Behrooz Bahrani

Bio: Behrooz Bahrani is an academic researcher from Monash University, Clayton campus. The author has contributed to research in topics: Control theory & Voltage regulation. The author has an hindex of 15, co-authored 48 publications receiving 2723 citations. Previous affiliations of Behrooz Bahrani include École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne & Monash University.

Operation, Control, and Applications of the Modular Multilevel Converter: A Review

Abstract: The modular multilevel converter (MMC) has been a subject of increasing importance for medium/high-power energy conversion systems. Over the past few years, significant research has been done to address the technical challenges associated with the operation and control of the MMC. In this paper, a general overview of the basics of operation of the MMC along with its control challenges are discussed, and a review of state-of-the-art control strategies and trends is presented. Finally, the applications of the MMC and their challenges are highlighted.

Indirect Finite Control Set Model Predictive Control of Modular Multilevel Converters

Abstract: The modular multilevel converter (MMC) is a potential candidate for medium/high-power applications, specifically for high-voltage direct current transmission systems. One of the main challenges in the control of an MMC is to eliminate/minimize the circulating currents while the capacitor voltages are maintained balanced. This paper proposes a control strategy for the MMC using finite control set model predictive control (FCS-MPC). A bilinear mathematical model of the MMC is derived and discretized to predict the states of the MMC one step ahead. Within each switching cycle, the best switching state of the MMC is selected based on evaluation and minimization of a defined cost function. The defined cost function is aimed at the elimination of the MMC circulating currents, regulating the arm voltages, and controlling the ac-side currents. To reduce the calculation burden of the MPC, the submodule (SM) capacitor voltage balancing controller based on the conventional sorting method is combined with the proposed FCS-MPC strategy. The proposed FCS-MPC strategy determines the number of inserted/bypassed SMs within each arm of the MMC while the sorting algorithm is used to keep the SM capacitor voltages balanced. Using this strategy, only the summation of SM capacitor voltages of each arm is required for control purposes, which simplifies the communication among the SMs and the central controller. This paper also introduces a modified switching strategy, which not only reduces the calculation burden of the FCS-MPC strategy even more, but also simplifies the SM capacitor voltage balancing algorithm. In addition, this strategy reduces the SM switching frequency and power losses by avoiding the unnecessary switching transitions. The performance of the proposed strategies for a 20-level MMC is evaluated based on the time-domain simulation studies.

Multivariable-PI-Based $dq$ Current Control of Voltage Source Converters With Superior Axis Decoupling Capability

Abstract: This paper presents a linear direct-quadrature current control strategy for voltage source converters (VSCs) in a rotating reference frame (RRF). The described method is based on multivariable-proportional-integral (PI) regulators and provides fast dynamics and a zero steady-state error. Contrary to the well-known conventional PI-based control strategies in RRFs, the presented method provides practically decoupled axes with a superior disturbance rejection capability. Moreover, its implementation is relatively simple and does not impose excessive structural complexity compared to its conventional PI-based competitors. The method is applicable to both single- and three-phase systems and also to anisotropic three-phase systems, e.g., synchronous motors with different direct and quadrature impedances driven by VSCs. Implementing a three-phase test system, the performance of the presented method is experimentally evaluated.

Vector Control of Single-Phase Voltage-Source Converters Based on Fictive-Axis Emulation

Abstract: This paper presents an alternative way for the current regulation of single-phase voltage-source dc-ac converters in direct-quadrature (dq) synchronous reference frames. In a dq reference frame, ac (time varying) quantities appear as dc (time invariant) ones, allowing the controller to be designed the same as dc-dc converters, presenting infinite control gain at the steady-state operating point to achieve zero steady-state error. The common approach is to create a set of imaginary quantities orthogonal to those of the real single-phase system so as to obtain dc quantities by means of a stationary-frame to rotating-frame transformation. The orthogonal imaginary quantities in common approaches are obtained by phase shifting the real components by a quarter of the fundamental period. The introduction of such delay in the system deteriorates the dynamic response, which becomes slower and oscillatory. In the proposed approach of this paper, the orthogonal quantities are generated by an imaginary system called fictive axis, which runs concurrently with the real one. The proposed approach, which is referred to as fictive-axis emulation, effectively improves the poor dynamics of the conventional approaches while not adding excessive complexity to the controller structure.

