Abstract
Different multilevel converter topologies have been presented for achieving more output voltage steps, hence improving system performance and lowering costs. In this paper, a hybrid multilevel inverter (MLI) topology is proposed for active-power-filter applications. The proposed MLI is a combination of two standard topologies: the cascaded H-bridge and the three-phase cascaded voltage source inverter. This configuration enhances the voltage levels of the proposed MLI while using fewer switches than typical MLI topologies. The proposed MLI was developed in the MATLAB/Simulink environment, and a closed-loop control technique was used to achieve a unity power factor connection of the PV modules to the grid, as well as to compensate for harmonics caused by nonlinear loads. To demonstrate that the configuration was working correctly and that the control was precise, the proposed MLI was constructed in a laboratory. A MicroLabBox real-time controller handled data acquisition and switch gating. The proposed topology was experimentally connected to the grid and the MLI was experimentally used as an active power filter to compensate for the harmonics generated due to nonlinear loads. This control technique was able to generating a sinusoidal grid current that was in phase with the grid voltage, and the grid current's total harmonic distortion was within acceptable limits. To validate the practicability of the proposed MLI, both simulation and experimental results are presented.