a new n-level inverter based on z-npc

First of all, in this paper, the topology and operation of the three-phase threelevel z-source inverter based on neutral-point-clamped (z-npc) are studied. moreover, different combinations of permissible switching states and control signals are explained for this inverter. in this paper, the topology of the three-phase three-level z-npc inverter is extended for an n-level state. also, a combination of allowed switching states with relevant mathematical equations is presented for the proposed n-level z-npc inverter. in comparison with multilevel voltage-source inverters (only voltage-boost capability), the proposed multilevel z-npc inverter is a single-stage converter and it has a buck-boost capability of voltage. on the other hand, the control of two-stage converters compared to single-stage converters can be more difficult because of existing more active and passive components. in this paper, two new pwm control methods are also proposed for various multilevel z-npc inverters. one advantage of the proposed pwm control methods in comparison with conventional pwm control methods is maintaining the charge balance of the dc-link capacitors in neutral point. the correct performance of the proposed multilevel z-npc topology and pwm control methods are verified by the obtained results of analysis and simulations performed in the pscad software.