Pulse Width Modulation Scheme Research Articles

Fast Stator Flux Trajectory Control for PMSM Operating Under Low Switching Frequency

In rail transit traction field, the traction motor needs to operate at a very low switching frequency to decrease the switching loss. Hybrid pulse-width modulation scheme is usually applied for decreasing switching frequency and providing good harmonic performance. However, when the transition between different modulation schemes occurs or the voltage command steps, the stator flux would deviate from the expected trajectory, which would lead to current/torque shock even overcurrent. This paper proposes a method which can provide more flexible choice of voltage vector and can fast eliminate the stator flux deviation. Compared with the previous method, the proposed one can provide better dynamic performance (less oscillation in current/torque and less settling time), especially when the pulse number is relatively low, like square-wave mode, and is easy to implement. The effectiveness of the proposed method is verified by the simulation and experimental results.

A Modified SVPWM Strategy for Reducing PWM Voltage Noise and Balancing Neutral Point Potential

PWM (pulse width modulation) is the most widely applied current conversion technology, but the high-frequency harmonics it causes have a significant negative impact on inverter system performance. This paper focuses on the three-phase T-type three-level inverter as the research object and addresses existing PWM voltage noise and midpoint potential imbalance issues by proposing an improved random SVPWM strategy, named Neutral Point Potential Balance Random Space Vector PWM (NPB–RSVPWM). The NPB–RSVPWM strategy includes three main steps: (1) introducing a midpoint potential balancing control loop to adjust the synthesis timing of the effective vectors to generate pulse signals, optimizing midpoint potential balance; (2) employing a randomly varying carrier frequency in place of the carrier used in the SVPWM strategy to generate the driving signals for switching devices; and (3) controlling the inverter through the driving pulse signals. This strategy optimizes the synthesis sequence of traditional SVPWM strategy vectors and incorporates random frequency modulation techniques. The mathematical model analyzes PWM harmonic expressions corresponding to fixed switching frequencies, and a random frequency carrier is chosen to suppress these PWM harmonics. The effective vector’s equivalent circuit is analyzed, proposing a technique for optimized vector synthesis timing. The simulation and experimental results verify that the NPB–RSVPWM technique can disperse PWM harmonic energy, reduce voltage noise, and optimize midpoint potential balance. Under the NPB–RSVPWM strategy, the line voltage spectrum becomes uniform, the maximum harmonic content is greatly reduced, and the fluctuation in the DC side midpoint potential is significantly improved. Compared with the traditional SVPWM strategy and random PWM strategy, the NPB–RSVPWM strategy has a lower voltage noise, smaller total harmonic distortion, and a more stable midpoint potential. The effectiveness and feasibility of the NPB–RSVPWM strategy are verified by simulation and experimental results.

Research on Two Improved High–Voltage–Transfer–Ratio Space–Vector Pulse–Width–Modulation Strategies Applied to Five–Phase Inverter

Research on Two Improved High–Voltage–Transfer–Ratio Space–Vector Pulse–Width–Modulation Strategies Applied to Five–Phase Inverter

Performance Characteristics of a Newly Developed Asymmetric Seven-Level Inverter Utilizing Various Hybrid Pulse Width Modulation Strategies

This study unveils a notable breakthrough in inverter technology, holding promise for substantial improvements in voltage quality and the attenuation of harmonic distortions within power systems. This study concentrates on the design and implementation of a novel Seven-Level Asymmetric Inverter (NSLAI) by incorporating various hybrid Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) techniques. The primary goal is to improve the output voltage magnitude while decreasing the Total harmonics compared to conventional PWM methods. The investigation introduces a novel Seven-Level Asymmetric Inverter (NSLAI) with innovative Hybrid Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) strategy. The purpose of this study is to investigate the distinct features of a recently developed asymmetric seven-level inverter, with a focus on exploring its characteristics through the implementation of diverse hybrid pulse width modulation strategies. Hybrid PWM methodology intricately centers on enhancing voltage quality and achieving better harmonious spectral characteristics. The gate signal producing approach for this suggested PWM technology incorporates a hybrid PWM methodology that combines trapezoidal and sinusoidal waveforms, as well as a standard triangular carrier signal enabling NSLAI.  The hybrid version of PWM practices is deliberately used to generate switching signals for the NSLAI. An intensive evaluation of numerous indicators of effectiveness across multiple modulation indexes leads in the demonstrating of quantitative findings that compare the unique Hybrid PWM practice with established PWM tactics. Notably, the hybrid reference Carrier Overlapping strategy has emerged as a leading approach surpassing conventional pulse width modulation techniques. It achieves a significantly higher fundamental Root Mean Square voltage output and remarkably lower percentage of Total Harmonic Distortion values compared to all within the hybrid reference Variable Frequency strategy. The principal analytical tool used in the modeling investigation is MATLAB-SIMULINK. This study marks a watershed moment in the development of inverters, claiming significant improvements in battery power quality and distortion caused by harmonics avoidance across power systems, as evidenced by extensive simulation and prototype-based discoveries.

