Power conversion challenges with a multidisciplinary focus

Power electronics is a key enabling technology in modern power conversion. However, there are rather substantial challenges which limit its more widespread acceptance. The challenges covered in this paper relate to fundamental design paradigms that could be changed via a true multidisciplinary focus. Amongst such major challenges are (1) the need for solid geometric concurrent design methods, (2) the need for enhanced dynamic range consistent with applications, (3) the need for sustained operation in physical limits without shutdown, and (4) the need for integrated sensing methodologies. For each of these challenges, the paper identifies and discusses the salient issues and relates them to promising new multidisciplinary technologies in power electronic systems.