Chapters authored
Resonant Power Converters
Recently, DC/DC resonant converters have received much research interest as a result of the advancements in their applications. This increase in their industrial application has given rise to more efforts in enhancing the soft-switching, smooth waveforms, high-power density, and high efficiency features of the resonant converters. Their suitability to high frequency usage and capacity to minimize switching losses have endeared them to industrial applications compared to the hard-switching conventional converters. However, studies have continued to suggest improvements in certain areas of these converters, including high-power density, wide load variations, reliability, high efficiency, minimal number of components, and low cost. In this chapter, the resonant power converters (RPCs), their principles, and their classifications based on the DC-DC family of converters are presented. The recent advancements in the constructions, operational principles, advantages, and disadvantages were also reviewed. From the review of different topologies of the resonant DC-DC converters, it has been suggested that more studies are necessary to produce power circuits, which can address the drawbacks of the existing one.
Part of the book: Electric Power Conversion
A Thermoelectric Energy Harvesting System
Thermoelectric generators (TEGs) and their applications have gained momentum for their ability to use waste thermal energy. More contemporary technology must offer more exceptional energy-efficient applications at a lower cost. New technology must also have an ability to generate electric power through the conversion of wasted heat. The TEG has demonstrated its efficiency and how it can offer increased potential by adding an MPPT algorithm to increase the power flow while decreasing the cost of operation. The limitations can be offset by the use of lower cost manufacturing materials and automated systems in the TEG units. It is also important to note the cost per watt found in using a thermoelectric generator is estimated to be $1/W for an installed device. To achieve this goal, the optimum operating point should be monitored by DC to DC converters. The DC to DC converters should also be driven through a generated pulse using an MPPT algorithm.
Part of the book: Renewable Energy