Benchmark and Design Multi-functional EV Chargers Using WBG Devices For Magna Internationals
Application
This project is to benchmark SiC/GaN devices based EV three-phase and single-phase chargers. Not only high-efficiency and high-power-density, but also multi-function, e.g., accommodating single-phase, three-phase and wireless charging is expected out of the literature review and paper design.
Research
Prototype converter
The UTK team will simulate and compare different charger topologies/concepts at 3.3kW, 6.6kW, 22kW and an 'all-in-one' that can do all the power levels. Firstly, the project will focus on investigating different charger topologies from literature, market and novel ideas. Thereafter, different topologies will be compared in terms of cost, efficiency, weight, power density, etc. and then few of them will be selected for simulation at 3.3kW, 6.6kW, 22kW and 'all-in-one charger'. Finally, based on simulations, an optimal charger design will be suggested at each power level. The target specs include:
- Power Factor at rated power: > 0.99
- Grid-side Current THD < 5%
- Efficiency estimate: >95%
- Output current ripple: <5%
- Operating temperature range: -20~110oC
- Operating voltage range: 80~260V for single phase, 208~480VAC for three phase
- Output voltage range: 200~500VDC
- Rated charging power: 3.3kW~20kW
- Voltage mode / Current mode: Constant Current & Constant Voltage Charging
- No inrush current
- Cooling method: Water cooling
- Bidirectional power flow: plus
How WBG Can Help
The project anticipates to provide EV companies a compact, light and efficient charger using WBG devices. With WBG shrinking the size of magnetics, it is expected with the same or even smaller enclosure, the ultimate design can realize more functions than conventional Si charger thereby providing Tier-I suppliers a competitive multi-functional charger accommodating various charging standards.
Personnel Involved
Students
- Nick Bianchi
- Daniel Merced Cirino