Use Case 1: Automotive application making use of GaN MBDS enabled topologies

Revolutionizing Power Electronics with Bidirectional Switches

This use case explores next-generation bidirectional blocking switches (BDS), enabling new inverter topologies with drastically reduced switching and conduction losses, combined with significant system simplification. Several demonstrators highlight the potential of this approach, including a bidirectional AC/DC on-board charger (OBC) based on GaN BDS, modular bidirectional DC/DC converters, and a current-source inverter (CSI) for motor drives. Supported by high-bandwidth control electronics and optimized magnetics and EMI filters, these demonstrators target the highest efficiency, compact design, and enhanced power density across automotive and industrial applications.

Use Case 2: Hybrid multi-level automotive Inverters

In this use case next generation automotive inverters with a focus on efficiency, cost optimization, and integration of wide-bandgap technologies (SiC and GaN). This use case aims to push the boundaries of inverter technologies by leveraging wide-bandgap semiconductores, advanced contgrol strategies, and integration of smart electronics. The expected outcomes include higher efficiency, lower CO2 emissions, improved reliability, and cost-effective solutions for futute electric vehicles. Two complementary approaches are pursued:

(a) High-power hybrid multilevel Inverter (SiC and GaN)

(b) Fusion + GaN T-Type Inverter

Use Case 3: Auxiliary Converters for eMobility

Use Case 4: Integrated eDrives for automotive Applications

Use Case 4 focuses on developing fully integrated electric drive systems that combine advanced motor technologies with nex-generation inverter solutions to improve efficiency, reliability, and sustainability.

(a) EESM (Externally Excited Synchronous Motors - with permanent magnets) with integrated inverter

(b) High-power integrated in-wheel mother and inverter system with smart cooling system

Use Case 5: Assessment of future GaN Technologies in multi-level Inverters by multi-physics multi-scale Simulation

UC5 will develop models of this 3-level inverter embedding:

- Bidirectional GaN components

- SmartGaN

- Vertical GaN

Ultimately, the digital twin will be used to optimize the sizing of each GaN 3-level inverter variant, considering component performance, mission profiles, thermal behavior and durability through multidimensional design-space exploration, to quantify the advantages of GaN compared to the state of the art with SiC devices.

Use Case 6: Converters for the maritime Domain

The maritime industry is embarking on a transformative journey with the electrification of ships. This shift is driven by the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the environmental impact of traditional shipping methods. Ships transport about 80% of the world’s commodities. However, conventional ship drive systems, primarily powered by heavy diesel oil, produce a significant amount of exhaust gases. Electrification of ships offers a sustainable alternative. Ships with electric or hybrid drive systems can significantly reduce emissions and energy consumption. Moreover, advancements in battery technology are making electrified vessels more cost-effective and appealing to owners. Additionally, electrified on-shore power and high-power charging solutions are rising.

In conclusion, the electrification of ships and related equipment represent a promising pathway towards a sustainable and environmentally friendly maritime industry. As technology advances and regulatory pressure intensifies, we can expect this trend to persist and shape the future of shipping. To support this trend and accelerate innovation, four different solutions are investigated:

(a) Integrated eDrive (inverter + eMotor),

(b) high power charging unit for ships

(c) 3 kV DC source with galvanic isolation, and

(d) Solid-state circuit breakers for DC grids on ships.