Application of a generalized current multilevel cell to current-source inverters

In this paper, a new cell which lends itself as a generic current multilevel one is applied to current-source inverters with output current harmonics minimization and without the use of high-frequency modulation. In this cell, inductors acting as current sources ensure equal current division among switches. DC current balance in the inductors is achieved, also, without closed-loop control. It is also shown that, while, for the five-level structure it is easy to find a proper control strategy, for higher levels, it is necessary to use numerical simulation programs to find out a proper switching strategy. Simulation and experimental results are included to show the performance of the new cell for high-power applications