Multilevel Converter Topology Based on Split Multiplication
Ma Hui1, Yang Chen1, Xiang Kun2, Fan Liping2, Xi Lei1
1. College of Electrical Engineering & New Energy China Three Gorges University Hubei Engineering Research Center of Intelligent Energy Technology Yichang 443002 China; 2. State Grid Hubei Yichang Power Supply Co. Ltd Yichang 443000 China
Abstract:In recent years, multilevel converters have been widely applied in renewable energy and distributed energy resource systems, including electric drive systems for new energy vehicles, power management and optimization in microgrids, and grid integration of offshore wind power. However, traditional multilevel converter topologies require excessive fully controlled devices for high-level output, which results in enormous hardware costs and increased circuit complexity. Consequently, research on multilevel converters with a reduced number of fully-controlled devices, high power density, and high efficiency has become a focal point. This paper proposes a novel multilevel topology construction approach based on split multiplication. This method utilizes a three-level AC-side full-bridge or half-bridge as the root node and employs a novel bidirectional switch (BS) as the fundamental construction unit. The BS comprises one switch and two diodes, reducing component count and avoiding voltage stress increases. This method achieves multilevel functionality with few fully-controlled devices. It features a modular structure for easy scalability, where the number of output levels N=2k+2 and required components scale as 2k+1-2 construction units and 2k+1 DC capacitors for n expansion stages. The specific implementation process of the proposed construction method is explained. Subsequently, equivalent mathematical models are established for the three proposed multilevel topologies to precisely capture the electrical characteristics, such as the relationships between voltage levels, current paths, and component interactions within each topology. The number of electronic components (including switches, diodes, and capacitors), the distribution of voltage stress across different elements, and the inherent modularity and expandability of each topology are analyzed. A four-level topology example is further explored in terms of its operating principles, voltage stress across switches, power losses, and modulation strategies. Finally, an experimental prototype is constructed, and test waveforms are measured. The converter exhibits the following features. (1) As the number of output voltage levels increases, the proposed multilevel topology’s devices are significantly reduced compared to conventional topologies. (2) The inherent modular design of the proposed multilevel topology simplifies circuit architecture and enables straightforward level expansion. (3) A unified carrier-disposition PWM modulation scheme designed for the proposed multilevel topology demonstrates computational simplicity, implementation robustness, and versatile applicability.
马辉, 杨晨, 向昆, 范李萍, 席磊. 基于分裂倍增式的多电平变换器电路拓扑[J]. 电工技术学报, 2026, 41(6): 2012-2025.
Ma Hui, Yang Chen, Xiang Kun, Fan Liping, Xi Lei. Multilevel Converter Topology Based on Split Multiplication. Transactions of China Electrotechnical Society, 2026, 41(6): 2012-2025.
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