Optimization of the passive components of the Modular Multilevel Matrix Converter for Drive Applications

The Modular Multilevel Matrix Converter (M3C) is a new topology which extends the Modular Multilevel Converter (M2C) family for converters to low speed drive applications. The energy pulsation and therefore the amount of the installed capacitance is very important for the design of such a converter. This paper presents a method to estimate the required amount of capacitance for a given application. Additionally, the design of a newly proposed coupled z-winding arm inductor is explained. It is verified that the use of this inductor allows considerable savings of core and coil material.