Modulation schemes of multi-phase three-level Z-source inverters

This paper investigates the modulation schemes of three-level multiphase Z-source inverters with either two Z-source networks or single Z-source network connected between the dc sources and inverter circuitry. With the proper offset added for achieving both desired four-leg operation and optimized harmonic performance, the proposed modulation schemes of four-leg three-level Z-source inverters can satisfy the expected buck-boost operation under unbalanced modulation conditions. Except of the modulation complexity hidden in the four-leg inverters, five-phase three-level Z-source inverters show totally different modulation requirement and output performance. For clearly illustrating the detailed modulation process, time domain analysis instead of the traditional multi-dimensional space vector demonstration is assumed which reveals the right way to insert shoot-through durations in the switching sequence with minimal commutation count. Lastly, the theoretical findings are verified in Matlab/PLECS simulation and experimentally using constructed laboratory prototypes.