Institute
Research Areas
The Laboratory for High Power Electronic Systems (HPE) founded in 2010 at ETH Zurich focuses its research on high power converter systems operating from low to high voltage levels and power levels form kW to MW range. The research is based on a system-oriented view including all aspects of power electronics and related topics. The research results should enable the development of future innovative products and/or also enable power electronic systems to enter new application areas. The major research areas are:
- Novel topologies & modulation concepts
- Advanced passives (E.g. integrated cooling concepts, integrated EMI filtering, ultra low loss…)
- HF loss modelling of electric machines
- Ultra-efficient drive drains
- New control methods
- Energy storage systems
- Multi-domain modelling
- Electrical
- Magnetically
- Thermal
- EMI
- Reliability
- Multi-objective, mission profile oriented optimisation
The multi-domain modelling of the converter systems enables a comprehensive optimisation at the system- as well as at the component-level, for example for maximal efficiency, ultra high power density or high reliability. Based on the mission profile, the system design is optimally adapted to the requirements minimising raw material usage and costs. Also multiple objectives can be considered resulting in a Pareto Frontor Surface as shown for example in fig. 1, where different Pareto Fronts of single phase PFC rectifier systems are given. Based on these fronts different topologies, modulations and also technologies can be compared.
With the models and the optimisation also the industrial design process could be significantly accelerated enabling a shorter time-to-market.
Laboratory Facilities
For validating the models and the optimisation procedures, prototype systems based on cutting edge technology are designed and built. An example is given in fig. 2 showing a prototype of a 20MW pulse modulator for medical applications. There, also the pulse transformer is mechanically and magnetically optimised for a pulse with minimal overshoot and fastest possible rise time.
For performing experiments a fully equipped laboratory with the following energy sources is available:
- 0..400V / 250kVA
- 0..800V / 250kVA
- 0..25kVAC / 250kVA
- 0..35kVDC / 250kW
- 0..2kVDC / 100kW (bidirectional)
- 400V arbitrary AC source
Additionally, a faraday cage for shielding and partial discharge tests as well as different water and air cooling facilities and a 2t crane are available.
