Power Electronics

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Inverter integration cuts size, weight

Texas Instruments has integrated a transformer into a gate driver to enable distributed switch architectures for inverters (writes Nick Flaherty). The UCC14240-Q1 isolated DC-DC bias supply module integrates the transformer and components with 3.5 mm-high planar magnetics to reduce the size, height and weight of a distributed power system in an inverter. The integration of […]

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48 V systems

Moving to power distribution networks running on 48 V looks set to confer a range of benefits to battery-electric vehicles. Nick Flaherty reports Technology based on 48 V has been adopted for

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Schaltbau launches arc-quenching high-current DC contactors

Switching large direct currents safely and responsively is a critical task in EV drive systems, requiring electromagnetically controlled contactors that extinguish the unwanted arcs that inevitably form between the main contacts when they open (writes Peter Donaldson). Drawing on almost a century’s experience in the railway industry, German company Schaltbau is addressing this issue by […]

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Inverter sintering set to boost range

MacDermid Alpha Electronics Solutions is working with STMicroelectronics on improved sinter technology for EV inverter assemblies. The process, known as pressure sintering, can significantly increase vehicle efficiency and range as well as lowering production costs (writes Nick Flaherty). Pressure sintering provides much lower thermal resistance in an inverter, which leads to better power cycling and […]

Grid

Reducing models of EV behaviour

The development of e-mobility platforms requires a complex interplay between different engineering teams for the mechanical, thermal, electrical, control and software design. ROMs from 3D design tools can be substituted for 1D system simulation models to provide more accurate and detailed results, so teams can make an informed and correct design choice earlier.

New Products

G-Pulse and Silicon Mobility collaborate on high-power multiphase DC-DC converter

G-Pulse and Silicon Mobility have announced that they are designing a high-power multiphase interleaving bidirectional DC-DC converter platform for EVs including those using fuel cells, batteries, hybrid electric and plug-in hybrid electric. It is based on Silicon Mobility’s OLEA control technology, and draws on G-Pulse’s engineering expertise in automotive systems.

Grid

Multi-kilowatt superconductors

Researchers in Germany have developed a coil with superconducting wires that are capable of transmitting up to 5 kW of power with minimal losses (writes Nick Flaherty). The team, at the Technical University of Munich, worked with Wurth Elektronik eiSos and superconductor coating specialist Theva Dunnschichttechnik on the design of a coil which they believe […]

New Products

Dow launches conformal coating for harsh environments

Dow has unveiled a new conformal coating it calls Dowsil CC-2588. It is an abrasion-resistant silicone-based material that protects PCBs and electronic components against high humidity and corrosion. The coating is virtually odourless and cures at room temperature. It can be sprayed on in a single pass and dries to a film thickness of 50-200 […]

Dossier

Candela C-7 speedboat

Hydrofoiling gives this serial production boat high speed and long endurance. Rory Jackson examines the engineering decisions behind its design. When it comes to designing new kinds of boat hulls that will get as much power and endurance as possible out of battery-electric powertrains, one of the smartest things a maritime architect can do is simply lift the boat out of the water

Digest

Riversimple Rasa

Rather than go all-out on the technology, this EV has been conceived with reusable components – and the circular economy – in mind. Rory Jackson reports. End-to-end sustainability is a troublesome target for EV engineers to track. Reducing vehicle emissions at the point of use is easy enough, but reducing the emissions...
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