Multi-function, Bi-Directional and Compact Power Converters for Aircraft Power System Applications

Electrically-powered subsystems for aircraft offer improved mission-enabling capability with reduced size and weight and increased energy efficiency and reliability. Under a recent program sponsored by the Office of Naval Research (ONR) and NAVAIR, we developed a new breed of compact power converter, a multiple function, bi-directional power converter (MFBC) using integrated bilateral power modules (IBPM). Initial demonstrations show that the proposed converter can perform multiple-functions by using the common core hardware circuits. In addition, MFBC converters have many desirable features, including low-weight, high compactness, one stage conversion with high efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. They have good potential to support multiple applications in variable-frequency power regulation, conditioning and utilization for future more-electrical and all-electrical aircrafts.