Application of a generalized current multilevel cell to a current source inverter

In this work, a new cell which lends itself as a generic current multilevel system is applied to a five level current source inverter (CSI) 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 also achieved without closed-loop control. Two switching strategies are used to demonstrate the performance of the cell. The first switching strategy is known as a symmetric strategy. A second, known as an asymmetric strategy is suggested by the authors. A comparison between the two strategies is also made. Simulation and experimental results are included to show the performance of the new cell in a current source inverter for high power applications.