Five-Level Dual-Output Active Neutral-Point Clamped Converter for All-Wheel Drive EVs

This paper proposes a novel five-level dual-output active neutral point clamped (5LDO-ANPC) converter to supply a single six-phase load or two independent three-phase loads simultaneously with varying amplitudes and frequencies. This is best suited for the operation of dual motor drives utilized in all-terrain electric vehicles (ATEVs) or all-wheel drive (AWD) EVs. With fewer switches than two conventional five-level ANPCs, the proposed topology provides two distinct five-level output voltages. The 5LDO-ANPC allows independent operation of its outputs and offers a complete operating range, exceeding the capabilities of existing dual-output converters. The converter is controlled using a finite control set model predictive control (FCS-MPC). A mathematical model of the 5LDO-ANPC is developed and integrated into the FCS-MPC algorithm to achieve the desired output voltages and currents while also balancing the dc-link and flying capacitor voltages. A laboratory prototype is developed, and the proposed converter is tested under steady-state and transient conditions. The experimental and simulation results are analyzed, demonstrating the effectiveness of the 5LDO-ANPC.