Indirect Space-Vector-Based Modulation Techniques for High-Power Multimodular Matrix Converters

Combining concepts of traditional multilevel converter and matrix converter (MC), the multimodular MCs (MMMCs) have reached the medium-voltage high-power level. These topologies possess features such as elimination of dc components and are able to output high-quality multilevel waveforms. Due to the MMMC´s particular topological structure, modulation strategies for the conventional converters cannot be directly adopted. This necessitates the design of specially tailored modulation schemes for them to generate sinusoidal input/output waveforms. In this paper, indirect space-vector-based modulation techniques are proposed for the MMMCs. The study begins by establishing an indirect circuit model for the three-module MMMC topology, before using space vector calculations to derive duty ratios for the model´s rectification and inversion stages. As the inversion stage can be viewed as multiple sets of three-phase outputs, its switching states and duty ratios are then converted and combined with those from the rectification stage. Finally, the gating signals are produced according to two switching patterns. As demonstrated by simulation and experimental results, the presented modulation techniques can generate sinusoidal waveforms with variable frequency and magnitude, as well as adjustable angle and power factor. The superiority of the second switching pattern is also proved by the obtained results.