Advanced Power Electronics

The course focuses on presenting advanced topics on electrical energy conversion technologies using power semiconductor devices. At first, the fundamentals of power semiconductor devices employed in switch-mode power converters are presented. An introduction to key converter components such as gate drivers, magnetic components and cooling system is given. Methods for designing, modulating and controlling DC/DC and DC/AC switch-mode power electronics converters are analysed. Within this course, DC/DC converters such as flyback, forward, full-bridge and resonant converters are analysed. Moreover, the two-level and three-level DC/AC voltage-source converters are studied with a particular focus on their modulation schemes. The students will be introduced to pulse-width modulation (PWM) schemes, as for example, the bipolar and unipolar sinusoidal PWM, voltage cancellation and selective harmonic elimination methods. Emerging converter topologies are briefly discussed. Additionally, computer-aided analysis and simulations of the electrical and thermal performance of power electronic converters are among the course objectives. Finally, the students are introduced to a real-time simulation platform for emulating the converters operation.

Knowledge:

After completing the course, the student will

• have an in-depth understanding of the methodologies for designing power electronic converters suitable for DC/DC or DC/AC electrical energy conversion.
• be able to assess the performance of power semiconductor devices and to use these devices in power electronic converters.
• understand and apply advanced modulation schemes for single-phase and three phase switch-mode DC/AC two-level and three-level converters.
• understand electrothermal modelling and control of power electronic converters.
• be able to utilise digital control platforms for emulating and verifying the performance of power electronic converters

Skills:

After conclusion of the course, the student will be able to:

• design power electronic converters that perform DC/DC and DC/AC electrical energy conversions.
• model and simulate the electrical, thermal and electromagnetic performance of power electronic systems using advanced software tools.
• analyse, apply and optimise the modulation schemes for single-phase and three phase switch-mode DC/DC and DC/AC power electronic converters.
• operate power electronic converters in the present and future electric power grid, electric transportation and industrial installations.
• use instruments and equipment in the laboratory.
• use and operate an advanced digital emulator platform for real-time simulation and verification of modulation and control schemes for power converter.

General competence:

After completing the course, the students will have enhanced:

• skills in cooperation and interdisciplinary collaboration
• ability to communicate effectively to professionals and non-specialists alike through reports and presentations
• ability to contribute to innovation and innovation processes.

Lectures. Exercises. Three assignments during the semester that also count in the final grading. Lab exercises.