A novel hybrid discontinuous PWM algorithm for 3L-NPC inverter

Wider linear modulation range, less switching loss and simplicity are the goals pursued by various modulation methods of multilevel inverters. This paper proposes a new hybrid discontinuous pulse width modulation (HDPWM) strategy for 3L-NPC inverter that can achieve the above goals to a certain extent. According to the position of the reference voltage vector and the actual situation of the neutral point voltage, different control modes and clamping types are selected. The neutral point voltage is controlled by DPWM strategy, which cannot only greatly reduce the switch loss, but also maintain the balance of the neutral point voltage and expand the linear modulation range. The implementation of the algorithm combines the advantages of carrier-based PWM (CBPWM) and space vector PWM (SVPWM). There is no need to select the nearest three vectors (NTV) and calculate their dwell time. Only the reference voltage needs to be modified according to the control requirements, and then by comparing the modified reference voltage with the carrier, the driver pulse required by the switching devices can be generated. Compared with the existing PWM methods, it is more simple and easy to implement. Experimental results verify the validity of the method. Copyright © 2023 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.