Novel design, implementation, and performance optimization of inverters by considering the effect of modulation

Abstract

This research seeks to combine a comprehensive analysis of the literature regarding energy efficiency and inverters with an analysis of a configuration of a hybrid energy system including a generator, an inverter and a battery. The inverter's power output is analyzed under the influence of different distribution functions during a robust modulation procedure for achieving optimum energy saving. The modulation is tested on two processing machines independently: (a) an electric discharge machine, and (b) an injection molding machine. Based on the research methodology, problem formulations and the conducted analysis, a novel research software called “Inverter Pro V1” was programmed to analyze the estimations and performance of inverters in an energy system. An optimal levelized cost of electricity was determined given certain systems design and operating hours, and a sensitivity analysis was undertaken that identified a range of energy savings. In the sensitivity and optimization analysis, interactions among the primary decision parameters including the system's capacity, operating time, energy saving, cost of energy and payback period are investigated. It is also found that for each system, the inverter modulation categories with the optimum payback period belong to a modulation of inverter designed according to the Sawtooth function with a 45% duty cycle and switching intervals of 0.35 s. By considering the operating hours of 12.5 h per day, and the calculated system's investment cost of €31,782.158, the optimum payback period is estimated to be 1.7729 year. The study results are to inform policy with regard to assisting sustainable electricity production.