High quality and robust energy conversion systems for distribution networks. This project aims to protect distribution networks by reducing harmonics and electromagnetic Interference generated by modern power electronics equipment. Due to global demand for energy savings and reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, the utilisation of renewable energy sources and efficient loads using power electronics technology in distribution networks is increasing. Aspects of this technology are highly complex ....High quality and robust energy conversion systems for distribution networks. This project aims to protect distribution networks by reducing harmonics and electromagnetic Interference generated by modern power electronics equipment. Due to global demand for energy savings and reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, the utilisation of renewable energy sources and efficient loads using power electronics technology in distribution networks is increasing. Aspects of this technology are highly complex and not well understood and the robustness of existing and future power grids will be affected. The project will minimise risk factors associated with high frequency noise and resonances in low voltage grids both of which are very important for power electronics manufacturers and utility companies in Australia.Read moreRead less
High-speed interior permanent magnet synchronous machines. This project aims to develop a permanent magnet machine for high speed operation (more than 50,000 rpm). A high-speed interior permanent magnet machine will solve some of the complex constructional and sensor-less control issues related to high-speed drive systems. This project will develop permanent magnet machines with simple constructional features, reduced use of costly rare earth materials, inherent sensor-less control capability an ....High-speed interior permanent magnet synchronous machines. This project aims to develop a permanent magnet machine for high speed operation (more than 50,000 rpm). A high-speed interior permanent magnet machine will solve some of the complex constructional and sensor-less control issues related to high-speed drive systems. This project will develop permanent magnet machines with simple constructional features, reduced use of costly rare earth materials, inherent sensor-less control capability and flux-weakening. These machines are expected to be used in many global growth sectors including aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, energy generation and storage.Read moreRead less
An Integrated Starter Alternator for Automobiles using a New Wide Speed Range Interior Permanent Magnet Motor and a Matrix Z-Source Converter. The projected growth of power demand and efficiency of future automobiles calls for a suitable integrated starter-alternator (ISA) to be developed. While interim solutions have been offered, a true ISA is still considered to be more than five years away. Considering the huge worldwide market, an ISA developed in Australia is expected to benefit the large ....An Integrated Starter Alternator for Automobiles using a New Wide Speed Range Interior Permanent Magnet Motor and a Matrix Z-Source Converter. The projected growth of power demand and efficiency of future automobiles calls for a suitable integrated starter-alternator (ISA) to be developed. While interim solutions have been offered, a true ISA is still considered to be more than five years away. Considering the huge worldwide market, an ISA developed in Australia is expected to benefit the large Australian automobile industry significantly. The CIs has strong links with local developers and suppliers of power semiconductors and motors, who have participated in the recent developments already carried out. A proven ISA developed locally should be a boon for these industries.Read moreRead less
A methodology for the control of harmonics due to large distorting loads. The ideal electricity supply has a voltage of prescribed frequencey and value with a sinusoidal waveshape. Modern electronic equipment such as digital commuication equipment and automatic manufacturing lines draw non-sinusoidal currents which distort the voltage waveform. Electricity suppliers are responsible for limiting voltage distoration to levels set by national standards. Techniques have been developed to allow them ....A methodology for the control of harmonics due to large distorting loads. The ideal electricity supply has a voltage of prescribed frequencey and value with a sinusoidal waveshape. Modern electronic equipment such as digital commuication equipment and automatic manufacturing lines draw non-sinusoidal currents which distort the voltage waveform. Electricity suppliers are responsible for limiting voltage distoration to levels set by national standards. Techniques have been developed to allow them to determine the maximum level of current distortion to which a particular customer is entitled. This project will developand verify a method for determining if a particular customer exceeds that entitlement.Read moreRead less
Advanced multivariable nonlinear control methodology for matrix converters. The aim of this project is to explore a specific multivariable nonlinear control design problem. Motivation for the project arises from the control of Matrix Converters. Matrix Converters are considered one of the key enabling technologies for the electric transport of the future. However, their penetration into practice has fallen short of their promise. This is, in part, due to the associated control design problem whi ....Advanced multivariable nonlinear control methodology for matrix converters. The aim of this project is to explore a specific multivariable nonlinear control design problem. Motivation for the project arises from the control of Matrix Converters. Matrix Converters are considered one of the key enabling technologies for the electric transport of the future. However, their penetration into practice has fallen short of their promise. This is, in part, due to the associated control design problem which is extremely difficult involving coupled nonlinear dynamics and under-actuation. We plan to address these problems by using modern control system design methods. Our specific goal is to achieve a provably stable, closed loop control system whose performance is independent of unmeasured disturbances and model errors.Read moreRead less
An optimal electrical drive system for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. This project aims to develop an optimal electrical drive system for a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle with a novel hybrid powertrain architecture governed by a smart energy management strategy, and to train high quality PhD students. The outcomes will provide an innovative clean and efficient transport solution and greatly strengthen the Australian automotive industry.
