Project Details

Description

Abstract:
As the power electronic industry is undergoing a shift from traditional silicon semiconductors towards faster and more efficient wide-band gap (WBG) devices. These fast-switching devices can withstand a higher voltage on less space, leading to less material cost, as well as a reduction in size and weight of high-power converters. WBG based power modules have a strong potential to become the main components in future power converters driving the transition of society’s energy consumption towards electrification. Possible high-power applications include Mega Watt Charging for EVs and PEM electrolysis.
To fully exploit WBG power modules, the traditional design approach of silicon-based power modules must be revisited. The fast transients of WBG devices can cause significant electromagnetic disturbances if the design does not minimize parasitic couplings, which can perturbate to other circuit elements, possibly leading to malfunction of the converter. Furthermore, the heat dissipation is limited by the reduced surface area of the WBG device. Advanced cooling techniques need to be developed in order to keep the junction temperature at an appropriate level.
To approach these problems, a multi-physics based digital twin is developed, and optimization techniques applied in order to push the boundaries of power density of WBG power modules. The digital design approach allows for fast and optimized iterations bypassing physical prototyping and long lead times. Various digital design methods for both thermal and electromagnetic phenomena must be assessed for accuracy and modularity, so that the optimization process can be streamlined for cutting-edge WBG power modules.

Funding: Poul Due Jensen Foundation, Innovationsfonden:
StatusActive
Effective start/end date01/09/202231/08/2025

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