Improvement in the control range of matrix converters

This paper is focused on the improvement of the control range of matrix converters operating with non-unity input power factor. The analysis leads to the determination in closed form of a modulation strategy that allows a maximum output voltage greater than that of the traditional strategies under the same operating conditions. With respect to the voltage magnitude, this strategy is proved to be optimal in sinusoidal steady state operation. The idea that makes possible to improve the control range is that the control system can take advantage of the information provided by the measurement of load currents, which are usually available in electric drives. The feasibility of the proposed strategy is verified by computer simulations and experimental tests.