A New Single-Phase <inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">$\boldsymbol{\Pi}-\text{Type}$</tex-math> </inline-formula> 5-Level Inverter Using 3-Terminal Switch-Network

Abstract

A new single-phase π-type 5-level inverter using 3-terminal switch-network (3TSN) is proposed in this paper. The topology is considered as a variant of T-type 3-level structure or dual-buck inverter with coupled inductors. This new inverter is suitable for multilevel power inversion with low dc-bus voltage. The merit of the proposed topology is to apply only four active power switches to achieve 5-level operation. Other benefits include double frequency operation of output inductor and equal division of the current that flows through power switches and filter inductor. Hence, it leads to high efficiency and low harmonics. These characteristics allow improvement of losses distribution and volume reduction of output filter inductor. The operation scenario with sinusoidal pulsewidth modulation (SPWM) is described in details. Meanwhile, the magnetic analysis and design are studied and discussed. Finally, a prototype is built to verify the theoretical analysis and demonstrate the benefits of the proposed topology.