NSERC/Rockwell Automation Industrial Research Chair in Power Electronics and Electric Drives

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Power converter technology has found wide applications in almost every industry. With the recent technological advances, power converters of megawatt capacity are expanding into many new application areas. One of the important applications is variable-speed motor drives, which are increasingly used in industry to conserve energy, increase productivity and improve product quality. Another important application is renewable energy systems, including wind and solar energies, which generate power with little negative impact on the environment. However, there are many challenging technical issues in developing megawatt converter systems for these applications due to the high power rating and complex control problems. The proposed IRC (renewal) program focuses on research and development of innovative technologies in high-power converters and advanced controls for various industrial applications. Eight high-priority research projects are proposed, including development of novel 15kV-class motor drives, application of current source converter (CSC) technology in the marine industry, and development of CSC technology for large grid-tied wind energy systems. The IRC program will help to build critical mass and strong research capability at Ryerson University, and contribute to the growth of fundamental knowledge in power engineering. The IRC program will also help Canadian industry increase its competitiveness in the global marketplace through research, innovation, technology transfer and new product development.