Integrated High-Frequency SiC Based Modular Multi Three-Phase PMSM Drive for Automotive Range Extender

The main issue limiting electric vehicles as viable partial solution to conventional mobility based on fossil fuels is the reduced range between charges. A possible solution is represented by range extender systems (RES), allowing to charge the main battery of the vehicle when needed, using a dedicated and reduced power internal combustion engine (ICE) coupled with an electric machine (EM) acting as a generator. In this paper a novel system architecture is proposed, based on an integrated multi three-phase PMSM, fed by high-frequency converter modules (HFCMs) employing silicon-carbide (SiC) power devices. Magnetic coupling of three-phase modules is managed by a proper decoupling control strategy requiring a real-time communication among modules. Design of the system, including the power and control electronics, and the electric machine, as well as simulation and experimental results are reported to demonstrate the effectiveness of this proposal.