Course content

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.

Learning outcome

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.

Learning methods and activities

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

Recommended previous knowledge

TET4190 Power Electronics or other basic course on Power Electronics.

Course materials

1. Mohan, Undeland, Robbins: Power Electronics: Converters, Applications and Design. 3rd Edition. John Wiley & Sons, 2003. Lecture notes.
2. D. G. Holmes and T. Lipo: Pulse Width Modulation for Power Converters: Principles and Practice. Wiley and IEEE press.
3. Lecture notes distributed online during the semester.