A Symmetric Sixth-Order Step-Up Converter with Asymmetric PWM Achieved with Small Energy Storage Components

This research explores an improved operation of a recently studied converter, the so-called two-phase sixth-order boost converter (2P6OBC). The converter consists of a symmetric design of power stations followed by an LC filter; its improved operation incorporates an asymmetric pulse width modulation (PWM) scheme for transistor switching, sometimes known as an interleaved PWM approach. The new operation leads to improved performance for the 2P6OBC. Along with studying the 2P6OBC, one of the contributions of this research is providing design equations for the converter and comparing it versus the interleaved (or multiphase) boost converter, known for its competitiveness and advantages; the single-phase boost topology was also included in the comparison. The comparison consisted of a design scenario where all converters must achieve the same power conversion with an established maximum switching ripple, and then the stored energy in passive components is compared. Although the 2P6OBC requires a greater number of components, the total amount of stored energy is smaller. It is known that the stored energy is related to the size of the passive components. Still, the article includes a discussion of this topic. The new operation of the converter offers more streamlined, cost-effective, and efficient alternatives for a range of applications within power electronics. The final design of the 2P6OBC required only 68% of the stored energy in inductors compared to the multiphase boost converter, and 60% of the stored energy in capacitors. This result is outstanding, considering that the multiphase boost converter is a very competitive topology. Experimental results are provided to validate the proposed concept.

Harmonizing power systems with a 13-level modified Packed U-Cells multi-level inverter: Design and implementation

Traditional multilevel inverter designs often face complexity challenges, prompting the need for a simplified solution. This study introduces and evaluates the performance of a Modified Packed U-Cells (MPUC) inverter in the realm of multilevel inverter technology. The study addresses challenges associated with conventional multilevel inverters and proposes the MPUC inverter as a solution to simplify the design complexity. The MPUC inverter, utilizing three DC sources and eight switches, presents a groundbreaking thirteen-level output waveform. The primary focus lies in assessing the inverter's performance in terms of Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) and output voltage. Utilizing MATLAB/Simulink, the inverter's performance is evaluated with and without Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) strategies. The results reveal a notable reduction in THD, from 26.25% to 9.91% post-filtering when PWM is not employed. Various multi-carrier Level-Shifted PWM strategies, including PDPWM, PODPWM, APODPWM, and COPWM, are explored to enhance output waveform smoothness and efficiency. Unequal Carrier strategies, specifically UEAPDPWM and UEAPODPWM, emerge as superior in THD management at different frequency ranges. The study further incorporates real-time hardware implementation of the proposed 13-level MPUC topology, highlighting the success of the UEAPD-PWM strategy in improving waveform quality. The research aims to establish a multilevel inverter design protocol meeting international standards and emphasizes the pivotal role of PWM techniques in enhancing waveform quality. This comprehensive evaluation contributes to advancing the field of multilevel inverter technology and sets a benchmark for future research in this domain.

