A New Multilevel Inverter Topology With Self-Balancing Level Doubling Network

A new multilevel inverter (MLI) topology is proposed using a level doubling network (LDN). The LDN takes the form of a half-bridge inverter to almost double the number of output voltage levels. The concept (of the proposed LDN) has the capability of self-balancing during positive and negative cycles without any closed-loop control/algorithm, and it does not consume or supply any power. The topology uses a symmetric cascaded H-bridge MLI but offers an equivalent performance of an asymmetric topology in terms of the number of levels. Also, it maintains the merit of uniform loading of the individual cell for a symmetric MLI. The topology is implemented by connecting only a three-arm H-bridge (only two switches per phase) with the entire three-phase inverter to double the number of levels. Thus, it significantly improves the power quality, reduces the switching frequency, and reduces the cost and size of the power filter. Operation of the circuit is verified by simulation result and experiments from a laboratory prototype.