An Indirect Model Predictive Control for Matrix Converters

Abstract

This paper proposes an indirect model predictive control (MPC) approach for matrix converters. This approach maintains a fixed switching frequency and achieves a low harmonic distortion in both the voltage and current, thereby overcoming the main limitations of conventional direct MPC. More importantly, the proposed strategy improves the stability margin and control bandwidth compared to conventional proportional-integral (PI)-based linear controllers. Consequently, the output current of the converter—and thus its power—can be increased, enabling more effective utilization of the hardware. To verify these findings, the proposed indirect MPC scheme is implemented on a low-cost control platform operating at a 10 kHz sampling frequency. The presented results demonstrate that the required computation time of approximately 50μs, when a three-step horizon is considered, is well within the capabilities of the chosen platform, confirming its real-time feasibility.