Optimization method for generating SHEPWM switching patterns using chaotic ant colony algorithm applied to three-level NPC inverter

This paper introduces an optimization method of the selective harmonic elimination (SHE) technology using chaotic ant colony algorithm applied to neutral-point-clamped (NPC) three-level inverter. The method needs not to preset the initial values when solving the SHEPWM nonlinear and transcendental equations with ant colony algorithm. A scaleable chaotic search algorithm is embedded into a modified version of a special ant colony optimization algorithm. The scaleable search technology helps the ant colony algorithm to avoid dropping into local optima. And it also helps to improve the accuracy of the solution. Simulation and experimental results demonstrate the validity of SHEPWM switching patterns using Chaotic Ant Colony Algorithm applied to Three-level NPC Inverter.