A high-frequency matrix converter built by researchers from the University of Arkansas can simultaneously accept energy from several different sources, including solar panels, and convert it for use in the electrical grid. (Image courtesy of Martin Abegglen, Flickr).
A high-frequency matrix converter built by researchers from the University of Arkansas can simultaneously accept energy from several different sources, including solar panels, and convert it for use in the electrical grid. (Image courtesy of Martin Abegglen, Flickr).
A high-frequency matrix converter built by researchers from the University of Arkansas can simultaneously accept energy from several different sources, including solar panels, and convert it for use in the electrical grid. (Image courtesy of Martin Abegglen, Flickr).
A high-frequency matrix converter built by researchers from the University of Arkansas can simultaneously accept energy from several different sources, including solar panels, and convert it for use in the electrical grid. (Image courtesy of Martin Abegglen, Flickr).
A high-frequency matrix converter built by researchers from the University of Arkansas can simultaneously accept energy from several different sources, including solar panels, and convert it for use in the electrical grid. (Image courtesy of Martin Abegglen, Flickr).

Power Converter Could Improve Delivery of Renewable Energy to the Grid

June 10, 2015
Researchers have invented and patented a device that converts renewable energy from a variety of sources into stable electrical current.

As the energy industry shifts toward renewables, engineers are looking to improve systems that feed energy from solar and wind farms to the electric grid. Researchers at the University of Arkansas have made some progress, inventing a high-frequency matrix converter to simplify the process of turning renewable energy into electricity.

The main feature of the system is the ability to simultaneously accept energy from a variety of sources, including solar panels and wind turbines, and convert it for use in the electrical grid. This sets it apart from current technologies, which are only able to convert electrical input from a single source without sacrificing efficiency.

Because different harvesting methods produce varying levels of direct current, researchers Joseph Carr and Juan Balda invented a system that could consolidate these inputs into a stable alternating current. Using a multiple square-wave-input design, the system converts energy from different sources without the use of specialized transformers.

The system could be used to replace the large transformers currently used in renewable energy networks. Furthermore, it could provide a simplified alternative to the current multiphase system, reducing the costs of development and maintenance. The U.S. Department of Energy pursued and was granted a patent for the technology at the end of March. It is now seeking licensing opportunities for the new power converter.

Sponsored Recommendations

Highly Integrated 20A Digital Power Module for High Current Applications

March 20, 2024
Renesas latest power module delivers the highest efficiency (up to 94% peak) and fast time-to-market solution in an extremely small footprint. The RRM12120 is ideal for space...

Empowering Innovation: Your Power Partner for Tomorrow's Challenges

March 20, 2024
Discover how innovation, quality, and reliability are embedded into every aspect of Renesas' power products.

Article: Meeting the challenges of power conversion in e-bikes

March 18, 2024
Managing electrical noise in a compact and lightweight vehicle is a perpetual obstacle

Power modules provide high-efficiency conversion between 400V and 800V systems for electric vehicles

March 18, 2024
Porsche, Hyundai and GMC all are converting 400 – 800V today in very different ways. Learn more about how power modules stack up to these discrete designs.

Comments

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Electronic Design, create an account today!