Fundamental Knowledge Thrust: Control and Sensor Integration (CSI)
Leader: Robert D. Lorenz, University of Wisconsin-Madison
The goal of the CSI thrust is to create the fundamental knowledge
needed to "intelligently" integrate sensors and controls
into power electronics with technology approaches that have the
potential to significantly improve both functionality and reliability
while significantly reducing costs. To achieve this vision, the
CSI research focuses on three critical aspects: 1) integrated current
sensing internal to the IPEM structure, 2) spatial and temporal
temperature sensing for load cycle thermal-mechanical stress control,
and 3) relative thermal control of parallel IPEMs for robust power
sharing. Fig. 8 shows a Giant Magneto-Resistive (GMR) field detection
current sensor integrated in an IPEM. GMR temperature sensor was
also developed. Other significant accomplishments include: active
control of switching device junction temperature cycles in power
converters to maximize reliability and device utilization; and “sensorless” control
of junction temperature differences in parallel-acting power devices
to improve reliability.
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Using the GMR field detector allows for a simplified
compact integrated current sensor design |
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