Novel Transformer-Based Six-Level Inverter with Low Component Count

This paper proposes a single-source three-phase transformer-based inverter topology with a reduced component count. The key advantages of the proposed topology include simple structure, boosting feature, low component count, removing flying capacitors and being a diode-free circuit. Those merits reduce the inverter volume and complexity while enhancing efficiency and reliability. Despite presenting both six-level and N-level configurations of the proposed topology in this paper, only the six-level configuration is studied in detail and selected as a case study. Its structure, operating principle, and key results are provided. Further, a comparative study is provided to highlight its salient merits against its counterparts.