Comprehensive harmonic analysis of matrix converter under unbalanced/distorted conditions

In this paper, an analytical study of three-phase matrix converter behaviour under unbalanced and/or distorted operating conditions is presented. Because of the lack of any considerable storage device, matrix converter operations are significantly influenced by distorted conditions. Even if adequate control strategies are able to ensure a sinusoidal balanced output voltage, under input voltage and/or output load distortion or unbalance, unwanted harmonics are generated in the input currents. The analytical results proposed in this paper make it possible to predict both the frequencies and amplitude of the harmonic components in the input current once the input voltage and output current disturbances, expressed in terms of the frequency spectrum, are known. The proposed analysis is formalized using the space-vector concept, allowing a precise and general approach, which can be applied to any operating condition. Numerical and analytical results have been found and compared with the ones discussed by other authors and confirm the proposed approach.

► The mathematical tools required for the analysis of three phase systems are introduced.
► The general aspects of matrix converter operation under distorted conditions are presented.
► Input current spectra are analytically deduced and discussed.
► Comparison with results already presented are discussed.
► Further simulations to support the formulae are presented.