Power Electronics - September 2020
This compendium of recent articles from the editors of Tech Briefs and Aerospace & Defense Technology looks at the latest advances in power electronics and energy storage for a range of applications including wearable devices, electric vehicles, and aircraft.
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Overview
The September 2020 Special Report on Power Electronics presents a comprehensive overview of advancements in power electronic systems, focusing on the integration of wide-bandgap (WBG) devices, innovative energy storage solutions, and the implications for various applications, including consumer electronics and electric vehicles (EVs).
One of the key highlights is the emergence of WBG devices, such as silicon carbide (SiC) and gallium nitride (GaN) switches, which are revolutionizing power conversion systems. These devices offer improved power density and efficiency, enabling higher hold-off voltages, increased switching frequencies, and enhanced thermal management. However, to fully leverage these benefits, the entire system must be optimized, including device packaging, filter components, and thermal management strategies. The report emphasizes the importance of high-frequency switching capabilities in DC link capacitors, which must be co-located with switches to minimize parasitic inductance and withstand higher temperatures.
Another significant development discussed is the introduction of a new bendable supercapacitor made from graphene. This supercapacitor addresses the limitations of traditional high-powered, fast-charging supercapacitors, which struggle to store large amounts of energy in compact forms. The new technology boasts a record-high energy storage capacity, rapid charging capabilities, and flexibility, making it suitable for integration into portable devices like smartphones and wearables. Its design eliminates the use of liquid electrolytes, reducing the risk of explosion and enhancing safety.
The report also delves into the role of predictive maintenance solutions in manufacturing and healthcare, highlighting how connected devices can optimize operations and improve patient monitoring. The integration of machine learning and artificial intelligence is noted as a means to derive insights from data, enhancing the functionality of these systems. However, challenges remain in ensuring reliable power and internet connectivity for these devices, particularly in battery-operated systems where wireless communication can lead to high power consumption.
In the context of advanced battery systems, the report underscores the critical role of power electronics in determining the quality, functionality, and reliability of battery management and charging systems. The safety of these systems is paramount, especially in life-critical applications like automotive safety, where the risk of catastrophic failure, such as thermal runaway, must be mitigated. The increasing attention to EV fires has heightened the focus on safety measures to foster public confidence in electric vehicle adoption.
The report also touches on various technological innovations, including solid-state batteries, organic lithium-powered batteries, and low-inductance DC power buses, which are essential for enhancing energy storage and efficiency. Additionally, it discusses the development of frequency-sensing charge controllers for electric vehicles and the potential of nature-inspired green energy technologies.
Overall, the Special Report on Power Electronics provides valuable insights into the latest trends and technologies shaping the future of energy storage and power management, emphasizing the need for safe, efficient, and reliable solutions across diverse applications.
