Enhancing multilevel inverter performance through open-end winding motors and SVPWM series compensation

Abstract

Abstract This study proposes a unique control approach to improve the power quality of a multilevel inverter architecture based on an Open-End Winding Induction Motor (OEWIM) drive system. To obtain an open-end induction motor, two different voltage-source inverters are fed from both ends of the star-connected primary winding. The OEWIM is supplied from one end by a main three-level inverter that is created by cascading dual two-level inverters which are controlled using space-vector modulation (SVM). To offset the harmonics generated by the three-level inverter, a supplemental inverter that operates as a series compensator is connected to the other end of the OEWIM. An active filtering control method is utilized to govern the supplemental two-level inverter to reduce the voltage harmonic distortions brought on by the three-level inverter. The strategy leverages the inherent advantages of OEWIMs, such as enhanced fault tolerance and reduced common-mode voltage, making the system suitable for high-performance industrial applications. Detailed analysis of the inverter’s switching patterns, simulations, and experimental validation demonstrate significant improvements in power quality for different modulation indices. As the motor voltage and current waveforms’ harmonic distortions diminish, the drive’s efficiency will rise.