Performance analysis of a multi-level inverter fed permanent magnet synchronous motor for electric vehicles

Abstract

Electric vehicle (EV) drive systems utilizing permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs) often encounter performance limitations due to switching losses, voltage stress, and harmonic distortion. To address these challenges, this paper presents a compact 31-level multilevel inverter (MLI) topology designed to enhance drive efficiency and power quality. The proposed inverter minimizes switching devices and driver circuits, resulting in reduced total harmonic distortion (THD), lower voltage stress, and improved waveform fidelity. Advanced control strategies are employed to further optimize performance. field-oriented control (FOC) ensures precise torque and flux regulation, while direct torque control (DTC) delivers rapid transient response. To mitigate torque ripple and variable switching frequency inherent in conventional DTC, adaptive predictive control (APC) is integrated to refine switching behavior and enhance dynamic stability. Simulation studies conducted in MATLAB/Simulink demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed system, revealing significant improvements in torque smoothness, reduced THD (0.85%) and elevated efficiency under variable load conditions. This integrated solution offers a practical and scalable approach for next-generation EVs, contributing to greater reliability, energy utilization, and overall system performance.