A Novel Multi-Level Three-Phase UPQC Topology based on Full-Bridge Single-Phase Cells

A novel multi-level three-phase Unified Power Quality Conditioner (UPQC) based on Single-Phase Cells is presented. The topology features all the advantages of multi-cell based configurations. Among them are: (i) the power is divided symmetrically among the cells thus reducing the voltage and current ratings of the components, (ii) under a component failure just its hosting cell is removed allowing the other cells to operate, (iii) the series assembling of the load side converters allows the operation of the topology at any voltage, (iv) the parallel assembling of the PCC side converters allows the operation of the topology at any current, and (v) the unwanted harmonic content frequency of the input and output waveforms is proportional to the number of cells and the enhanced. This work deals with the operating principles based on the state space model of the topology and proposes a control strategy capable of hosting an arbitrary number of cells. Design guidelines are also included for the main components and preliminary stationary and dynamic simulated results are shown to probe the feasibility of the topology.