Multi-Level Inverter Modeling and Simulation Using Various and Complex PWM Modulation in MATLAB/Simulink

Abstract

Thispaperpresentsadetailedcomparisonofseveral multilevel inverter (MLI) topologies, including Neutral Point Clamped (NPC), Flying Capacitor (FC), Cascaded H-Bridge (CHB), and Modular Multilevel Converter (MMC). Application domains, control schemes, modularity, voltage balancing, and structural complexity are the main topics of the analysis. Each topology’s component requirements, modulation techniques, and performancetrade-offsareexamined.Simulationresultsvalidate thetheoreticalevaluationandshowhoweachtopologyissuitable forspecificapplicationssuchaselectricdrives,renewableenergy systems, and high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission. The study aims to assist researchers and engineers in selectingthe optimal MLI topologies according to the requirements of specific applications.

Introduction

1. Introduction

• Multi-Level Inverters (MLIs) offer superior power quality for medium- and high-power applications, reducing harmonic distortion, EMI, and voltage stress compared to conventional two-level inverters.

• MLIs eliminate the need for bulky filters and increase efficiency by producing stepped output waveforms.

• The performance of MLIs heavily depends on the modulation techniques used, such as:

  • SPWM (basic)

  • SVPWM, LSPWM, and SHE (advanced)

• The paper uses MATLAB/Simulink to model and simulate 3-level and 5-level inverters, comparing their THD, waveform quality, and control complexity.

2. Overview of MLI Topologies

A. Neutral Point Clamped (NPC)

• Uses clamping diodes to achieve multiple voltage levels with one DC source.

• Suitable for industrial motor drives and medium-voltage applications.

• Advantages: Reduced voltage stress, good harmonic performance.

• Limitations: Uneven voltage balancing at higher levels, many diodes.

B. Flying Capacitor (FC)

• Replaces diodes with capacitors for voltage clamping and balancing.

• Offers better voltage control but requires complex management and more components.

• Advantages: Good voltage balancing, fault-tolerant.

• Limitations: Complex control, high component count, pre-charging needed.

C. Cascaded H-Bridge (CHB)

• Composed of multiple H-bridge cells, each with its own DC source.

• Modular, scalable, and ideal for renewable energy and EVs.

• Advantages: High modularity, fault tolerance, low harmonic distortion.

• Limitations: Requires isolated DC sources, complex power balancing.

D. Hybrid Topologies

• Combine features from NPC, FC, and CHB.

• Example: Modular Multilevel Converter (MMC) used in HVDC and smart grids.

3. Comparative Topology Analysis

• NPC: Moderate complexity, best for industrial drives.

• FC: High control complexity, suited for EVs and dynamic applications.

• CHB: Highly modular, good for PV and storage systems.

• MMC: High cost and complexity, suited for large-scale power systems.

4. Simulation in MATLAB/Simulink

A. Simulation Parameters

• DC Voltage: 600V

• Switching Frequency: 10 kHz

• Fundamental Frequency: 50 Hz

• Load: R = 10?, L = 20mH

• Modulation Index: 0.9

• Number of Levels: 3

B. Simulink Model

• Simulated 3-level NPC and CHB inverters using:

  • SPWM (simple)

  • SVPWM (advanced)

• Used IGBT switches, gating from PWM generator.

• SVPWM logic uses reference vector and sector-based switching.

Conclusion

In this study, NPC and CHB multi-level inverters were modeled and simulated using MATLAB/Simulink’s SPWM and SVPWM techniques. Comparative analysis shows that SVPWM offers better voltage utilization, lower THD, and highervoltagequality.TheCHBtopologydemonstratedbetter harmonic performance due to its modular design, especially when SVPWM was used for control. Future research will focus on enhancing inverter performance in applications such as electric drives and smart grids by fusing experimental validation with advanced control schemes like MPC and AI- based modulation.

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Mukesh Kumar. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.