PROjECT PARTNERS
Eindhoven University of Technology
Public university for higher education with main objective to develop knowledge and technology and to educate researchers. TU/e belongs to the top 1% in global rankings for co-publishing and cooperating with industry. The university is firmly rooted in Brainport region Eindhoven, one of the smartest regions in the world, with a powerful presence of high-tech companies such as ASML, Philips, NXP and DAF PACCAR, being a crucial engine behind innovation in this ecosystem.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
The section “Electromechanics and Power Electronics” (EPE) is part of the Department of Electrical Engineering of TU Eindhoven, with as mission to conduct fundamental research in the broad area of Electromechanics and Power Electronics, with emphasis on modelling, analysis, design trajectories and multi-objective optimization of energy conversion systems. Power Electronics related research within TU/e-EPE is mainly focused on multi-port converter systems with added functionality and improved power quality for high-precision applications and for the interface, power management, and grid connection of decentralized energy generation and storage. A steady increase over the last decades in the power rating of WBG semiconductors has opened the door for using more power electronics in electric power system applications. Therefore, new opportunities are rising for industrial companies to develop innovative power electronics-based products for the electric grid infrastructure. We strive to use the control possibilities allowed by fast switching devices to improve the integration, reliability, and power quality of the power processing converter systems.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
TU/e will be involved in the use-cases UC2a, UC4 and UC6a. The use of WBG materials such as SiC enables high switching frequencies and steep rising edges (dv/dt), as well as high voltages. These characteristics enhance the efficiency of switching power supplies. However, a steep dv/dt increases the challenge to meet electromagnetic interference (EMI) compliance, and potentially brings over-voltages and insulation problems in drivetrains. In UC2a we will develop a fast fault-detection and identification strategy for WBG-based converters together with a reconfigurable fail-tolerant control of the multi-phase motors in the Powertrain. Based on the overall objectives of higher integration, efficiency, and reliability, our goal in UC4 and UC6a is to develop techniques for smoothing the switching flanks of the power processing converters, instead of using conventional voluminous and lossy dv/dt filters. Compared to a conventional hard-switched converter with dv/dt limiting filters, it is expected that the fast-charging system with controlled voltage edges will achieve a quite large reduction in inductor volume, filter weight and in overall power loss.
CONTACT
Eindhoven University of Technology
De Zaale, 19
5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
NEDERLANDSE ORGANISATIE VOOR TOEGEPAST NATUURWETENSCHAPPELIJK ONDERZOEK
TNO (Nederlandse Organisatie voor toegepast-natuurwetenschappelijk Onderzoek) is one of the major contract research organisations in Europe. TNO functions as an intermediary between basic research organisations and industry. By translating scientific knowledge into practical applications, TNO contributes to the innovation capacity of businesses and government. TNO is involved in many international projects (about 30% of the market turnover), including EU-funded collaborations.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
TNO is an independent research organisation. We believe in the joint creation of economic and social value. We focus on transitions or changes in nine social themes:
• Buildings, Infrastructure & Maritime : 'Robust constructions, sustainable use'
• The Circular Economy and the Environment: 'Directing and accelerating sustainability'
• Defence, Safety and Security: ‘We’re putting our knowledge and technology to work for safety and security’
• Energy: ‘Faster towards a sustainable energy supply'
• Healthy living: ‘Focussing on participation, not on the disease’
• Industry: ‘Innovating for employment, welfare and well-being’
• Information & Communication Technology: 'Interpreting and accelerating digital transformation'
• Strategic Analysis & Policy: 'Turning complex issues into concrete innovations'
• Traffic and Transport: 'Helping to create liveable, sustainable cities'
• Innovation with purpose is what TNO stands for. We develop knowledge not for its own sake, but for practical application
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
Within the Semicon roadmap of TNO focus is put on “System lifetime, productivity and conditioning”. Readily identified markets for the subtopic “Microfluidics for high performance thermal management” are telecom (e.g., 5G) and automotive (e.g., Chip cooling, Battery cooling and WHR). Within the Thermo-Fluidic Engineering team detailed engineering models on microfluidic flow boiling exist and provisory experimental setups are
available. Together with the available microfluidic phase-change background knowledge, these serve as a basis to be extended to project dedicated items. MicroFluidic 2 Phase Cooling R&D performed in this project is based on current and future industry use case challenges of which the owners are partners in this project. This will ensure full awareness and alignment of the partners regarding the results and validation of the performed MicroFluidic 2
Phase Cooling R&D. This alignment is the starting point for post project discussions on exploitation of the developed TNO cooling technology. TNO envisions license agreements with interested partners to bring the technology to market and make a high impact on the efficiency of Electrical Vehicles and thus the environment.
