A variable DC link based novel multilevel inverter topology for low voltage applications

Abstract

In this paper; a variable dc link based novel multilevel inverter (MLI) topology is proposed. This proposed topology comprises two variable dc links and a modified H-bridge unit. This new single-phase topology offers advantages such as reduction in count of switches; gate drivers and dc sources while simultaneously improving the power quality. The proposed topology has been analyzed for both symmetric and asymmetric modes of operation. A comparative study of the proposed topology with some recent MLI topologies has been presented. The comparative study indicates that the proposed topology requires less number of dc sources; switches and driver circuits as compared to other topologies. The proposed topology has been simulated for 31-level asymmetric configuration in MATLAB/SIMULINK environment to verify the proper operation of proposed topology. Harmonic analysis was also performed for 31-level inverter which showed significant reduction in the total harmonic distortion (THD) for phase voltage and current waveforms. The proposed topology is suitable for low voltage applications such as standalone photovoltaic (PV) systems and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs).