Eight-switch Five-level Current Source Inverter

This paper proposes an eight-switch three-phase five-level current source inverter (CSI). The corresponding space vector modulation (SVM) strategy for the proposed CSI topology is also presented. Compared with other five-level CSI topologies, the proposed CSI inherits certain advantages of the full-bridge CSI with a shunt-connected hybrid power switch (i.e., the H7 CSI), simplifies the modulation method, and utilizes fewer power switches with an increased power density. These features make the proposed inverter cost-effective for CSI systems. Simulation and experimental results are provided, which validates the theoretical discussion and analysis.