High Efficient and Reliable Power Converters with Low Electromagnetic Interference Based on an Intelligent Distributed Control System in Train Systems. A large percentage of the old train systems in Australia have old equipment which decreases the efficiency and reliability of the system and they can be replaced by high power smart converters with minimum losses and electromagnetic interference. This project aims to improve the efficiency of train systems by intelligent distributed control syste ....High Efficient and Reliable Power Converters with Low Electromagnetic Interference Based on an Intelligent Distributed Control System in Train Systems. A large percentage of the old train systems in Australia have old equipment which decreases the efficiency and reliability of the system and they can be replaced by high power smart converters with minimum losses and electromagnetic interference. This project aims to improve the efficiency of train systems by intelligent distributed control systems which reduces fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. The outcomes can be applied to other transport systems in Australia. Another benefit is the production of a PhD graduand with significant experience in the use of smart power converters to improve efficiency of all types of transport systems. Read moreRead less
Development of High Frequency and High Power Density Magnetics and its Integrated Magnetic Circuit for Solar Renewable Energy Conversion Systems. The proposed project will result in theoretical and practical contributions to the field of high frequency (HF) magnetics and computational electromagnetics based computer modelling technologies for the power converter used in solar PV systems and high power density converters. The project will provide industry with several novel HF magnetic structures ....Development of High Frequency and High Power Density Magnetics and its Integrated Magnetic Circuit for Solar Renewable Energy Conversion Systems. The proposed project will result in theoretical and practical contributions to the field of high frequency (HF) magnetics and computational electromagnetics based computer modelling technologies for the power converter used in solar PV systems and high power density converters. The project will provide industry with several novel HF magnetic structures and the associated design methodology, and an innovative technology to industry and society with following major benefits: a) increased productivity and minimization of product risk, b) faster project management cycles through the use of cost-effective new design methodology, and c) an improved problem solving environment for scientific research and commercial applications.Read moreRead less
Efficiency maps for electric machines in electric vehicles. This project aims to improve methods for calculating and predicting efficiency maps, which describe how the efficiency of electric machines varies depending on their operating point. It will interpret and model their features, and link the design parameters to the resultant efficiency map. This project will consider machines including synchronous (permanent magnet, reluctance and wound-field) and induction types. Electric machines are n ....Efficiency maps for electric machines in electric vehicles. This project aims to improve methods for calculating and predicting efficiency maps, which describe how the efficiency of electric machines varies depending on their operating point. It will interpret and model their features, and link the design parameters to the resultant efficiency map. This project will consider machines including synchronous (permanent magnet, reluctance and wound-field) and induction types. Electric machines are normally designed for a single operating point, usually at rated torque and speed. The results are expected to improve machine design to give the best performance in typical driving conditions.Read moreRead less
Dynamic model and mechanical sensorless controller for a novel concentrated-winding interior permanent magnet machine for electric vehicles. The fractional-slot, concentrated-wound (FSCW) interior permanent magnet (IPM) machine offers very high power density, efficiency and constant-power speed range which are properties sought after for electric vehicles. Accurate mathematical models are essential for high performance control of the FSCW machine. This project seeks to develop these models, as w ....Dynamic model and mechanical sensorless controller for a novel concentrated-winding interior permanent magnet machine for electric vehicles. The fractional-slot, concentrated-wound (FSCW) interior permanent magnet (IPM) machine offers very high power density, efficiency and constant-power speed range which are properties sought after for electric vehicles. Accurate mathematical models are essential for high performance control of the FSCW machine. This project seeks to develop these models, as well as sensorless controllers for the FSCW IPM machine.Read moreRead less