How do you optimize the performance and cost of high voltage power electronics converters and filters?

1 Define your objectives and constraints

Before you start designing your converter or filter, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and what limitations you have to deal with. For example, you may want to minimize losses, harmonics, switching frequency, or size, or you may want to maximize power quality, stability, or efficiency. You also need to consider the specifications and requirements of your application, such as the input and output voltage and current levels, the power rating, the operating environment, the safety standards, and the budget. By defining your objectives and constraints, you can narrow down your options and focus on the most suitable solutions.

2 Choose the right topology and components

The topology and components of your converter or filter determine its functionality, performance, and cost. There are many possible topologies and components to choose from, depending on your objectives and constraints. For example, you may opt for a two-level or a multilevel converter, a series or a parallel filter, a diode or a thyristor rectifier, a voltage source or a current source inverter, or a passive or an active filter. You also need to select the appropriate switches, capacitors, inductors, transformers, and controllers for your design. You should compare the advantages and disadvantages of different topologies and components, such as their efficiency, complexity, modularity, scalability, robustness, and cost.

3 Optimize your control and modulation strategies

The control and modulation strategies of your converter or filter affect its dynamic and steady-state performance, as well as its interaction with the grid and the load. You should design your control and modulation strategies to achieve your desired output voltage or current waveform, to regulate the power flow, to balance the dc-link voltage or current, to reduce the switching losses and harmonics, to enhance the fault tolerance and the reliability, and to comply with the grid codes and standards. You should also consider the trade-offs between different control and modulation strategies, such as their accuracy, speed, stability, complexity, and cost.