Algebraic PWM strategies of a five-level NPC voltage source inverter. Application to a great power induction machine drive

In this paper, the authors study the control of a three-phase five-level NPC source voltage inverter (VSI) and its application to an induction motor drive. They elaborate a working model of this inverter, without presumption of its control by using the design methodology associated with Petri nets. They propose knowledge and control models of this converter using connection functions. As an application of this control model, they develop two algorithms of algebraic PWM strategies for this converter. They also study the performances of an induction motor drive fed by this inverter and controlled by these PWM strategies. The results obtained are full of promise for the use of this five-level inverter in high-voltage and large power applications such as electrical traction.