Power Electronics - November 2024
This compendium of articles from the editors of Tech Briefs and Aerospace & Defense Technology magazines looks at the latest advances in power electronics and energy storage for applications ranging from electric vehicles to battlefield systems to high‐performance computing in manufacturing and healthcare.
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Overview
The Power Electronics Special Report published in November 2024 presents a comprehensive overview of recent advancements and innovations in the field of power electronics, with a particular focus on electric vehicle (EV) charging systems, battery technologies, and microelectronic devices.
One of the key highlights of the report is the development of algorithms and multilayered communication systems aimed at enhancing the reliability of electric vehicle chargers. Researchers from Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) have created algorithms that allow EV chargers to maintain functionality even during voltage drops or disturbances in the electric grid. This is achieved through a ride-through capability that protects both the charger and the broader electric grid. The system can detect internal failures within the charger and redistribute the load among remaining power modules, ensuring continued operation at reduced power levels until repairs can be made. Additionally, a system-wide controller can manage multiple chargers, optimizing the charging experience for users by adjusting equipment settings based on real-time conditions.
The report also discusses the integration of battery storage and solar power into EV charging stations, which could further enhance performance and reliability. This research is part of a larger initiative involving partnerships with Pacific Northwest and Idaho National Laboratories, focusing on automatic management of charging for vehicle fleets and monitoring for potential cyberattacks.
In the realm of battery technology, the report addresses the challenges facing the mass-market adoption of solid-state batteries. It emphasizes the need to overcome technical hurdles and establish production capacities to meet growing market demands. The report suggests that advancements in battery chemistry are crucial for the future of electric mobility and energy storage solutions.
Another significant innovation highlighted in the report is the creation of a new microelectronic device by a research team led by the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) in collaboration with the National University of Singapore. This device functions as a sustainable, high-performance "bit-switch" that utilizes magnetic whirls called skyrmions to operate with 1,000 times less power than current memory technologies. This breakthrough is particularly relevant in the context of emerging AI technologies, which require substantial computing power and energy. The report notes that as infocomm technologies consume nearly 20% of global electricity, the development of more energy-efficient computing solutions is imperative.
The report also touches on the importance of edge computing as a strategy to mitigate the energy crisis, particularly in sectors such as mobility, healthcare, and manufacturing. By processing data within individual devices rather than relying on large-scale data centers, edge computing can significantly reduce energy consumption.
Overall, the Power Electronics Special Report provides valuable insights into the ongoing innovations in power electronics, emphasizing the critical role of reliable charging systems, advanced battery technologies, and energy-efficient computing solutions in shaping the future of electric mobility and sustainable technology. The report serves as a resource for industry professionals, researchers, and stakeholders interested in the latest trends and developments in this rapidly evolving field.
