ABSTRACT
This paper presents a novel single-source transformer-based nine-level (9 L) inverter configuration. The design incorporates a three-level neutral-point-clamped (3 L NPC) inverter, a 3-L full bridge, and a transformer to produce 9 L output voltage levels. In particular, one of the 2 L legs in the full bridge is common among the transformer and the load. The proposed structure minimises the components compared to existing transformer-based nine-level inverters. Thus, the suggested inverter volume, cost, and complexity are minimised. Furthermore, a pulse width modulation method has been developed to generate the necessary gating pulses for the proposed inverter. Additionally, a complete comparison study illustrates the enhanced performance of the suggested architecture. The validity of the suggested 9 L inverter is assessed by performing MATLAB simulations and using a scaled prototype. The results obtained from the simulations and experimental tests are then presented and analysed. A clear correlation was observed between the simulation and the hardware results.
Acknowledgements
This work was supported by the Vision Group on Science and Technology (VGST), Department of Electronics, Information Technology, Biotechnology and Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka, under Grant VGST/GRD-735/2021-22/286.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).