based on the load required. At the end, the performance of the AVI-based control scheme was compared with those of the conventional and static-virtual-impedance-based methods, which have also been tested in simulation using MATLAB/Simulink software 2021a version. The comparison results show that the AVI FCS MPC give 5% error compared to SVI at 10% and conventional PI at 20%, in which AVI is able to minimize the circulating current when mismatch impedance is applied to the DGs. Full article

Multiphase drives have received a lot of interest because of their several features over traditional three-phase systems for high-power applications. Pulse-width modulation (PWM) approaches are necessary to regulate the supply for multiphase ac drives. As a result, it is vital to continually improve the modulation and control approaches used to upgrade output power converters’ quality. This paper offers a comparative analysis of the 2L + 2M and 6L space vector pulse-width modulation (SVPWM) techniques applied to a five-phase two-level voltage source inverter (VSI) fed an inductive (R-L) load. The comparative evaluation is based on measuring the inverter switching losses, the total harmonic distortion (THD) values, and the common mode voltage (CMV) under different operation scenarios. A system model is carried out by MATLAB/Simulink. An experimental prototype is constructed in the lab to validate the theoretical analysis. Simulation results for the system based on the two SVPWM techniques are obtained at different modulation indices and different output frequencies and are confirmed by the experimental results. It has been found that the peak-to-peak CMV of the 6L method is 80% lower than that of the 2L + 2M method. Moreover, 6L SVPWM offers better DC-link utilization compared to 2L + 2M SVPWM. Full article

Two-level DC/AC inverter topologies are widely used for low voltage and high voltage applications in power systems and industrial areas. Space Vector Modulation (SVM) is a popular Pulse-Width Modulation technique used for controlling the inverters and providing the efficient energy conversion from DC sources. However, applications of SVM-based studies are limited in the Power Electronics Laboratory (PEL) due to the vital risks associated with high voltage applications, and it is not easily learned through mathematical analysis and visual learning without implementation by undergraduate students. A simulation and experimental setup of an SVM-controlled two-level, three-phase inverter was presented in this study for undergraduate students to learn its basics in the PEL. Several programs were used to simulate the inverter in the classroom environment and to design a power circuit and microcontroller-based printed circuit board of the inverter for PEL experiments. The two case studies were given. In the case results, the output voltage waveforms of simulation and experimental inverters were compared to show the validation of simulation results. With this study, the students’ experience is enhanced in electronic circuit design, programming, coordination with hardware and software development activities, self-learning, and teamwork. Additionally, practical applications increase undergraduate students’ interest in Power Electronics Courses and reinforce their knowledge from lecture and laboratory studies. Full article

This paper proposes a lifespan extension technique for three-phase voltage inverters using hybrid offset voltage. The proposed method lengthens the inverter lifetime by independently adjusting the switching frequency of the three phases in accordance with the aging degree. To reduce the switching operation of the phase with the shortest lifetime, the proposed technique injects the offset voltage for generalized discontinuous pulse-width modulation PWM (GDPWM) into the reference voltage in the region where the switching operation of the shortest lifespan phase can be stopped. When the switching operation does not need to be stopped, the offset voltage for space vector PWM (SVPWM) is injected into the reference voltage for high inverter load current quality. An offset voltage that varies according to the need to stop the switching operation is the proposed hybrid offset voltage. Using the proposed hybrid offset voltage, the switching frequencies of the three phases are independently controllable. In addition, since only the switching operation of the phase having the shortest lifespan is reduced, the load current quality in accordance with the switching operation reduction is good compared to the conventional method to simultaneously diminish all phase switching frequencies. The proposed method significantly increases the reliability of the three-phase voltage inverter, where the thermal stress of the phase having the shortest lifespan is decreased up to 55%, whereas the inverter lifetime can be increased by 10 times. The proposed technique was verified by simulations and experiments. Full article

The recently proposed novel unidirectional multilevel rectifier, a three single-phase star-connected multilevel rectifier, has the characteristic of having a large number of DC-side capacitors and a complex capacitor voltage balancing control structure under conventional carrier-based phase-shift sine wave pulse-width modulation (SPWM). Hence, a space vector pulse-width modulation (SVPWM) algorithm for the novel multilevel rectifier is proposed in this paper, which can quickly balance the capacitor voltage without an additional voltage balancing control structure. Firstly, it divides the space vectors of the rectifier, then it determines the two basis voltage vectors that synthesize the output reference voltage. After that, based on the analysis of the relationship between switching states and the charge–discharge of capacitors, the final action sequences of redundant vectors are determined according to the principle of keeping the capacitor charge–discharge time consistent. Thus, the capacitor voltages can be automatically balanced without an additional voltage balancing control structure. Finally, simulation and experimental results validated the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed SVPWM algorithm. The results also show improvements in current quality, capacitor voltage balance and the fluctuation of the neutral point voltage on the DC-link, allowing for further reduction in the overall volume and cost of the rectifier. Full article

Modular multilevel converters (MMCs) have been conceived as an alternative in front-end converter applications to enhance the converter system’s reliability, minimize total harmonic distortion, and improve power quality. These converters utilize several DC-link capacitors and power electronic switches, along with switches operating with high switching frequencies, to attain the desired characteristics. Thereby, this paper systematically proposes a novel three-phase asymmetric hybrid modular multilevel converter (AHMMC) for front-end converters used in lower-medium-voltage applications. The AHMMC configuration is based on a three-phase converter connected to a per-phase series arrangement with a cascaded converter module (CCM). The study investigates the AHMMC and proposes a control scheme, which minimizes the voltage range on switches and maintains the current to its reference value. Furthermore, the study also introduces an active balancing of voltage across DC-link capacitors based on the phase opposition disposition PWM (POD-PWM) method. Our new configuration has features such as low switching loss, reduced DC-link voltage, a wider modulation range for the unity power factor (PF), and low voltage and current harmonic distortion. The simulation results are added to verify the performance of the new AHMMC topology and the usefulness of the modular control scheme. In addition, a low-voltage laboratory prototype based on customized control and power boards is built to validate the proposed converter and its control scheme in practice. Full article