Development of a Predictive Controller for Use on a Direct Converter for High-Energy Physics Applications

Recently, considerable interest has been shown in direct (matrix) converter topologies as an alternative to conventional motor drives. In general, when compared with existing three-phase motor drives (rectifier-inverter types), these topologies offer advantages, such as reduced space and weight (due largely to the removal of the large electrolytic capacitor), four-quadrant operation, and high-quality current waveforms. Consequently, there is now considerable interest regarding direct converters in areas such as aerospace, where issues such as the size and weight of the converter are important. The work presented in this paper capitalizes on these advantages in power conversion for high-power radio-frequency supplies, such as those used in high-energy physics research and associated applications.