Cascaded Multilevel Split-Source Inverters: Analysis and Modulation

A new cascaded multilevel inverter topology is proposed in this paper. This topology extends the idea of the recently introduced Split-Source Inverter (SSI) to the cascaded Multi-Level Inverter (MLI) configurations. This structure provides the boosting capability in conjunction with the dc to ac conversion in a single unit with reduced passive elements. Therefore, it represents a good alternative of the well-known Z-Source MLIs. Two different configurations of the proposed inverter are introduced based on the configuration of each SSI unit. The topological structure, operating principle and modulation techniques for each configuration of the proposed inverter are presented. The validity of the analysis and the performance of the presented topology are investigated via simulation study.