Volume and Power Loss Optimization Tool for N-level Half-bridge Sub-module Modular Multilevel Converters with Filter Inclusion Assessment Capabilities

Modular multilevel converters (MMCs) are increasingly favoured due to their inherent multilevel benefits, notably their potential to mitigate or even eliminate the need for filters in certain applications. While the benefits of MMCs are widely recognized, a critical aspect that requires consideration is the trade-off between the number of levels and the sizing or inclusion of filters. This balance is crucial as it directly impacts the overall system efficiency and footprint. Proper design optimization is necessary to achieve an ideal equilibrium between these elements, ensuring optimal performance without unnecessary increases in system loss or volume. This paper introduces a design tool tailored for a Half Bridge Submodule MMC (HBSM-MMC). This tool is adept at optimizing not just the overall volume and system losses, but also in assessing the need for parallel damped LC filters based on user-defined criteria. Additionally, it optimizes for the level number, a key factor in MMC design. When the filters are necessary, the tool provides essential parameters for sizing inductors and filter capacitors, ensuring a well-balanced and efficient HBSM-MMC design.