Ultrafast sensors for wide bandgap multi-phase power converters

Tell-irsquo;s goal is to move beyond the conventional protection methods that are not designednbsp;for wide bandgap (WBG)-basednbsp;power electronics converter systems. The state-of-art methods result in non-optimized and over-rated systems where the power density is compromised. Through our deep understanding of high-frequency power circuit components and advanced circuit layout design practices, we propose a novel all-passive, isolated, lossless, non-invasive, single current sensing solution for reliable operation and protection of WBG power electronics converters. Each of these characteristics adds significant benefits. An all-passive sensor requires no active processing or saturable circuitry (and their response time is only limited by how fast electrons can move). Therefore, it can be well suited for detecting fast-changing currents seen during fault conditions. A lossless sensor does not compromise the (conversion) efficiency and thermal management of its system. An isolated sensor simplifies the circuitry should be routed to the main controller.nbsp;A non-invasive sensor does not affect an optimized circuit layout of the converter. Finally, a single-sensor solution is desirable in terms of costs and, more importantly complexity of the system. This SBIR Phase I proposal is to investigate the feasibility of the proposed all-passive single current sensing solution. The proposed sensor isnbsp;applicable fornbsp;isolated and non-isolated DC-DC and DC-AC multi-phase systems.nbsp;