Modular Multilevel Current Source Inverter Using Two-Switch Basic Units

This article is an introduction of a new topology of current source inverter (CSI) which can be alternatively implemented in low/medium power applications. This configuration is organized from series connected sub-multilevel inverters blocks. The basis of the recommended multilevel topology is the connections of many cell units in a decent scheme with the help of H-bridge inverter. The suggested inverter produces desired DC current levels with the value of positive and negative. In the recommended configuration, the number of DC current sources, switches and the related gate drive circuits in comparison with the traditional multilevel inverters are lowered. Consequently, cost and volume is decreased in the suggested topology. In order to investigate the suggested structure of the multilevel inverter, the simulation and experimental results for a single-phase 7-level inverter are prepared and indicated.