Pulse Width Modulation Control Research Articles

Design and analysis of GQ-Based SC coupled-inductor inverter for DC-AC boost conversion

ABSTRACT This study seeks to present an innovative closed-loop circuit design, called Greinacher-quadrupler-based switched-capacitor coupled-inductor (GQSCCI) inverter, and emphasises a comprehensive analysis/design aimed at meeting the requirements for high-gain DC-to-AC power conversion/regulation. From a view of structure, this novel power part combines a switched-capacitor coupled-inductor booster with a Greinacher-quadrupler-based converter in cascade for achieving a wide DC-to-AC voltage gain range, e.g. from 24 V DC to ± 144 V AC (100Vrms). From a view of control, this simple control part combines a phase generator with a sinusoidal pulse-width modulation controller, precisely managing the circuit’s timing as well as ensuring stable output regulation under varying loads and supply conditions. From a view of theory, the analytical part covers the derivation of GQSCCI model, steady-state analysis, voltage conversion ratio, power efficiency, inductance/capacitance selection, system stability and control compensation design. From a view of implementation, the simulation part involves multiple cases conducted using OrCAD, while the experimental part is performed on a prototype circuit to verify the results of analysis/design, showing the effectiveness and highlighting the potential for advanced power conversion applications.

Energy analysis of active photovoltaic cooling system using water flow

An active water-cooling system is one of several technologies that has been proven to be able to reduce heat losses and increase electrical energy in photovoltaic (PV) module. This research discusses a comparative experimental study of three pump activation controls in cooling of PV module with the aim of evaluating specifically the PV output power, net energy gain, water flow rate, and module temperature reduction. The three pump activation controls being compared are continuously active during the test, active based on setpoint temperature, and active by controlling the pump voltage using pulse width modulation (PWM) control in adjusting water flow rate smoothly. The results show that controlling the pump voltage using PWM in the PV cooling process produces energy of 437.95 Wh, slightly lower than the others and the average module cooling temperature is 35.24 °C, higher of 1-3 °C than the others. Nevertheless, PWM control of cooling pump has resulted the percentage of net energy gain of 9.94%, greater than other controls, and with an average flow rate of 2.17 L/min, more efficient than the others. Thus, this control is quite effective as it can produce higher net PV energy yield and lower water consumption.

Locomoting non-magnetic marbles through meniscus emerged on the water surface using a magnetically actuated ferrofluid marble under pulsating and steady magnetic fields.

Recent progress in digital microfluidics has revealed the distinct advantages of liquid marbles, such as minimal surface friction, reduced evaporation rates, and non-wettability compared to uncoated droplets. This study provides a comprehensive examination of an innovative technique for the precise, contamination-free manipulation of non-magnetic water liquid marbles (WLMs) carried by a ferrofluid liquid marble (FLM) under the control of direct current (DC) and pulse-width modulation (PWM) magnetic fields. The concept relies on the phenomenon in which an FLM and WLMs form a shared meniscus when placed together on a water surface, causing the WLMs to closely track the magnetically actuated FLM. The study also explores the dynamic behavior of the marbles by assessing several influencing parameters: magnetic coil current, the starting position of the marbles from the coil, the number of WLMs carried by the FLM, the volume ratio between the WLM and FLM, and the PWM magnetic field properties, including duty cycle and frequency. The results demonstrate that increasing the magnetic coil current or reducing the volume ratio decreases the travel time and enhances the velocity of the carrier FLM under both DC and PWM magnetic fields. Notably, the FLM exhibits significant capability to transport multiple WLMs, although its average and maximum velocity decrease with each additional WLM. Moreover, the travel time of the marbles varies proportionally with the PWM frequency while exhibiting an inverse relationship with the duty cycle.

