Future Power Electronics Engineers Fair

I had the opportunity to attend the Future Power Electronics Engineers Fair at Queen Mary University of London, where I participated in a series of workshops and seminars focusing on the design, simulation, and testing of power electronic systems. Over five weeks, I gained practical experience with DC-DC converters, explored applications of power electronics in renewable energy, transportation, and smart grids, and engaged in discussions with industry experts. This enriching experience enhanced my understanding of power electronics and its role in shaping modern engineering solutions.

Experiment 1: Building a Simple DC-DC Buck Converter

A basic DC-DC buck converter was constructed to step down voltage efficiently. The process involved assembling a circuit with key components such as a switching device, inductor, and capacitor, and implementing pulse-width modulation (PWM) for output control. This experiment provided valuable insights into the operation of buck converters, including the importance of component selection and circuit design for optimal performance and efficiency.

Experiment 2: Testing Buck Converter Performance

The performance of the constructed buck converter was tested using tools like an oscilloscope to measure output voltage stability, ripple, and efficiency under varying load conditions. This hands-on testing highlighted practical challenges, such as voltage ripple and efficiency losses, while offering opportunities to troubleshoot and optimise DC-DC converter designs. 

Experiment 3: Comparison of Buck Converter and Boost Converter

The experiment involved a comparison between buck (step-down) and boost (step-up) converters, focusing on efficiency, output characteristics, and specific applications. Observing their behavior under identical input and load conditions revealed insights into the unique roles of each converter topology and the importance of selecting the right one for various use cases. 

Experiment 4: Electric Vehicle Powertrain Demo using dSPACE

The integration of power electronics into electric vehicle systems was explored using dSPACE tools. A simulated EV powertrain control system was implemented, emphasising real-time power delivery and efficiency management. This experiment demonstrated the interplay between power electronics and control algorithms in modern electric vehicle technologies.

Certification:

Upon completing the workshops and practical sessions, I was awarded a certificate recognising my participation and efforts in the Future Power Electronics Engineers Fair.