Power electronic devices play an important role in energy conversion. Among the options, matrix converters, in combination with predictive control, represent a good alternative for the power conversion stage. Although several reviews have been undertaken on this topic, they have been conducted in a non-systematic manner, without indicating how the studies considered were chosen. This paper presents results from a systematic literature review on predictive control applied to matrix converters that included 142 primary papers, which were selected after applying a defined protocol with clear inclusion and exclusion criteria. The study provides a detailed classification of predictive control methods and strategies applied to different matrix converter topologies. Research findings require to be understood in combination to develop a common understanding of the topic and ensure that future research effort is based on solid premises. In light of this, this study identifies and characterizes different predictive control techniques and matrix converter topologies through systematic literature review. The results of the review indicate that interest in the area is increasing. A number of open questions in the field are discussed.

Distributed generation systems are emerging as a good solution as part of the response to the world’s growing energy demand. In this context multi-phase wind generation systems are a feasible option. These systems consist of renewable AC sources which requires efficient and controlled power conversion stages. This work proposes a novel predictive current control strategy that takes advantage of a multi-modular matrix converter topology in the power stage of a six-phase generation system. The proposed method uses a coupling signal between the modules to decrease the error and the total harmonic distortion compared to independent control of each module. Experimental results validate the new control strategy showing the improvement regarding the target parameters.

A variable-speed predictive torque control (PTC) of a six-phase induction machine (SPIM) fed by a multi-modular matrix converter (M-MMC) is presented in this paper. This new system inherits the advantages of both multiphase machines (i.e., inherent fault-tolerance and better distribution of the power/current per phase compared to three-phase machines) and the M-MMC (i.e., smaller size and weight, and has no bulky storage elements). In addition, with the M-MMC topology, it is possible to use two power generation sources of different characteristics instead of a single three-phase source. This article proposes a method that reduces the number of calculations significantly compared to conventional PTC to overcome this issue. Simulation and experimental results are provided for speed control, module failure performance and tolerance to the variation of the magnetization inductance of the SPIM. An experimental test bench on a customized SiC-Mosfets based M-MMC and a 5.5 kW symmetrical SPIM has been used.

The direct matrix converter (DMC) is considered to be an exciting power converter topology option for electric motor drives in industrial applications (elevators, hoists and cranes) and applications where size and weight are critical (e.g., the aerospace industry). Several control techniques have been developed to exploit the DMC’s benefits and achieve the desired performance with classic control techniques, such as field-oriented control and direct torque control, and more sophisticated ones, such as model predictive control and sliding mode control (SMC). SMC is attractive due to its robustness and fast response. However, this control strategy suffers from a phenomenon called chattering. Thus, a solution based on the exponential reaching law (ERL) is implemented to resolve this issue. The proposed method was validated using simulation and experimental results from tests on a three-phase induction machine.

Matrix converters are devices that allow the management of bidirectional flows of energy with reduced size, increased useful life and high efficiency in ac-ac energy conversion systems. In this paper the experimental results obtained after the application of a predictive current control technique for a SiC-MOSFET based direct matrix converter feeding an isolated load are presented. The results obtained are compared with a scheme based on IGBT technology in terms of power consumption and total harmonic distortion.

The bidirectional switch (Bi-Sw) is a power device widely used by power conversion systems. This paper presents a novel modular design of a Bi-Sw with the purpose of providing to beginner researchers the key issues to design a power converter. The Bi-Sw has been designed in modular form using the SiC-MOSFET device. The Bi-Sw uses the advantages of SiC-MOSFET to operate at high switching frequencies. The verification of the module is carried out experimentally by means of the implementation in a voltage regulating converter, where performance analysis, power losses, and temperature dissipation are performed.