High efficiency multi-functional power electronics for electric vehicles and grid connected industrial drive systems

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Most industrial processes use power electronics to draw power from the electrical utility power grid. For instance, industrial electric motor-drive systems are a prominent means for many industrial processes to reduce energy consumption, hence lowering operating costs and contributing to efforts for more environmental friendly electric power systems. In addition, most of the prominent alternative and sustainable energy systems rely on power electronic technology to control and store electric power. The main technical goals of this program are to provide innovations in the design of power electronics used in two main application areas: electric vehicles and industrial electric motor-drives. The size, weight, cost and operational lifetime of electrical power conversion systems are affected by their power conversion efficiency. For instance, a more efficient electrical motor-drive system for electric vehicles can lower the weight and size of the motor and its cooling system: cheaper components and longer operational lifetimes can then result. Thus, a central theme of this research is the creation of new higher efficiency electric power conversion technology. More specific technical goals are to improve the design of the power electronics and their control, for example, innovations are expected in: (a) the systems used to store electrical energy in battery arrays such as used in electric vehicles; (b) motor-drive power electronic topology designs that better exploit the benefits that capacitors and coupled inductors can provide: capacitors are lightweight with a high energy storage density, coupled inductors have a high reliability and long lifetimes.This program will result in commercially feasible technology grounded in their practical application. Academic researchers and HQP will gain knowledge and experience in the design and the operation of industrial drive systems and electric vehicles. Canadian companies will benefit from the HQP and technical innovations generated. The program will contribute to the need of Canadians for a more environmental friendly industrial sector using cost effective energy efficient sustainable energy systems.