Performance Analysis of a Dual-Inverter-Fed Open-End Winding Induction Machine under Asymmetrical Control: Theoretical Approach and Experimental Validation

Currently, power trains based on an Open-End Winding Induction Machine fed by a Dual Inverter (DI-OEWIM) are attracting a great deal of interest in various modern industrial applications. However, applying symmetrical control to this system (DI-OEWIM), which is symmetrical in nature, will lead to malfunction. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to explore the influence of asymmetric control on the performance of this system. The principle of this study is to create an asymmetrical control by integrating a phase-shift angle in the Space Vector Pulse Width Modulation (SVPWM) strategy. We then evaluate the impact of these angles on various performances, such as the Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), power losses, Common Mode Voltage (CMV), Zero-Sequence Voltage (ZSV), rotation speed and torque ripple of this system. This study was carried out in the Matlab/Simulink environment and was validated experimentally using the dSPACE 1104 board. The results show that the different angles have significant effects on the overall performance of this system.

A 17-level quadruple boost switched-capacitor inverter with reduced devices and limited charge current

In this paper, a quadruple boost switched-capacitor multi-level inverter is proposed. The proposed structure utilizes a DC source, 11 switches, and a diode to achieve 17-level output voltage levels. This structure consists of three capacitors with the ability for self-balancing voltages. The capacitors achieve automatic voltage balancing through a series/parallel connection with the input voltage source. To control the switching pulses of the switches, level-shifted pulse width modulation (LS-PWM) strategy has been employed. A comparative evaluation has been performed between the proposed structure and structures presented in recent articles, considering various parameters such as voltage gain, number of DC sources, number of semiconductor devices, maximum blocking voltage (MBV), and total standing voltage (TSV). Considering this comparison, the lower number of semiconductor devices for generating a 17-level output with suitable voltage gain, and especially the cost-effectiveness of the structure, are the main advantages of the proposed configuration. In addition, a soft charging method has been employed to limit the inrush current of capacitors. Moreover, the power losses of the proposed structure have been investigated, indicating its acceptable efficiency. Finally, for the analysis and validation of the proposed structure's performance, an experimental prototype has been implemented and evaluated under various conditions. The results indicate satisfactory performance of the proposed structure under various stable and dynamic operating conditions.

Novel Space-Vector PWM Schemes for Enhancing Efficiency and Decoupled Control in Quasi-Z-Source Inverters

This paper investigates the development of pulse width modulation (PWM) schemes for three-phase quasi-Z-source inverters (qZSIs). These inverters are notable for their voltage boost capability, built-in short-circuit protection, and continuous input current, making them suitable for low-voltage-fed applications like photovoltaic or fuel cell-based systems. Despite their advantages, qZSIs confront challenges such as increased control complexity and a larger number of passive components compared to traditional voltage source inverters (VSIs). In addition, most existing PWM schemes for qZSIs lack the capability for independent control of the amplitude modulation index and duty cycle, which is essential in closed-loop applications. This study introduces innovative space-vector PWM (SVPWM) schemes, addressing issues of independent control, synchronization, and unintentional short-circuiting in qZSIs. It evaluates several established continuous and discontinuous PWM schemes, and proposes two novel decoupled SVPWM-based schemes that integrate dead time and in which the shoot-through occurrence is synchronized with the beginning of the zero switching state. These novel schemes are designed to reduce switching losses and improve qZSI controllability. Experimental validation is conducted using a custom-developed electronic circuit board that enables the implementation of a range of PWM schemes, including the newly proposed ones. The obtained results indicate that the proposed PWM schemes can offer up to 6.8% greater efficiency and up to 7.5% reduced voltage stress compared to the closest competing PWM scheme from the literature. In addition, they contribute to reducing the electromagnetic interference and thermal stress of the related semiconductor switches.

Full harmonic spectrum calculation of magnetic pressures in synchronous permanent magnet machines based on a new realistic partial analytical model: application to SVPWM and DPWM2

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to propose a new method that allows to compare the magnetic pressures of different pulse width modulation (PWM) strategies in a fast and efficient way. Design/methodology/approach The voltage harmonics are determined using the double Fourier integral. As for current harmonics and waveforms, a new generic model based on the Park transformation and a dq model of the machine was established taking saturation into consideration. The obtained analytical waveforms are then injected into a finite element software to compute magnetic pressures using nodal forces. Findings The overall proposed method allows to accelerate the calculations and the comparison of different PWM strategies and operating points as an analytical model is used to generate current waveforms. Originality/value While the analytical expressions of voltage harmonics are already provided in the literature for the space vector pulse width modulation, they had to be calculated for the discontinuous pulse width modulation. In this paper, the obtained expressions are provided. For current harmonics, different models based on a linear and a nonlinear model of the machine are presented in the referenced papers; however, these models are not generic and are limited to the second range of harmonics (two times the switching frequency). A new generic model is then established and used in this paper after being validated experimentally. And finally, the direct injection of analytical current waveforms in a finite element software to perform any magnetic computation is very efficient.

