Realizing space vector modulation in MATLAB/Simulink and PSCAD

Abstract

Space vector modulation (SVM) is a frequently used method to implement pulse width modulation (PWM) in three-phase switching converters. SVM allows us to maximize the exploitation of the converter hardware. Compared to sine PWM, SVM can achieve a higher AC voltage level (15% more in magnitude). This paper develops SVM models in Matlab/Simulink and PSCAD, two most popular packages for power system dynamic studies. Theory of space vector will be clearly explained to present the principles of SVM based sinusoidal waveform synthesis. The three unique contributions of this paper include: (i) A sawtooth triangular waveform is used to generate repeating switching period for digital control. (ii) A technique to integrate blocks with different sampling rates is employed to generate SVM pulses. (ii) Both Matlab/Simulink and PSCAD models are developed. The developed models are very useful to develop detailed SVM enabled power converters in power system studies. A step by step tutorial of the model development procedure and the simulation results are provided to demonstrate the accuracy of the SVM models.