Multilevel Converters: Fundamental Circuits and Systems

This paper provides a chronological overview of the topology for multilevel converters, and discusses their different terminology usages and characteristics. The multilevel converters include three-level neutral-point-clamped (NPC) and neutral-point-piloted (NPP) inverters, three-level and four-level flying-capacitor (FLC) inverters, and a family of modular multilevel cascade converters. Some have already been put into commercial use, some have been on a research and development stage, and others have been on an academic research stage. This paper pays much attention to six family members of the modular multilevel cascade converters, intended for grid-tied applications and medium-voltage high-power motor drives.