Implementing voltage boost multilevel inverter topologies for PV and fuel cell energy sources is highly advantageous. Switched-capacitor multilevel inverters (SCMLI) have a step-up feature with low device requirements and can remove the need for high gain dc-dc converters leading to reduced overall system bulk. This work proposes a dual input SCMLI to achieve an output of nineteen levels while using a low number of components and high boosting factor and self-balancing of capacitor voltages. A comprehensive analysis of the proposed structure is presented, focusing on component requirements, cost and dynamic performance. The efficiency and loss distribution during operation is also provided. The operation and real-time performance of the SCMLI have been verified by simulation. Experimental results further validate the simulation results.

The extensive employment of power semiconductor devices in multilevel inverters (MLIs) has the consequence of increased failure probabilities. With numerous applications demanding highly reliable inverters, several fault-tolerant schemes have been devised to address switch open-circuit faults. This paper analyzes a multilevel inverter topology for IGBT modules undergoing open-circuit faults, a major impediment to reliable operation within a power converter. Reconfiguration of modulation is performed post-fault. A modulation scheme is implemented across failure modes as a hybrid of nearest level control and selective harmonic elimination. Reliability assessment of the topology is performed, including a comparison with previous literature in terms of component requirements and reliability. Simulation results validate the proposed solutions.