Power Electronics Control: Techniques, Strategies, and Algorithms

jaro education
9, July 2023
4:00 pm

Power electronics is a multi-disciplinary study that involves electric motors, semiconductor physics, control systems, electromagnetic devices, and mechanical actuators. It is a part of electrical engineering that involves the processing of currents and high voltages to provide power, thereby supporting various needs. Also known as electric vehicle technology, this mechanism is used to power up various electrical devices.

In one form, the power supply is processed using control mechanisms and semiconductor switches. While the common applications of power electronics are switch-mode, where efficiency, power density and reliability are of prime importance, motor control is honing with more electrification in transportation systems. Simply put, when it comes to power electronics control, efficiency and control are of prime importance.

If you want to have relevant experience in the field of electrical engineering, then apply for the Advanced Programme in Electric Vehicle (EV) Technology Programme offered by CEP, IIT Delhi. It is a 6-month course that helps understand power electronic control comprehensibly. You can register for the programme with Jaro Education to get an in-depth understanding of the subject.

Techniques/ Strategies of Power Electronics Control

An example of power electronics control is a converter. And to alter its output voltage, two methods of control are used. These two methods or techniques are time ratio control and current limit control.

Time Ratio Control

In time ratio control, the constant (k) is known as the duty ratio. There are two ways to achieve time ratio control.

- Constant frequency
- Variable frequency

In the constant frequency control method, the frequency remains constant while T, the ON time, is kept varied. This power electronics control technique is called pulse width modulation.

In the variable frequency control method, the ON time (T) is kept constant while the frequency varies. This power electronics control technique is called frequency modulation control.

Current Limit Control

In a converter (DC to DC), the value of the current varies between the minimum and the maximum levels for continuous voltage. In this method, the chopper is first switched ON and then OFF to check that the current is kept constant between both upper and lower limits. When the current is travelled beyond the maximum levels, the chopper goes OFF. When the switch is at an OFF mode, current flows through the diode and diminishes exponentially. When the current falls below a certain threshold, the chopper is ON again. This technique can be used either when the frequency is kept constant or when the ON time t is constant.

Applications of Power Electronics Control

The strategies of power electronics control lie in its application. Below is an array of power electronics control applications that are in extensive use.

1. Electric Transportation

Power electronics control methods are used in electronic vehicles to handle the charging and removal of the battery, manage the electric motor and regulate the power flow in the vehicle.

2. Power distribution and transmission

It is used to manage voltage levels, increase system efficiency, and avoid power losses in power distribution and transmission systems.

3. Renewable energy integration

Solar panels, wind turbines and other renewable energy sources require power electronics to transform produced electricity into usable AC power that can be incorporated into the power grid.

4. Energy storage

Power electronics control is employed in energy storage devices like batteries and flywheels to manage loading and discharging, ensuring efficient and consistent power conversion.

5. Lightning and control

This mechanism is used in lightning and lightning control systems to adjust voltage levels, manage power supplies and control brightness (of lights).

6. Consumer Electronics

It is used in consumer electronic products like televisions, smartphones and computers to regulate voltage levels and manage power supplies.

7. Medical equipment

Power electronics control is used to optimise system performance, manage power supplies and regulate voltage levels of medical equipment, such as life-supporting systems and therapeutic devices.

8. Industrial drives and control systems

It is used in industrial drives and control systems to regulate power supply, manage the speed and torque of electric motors, and improve the performance of systems.

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Algorithms of Power Electronics Control

Formal verification methods, which allow for a full analysis of the proposed system prior to final implementation, can assist power electronics systems. In general, formal verification methods enable the detection of some discrepancies between the formal model of the system and the customer or user’s needs. As a result, formal techniques, which are strong and mature but previously difficult to employ, may improve the final product’s quality. It is basic knowledge in any sector that the earlier any problems are noticed, the faster they may be rectified and the lower the expenses are.

Formal techniques can be used at an early stage of system development, such as the specification stage. The most valuable formal methods are symbolic model checking and statistical model checking, both of which are currently being applied to a wide range of systems, including production systems, cyber-physical systems, and instrumentation and control systems. Their application in power electronic systems is a research topic that has lately piqued the interest of international research institutions.

Advantages of Power Electronics Control

There are several benefits of power electronics that are discussed below.

1. Compact Design

The devices run by power electronics are lighter and smaller than traditional electrical systems, ensuring more compact and smooth designs in electrical systems.

2. Cost savings

By increasing system efficiency and reducing energy consumption, power electronics can reduce the cost of maintenance and repairs.

3. Versatility

PThis mechanism can be used in a wide range of applications, from renewable energy components to electric vehicles as well as consumer electronics.

4. Energy efficiency

Power electronics increase energy efficiency by converting alternating current to direct current with minimal losses and controlling voltage levels to fit the load’s requirements.

5. High-speed switching

It has high-speed switching, which allows for quick and efficient regulation of the electrical power flow.

6. Improved control

Power electronic control improves control over the flow of electrical power by allowing for exact regulation of power quality standards, current and voltage.

7. Increased safety

Power electronics enhance safety by avoiding electrical risks and protecting electrical components from harm.

8. Increased reliability

It improves dependability by delivering steady and constant power conversion and reducing over-current, over-voltage, and over-temperature damage to electrical components.

What is the future of Power Electronics Control?

Several trends can be expected in the upcoming years as the field of power electronics control is continuously evolving. Here are some of the future developments expected in power electronics control.

1. Smart Grid Technology

Smart grid technology development is projected to play a major role in the future of power electronics. Power elects will be utilised to control power flow and assure stability and dependability, enabling more efficient and effective energy management.

2. AI and Machine Learning

Artificial intelligence and machine learning integration into power electronics are projected to play a key role in the future. This will enable real-time monitoring and control of power electronic systems, resulting in increased efficiency and dependability.

3. Increased Adoption of Renewable Energy

Renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines, are likely to gain popularity in the coming years. Power electronics will be critical in allowing renewable energy to be integrated into the electrical system.

4. Electric Vehicle

The expansion of the electric car sector is likely to increase demand for power electronics significantly. The charging and discharging of electric car batteries will be controlled by power electronics, providing efficient and dependable energy management.

Final Thoughts

The multi-disciplinary study of power electronics control encompasses different techniques, strategies, and algorithms. It is used in a wide range of applications and is expected to have a brighter future with regard to electric vehicles and energy-storage medical equipment.

If electrical engineering is your field of interest, then you can participate in the Advanced Programme in Electric Vehicle (EV) Technology Programme offered by CEP, IIT Delhi. You will be getting a top-tier facility for the course that would help you with real-life case studies. The power electronics control IIT Delhi course will also feature hands-on exercises and assessments and industry-relevant project work, ensuring amplified growth in your career.