Single-Phase Multi-Cell Voltage Source Inverter

In order to realize power conversion from low DC voltage to high AC voltage, this paper presents a new breed of single-phase multi-cell voltage source inverter (VSI) topology suitable for low input voltage. This novel VSI can generate the desired AC voltage based on normally 1/3 of total DC voltage of traditional H-bridge inverters, which is more suitable for renewable generation systems and battery energy storage systems. The topology and operating principle of this new type of VSI were introduced, the circuit working characteristic was analyzed, and then the design method of capacitor was provided. In the end, a simulation model was built by the PSIM, and a 2kW hardware prototype was fabricated to test the performance characteristics of the topology with steady load, step load and inductive load. The simulation and experimental results verify that the designed capacitance parameter is proper, and this novel VSI has the step-up function and achieves good performance with step load and inductive load. © 2017, The editorial office of Transaction of China Electrotechnical Society. All right reserved.