Abstract: Power electronics integration represents a key strategy for achieving geometrically efficient component placement, minimizing circuit parasitics and functional volume, and reducing component count to facilitate low manufacturing effort and application complexity. This, in turn, enables disruptive improvements in performance with respect to power density, power conversion efficiency, robustness/reliability, and ultimately, manufacturability and cost.
Beginning with a brief review of the evolution of digital signal processing technology—particularly the introduction of integrated circuits in the 1970s—the talk first categorizes the primary forms of integration across different hierarchical levels, ranging from materials and active/passive components to building blocks, full converters, and finally, heterogeneous systems. Integration is shown to include, for example, the shared use of components, the combination of multiple basic functions into advanced multifunctional components, and the control-oriented coordination of converter stages at the system level.
In addition to its advantages, the talk also addresses challenges arising from high-level, technology-based integration of building blocks and converters. These include the need for new modeling, design, and simulation frameworks capable of capturing the mutual coupling among electromagnetic, thermal, and mechanical domains. Moreover, novel measurement concepts—directly linked to simulation models—are required to assess internal, inaccessible component stresses. Furthermore, technology partnerships between industry and academia are essential to sustain the leading role of universities in power electronics research.
Finally, the discussion turns to the largely uncharted territories in power electronics. A more comprehensive understanding of integration is proposed in the context of future multi-carrier energy systems, with environmental compatibility and circularity highlighted as essential principles for developing integrated power electronics that will serve as a foundation for a modern, sustainable society.