Pulse width modulation control of Mecanum-wheeled mobile robot with random noise

Pulse width modulation control of Mecanum-wheeled mobile robot with random noise

Modelling Analysis and Characteristics of Multi-Level Inverter for Integrating Solar PV System to Grid

This paper investigates the implementation of a cascaded H-bridge multi-level inverter in a single-phase grid-connected solar photovoltaic (PV) system to address harmonic distortion challenges in DC-to-AC power conversion. The primary objective is to enhance power quality and system efficiency by leveraging the inverter's ability to reduce harmonics through power sharing and a lower switching frequency. A Simulink model is developed to evaluate the proposed system's performance, incorporating a unipolar Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) control strategy and an LCL filter for effective harmonic mitigation. The system employs Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) based on the Perturb and Observe (P&O) algorithm, combined with Synchronous Reference Frame Theory-Phase Disposition PWM (SRFT-PDPWM) for optimal control. The proposed inverter ensures precise synchronization between the grid and inverter frequencies, achieving a Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) below 5%. Simulation results demonstrate the system's robust responsiveness to variations in solar irradiance, with increased irradiance leading to further reductions in THD and improved power quality. These findings validate the proposed inverter's capability to deliver high-quality, efficient power under varying environmental conditions, aligning with global objectives for integrating clean and sustainable energy into utility networks.

A Bidirectional Isolated DC-to-DC Converter with Hybrid Control of Pulse Width Modulation and Pulse Frequency Modulation

This paper proposes a modified bidirectional isolated DC/DC converter with hybrid control, which can be applied to bidirectional power transfer between energy storage systems and DC microgrids. Batteries are usually applied to energy storage systems. The battery lifespan may be shortened if the converter has large current ripple during the battery charging process. The proposed topology consists of a CLLC converter and an interleaved buck converter. The first stage is an isolated full bridge CLLC converter, and the second stage is an interleaved buck converter with hybrid control of pulse width modulation (PWM) and pulse frequency modulation (PFM). Additionally, the proposed topology achieves zero voltage switching (ZVS) for all switches and reduces the output current ripple. The operational principles of bidirectional power flow in both directions are described in detail. Finally, a 1.5 kW experimental prototype, rated with a high side voltage of 380 V and low side voltage range of 40–58 V, was constructed and tested to investigate the system performance. The measured highest efficiency for the proposed converter is 90% in charging mode, and 94% in discharging mode.

Development of a repeatable single-droplet generator using a step motor and PWM control of a two-way solenoid valve

A device capable of repeatedly generating a single droplet was developed. A piston pushes the liquid into a cylinder, creating droplets that are emitted from the nozzle outlet. A one-dimensional linear stage connected to a stepper motor was used for piston displacement. To repeat the generation of single droplets, a method that consists of generating droplets, supplying liquid into the cylinder, and blocking the inflow of external air through the nozzle outlet during the process of supplying liquid into the cylinder was developed. To prevent the inflow of external air into the cylinder through the nozzle outlet, a two-way solenoid valve was installed in the supply passage between the cylinder and the reservoir holding the liquid supply. The sudden opening of the two-way solenoid valve is prevented by PWM (pulse width modulation) control of the current supplied to the solenoid, and the air inflow into the cylinder through the nozzle outlet can be successfully blocked by this method. PWM control of the driving current in the solenoid enabled the repeated generation of single droplets. A single-droplet-generation experiment was repeatedly conducted while varying the nozzle diameter and the hydraulic head difference h between the nozzle outlet and the liquid reservoir. The ratio of the droplet diameter to the nozzle diameter was 5.45 with a nozzle diameter of 0.23 mm and convergence to 2.1 with an increase in the nozzle diameter to 1.51 mm. When repeated measurements were taken under fixed experimental conditions, the droplet diameter deviation % (=stdev/average*100) showed a distribution of 1 ~ 6%.

