Christopher D. Townsend

Bio: Christopher D. Townsend is an academic researcher from University of Western Australia. The author has contributed to research in topics: H bridge & Capacitor. The author has an hindex of 17, co-authored 116 publications receiving 1407 citations. Previous affiliations of Christopher D. Townsend include University of Newcastle & University of Nottingham.

A Review of Power Electronics for Grid Connection of Utility-Scale Battery Energy Storage Systems

Abstract: The increasing penetration of renewable energy sources (RES) poses a major challenge to the operation of the electricity grid owing to the intermittent nature of their power output. The ability of utility-scale battery energy storage systems (BESS) to provide grid support and smooth the output of RES in combination with their decrease in cost has fueled research interest in this technology over the last couple of years. Power electronics (PE) is the key enabling technology for connecting utility-scale BESS to the medium-voltage grid. PE ensure energy is delivered while complying with grid codes and dispatch orders. Simultaneously, the PE must regulate the operating point of the batteries, thus for instance preventing overcharge of batteries. This paper presents a comprehensive review of PE topologies for utility BESS that have been proposed either within industry or the academic literature. Moreover, a comparison of the presently most commercially viable topologies is conducted in terms of estimated power conversion efficiency and relative cost.

Optimization of Switching Losses and Capacitor Voltage Ripple Using Model Predictive Control of a Cascaded H-Bridge Multilevel StatCom

Abstract: This paper further develops a model predictive control (MPC) scheme which is able to exploit the large number of redundant switching states available in a multilevel H-bridge StatCom (H-StatCom). The new sections of the scheme provide optimized methods to tradeoff the harmonic performance with converter switching losses and capacitor voltage ripple. Varying the pulse placement within the modulation scheme and modifying the heuristic model of the voltage balancing characteristics allows the MPC scheme to achieve superior performance to that of the industry standard phase shifted carrier modulation technique. The effects of capacitor voltage ripple on the lifetime of the capacitors are also investigated. It is shown that the MPC scheme can reduce capacitor voltage ripple and increase capacitor lifetime. Simulation and experimental results are presented that confirm the correct operation of the control and modulation strategies.

Multigoal Heuristic Model Predictive Control Technique Applied to a Cascaded H-bridge StatCom

Abstract: A multilevel H-bridge StatCom inherently contains redundancy in the available switching states. This paper develops a variation on the typical model predictive control scheme which is able to exploit this redundancy to simultaneously balance the H-bridge capacitor voltages, provide excellent current reference tracking, and minimize converter switching losses. The scheme consists of a dead-beat current controller that has been integrated with heuristic models of the voltage balancing and switching loss characteristics. The integration of a pulsewidth modulation scheme is also described. Simulation and experimental results are presented that confirm the correct operation of the control and modulation strategies. Comparison with traditional control and modulation schemes is provided in terms of the key performance indicators associated with multilevel H-bridge StatComs.

Extended Functionalities of Photovoltaic Systems With Flexible Power Point Tracking: Recent Advances

Abstract: The power system is experiencing an ever-increasing integration of photovoltaic power plants (PVPPs), which leads to the demand on the power system operators to force new requirements in order to sustain quality and reliability of the grid. Subsequently, a significant quantity of flexible power point tracking (FPPT) algorithms have been proposed in the literature to enhance functionalities of PVPPs. The intention of FPPT algorithms is to regulate the PV power to a specific value imposed by the grid codes and operational conditions. This will inevitably interfere the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) operation of PV systems. Nevertheless, the FPPT control makes PVPPs much more grid-friendly. The main contribution of this article is to comprehensively compare available FPPT algorithms in the literature from different aspects and provide a benchmark for researchers and engineers to select suitable FPPT algorithms for specific applications. A classification and short description of them are provided in this article. The dynamic performances of the investigated algorithms are compared with experimental tests on a scaled-down prototype. Directions for future studies in this area are also presented.

