Speeding-up the maturation process of the matrix converter technology

The research in matrix converters, a topology that reduces the size of reactive elements due to a single stage conversion, provides inherent bi-directional power flow and sine wave in-sine wave out operation, is obstructed by difficulties of building and working on an experimental prototype. Similar to the technology of standard converters, where the development of power electronic building blocks (PEBB) has provided fast, low-cost and wide access, the development of a matrix converter PEBB is expected to give the opportunity for many researchers to contribute with their work in the maturation process of this technology. This paper reports the development of a compact and safe-to-operate matrix converter PEBB, built with power modules with bi-directional switches, including the commutation control of bi-directional switches, the protections and providing galvanic insulation for the command signals, in order to release the user from any hardware mismatch problems.