Development of a DC motor control system by Xilinx system generator

This study introduces a numerical approach utilizing a Xilinx System Generator to develop a DC motor control system, showcasing a significant ability to regulate and enhance motor speed. We developed the proposed system in the MATLAB/SIMULINK environment, utilizing a collection of blocks generated by the Xilinx System Generator. We developed and simulated a proportional-integral (PI) controller and pulse width modulation (PWM). Subsequent to simulation, we can transfer the HDL code from the Xilinx System Generator block to a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) board using Vivado. The system can produce accelerated PWM signals, thereby enhancing the control of the DC motor. Because of the FPGA board's superior processing capabilities, it was crucial to design and simulate the control system using Sysgen. We proposed the FPGA board to address this issue, facilitating the efficient and rapid execution of the control signals. This work represents a significant advancement in the enhancement of DC motor control systems. It shows how well Matlab/SIMULINK and Xilinx System Generator can work together to make PI and PWM controllers. These findings present compelling possibilities for future applications in power electronics and industrial automation.

Battery charging system for electric vehicle

Selecting the appropriate charger for electric vehicles (EVs) is crucial for enhancing performance, with non-isolated DC-DC converters playing a significant role in charging EV batteries. The efficient conversion of input power into output as per the requirement is main perspective in the design of DC-DC converters. This paper delves into the landscape of non-isolated DC-DC converters utilized in EV charging, emphasizing their pivotal role. Additionally, it introduces a novel approach by incorporating machine learning-based pulse width modulation (PWM) control for the buck DC-DC converter. By integrating machine learning algorithms into the control scheme, the efficiency and performance of the charging system can be greatly enhanced, resulting in improved overall EV operation. This innovative application of machine learning not only optimizes charging efficiency but also enables adaptability to varying input/output conditions, ultimately leading to more efficient and effective charging processes for EVs.

A particle swarm optimization-based maximum power point tracking algorithm for PV Systems

The need for energy continues to rise as civilization progresses. Because of its sustainable and ecologically favorable benefits, solar energy has sparked enormous interest. The output power of photovoltaic (PV) cells, being one of the most efficient solar energy systems, is easily impacted by the external environment. This research developed a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) approach to handle the problem of PV cell maximum power output. The pulse width modulation (PWM) control module settings are set according to the characteristics of the PV cells' output voltage using the online particle swarm optimization (PSO) variable step length technique. The output of the PV cells is stabilized near the maximum power point by dynamically modifying the output voltage step of the PV cells online (MPP). Experimental and simulation results are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed MPPT-PSO algorithm, when it is compared with the well-known Perturb and Observe (P&O) MPPT technique. According to the findings, the suggested approach may achieve rapid convergence to the MPP, increased efficiency, and low oscillation under a variety of real-world environmental circumstances, enhancing the efficacy and validity of the proposed MPPT.

Design and Fabrication of an Economically Viable Open-Source Programmable Rasterable System for Electroplating

The advent of an open-source programmable rasterable equipment that is economically viable represents a transformational change in three-dimensional (3D) electroplating technology, to allow researchers to design and construct their own system which is both cheaper and globally accessible.In this research, we present the design of an open-source programmable rasterable electroplating system, whose working mechanism is based on both pulse width modulation (PWM) control of plating combined with geometric code (g-code) programming for automated movement. For the PWM control, a programmable current in the range of 0 – 20 mA and voltage 0 – 5 V is written as a computer code in an Arduino integrated development environment (IDE) as controlled by a Raspberry Pi microcomputer. The code is converted from a digital signal to an analog output signal by a printed circuit board potentiostat built from common components. Concurrently, the g-code, which is a numerical model, controls the movement of the anode during electroplating in order to electrodeposit/print a physical object corresponding to a 3D designed model. The codes can be modified freely to vary the potentials during electroplating and allow users define specific electrodeposition patterns.Unlike traditional electroplating setups, our open-source programmable rasterable electroplating system was designed and constructed using globally available equipment: a Raspberry Pi 4 model B and an Arduino Uno, a printed circuit board potentiostat, and a modified Crealty Ender 3D printer. This system enables dynamic control over electrodeposition patterns and parameters. Moreover, it not only enhances efficiency and reproducibility but also democratizes access to advanced electrochemical techniques, paving the way for transformative discoveries in materials science, nanotechnology, and beyond.A discussion of equipment limitations and tradeoffs between costs, availability and performance indicates opportunities for industrial application as well as for facilitating global teaching and learning.

