Application of SVPWM to three-level voltage and current inverters

This paper provides space vector PWM modulation studies of three-phase three-level voltage and current inverters. In the beginning, we established the mathematical models of the two converters. After that, we described the space vector modulation principle. Then, we applied it for launching the converters switching orders. To verify the proposed studies, we used numerical simulation, using MATLAB-SIMULINK programs. Among features derived from this contribution, we underline the clear and concise vector study, based on geometrical projections and simple algebraic mathematical equations, allowing switching times calculation of power electronic devices. Besides, we arrived, through this work, to develop the exact relation linking the dc and ac three-level voltage inverter sides. Results regarding an open loop and a closed loop control circuits confirmed the accuracy of the developed expression. Also, starting from the similitude observed between three-level voltage inverter middle hexagon and three-level current inverter hexagon, we were able to deduce the space vector modulation of this last from the approach developed for the first one.