Vector control of single-phase voltage source converters based on Fictive Axis Emulation

Abstract: This paper presents an alternative way for controlling the current of single-phase voltage source dc-ac inverters in a dq synchronous reference frame. In a dq reference frame, ac (time varying) quantities appear as dc (time invariant) quantities allowing the controller to be designed as for dc-dc converters presenting infinite control gain at the steady-state operating point to achieve zero steady state error. The common approach is to create a set of imaginary quantities orthogonal to those of the real single-phase system so as to obtain dc quantities by means of a stationary to rotating frame transformation. The orthogonal imaginary quantities in common approaches are obtained by phase shifting the real components by a quarter of the fundamental period. The introduction of such delay in the system deteriorates the dynamic response, which becomes slower and oscillatory. In the proposed approach of this paper, the orthogonal quantities are generated by an imaginary system called Fictive Axis, which runs concurrently with the real one. The proposed approach, which is referred to as Fictive Axis Emulation (FAE), effectively improves the poor dynamics of the conventional approaches while does not add excessive complexity to the controller structure.

Trends in Microgrid Control

Abstract: The increasing interest in integrating intermittent renewable energy sources into microgrids presents major challenges from the viewpoints of reliable operation and control. In this paper, the major issues and challenges in microgrid control are discussed, and a review of state-of-the-art control strategies and trends is presented; a general overview of the main control principles (e.g., droop control, model predictive control, multi-agent systems) is also included. The paper classifies microgrid control strategies into three levels: primary, secondary, and tertiary, where primary and secondary levels are associated with the operation of the microgrid itself, and tertiary level pertains to the coordinated operation of the microgrid and the host grid. Each control level is discussed in detail in view of the relevant existing technical literature.

Model Predictive Control for Power Converters and Drives: Advances and Trends

Abstract: Model predictive control (MPC) is a very attractive solution for controlling power electronic converters. The aim of this paper is to present and discuss the latest developments in MPC for power converters and drives, describing the current state of this control strategy and analyzing the new trends and challenges it presents when applied to power electronic systems. The paper revisits the operating principle of MPC and identifies three key elements in the MPC strategies, namely the prediction model, the cost function, and the optimization algorithm. This paper summarizes the most recent research concerning these elements, providing details about the different solutions proposed by the academic and industrial communities.

Multilevel Inverter Topologies With Reduced Device Count: A Review

Abstract: Multilevel inverters have created a new wave of interest in industry and research. While the classical topologies have proved to be a viable alternative in a wide range of high-power medium-voltage applications, there has been an active interest in the evolution of newer topologies. Reduction in overall part count as compared to the classical topologies has been an important objective in the recently introduced topologies. In this paper, some of the recently proposed multilevel inverter topologies with reduced power switch count are reviewed and analyzed. The paper will serve as an introduction and an update to these topologies, both in terms of the qualitative and quantitative parameters. Also, it takes into account the challenges which arise when an attempt is made to reduce the device count. Based on a detailed comparison of these topologies as presented in this paper, appropriate multilevel solution can be arrived at for a given application.

High-Power Wind Energy Conversion Systems: State-of-the-Art and Emerging Technologies

Abstract: This paper presents a comprehensive study on the state-of-the-art and emerging wind energy technologies from the electrical engineering perspective. In an attempt to decrease cost of energy, increase the wind energy conversion efficiency, reliability, power density, and comply with the stringent grid codes, the electric generators and power electronic converters have emerged in a rigorous manner. From the market based survey, the most successful generator-converter configurations are addressed along with few promising topologies available in the literature. The back-to-back connected converters, passive generator-side converters, converters for multiphase generators, and converters without intermediate dc-link are investigated for high-power wind energy conversion systems (WECS), and presented in low and medium voltage category. The onshore and offshore wind farm configurations are analyzed with respect to the series/parallel connection of wind turbine ac/dc output terminals, and high voltage ac/dc transmission. The fault-ride through compliance methods used in the induction and synchronous generator based WECS are also discussed. The past, present and future trends in megawatt WECS are reviewed in terms of mechanical and electrical technologies, integration to power systems, and control theory. The important survey results, and technical merits and demerits of various WECS electrical systems are summarized by tables. The list of current and future wind turbines are also provided along with technical details.