The Powertrains department of TNO will perform research to extend the functionality of EV chargers, as achieved by the higher switching frequency of WBG power modules. The research will be extended by developing algorithms on the vehicle side and a proof-of-concept algorithm demonstration with a WBG power module converter in a lab setting. The Powertrains department of TNO is moving towards the upgrade of its Powertrain Testing Center (PTC) towards an Innovation Centre for Sustainable Powertrains (ICSP). Among the desired upgrades, new testing infrastructure will be included for other energy sources such as Hydrogen and electricity. The developments made within HiEFFICIENT will add to the testing capabilities of electricity-based energy sources.
CONTACT
NEDERLANDSE ORGANISATIE VOOR TOEGEPAST NATUURWETENSCHAPPELIJK ONDERZOEK
Anna van Buerenplein 1
2595 DA, The Hague, the Netherlands
Mercedes-Benz AG
Mercedes-Benz AG is one of the largest manufacturers of premium passenger cars. In 2018, it sold more than 2.3 million cars and over 420,000 vans. In its two business divisions, Mercedes-Benz AG is continually expanding its worldwide production network with over 40 production sites on four continents, while aligning itself to meet the requirements of electric mobility.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
Mercedes-Benz AG is responsible for the global business of Mercedes-Benz Cars and Mercedes-Benz Vans with 175,000 employees worldwide. The company focuses on the development, production and sales of passenger cars, vans and services. Furthermore, the company aspires to be leading in the fields of connectivity, autonomous driving and alternative drives with its forward-looking innovations. The product portfolio comprises the Mercedes-Benz brand with the sub-brands Mercedes-AMG, Mercedes-Maybach and Mercedes me – as well as the smart brand, and the EQ product and technology brand for electric mobility.
Under the heading “Ambition 2039”, Mercedes-Benz Cars has set itself ambitious yet realistic goals. As part of this, the automotive manufacturer is examining the issue of sustainability along the entire value chain. The goal is the transformation of the full range of passenger cars into a carbon-neutral product range as of 2039. This includes topics such as raw materials and the supply chain, the production of the vehicles, their use phase and recycling concepts. Vehicles from Mercedes-Benz Cars are scrutinised in a comprehensive life-cycle assessment, the so-called 360-degree environmental check: from manufacture of the raw materials to production and from vehicle operation to recycling at the end of the vehicle’s service life.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
As OEM, MBAG will bring in experience and specification competence, concerning hardware and software. It will also be able to evaluate the project results from application point of view.
Mercedes-Benz power electronics advanced engineering has gained substantial experience in specifying and prototyping inverters, in testing from device level to powertrain level, and in simulation of efficiency.
CONTACT
Mercedes-Benz AG
Mercedesstr. 120
D-70372 Stuttgart, Germany
AVL List GmbH
AVL is the world’s largest independent company for development, simulation and testing in the automotive industry, and in other sectors. As a global technology leader, AVL provides concepts, solutions and methodologies in the fields of e-mobility, ADAS and autonomous driving, vehicle integration, digitalization, virtualization, Big Data, and much more.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
AVL List GmbH (“AVL”) is the world’s largest independent company for development, simulation and testing in the automotive industry, and in other sectors. Drawing on its pioneering spirit, the company provides concepts, solutions and methodologies to shape future mobility trends.
As a major contributor to e-mobility, AVL drives innovative and affordable systems to effectively reduce CO2 by applying a multi-energy carrier strategy for all applications – from hybrid to battery electric and fuel cell technologies.
AVL constantly evolves its ecosystem of high-end methodologies and innovative technologies in the area of vehicle development and testing which provides real world solutions to support customers’ future mobility ambitions. From the ideation phase to serial production, the company covers future vehicle architectures and platform solutions including the impact of new propulsion systems and energy carriers.
By digitizing the vehicle development with state-of-the-art and highly scalable IT, software and technology platforms, AVL creates new customer solutions in the areas of Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, simulation and embedded systems. In the field of ADAS and autonomous driving, AVL has built comprehensive competences to accelerate the vision of smart and connected mobility.
AVL’s passion is innovation. Together with an international network of experts that extends over 26 countries and with 45 Tech- and Engineering Centers worldwide, AVL drives sustainable mobility trends for a greener future. In 2020, the company generated a turnover of 1.7 billion Euros, of which 12% are invested in R&D activities.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
Besides being the coordinator of the HiEFFICIENT project, AVL’s focus lies on the development of the next generation of power electronics for its electrified vehicle testing systems (Use Case 1 leader). Thereby latest power electronic technologies will be investigated to build the most dynamic and compact solutions. To increase customer satisfaction and system downtimes, methodologies and techniques for higher reliability of these testing solutions will be developed additionally.
