Switching frequency optimal PWM control of a three-level inverter

A pulse-width-modulation (PWM) method for the control of a three-level inverter is described. The switching frequency optimal-PWM method (SFO-PWM) works with a constant carrier frequency not synchronized with fundamental stator frequency. SFO-PWM gives an optimal utilization of the mean thyristor switching frequency permitted; therefore, PWM carrier frequency may be chosen to a value of two times the permitted mean thyristor switching frequency. The signal processing structure is simple. Many applications of three-level inverter work with a DC-link neutral point not stabilized from the power input converter. A neutral-point potential control is described, which is capable of stabilizing potential by varying the switching sequences of the three-level inverter itself. Results from computer simulation and practical experience show the good performance of SFO-PWM.>