Dynamic performance of rotor-side nonlinear control technique for doubly-fed multi-rotor wind energy based on improved super-twisting algorithms under variable wind speed

The paper proposes a nonlinear controller called dual super-twisting sliding mode command (DSTSMC) for controlling and regulating the rotor side converter (RSC) of multi-rotor wind power systems that use doubly-fed induction generators. It was proposed that this controller be developed as an alternative to the direct power control (DPC), which makes use of a pulse width modulation (PWM) strategy to regulate the RSC's functioning. Overcoming the power/current quality issue with the proposed technique (DPC-DSTSMC-PWM) is characterized by great robustness and excellent performance. The designed strategy was contrasted with the standard method of control and other methods already in use. So, the unique proposed control strategy’s robustness, performance, efficiency, and efficacy in enhancing system characteristics were tested and validated in Matlab/Simulink. In both tests, the proposed method resulted in significant improvements, reducing active power ripples by 83.33%, 57.14%, and 48.57% in the proposed tests. When compared with the traditional regulation method, the reduction rates of reactive power ripples are 64.06%, 52.47%, and 68.7% in the tests. However, in contrast to the conventional method, the proposed tests showed a decrease of between 72.46%, 50%, and 76.22% in the value of total harmonic distortion (THD) of the provided currents. These ratios show how effective the proposed plan is in ameliorating and enhancing aspects of the energy system.

A transformerless Z‐source photovoltaic grid‐connected inverter with coupled inductor coil

AbstractThe quasi‐Z‐source H‐bridge grid‐connected inverter (QHGCI) is well known for its advantages of the void of the shoot‐through problem and the high DC‐voltage utilization. But the existence of the common‐mode leakage current in the power frequency cycle, lower power density, and higher thermal stress make it hard applicable to the grid‐penetrating application. Thus with the purpose to conquer the problem relating to the QHGCI, an innovative transformerless Z‐source photovoltaic grid‐connected inverter with a coupled inductor coil (TZPGCI‐CIC) is proposed. The circuitry topology and an unipolar sine pulse width modulation strategy are first introduced in short. Thereafter, the common‐mode voltage in the whole working process is derived and evaluated through the detailed operating mode analysis, in which a constant value of it has been theoretically revealed. Lastly, a prototype platform of TZPGCI‐CIC is set up and its good performance on leakage current suppression, and lower thermal stress are validated with the experimental results.

Comparative study of single-phase multilevel cascaded transformerless inverters with different modulation methods

This paper presents an in-depth exploration of a single-phase multilevel cascaded H5 (CH5) transformerless inverter employing both phase-shifted PWM (PS-PWM) and level-shifted PWM (LS-PWM) methodologies. A comparative analysis is conducted with the conventional multilevel inverter (MLI) topologies, specifically the cascaded H-bridge (CHB) and H5 inverter configurations. The investigation delves into the impact of modulation index variations, load fluctuations, and modulation methods on the inverter's operational performance.While switches in the CHB-MLI operate continuously at the carrier frequency state using PS-PWM and LS-PWM methods, the CH5-MLI exhibits a unique behavior with some switches toggling at high frequency, while others synchronize with the grid frequency. The CH5-MLI topology demonstrates efficiency improvements and a reduction in total harmonic distortion (THD). Notably, employing the LS-PWM method yields more significant efficiency enhancements and THD reduction compared to the PS-PWM method. To analyze power loss characteristics under diverse operating conditions, the PLECS simulation environment is leveraged for calculating conduction and switching losses.The application of phase-shifted and level-shifted carrier-based pulse width modulation strategies to high and low-frequency switching switches results in minimized output harmonics, elevated operator safety, and enhanced overall reliability and efficiency. This work contributes significantly to the field by offering a detailed exploration of the CH5-MLI topology's dynamic behavior, modulation strategies, and their collective impact on performance metrics such as efficiency, THD, and power losses.