CONTACT
AVL List GmbH
Hans-List-Platz 1
8020 Graz, Austria
TDK Electronics AG
TDK Electronics (previously EPCOS) develops, manufactures and markets electronic components and systems under the product brands of TDK and EPCOS, focusing on fast-growing leading-edge technology markets, which include automotive electronics, industrial electronics and consumer electronics as well as information and communications technology. Thanks to the 23,600 employees at some 20 design and production locations and an extensive sales network, the company is globally positions – beyond the provision of standard products – to work closely with customers and create the right solutions for them.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
The EMC laboratory of TDK Electronics AG is part of the horizontally organized development and application department of the Magnetics Business Group. Here the business is conducted with inductors, transformers and combines passive components such as EMC filters, needed for power electronics in automotive and also in infrastructure or industrial applications. Inductors and other passive components are key components for power electronics integration and proper operation of fast switching energy-saving semiconductor technologies. Our application work in EMC helps us to understand the needs of new technologies concerning inductive components and support therefore our product development with essential information.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
TDK Electronics will support in EMC testing and validation, doing EMC conducted and radiated EMC measurements and help to improve performance. We contribute with our knowledge of passive components and provide magnetic component samples. TDK is involved in Use-Cases 2, 3 and 5.
CONTACT
TDK Electronics AG
Street: Wernerwerkstraße 2
Postal Code, City, Country: 93049 Regensburg, Germany
Lightyear were founded in 2016, by a handful of ambitious Dutch engineers. 5 years later, we grew into an international team, whose mission is to bring clean mobility to everyone, everywhere. Our first vehicle, Lightyear One, is an electric-driven solar car. Its secret lies in the bumper-to-bumper integrated solar panels, which, combined with a regular outlet charging, showcases the major advantages of driving this vehicle: independence and sustainability.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
Lightyear is developing long-range solar electric vehicles based on a holistic design philosophy. Efficiency is at the heart of everything we do: our proprietary technology, embedded in the core components including the powertrain, thermal management system and solar roof, is optimised to that one end. Our innovations in hardware are mirrored by the efficiency of our software, which translates into a convenient user experience based on our own developed software architecture and user interface.
Working on our mission is a balanced team of over 200 dedicated people (25 nationalities) with both seasoned professionals and young, talented, high performing innovators. Innovation is part of Lightyear's DNA. We are located at the Automotive Campus in Helmond - part of the Brainport region of the Netherlands: the heart of European innovation.
For the development, production, assembly and testing of our products we work together with highly specialised and leading partners from the automotive industry. Lightyear is setting up its own network for the delivery and service of vehicles and works with different commercial partners in order to make sure our customers can share or lease a Lightyear vehicle everywhere.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION:
Lightyear will provide vehicle level verification and validation of multiple use cases. Lightyear will also contribute from its deep knowledge on the integration of solar panels into electric vehicles. Lightyear is already integrating the current state of the art into its first product, Lightyear One. The next generation solar electronics developed in this project will be further enhanced and integrated into Lightyear’s future solar electric vehicles.
In the HiEFFICIENT project, Lightyear is a leader of use case 6a (GaN automotive DC/DC converters) and a partner in use case 2a (multidrive e-powertrain) and use case 5a (smart GaN on-board charger).
CONTACT
Lightyear
Automotive Campus 70
5708 JZ, Helmond, the Netherlands
Heliox
Heliox is a globally operating company based in the Netherlands, leading in innovative high-powered charging systems for electric transport. Heliox designs, manufactures, installs and provides service & maintenance on large-scale high-power DC charging infrastructures on a turnkey base. Heliox has all the capabilities on board to operate successfully in a business to business environment focusing mainly on Europe and North American regions, but also active in Middle and South America and New Zealand.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
Heliox is a company specialized in switch mode power technology. With worldwide presence Heliox develops, manufactures and delivers products and solutions for a broad range of markets, mainly focusing on high power DC charging infrastructure. Heliox designs, manufactures, installs and provides service & maintenance on large-scale high-power DC charging infrastructures on a turnkey base. The core business of the company is the development, production and sales of high performance power converters, for and to its customers. Its ambition is to design, manufacture and deliver products in close cooperation with its customers. The knowledge, experience and the continuous investment in R&D has resulted in a strong growing and profitable position in the high-end and professional power conversion segment.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
Heliox will contribute to HiEFFICIENT from its strong system wise and practical experience in bringing new technologies in a short time to the EV fast charging market. Heliox is complementary to the other consortium partners in its broad experience and knowhow based on the its products and applications in the area of EV fast charging and the related practical expertise. Heliox is continuously implementing innovative fast charging infrastructure in the market at an accelerating pace. Next to that experienced R&D capability focused on enabling this is in place, thus creating a strong environment for exploitation. More specific Heliox will contribute to Use Case 4 on fast charging infrastructure for Electric Vehicles. Next to that Heliox will lead this Use Case.
