The matrix converter is an array of controlled semiconductor switches that connects directly the three-phase source to the three-phase load. This converter has several attractive features that have been investigated in the last two decades. In the last few years, an increase in research work has been observed, bringing this topology closer to the industrial application. This paper presents the state-of-the-art view in the development of this converter, starting with a brief historical review. An important part of the paper is dedicated to a discussion of the most important modulation and control strategies developed recently. Special attention is given to present modern methods developed to solve the commutation problem. Some new arrays of power bidirectional switches integrated in a single module are also presented. Finally, this paper includes some practical issues related to the practical application of this technology, like overvoltage protection, use of filters and ride-through capability.

Matrix converters: a technology review

This chapter gives a description and overview of power electronic technologies including a description of the fundamental systems that are the building blocks of power electronic systems. Technologies that are described include: power semiconductor switching devices, converter circuits that process energy from one DC level to another DC level, converters that produce variable frequency from DC sources, principles of rectifying AC input voltage in uncontrolled DC output voltage and their extension to controlled rectifiers, converters that convert to AC from DC (inverters) or from AC with fixed or variable output frequency (AC controllers, DC–DC–AC converters, matrix converters, or cycloconverters). The chapter also covers control of power converters with focus on pulse width modulation (PWM) control techniques.

https://www.springer.com/cda/content/document/cda_downloaddocument/9781447151036-c2.pdf?SGWID=0-0-45-1404710-p175009438

Fundamentals of Power Electronics

In this paper, a novel representation of the switch state of a three-phase to three-phase matrix converter is presented. This approach, based on space-vector notation, simplifies the study of the modulation strategies, leading to a complete general solution of the problem and providing a very useful unitary point of view. The already established strategies can be considered as particular cases of the proposed general solution. Using this approach, it can be verified that the space-vector modulation technique, owing to the intrinsic two degrees of freedom, represents the general solution of the modulation problem of matrix converters. This technique can be considered the best solution for the possibility to achieve the highest voltage transfer ratio and to optimize the switching pattern through a suitable use of the zero configurations.

Matrix converter modulation strategies: a new general approach based on space-vector representation of the switch state

This paper presents a review of the most popular control and modulation strategies studied for matrix converters (MCs) in the last decade. The purpose of most of these methods is to generate sinusoidal current on the input and output sides. These methods are compared considering theoretical complexity and performance. This paper concludes that the control strategy has a significant impact on the resonance of the MC input filter.

A Review of Control and Modulation Methods for Matrix Converters

This report presents a survey on generator concepts and power electronic concepts for wind turbines. The report is aimed as a tool for decision-makers and development people with respect to wind turbine manufactures, utilities, and independent system operators as well as manufactures of generators and power electronics. The survey is focused on the electric development of wind turbines and it yields an overview on: State of the art on generators and power electronics; future concepts and technologies within generators and power electronics; market needs in the shape of requirements to the grid connection, and; consistent system solutions, plus an evaluation of these seen in the prospect of market needs. This survey on of generator and power electronic concepts was carried out in co-operation between Aalborg University and Risoe National Laboratory in the scope of the research programme Electric Design and Control. (au)

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Conceptual survey of Generators and Power Electronics for Wind Turbines

In this paper, a new control method for matrix converters is proposed which allows, under the constraint of unity input power factor, the generation of the voltage vectors required to implement the direct torque control (DTC) of induction machines. Using this control method, it is possible to combine the advantages of matrix converters with the advantages of the DTC schemes. Some numerical simulations are carried out, showing the effectiveness of the proposed method in steady-state and transient conditions. Some experimental tests were also carried out demonstrating the practical feasibility of this control scheme.

The use of matrix converters in direct torque control of induction machines

Space vector control of matrix converters with unity input power factor and sinusoidal input/output waveforms

In this paper a new control method for matrix converters is proposed which allows, under the constraint of unity input power factor, the generation of the voltage vectors required to implement the direct torque control (DTC) of induction machines. Using this control method it is possible to combine the advantages of matrix converters with the advantages of the DTC schemes. Some numerical simulations are carried out showing the effectiveness of the proposed method in steady-state and transient conditions.

A new input current modulation strategy for a matrix power converter is presented. The performance of the new strategy during input voltage unbalance is compared to two other strategies. The difference of the three modulations only concerns the detection of the reference angle for the input current vector. The input current quality is evaluated using four different criteria. It is concluded that depending upon the modulation strategy, the distortion of the input current may appear either as a series of positive sequence harmonics or a negative sequence fundamental component or a positive and a negative series of harmonic components with reduced amplitudes. Good accordance is found between the analytical solutions and numerical simulations.

A. Tani

Papers

Matrix converter modulation strategies: a new general approach based on space-vector representation of the switch state

The use of matrix converters in direct torque control of induction machines

Space vector control of matrix converters with unity input power factor and sinusoidal input/output waveforms

The use of matrix converters in direct torque control of induction machines

Evaluation of the input current quality by three different modulation strategies for SVM controlled matrix converters with input voltage unbalance