Cascaded H-Bridge Multilevel PV Topology for Alleviation of Per-Phase Power Imbalances and Reduction of Second Harmonic Voltage Ripple

Abstract: The cascaded H-bridge (CHB) topology is ideal for implementing large-scale converters for photovoltaic (PV) applications. The improved quality of output voltage waveforms, high efficiency due to transformer-less connection, and ability to employ multiple instances of a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm are just some advantages. An important disadvantage is the required over-rating to ensure balanced three-phase currents at times of unequal PV generation. Unequal generation occurs due to shading, temperature inhomogeneity, faulty H-bridges, etc. Capacitor voltage balancing under such conditions requires zero-sequence voltage injection which increases the required number of series connected H-bridges. However, leakage current and safety requirements often dictate a need for isolation between PV arrays and the cascaded converter. Therefore, this paper proposes a converter topology that avoids the cost of extra series connected H-bridges by extending the function of dc–dc converters that provide isolation. Second harmonic power oscillations seen in typical cascaded topologies can also be eliminated or reduced through use of the proposed topology. Simulation and experimental results are presented that confirm correct operation of the proposed approach.

State of the Art of Finite Control Set Model Predictive Control in Power Electronics

Abstract: This paper addresses to some of the latest contributions on the application of Finite Control Set Model Predictive Control (FCS-MPC) in Power Electronics. In FCS-MPC , the switching states are directly applied to the power converter, without the need of an additional modulation stage. The paper shows how the use of FCS-MPC provides a simple and efficient computational realization for different control objectives in Power Electronics. Some applications of this technology in drives, active filters, power conditioning, distributed generation and renewable energy are covered. Finally, attention is paid to the discussion of new trends in this technology and to the identification of open questions and future research topics.

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.

Modular Cascaded H-Bridge Multilevel PV Inverter With Distributed MPPT for Grid-Connected Applications

Abstract: This paper presents a modular cascaded H-bridge multilevel photovoltaic (PV) inverter for single- or three-phase grid-connected applications. The modular cascaded multilevel topology helps to improve the efficiency and flexibility of PV systems. To realize better utilization of PV modules and maximize the solar energy extraction, a distributed maximum power point tracking control scheme is applied to both single- and three-phase multilevel inverters, which allows independent control of each dc-link voltage. For three-phase grid-connected applications, PV mismatches may introduce unbalanced supplied power, leading to unbalanced grid current. To solve this issue, a control scheme with modulation compensation is also proposed. An experimental three-phase seven-level cascaded H-bridge inverter has been built utilizing nine H-bridge modules (three modules per phase). Each H-bridge module is connected to a 185-W solar panel. Simulation and experimental results are presented to verify the feasibility of the proposed approach.

Model Predictive Direct Speed Control with Finite Control Set of PMSM Drive Systems

Abstract: Servo drives and drives for position control require a high dynamic on speed control. In this paper, model predictive direct speed control (MP-DSC) is proposed, which overcomes limitations of cascaded linear controllers. The novel concept predicts the future current and speed states in discrete steps and it selects plant inputs which depends mainly on the predicted speed error. Secondary control objectives, such as maximum torque per ampere tracking are included. MP-DSC uses the finite control set approach which makes it suitable for online predictions with a prediction horizon of a few sample periods. The concept has been developed by simulation and evaluated on an experimental test bench. The overall control behavior is evaluated applying reference and disturbance steps to the system, where MP-DSC shows promising results. A solution for disturbance (e.g., load toque) rejection is proposed, and the effectiveness to avoid control offsets is shown. Furthermore, the dynamic performance and the steady-state behavior of MP-DSC is evaluated and discussed.

Model Predictive Control: MPC's Role in the Evolution of Power Electronics

Abstract: The evolution of power electronics and its control has been mainly driven by industry applications and influenced by the development achieved in several technologies, such as power semiconductors, converter topologies, automatic control, and analog and digital electronics. Digital signal processors (DSPs), in particular, have experienced an exponential development in processing power, which until now has not been fully exploited for control purposes in power converters and drive applications. Presently, the control system technology finds itself in a paradigm-changing tipping point, in which more demanding control goals, system flexibility, and functionalities required by emerging applications are driving the control system technology development, in addition to stabilization and robustness, which was the main focus in the past. This article walks briefly through the history of the mainstream power converter control scene, with an emphasis on the more recent introduction of predictive control, and gives a glimpse on the challenges and possibilities ahead. Special attention is given to finite control set (FCS)-model predictive control (MPC), because of its simplicity, flexibility, inherent adaptation to power electronic circuits and their discrete nature, both in the finite amount of switching states and the digital implementation with microprocessors.