Design and Verification of Multiphase Multilevel Traction Inverter

The paper presents the practical design and implementation of a three-level neutral point clamped (TNPC) six-phase inverter rated at 100 kVA. The study initiates with prior work review, whereby most research work done earlier was mainly simulation-based. Based on the simulation results, this paper focuses on the practical aspects of inverter design, such as the development of a power board on an Insulated Metal Substrate, a gate driver board, an interconnect board, and the main control board. An inverter physical prototype has been built and tested at 500 V and 20 kW of output power. The SiC semiconductor technology is the base of the inverter, which represents the main merit of the work. Finally, high power density, compact design, and high efficiency are shown, which are major contributions of the paper. Tests performed proved that the designed converter was operating reliably and efficiently. While a simple Sinusoidal Pulse Width Modulation (SPWM) control algorithm has been implemented, the overall performance of the inverter showed great promise for higher-power applications. Compact and high-efficiency TNPC converters are developed for meeting increasing demands of advanced energy, automotive, and industrial applications.

Optimization of grid power quality using third order sliding mode controller in PV systems with multilevel inverter

Harmonic mitigation is essential in ensuring control over the level of current injected into the grid by a grid-connected inverter. This research proposes using a Third-Order Sliding Mode Control (TOSMC) to get the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) in a photovoltaic (PV) systemas well as to improve the performance and power quality of photovoltaic (PV) power systems connected to the grid. This study considers several quality concerns, reducing total harmonic distortion (THD) of the current, and integrating the energy supply from The photovoltaic system linking to the electrical network while thinking about non-linear demand. This enhancement is accomplished by integrating Two configurations: one oversees the boost DC-DC converter. At the same time, the other manages the DC-AC inverter it connects the PV system to the grid. The proposed strategy TOSMC utilizes a three-level neutral-point clamped (NPC) inverter with a phase-locked loop (PLL) technique for DC-AC conversion. This inverter employs modified pulse width modulation for direct current control. Additionally, the DC-DC converter is controlled by TOSMC to optimize power generation from the PV panel, regardless of its standard or unusual conditions. The photovoltaic (PV) system is connected to the alternating current (AC) grid, and a shunt active power filter (SAPF) supplies electricity to a non-linear load. The simulation results in this work, conducted using Matlab software are validated by comparing the TOSMC and the PI controller. According to performance monitoring, the findings show that the proposed TOSMC strategy is effective and well-regulated. The results indicate that the suggested TOSMC method mitigates steady-state error, overshoot, resilience, reduced power ripple, tracking efficiency, dynamic responsiveness, THD value, and feasibility in non-linear situations.

Large-range dynamic characteristic adjustment of high-speed on-off valve for water hydraulic manipulators based on multistage voltage and double sliding mode control

High-speed on–off valves (HSVs) are highly adaptable and can control proportional flow, making them ideal for water hydraulic manipulators. In this paper, a water hydraulic HSV is specifically designed for water hydraulic manipulators. To enhance the dynamic characteristics of the HSV, a multistage voltage control combined with double sliding mode control (MVSMC) is proposed. A control system based on an H-bridge circuit is designed to implement the MVSMC algorithm. Simulations and experiments are conducted to evaluate the HSV’s rapid switching and adjustment of dynamic characteristics. The MVSMC algorithm enables quick switching of the HSV, even under fluctuating driving voltages in simulations. The sliding mode controller can control the dynamic characteristics of the HSV over a wide range by adjusting the pre-opening current and holding current. Experimental results show that, driven by the MVSMC algorithm, the opening time and closing time of the HSV are only 1.2 ms and 1.4 ms, respectively. The total non-adjustable opening time and closing time of the HSV are 0–1.2 ms and 0–1.4 ms, respectively. In other ranges, the switching time of the HSV is adjustable. Compared to conventional pulse width modulation (CPWM) control, the MVSMC algorithm offers extreme switching speed for the HSV. The MVSMC algorithm can adjust the dynamic characteristics of the HSV in a wide range, making it suitable for various working conditions requiring different dynamic characteristics.