An Optimal Switching Sequence Model Predictive Control Scheme for the 3L-NPC Converter with Output LC Filter

In some applications of microgrids and distributed generation, it is necessary to feed islanded or stand-alone loads with high-quality voltage to provide low total harmonic distortion (THD). To fulfil these demands, an LC filter is usuallyconnected to the output terminals of power electronics converters. A cascaded voltage and current control loop with pulse-width modulation schemes are used to regulate the voltages and currents in these systems. However, these strategies have some drawbacks, particularly when multiple-input–multiple-output plants (MIMO) are controlled using single-input–single-output (SISO) design methods. This methodology usually produces a sluggish transient response and cross–coupling between different control loops and state variables. In this paper, a model predictive control (MPC) strategy based on the concept of optimal switching sequences (OSS) is designed to control voltage and current in an LC filter connected to a three-level neutral-point clamped converter. The strategy solves an optimisation problem to achieve control of the LC filter variables, i.e., currents and output voltages. Hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) results are obtained to validate the feasibility of the proposed strategy, using a PLECS–RT HIL platform and a dSPACE Microlab Box controller. In addition to the good dynamic performance of the proposed OSS–MPC, it is demonstrated using HIL results that the control algorithm is capable of obtaining low total harmonic distortion (THD) in the output voltage for different operating conditions.

Topology and Control Optimization of Bidirectional DC/DC Converter for Electric Vehicles

With the rapid development of intelligent electric vehicles, the number of electrical equipment increases, and the interconnection and energy transmission between on-board DC buses has become urgent. This paper proposes a partial isolated bidirectional converter based on dual active bridge converter. By partial switch sharing, the converter has a simplified structure and can supply energy to DC loads of different voltage levels. The system adopts a hybrid control strategy of pulse width modulation and triple phase shift modulation, and introduces a fundamental phase shift to reduce coupling between variables. The operation process is analyzed, and the models of transmitted power, current stress and soft-switching range under two typical operation modes, corresponding to the full load and light load, are established respectively. Under wide gain and different power distribution conditions, the multi-objective optimization is realized. Finally, the correctness of theoretical analysis is verified by experiments.

Circulating current suppression and natural voltage balancing using phase-shifted modulation for modular multilevel converter

The challenge of achieving a balanced capacitor voltage is one of the factors affecting the efficient operation of modular multilevel converters (MMC). This paper investigates this challenge through a proposed method that utilizes a high carrier frequency phase-shifted pulse width modulation (PS-PWM) scheme. This method aims to achieve natural balancing without the need for any additional control mechanisms. Moreover, the number of output voltage levels is affected by the phase shift between the carriers of the upper and lower arms. When there is no phase shift, N<sup>+1</sup> discrete levels are achieved, but when there is a phase shift, the number of discrete levels increases to 2<sup>N+1</sup>. The proportional-resonant (PR) controller and moving average filter (MAF) are employed to decrease the capacitor voltage ripples by suppressing the fourth and second harmonics in the circulating currents. The MMC inverter structure is modeled and simulated in the PLECS and MATLAB/Simulink environments to evaluate the impact of this control scheme on the converter’s performance.

Optimal Decoupled Discontinuous Modulation for StatComs Based on the Cascaded H-Bridge Converter

Conventional discontinuous pulse width modulation (DPWM) strategies for cascaded H-bridge static compensators suffer from poor inter-phase capacitor voltage balance control during unbalanced grid voltage conditions. Specifically, the logic-based algorithm that calculates the zero-sequence voltage (ZSV) for discontinuous operation interacts with the closed-loop capacitor voltage control. This paper proposes an optimal DPWM strategy based on a finite-set optimization that chooses the best ZSV candidate that minimizes the control interactions while clamping a converter voltage. Furthermore, the effect of the different ZSV candidates on the switching loss is also considered within the optimization. Extensive experimental study is provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.