CONTACT
Heliox
De Waal 24
5684PH, Best, The Netherlands
Flexible and Green Mechatronics Solutions S.r.l. (FLAG-MS S.r.l.)
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
FLAG-MS is a company skilled in design and realization of mechatronic systems for industrial and automotive fields.
The company background comes from a long collaboration of FLAG-MS staff with Mechatronics Laboratory of Politecnico di Torino (since 2005). Flexibility and readiness characterize FLAG-MS that is able to provide the customer with specialized consulting in mechatronic field, customized solutions and off-the-shelf products for industrial plant control/monitoring, design and development of hybrid/electric powertrains.
FLAG-MS is a company skilled in design and realization of mechatronic systems for industrial and automotive fields.
In the automotive field FLAG-MS focuses the efforts on the hybrid/electric powertrain whose development and spread are sharply increasing in the last years.
In the electric powertrain FLAG-MS works on electronic control unit development for the electric motors, electric motor control strategies, inverter, battery management system, battery module/pack design and construction.
In the industrial field FLAG-MS offers an HW/SW integrated solution devoted to:
• industrial plant monitoring in agreement with “Industry 4.0”
• industrial plant/test bench high performance control
FLAG-MS HW/SW solutions can be installed in a plant as an independent device of the overall system or as an add-on component able to communicate with the other components of the plant by means of industrial communication protocols.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
In HiEFFICIENT FLAG-MS is the leader of sub–Use Case 5c, focused on designing and developing an On-Board Charger (OBC) for High Voltage batteries (350V-450V) integrated with a DC-to-DC converter for the Low Voltage battery (12V) of full electric and plug in hybrid vehicles.
FLAG-MS collaborates with the other partners of the Use Case in all the phases of the project, from the requirements to the specifications of the OBC+DC/DC, the design and simulation (including the creation of a digital twin of the system), the implementation and tests of the demonstrator.
CONTACT
FLAG-MS S.r.l.
Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava / Institute of Electronics and Photonics
The Institute of Electronics and Photonics of the Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava is active in microelectronics, nanotechnology, IC and Smart system design and test, wireless communication, optoelectronics, sensors, power electronics, and organic electronics.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava (STUBA) is attended by almost 18000 students and belongs to the leading universities in microelectronics education and R&D activities in the New Member States of EU. STU strives to be an internationally recognized, research-oriented technical university. It seeks to provide a high quality internationally comparable education in the promising (key technologies) fields, based on independent and critical thinking, entrepreneurship and creativity, with a view to practical application and success in life. The university aims to contribute to the economic and social development of the region.
In 2012 STU received the ECTS Label – the most prestigious European certificate awarded in the sphere of tertiary education.
The Institute of Electronics and Photonics of STUBA is active in a field of microelectronics, photonics and sensorics. Its membership in EUROPRACTICE provides access to advanced TCAD modelling and simulation as well as IC design tools. Structure and device characterization and failure analysis either by electrical or analytical and microscopical tools is another strong field of institute activities.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
STUBA will take part in characterization and analysis of new substrate materials and heterogeneous GaN buffer structures by advanced electrical, analytical and optical methods. Will study breakdown mechanisms in GaN devices, also with the aid of electroluminescence. It will contribute to the study of failure mechanisms of GaN power devices. 2D and 3D electro-thermal simulation of complex structures and experimental analysis of devices to be tested will be another contribution. Further STUBA will prepare and realize a dissemination plan for effective dissemination of obtained results within the consortia, wide scientific community and public society.
CONTACT
STU
Vazovova 5,
81243 Bratislava, Slovakia
Powerdale NV
POWERDALE is pursuing the development of innovative solutions (Hard- and Software) around energy management and electric mobility, including billing processes, integrating local solar generation into the charging process and intelligent management of the charging process.
We manufacture a series of charging stations and smart cables to load electric vehicles. Next to this, we have developed a software platform to support a whole set of business processes from driver, to mobility manager and fleet companies.
