Abstract: An apparatus for space vector modulation of a multi-level inverter, the apparatus comprising: a triangle generator for finding a modulation triangle enclosing a reference voltage vector, the modulation triangle comprising vertex vectors; a duty ratio calculator for determining duty ratios for the vertex vectors; a switching function selector for selecting switching functions corresponding to the vertex vectors; a forbidden transition identifier for identifying a forbidden transition between two of the vertex vectors; and a control module for applying the switching functions to the multi-level inverter according to the duty ratios and avoiding the forbidden transition.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved control methodology for maximum power point tracking (MPPT), anti-islanding, and output current regulation for distributed generation sources connected to a utility grid. The control includes enhancements for MPPT and regulating the inverter output-current that is sourced into the utility grid. In addition, the functions associated with MPPT, anti-islanding detection and output current regulation are integrated together; the MPPT algorithm operates in conjunction with the anti-islanding detection, and the output current regulation operates in conjunction with the MPPT algorithm.

Abstract: A fluid pump integrated with a motor, a fluid pump/generator device, a rotor for a fluid pump/generator device, a stator for a fluid pump/generator device and a method for pumping fluid are disclosed. Specifically, a fluid pump includes a motor rotor having a plurality of magnetic vanes that electromagnetically interact with a plurality of magnetic poles of the motor stator such that the rotor functions simultaneously as the impeller for the pump and rotor for the motor, with fluid flowing through channels on the rotor. Pump and motor are tightly integrated into one single device so that the number of parts is reduced, total size is compressed, reliability of the device is improved, and cost efficiency is increased. In addition, the use of magnetic vanes for propelling fluid improves motor efficiency. Further, the fluid flow is used to directly cool the pump/generator device, which reduces energy consumption.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling the turn-on and turn-off angles of a switch reluctance motor. A control system is provided that comprises: a turn-on controller that includes a first component for controlling a turn-on angle during low speed operations and a second component for controlling the turn-on angle during high speed operations such that transitions between low speed and high speed occur naturally; and a turn-off controller having an algorithm for controlling a turn-off angle, wherein the algorithm calculates the turn-off angle as a function of rotor speed, reference peak phase current, and a set of curve fit parameters.