Comprehensive Modulation Strategies for Synchronous Reluctance Motor Drives Used in Weak Grids

Synchronous reluctance machines are considered a cost-effective solution for several industrial applications and present potential efficiency benefits compared to induction motors. In industrial applications, power supply oscillations can lead to short-term disturbances that can affect the drive operation; therefore, the control must be robust to guarantee high efficiency and service continuity. The focus of this study was to identify the speed boundaries considering different values of applied DC-link voltage, taking into account the highly nonlinear magnetic behavior of the machine and its cross-coupling characteristics. In addition, a comprehensive carrier-based implementation of a pulse width modulation strategy was proposed to achieve optimal efficiency in both the machine and converter, which is essential in the presence of “weak” grids. The proposed technique was demonstrated to meet the desired reference torque and rated speed, even during DC-link voltage drops (up to 7.4% of the rated voltage). The proposed methodology was experimentally validated on a 90 kW SynRM drive with a broader modulation range and higher efficiency. This work considered several different supply voltage levels to assess the stability and continuity of torque output and further proved the proposed method.

A New Asymmetric H-6 Structured Multilevel Inverter with Reduced Power Components

Multilevel inverters play a key role in improving the power quality for industrial, domestic, and renewable energy sectors due to sinusoidal output voltage through small voltage steps, lesser THD (total harmonic distortion), and EMI (electromagnetic interference). There are several variants in MLI structures to generate a stepped voltage with their own operating characteristics, which flaws in switching devices with gate drivers, current conducting switches varied with varied voltage levels, and switches with different abilities in blocking voltagesto overcome increases in implementation costs and restrict its usage in high-power applications. Therefore, this article paves a solution for the above problem, which orients a new structure for asymmetric operation to propel large voltage levels with small values of switches in parallel with conventional topologies. The subtlety of the proposed topology is governed by a multicarrier pulse width modulation scheme, and ten different voltage magnitude algorithms are developed and compared foreffectiveness.Hitherto, many existing MLI topologies with reduced power switches have beendeveloped; among these, the H6 structure attempts to curtail the reduced conduction path. The operation of the suggested topology is confirmed in a Matlab/Simulink environment, and real-time performance is investigated using a laboratory prototype to accord the simulated results.

A Wirelessly Powered Scattered Neural Recording Wearable System.

This paper introduces a wirelessly powered scattered neural recording wearable system that can facilitate continuous, untethered, and long-term electroencephalogram (EEG) recording. The proposed system, including 32 standalone EEG recording devices and a central controller, is incorporated in a wearable form factor. The standalone devices are sparsely distributed on the scalp, allowing for flexible placement and varying quantities to provide extensive spatial coverage and scalability. Each standalone device featuring a low-power EEG recording application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) wirelessly receives power through a 60 MHz inductive link. The low-power ASIC design (84.6 μW) ensures sufficient wireless power reception through a small receiver (Rx) coil. The 60 MHz inductive link also serves as the data carrier for wireless communication between standalone devices and the central controller, eliminating the need for additional data antennas. All these efforts contribute to the miniaturization of standalone devices with dimensions of 12×12×5 mm3, enhancing device wearability. The central controller applies the pulse width modulation (PWM) scheme on the 60 MHz carrier, transmitting user commands at 4 Mbps to EEG recording ASICs. The ASIC employs a novel synchronized PWM demodulator to extract user commands, operating signal digitization and data transmission. The analog frontend (AFE) amplifies the EEG signal with a gain of 45 dB and applies band-pass filtering from 0.03 Hz to 400 Hz, with an input-referred noise (IRN) of 3.62 μVRMS. The amplified EEG signal is then digitized by a 10-bit successive approximation register (SAR) analog-to-digital converter (ADC) with a peak signal-to-noise and distortion ratio (SNDR) of 55.4 dB. The resulting EEG data is transmitted to an external software-defined radio (SDR) Rx through load-shift-keying (LSK) backscatter at 3.75 Mbps. The system's functionality is fully evaluated in human experiments.