On the Concept of the Reconfigurable Multi-Source Inverter for Electrified Vehicle Powertrains with a Hybrid Energy Storage System

Abstract

This thesis focuses on the concept, design, and simulation of the Reconfigurable Multi-Source Inverter for EV applications and its effectiveness when combined with a HESS. The current trends in the automotive market, including different vehicle types, and the adoption of electrified vehicles by the public are discussed. The benefits and logistics of different vehicle architectures are analyzed and compared. Hybrid vehicles will be essential in helping transition society from conventional internal combustion engine vehicles to purely electric vehicles. The individual components of these electrified vehicles are reviewed, and common topologies are discussed with the benefits of each system compared. The batteries required for these electric vehicles are costly and require many individual cells in order to operate efficiently. Many hybrids vehicles make use of expensive power electronics, such as DC/DC converters to help boost the operating voltage of the battery pack without adding additional cells. A Reconfigurable Multi-Source Inverter in introduced and its switching structure is explained in depth. Its’ ability to make use of multiple DC sources to create four different voltage levels is outlined and possible modulation techniques are presented. This thesis aims to introduce a novel Reconfigurable Multi-Source Inverter using a Space Vector Pulse Width Modulation (SVPWM) scheme and is further investigated through simulations and with plans for experimental validation on an R-L load.