ABSTRACT
This chapter proposes a novel power conversion principle to augment the power capability of an Intelligent power modules (IPM) device with a diode rectifier, or reversing the logic, to correct the harmonics of the input current within a diode rectifier by using an IPM device. Using IPM reduces the count of passive components, with advantages in size, weight, efficiency, and reliability. The IPM modules provide better thermal design and an excellent layout, both with effects on the system reliability. Multilevel converters are used for higher voltages in the DC bus and consist of a network of switches able to produce more voltage levels in the output voltage. Given the inherent circuit loss and reliability issues with passive components, engineers have explored power conversion topologies able to alleviate the need for passive components. The thermal performance is presented herein in comparison with the conventional back-to-back solution. Thermal data is considered the same as in the manufacturer’s example for IPM utilization.