Phase disposition PWM control topology based: A novel multilevel inverter with reduced switch for power electronics applications

In the field of industrial drive applications, a neutral point clamped multilevel inverter (NPC MLI) is an extensively used option. The NPC MLI architecture involves more number of components for higher level and higher switching frequency operation. In this work paper, a novel three-phase 3-Level MLI is proposed evading the usage of clamping diodes and quadratic switches. Additionally, phase disposition pulse width modulation (PD-PWM) control technique is also employed for the proposed MLI. In comparison to NPC MLI, proposed MLI reduces the voltage switching stress as only one switch is operated per inverter leg. Another feature is that there is a considerable reduction in power losses as the current flows only through fewer elements. The proposed 3L inverter topology is explored thoroughly using the MATLAB simulation model. The evaluation of results is also demonstrated concerning the proposed PD-PWM technique by comparing its performance with the conventional sinusoidal PWM method. The Real-Time hardware-in-loop (HIL) simulator is also used to validate the simulation outcomes of the proposed model.

Topology design of variable speed drive systems for enhancing power quality in industrial grids

In the last two decades, a rapid increase in the utilization of non-linear loads within electrical grids has been observed. Consequently, elevated levels of harmonics are found in both voltage and current waves, and adverse effects on power quality are caused. In this context, the variable speed drive (VSD) systems are considered a significant non-linear contributor. To mitigate the harmonic content in VSD systems, various techniques are explored, such as electronic smoothing inductor incorporation in the DC-link, active filters utilization at the grid side, and passive filters integration. A technique centered on the reconfiguration of the DC-link in the VSD systems is proposed in this paper to improve the overall performance of the VSD systems. The configuration comprises two transistors and two diodes, along with smoothing inductors and a capacitor to enhance power quality in the VSD systems. The utilization of three-stage sine pulse width modulation (SPWM) control technology ensures accurate control of the switches, generating optimal control signals that enhance the power quality of the voltage and current waves at the grid side. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is tested via time-domain simulation in MATLAB/Simulink under both constant and variable loading conditions and is verified using a laboratory prototype. The obtained results demonstrate a notable improvement in power quality, showcasing reduced total harmonic distortion (THD) in AC voltage and current waveforms, as well as minimized ripple factor in the DC-link when compared to existing methods.

A hybrid fuzzy logic-based MPPT algorithm for PMSG-based variable speed wind energy conversion system on a smart grid

Recently, wind power has gained popularity as a sustainable energy source. Wind energy conversion systems (WECSs) can accept fixed speed and variable speed (VS) operations. VS-WECSs are preferable to conventional WECSs because of their higher electricity collection capacity. Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) systems are essential for maximizing the efficiency of wind energy generation in wind turbine (WT) installations linked to power grids. This study introduces a hybrid fuzzy logic controller-based MPPT (FLC-MPPT) for WTs connected to permanent magnet synchronous generators (PMSGs) to accurately determine the maximum power output of WTs. This study employs a three-phase back-to-back converter to link a PMSG to a utility grid. The reference signals for pulse width modulation controllers comprise two-phase system currents. It constructs a converter that can transfer electrical energy in both directions using insulated-gate bipolar transistor technology and is powered by a battery. The machine-side converter uses model predictive control for the present control loop. Given the generator’s susceptibility to changes in wind conditions, this factor is of the utmost importance. A WT simulation was conducted using MATLAB/Simulink and an FLC methodology was employed. The model used a PMSG. Measurements of rotor speed, power, induced voltage, and current were taken in relation to variations in wind speed. The simulation results show that the FLC-MPPT can maximize the output power over a wide range of wind speeds with a higher efficiency of 92.6% and performance of 95.7%.

