Generalized Space Vector Modulation for Impedance Source Inverters Applied to Fuel-Cell-Based Isolated Electric Power Generation

• Applicant: Professor Dr.-Ing. Wilfried Hofmann
• Subject Area: Electrical Energy Systems, Power Management, Power Electronics, Electrical Machines and Drives
• Term: from 2008 to 2019
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 83596526

This project proposes a novel generalized space vector modulation for impedance source inverters applied to fuel-cell-based isolated electric power generation. The impedance source inverters shoot-through states are optimally determined in order to have a constant duty cycle of the impedance source network. This characteristic assures the adequate dc voltage that feeds the converter. The generalized space vector modulation is applied not only to three-legged inverters, but it is also applied to two- and fourlegged inverters. Therefore, it is expected to convert relatively low dc levels generated by a fuel cell (Ud = 100 — 150V), without an intermediate converter, direct to single- and three-phase commercial voltages (U = 230V). The avoidance of the intermediate dc-dc converter improves the performance and the availability of the whole system. Moreover, a discontinuous characteristic will be adapted to the modulator in order to find some methods for reducing the stress in the inverter s components. Comparison s figures will be developed through loss models of the passive and active components.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants