Hybrid Propulsion Motor Drives Model based on Multi-level Inverters with Optimized Fuel Economy

In this paper, a parallel hybrid prolusion electric vehicle model is presented with motor drives realized by cascaded H-bridge multilevel inverter modules. Modulation scheme for an 11-level inverter is optimized by minimizing total harmonic distortions, switching losses, number of carriers, whilst balancing the state of charge between battery modules. The multilevel inverter model is subsequently integrated into electric motor drives simulations, with variable frequency adjustable speed and regenerative braking scenarios demonstrated. Manipulating the electric drives with regenerative braking, fuel economy is optimized by keeping the petrol engine operating at a sweet spot, i.e. 70% to 80% of its maximum torque. The simulation results can be evaluated by using Matlab/Simulink 2018a Software.

Keywords: Hybrid electric vehicle, multilevel converter, motor drives, fuel economy, regenerative braking model, variable frequency adjustable speed