A simple method for configuring multi-PWM channels for multi-level converter applications based on PWM IP core

In this paper, based on the PWM Intellectual Property(IP) core, a simple method for configuring multi-PWM channels for multi-level converter applications is proposed. Each PWM channel has the same timing base and its own control registers. Employing building block method, multi-PWM channels can be easily assembled by connecting PWM IP cores with a simple logic circuit. Having these features, the multi-PWM channels are ready to realize different modulation strategies for multi-level converters. The configured PWM generator has a friendly interface to MCUs or DSPs. A design example, which is applied to a three-phase-three-level cascaded inverter, is given to demonstrate the simplicity of the proposed method. The design method can facilitate the control circuit design for multi-level converters, enhance system reliability and guarantee the synchronization of PWM signals.