Indian Journal of Science and Technology

Abstract

Objectives: In the last two decades, various control algorithms have been proposed for several multilevel converter topologies each having their pros and cons compared with improvement in harmonic performance and efficiency. The multicarrier modulation strategy seems to be the most common thread for multilevel topologies. Methods/Statistical Analysis: The harmonic observations for phase shifted and phase disposition multicarrier strategy is different for cascaded and neutral point clamped topologies. The exemplification of mathematical analysis and hardware in loop results with Nexys 4 FPGA digital controller with Xilinx and MATLAB/Simulink for digital control modulation of Marx multilevel inverter for photovoltaic application is discussed. Findings: The balanced charging and discharging of the capacitor will lead to less leakage current, further reducing the health hazards to the working personals in the region. The analysis and implementation of the most suitable carrier based control strategy technique show superiority over the harmonic content for different techniques for the aforementioned topology. The hardware results show the similarity with the simulated version with comparison with pre-existing topologies. Application/Improvements: The paper discusses the application with real-time hardware photovoltaic implementation of self-boost capable Marx multilevel inverter with an added advantage of equalization with capacitor charge. An improved total harmonic distortion evaluation with preexisting topologies is presented.

Keywords: Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), Multilevel Inverters (MLI), Photovoltaic System (PVS), Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), Xilinx System Generator (XSG)