Electronics

521 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis and Design of a Higher Current ZVS-PWM Converter for Industrial Applications

by Navid Golbon and Gerry Moschopoulos

Electronics 2013, 2(1), 94-112; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics2010094 - 8 Mar 2013

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 7675

A new auxiliary circuit that can be implemented in DC-DC and AC-DC ZVS-PWM converters is proposed in the paper. The circuit is for ZVS-PWM converters used in applications where high-frequency operation is needed and the load current is higher than that of typical ZVS-PWM converters. In the paper, the operation of a new ZVS-PWM converter is described, its steady-state operation is analyzed, and a procedure for its design is derived and then demonstrated. The feasibility of the new converter is confirmed by experimental results obtained from a prototype. Full article

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843 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Far Field Extrapolation from Near Field Interactions and Shielding Influence Investigations Based on a FE-PEEC Coupling Method

by Edith Clavel, Thanh-Son Tran, Jérémie Aimé, Gérard Meunier and James Roudet

Electronics 2013, 2(1), 80-93; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics2010080 - 8 Mar 2013

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 7333

Abstract

Regarding standards, it is well established that common mode currents are the main source of far field emitted by variable frequency drive (VFD)-cable-motor associations. These currents are generated by the combination of floating potentials with stray capacitances between these floating potential tracks and the mechanical parts connected to the earth (the heatsink or cables are usual examples). Nowadays, due to frequency and power increases, the systematic compliance to EMC (ElectroMagnetic Compatibility) becomes increasingly difficult and costly for industrials. As a consequence, there is a well-identified need to investigate practical and low cost solutions to reduce the radiated fields of VFD-cable-motor associations. A well-adapted solution is the shielding of wound components well known as the major source of near magnetic field. However, this solution is not convenient, it is expensive and may not be efficient regarding far field reduction. Optimizing the components placement could be a better and cheaper solution. As a consequence, dedicated tools have to be developed to efficiently investigate not easy comprehendible phenomena and finally to control EMC disturbances using component placement, layout geometry, shielding design if needed. However, none of the modeling methods usually used in industry complies with large frequency range and far field models including magnetic materials, multilayer PCBs, and shielding. The contribution of this paper is to show that alternatives regarding modeling solutions exist and can be used to get in-deep analysis of such complex structures. It is shown in this paper that near field investigations can give information on far field behavior. It is illustrated by an investigation of near field interactions and shielding influence using a FE-PEEC hybrid method. The test case combining a common mode filter with the floating potentials tracks of an inverter is based on an industrial and commercialized VFD. The near field interactions between the common mode inductance and the tracks with floating potentials are revealed. Then, the influence of the common mode inductance shielding is analyzed. Full article

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402 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Design of a Parallel Sampling Encoder for Analog to Information (A2I) Converters: Theory, Architecture and CMOS Implementation

by Thomas S. Murray, Philippe O. Pouliquen and Andreas G. Andreou

Electronics 2013, 2(1), 57-79; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics2010057 - 5 Mar 2013

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 5838

Abstract

We discuss the architecture and design of parallel sampling front ends for analog to information (A2I) converters. As a way of example, we detail the design of a custom 0.5 µm CMOS implementation of a mixed signal parallel sampling encoder architecture. The system consists of configurable parallel analog processing channels, whose output is sampled by traditional analog-to-digital converters (ADCs). The analog front-end modulates the signal of interest with a high-speed digital chipping sequence and integrates the result prior to sampling at a low rate. An FPGA is employed to generate the chipping sequences and process the digitized samples. Full article

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452 KiB

Open AccessTechnical Note

Fault Tree Analysis for Safety/Security Verification in Aviation Software

by Andrew J. Kornecki and Mingye Liu

Electronics 2013, 2(1), 41-56; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics2010041 - 31 Jan 2013

Cited by 39 | Viewed by 15222

Abstract

The Next Generation Air Traffic Management system (NextGen) is a blueprint of the future National Airspace System. Supporting NextGen is a nation-wide Aviation Simulation Network (ASN), which allows integration of a variety of real-time simulations to facilitate development and validation of the NextGen software by simulating a wide range of operational scenarios. The ASN system is an environment, including both simulated and human-in-the-loop real-life components (pilots and air traffic controllers). Real Time Distributed Simulation (RTDS) developed at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, a suite of applications providing low and medium fidelity en-route simulation capabilities, is one of the simulations contributing to the ASN. To support the interconnectivity with the ASN, we designed and implemented a dedicated gateway acting as an intermediary, providing logic for two-way communication and transfer messages between RTDS and ASN and storage for the exchanged data. It has been necessary to develop and analyze safety/security requirements for the gateway software based on analysis of system assets, hazards, threats and attacks related to ultimate real-life future implementation. Due to the nature of the system, the focus was placed on communication security and the related safety of the impacted aircraft in the simulation scenario. To support development of safety/security requirements, a well-established fault tree analysis technique was used. This fault tree model-based analysis, supported by a commercial tool, was a foundation to propose mitigations assuring the gateway system safety and security. Full article

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129 KiB

Open AccessNew Book Received

Handbook of RF, Microwave, and Millimeter-Wave Components. Edited by Leonid A. Belov, Sergey M. Smolskiy and Victor N. Kochemasov, Artech House, 2012; 504 pages. Price: £119.00, ISBN 978-1-60807-209-5

by Shu-Kun Lin

Electronics 2013, 2(1), 35-40; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics2010035 - 14 Jan 2013

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 6266

Abstract

This unique and comprehensive resource offers you a detailed treatment of the operations principles, key parameters, and specific characteristics of active and passive RF, microwave, and millimeter-wave components. The book covers both linear and nonlinear components that are used in a wide range [...] Read more.

3466 KiB

Open AccessReview

Implantable Devices: Issues and Challenges

by Kateryna Bazaka and Mohan V. Jacob

Electronics 2013, 2(1), 1-34; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics2010001 - 21 Dec 2012

Cited by 220 | Viewed by 31551

Abstract

Ageing population and a multitude of neurological and cardiovascular illnesses that cannot be mitigated by medication alone have resulted in a significant growth in the number of patients that require implantable electronic devices. These range from sensors, gastric and cardiac pacemakers, cardioverter defibrillators, to deep brain, nerve, and bone stimulators. Long-term implants present specific engineering challenges, including low energy consumption and stable performance. Resorbable electronics may offer excellent short-term performance without the need for surgical removal. However, most electronic materials have poor bio- and cytocompatibility, resulting in immune reactions and infections. This paper reviews the current situation and highlights challenges for future advancements. Full article

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Electronics, Volume 2, Issue 1 (March 2013) – 6 articles , Pages 1-112

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