Simulation of a Modular Multilevel Converter with Reverse Model Predictive Control

Abstract

In this paper the modular multilevel converter (MMC) is tied to the utility grid and converts the dc output signal of PV panels to an ac signal. The challenges related to this type of inverters are balancing submodule capacitor voltages, suppression of the circulating currents, and tracking references of output currents. To attain these targets simultaneously, a control strategy based on the reverse model predictive control (R-MPC) is adopted. This control method reduces the computational burden by calculating the number of inserted MMC's submodules directly, based on the reverse prediction of arm voltages. Simulation of the converter dynamic behavior including the related control technique is conducted through MATLAB/Simulink and results validated the desired system performance.