A step-up D-type multilevel inverter topology with reduced components counts for renewable energy applications

This paper proposes a novel 13-level multilevel inverter topology. This topology structure synthesizes a reduced number of components to produce the desired output levels; only a pair of DC sources, pair of switched capacitors, and 10 power switches are considered in this configuration. This structure employs the switched capacitors to compensate the DC sources for generating the desired output voltage levels. This reduction has successfully reduced the system cost, and the inverter's output voltage waveform reflects low THD and the low level of electromagnetic interference (EMI). Those switched capacitors have an online method for charging and balancing the capacitors' voltages without any use of auxiliary charging circuits; this ensures a compact size for the proposed topology. The system's controlling scheme provides a simple algorithm with fewer commutations for the switches per cycle. This reduction ensures a long lifetime with enhanced performance and high-efficiency operation. The proposed D-type supports the modularity process through the cascaded connection between two or more units in series; this will increase the system's power capability and reduce the THD level while increasing the output levels in the output voltage waveform. The proposed D-type MLI's validity has been verified through the computer simulations using MATLAB Simulink based on applying two different controlling techniques with high and low switching frequencies. To support the simulation results and increase the level of reliability for the proposed topology, the experimental prototype hardware controlled with dSPACE (DS11103) unit has been investigated.