Design and Testing of a Fruit Tree Variable Spray System Based on ExG-AABB

This paper addresses the issue of pesticide waste and low utilization rates resulting from traditional plant protection via spraying operations, which apply equal dosages to different targets or to different parts of the same target. To tackle this problem, we designed a variable fruit tree spraying system based on the ExG-AABB (excess green and axis-aligned bounding box) algorithm. We used a Kinect depth camera to capture information about the fruit tree canopy and constructed a spray flow model using pulse width modulation and variable spray control technology. Variable multi-nozzle spraying was guided by combining this canopy data. We evaluated the accuracy of each model in calculating canopy volume by comparing the coefficient of determination (R2) and root mean square error (RMSE) of the ExG-AABB with the slice convex hull method, voxel method, three-dimensional alpha-shape method, and QuickHull method. The ExG-AABB algorithm had the highest R2 value (0.9334) and the lowest RMSE value (0.0353 m3) among the five models, indicating that it most accurately reflects the true volume of the fruit tree canopy. This validates the effectiveness of the ExG-AABB algorithm in calculating canopy volume. We established a correlation model between canopy volume and spray volume, designed a canopy-adaptive layering method based on point cloud processing, and achieved precise calculation of nozzle flow. Comparative field experiments were conducted to analyze the spray coverage rate and observed flow, thereby evaluating the spraying effect of this variable spraying system. The experimental results showed that compared to conventional continuous spraying, this variable spraying system not only achieves more uniform spray coverage but also significantly reduces pesticide usage by 48.1%. Furthermore, through system optimization, the average coverage rate of the middle layer of the canopy decreased by 17.53%, effectively reducing the phenomenon of overlapping spraying from multiple nozzles and improving spraying efficiency.

Improved Harmonic Mitigation and Power Injection Technique for Solar-fed DG System Using GA and PSO

This paper deals with Distributed Generation (DG) system requiring power quality features such as current harmonics, reactive power compensation, and power factor improvement in grid tied operation. The motivation is to combine DG system with the capabilities of shunt active filter to perform real power injection, current harmonics mitigation and power factor improvement. The control algorithm employed in this setup utilizes a reference current generator based on p-q theory together with a pulse width modulation controller for switching pulse generation. The control strategy utilizes PI controller with Genetic Algorithm (GA) and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) for finding optimal PI controller parameters. The effectiveness of the proposed method is verified using MATLAB/Simulink and experimental model developed for 3kWp inverter. The PI-PSO controller injects 0.588kW active power into the grid results in sharing 54% of load power demand and the current harmonics is reduced from 23.70% to 1.63%. The obtained results demonstrate that the grid tied inverter maintains harmonic standards in accordance with the IEEE-519 standard while injecting maximum possible active power to the line.

Comparative analysis of control strategies impact on power losses in IGBT power modules with a multiphysics‐circuit coupling method

AbstractPower losses in semiconductor devices present a significant impediment to advancing power electronics systems for achieving higher frequencies, improved efficiency, and greater integration. A major challenge lies in directly coupling power losses with various control strategies, considering the variations in manufacturers, packaging, and process structures within the power electronics field. This paper introduces a field‐circuit coupling simulation methodology of the insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) within the Simulink/COMSOL environment, using a conventional three‐phase six‐switch voltage source inverter (VSI) IGBT module as a case study. A composite transfer function interconnects the electrical and thermal aspects, enabling bidirectional coupling between IGBT temperature and losses. This study aims to comprehensively compare the effects of various control strategies, namely, single‐vector, dual‐vector, and three‐vector current model predictive control (CMPC) and space vector pulse width modulation (SVPWM), on the losses and temperature of IGBT power modules. The findings emphasize that losses are significantly influenced by the selection of weighting factor coefficients and power factor settings under the same CMPC control strategy with a fixed switching frequency. Additionally, the selection of control strategies, such as CMPC and SVPWM, substantially impacts power losses in power electronic devices.