Power quality enhancement of a wind-turbine generator under variable wind speeds using matrix converter

This paper proposes the use of a direct AC-AC matrix converter, as an alternative to the DC-link voltage-sourced converter, for wind-turbine induction generators. The matrix converter provides a smooth transition of the generator speed through its synchronous speed and therefore, variations of the wind speed can be followed by the generator in a smooth fashion. Thus, the generator provides a high power quality for the load, in spite of wind speed variations. Furthermore, the converter enables the generator to operate around its synchronous speed where the efficiency of overall wind conversion system is higher. A switching strategy is developed for the matrix converter to operate in a wind-turbine induction generator system. Based on a dynamic model of the overall wind energy conversion system, a controller for the matrix converter is designed. Dynamic performance of the matrix converter based wind energy conversion system operating under variable wind speeds is evaluated.