A Cascade Multilevel Frequency Changing Converter for High-Power Applications

A novel frequency changing conversion scheme using three cascade multilevel converters in a Π topology is presented. The scheme resembles a direct frequency converter using the cascade converter in its simplest form (series strings of H-bridge modules equipped with a dc link capacitor) as the building block of the overall converter. This yields a highly modular implementation approach which may be attractive for large power applications such as intertie connections and variable speed drives. Frequency conversion takes place in a cascade converter which connects the input and output ports. Two other converters are placed, respectively, in parallel to the input, to remove unwanted current components from the input, and the output to regulate output voltage. Operation of this topology is explained and a scheme to control all the converters is developed, including control of converter currents, capacitor voltages, and output voltage. Experimental results, using a low-power prototype, confirm the foundations of the topology and verify its overall performance operating as a power supply at typical output frequencies (25 Hz, 16^2/3 Hz and dc) while being fed from a 50-Hz system. Additionally, PowerSIM simulations demonstrate that the topology may be suitable for implementing high-performance, high-power ac drive systems using vector control techniques.