Multi -Phase Modular Active Power Building Block(MAPBB) for Universal Linear Motor Applications

The United States Navy is continuing to expand the utilization of linear electric power in a variety of military applications. Linear synchronous or induction motors can be readily modularized to accommodate the size, weight, power and energy density requirements of a wide range of shipboard systems, including launch of extended range munitions, as well as launch-assist of missiles, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) aircraft and other ordnance. A high-power, solid-state switching based modular topology is used to develop the variable-frequency, high-current and voltage multi phase AC output, which is necessary for the control of the extremely high-speed linear synchronous or induction motors. A Modular Active Power Building Block (MAPBB) is configured through series/parallel circuits to achieve the desired voltages, frequency and currents in a Phase Switch Inverter. To minimize and equalize switching and conducting losses especially around maximum output frequency, a novel technique is used. It provides very low-distortion sinusoidal output currents at any frequency while, at the same time, minimizes and equalizes the thermal losses among the MAPBB units. This architecture"s flexibility provides the linear motor designer with the necessary tools required to optimize the system power supply