We have a similar approach for energy management, where we can collect via different channels consumption data from sensors and meters and present them on a Taylor made web interface. Both businesses are integrated in order to offer smart charging solutions for mini and micro grids.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
The company, established in 2003, has grown over the years from an innovation partner to an important actor in the field of Energy Management and Electro Mobility.
Innovation is in the DNA of the company. An experienced team of hardware and software developers accompanied by business experts have put together a market offering to is an answer to the challenges of the electrification of mobility. Smart charging processes allow to load electric vehicles taking into account the expectations of the drivers and the capability of the site and/or the grid.
Energy management solutions cover Energy Management Systems in general as well as specific functions for Closed Distribution Systems.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
The role of Powerdale within this project is to develop the methodologies needed to support the design, verification and validation of both on-board and off-board charging stations based on GaN and SiC technology respectively.
Key Contribution:
- Development of a high-level charging management system and communication interfaces that are needed for high-power off-board DC charger.
- Design and manufacturing a low power on-board charger based on GaN technology.
- Integration, verification, validation, Test, and evaluation the optimized design of EV charger.
CONTACT
Powerdale
Rue des Pères Blancs, 4
1040 Brussels Belgium
Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB)- MOBI
The Mobility, Logistics and Automotive Technology Research Centre (MOBI, VUB) is leader in sustainable mobility and logistics. It develops electric and hybrid vehicles technologies and evaluates new concepts in mobility and logistics on their sustainability. MOBI aims at a better and safer mobility of people and goods, to reduce congestion and environmental impacts in urban and inter-urban areas, and to improve operational efficiency.
With a multidisciplinary team of 150+ specialists, it gathers expertise in engineering, economic, social, political and environmental sciences enabling the holistic approach needed in smart cities projects.
MOBI provides sound advice to policy makers and concrete solutions to the industry. The participation to an increased number of projects oriented toward business results allows the team to develop innovative business models for sustainable mobility projects that ensure their long-term viability. Its track records over the past 5 years include 21 major European projects, 59 direct contracts with the industry, and 61 projects funded by national organizations.
MOBI’s key assets are the Efficient Power Electronics Powertrain and Energy Solutions (EPOWERS), Battery Innovation Centre (BIC), Electric and Autonomous Vehicles, Sustainable Logistics and Urban Mobility.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
The Mobility, Logistics and Automotive Technology Research Centre (MOBI) is nested at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) and is a leader in electro-mobility, sustainable mobility and logistics research. It develops electric and hybrid vehicles technologies and evaluates new concepts in mobility and logistics on their sustainability. MOBI aims at a better and safer mobility of people and goods, to reduce congestion and environmental impacts in urban and inter-urban areas, and to improve operational efficiency. EPOWERS Research Group of VUB-MOBI Research Centre is a renowned research group in the field of power electronics, powertrains and energy systems with the vision to create a sustainable, emission-free, affordable, efficient and innovative technologies enabling tomorrow's smart mobility, transport and energy solutions for everyone in the world.
Our mission as EPOWERS Research Group is to offer and deliver cutting-edge research, provide top-notch designs and developments on power electronics, powertrains and smart green energy solutions with intelligent control systems for tomorrow's mobility, transport and smart green grid applications, In the last 5 years, the research group participated in 18 EU projects and 49 projects funded by industry and national organizations. EPOWERS is also a very active Core Lab (MOBI Core Lab) within Flanders Make driving innovation and technologies. At MOBI-EPOWERS, we conduct top-notch research and offer reliable standard industrial tests for companies, with ever-growing number of more than 20 dedicated and modularized test rigs in 4 dedicated labs and our skilled staff. The Power Electronics Innovation Lab (PEIL) accommodates cutting-edge tests and validations of automotive and stationary power electronics modules, converters, electrical machines and energy management systems and battery packs via high accuracy measurement methods. The Joint Smart Charging Lab (JSCL) is for testing on- and off-board charging systems and electric vehicles. For this, we employ our vehicle (charging) test rigs, vehicle and charging emulators and all standardized communication protocols. Our bidirectional testers are dedicated for various standard tests for grid-to-vehicle (G2V) and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) operations. Moreover, our Power Electronics Reliability Lab (PERL) offers wide range of device characterization, accelerated lifetime, EMC and mission-profile oriented reliability tests for assessments of various power electronics converters & components on the electrical/ electronics (E/E) products up to 1200A, also including power semiconductor switches (i.e., Si, SiC and GaN), diodes, heatsinks, gate drivers, controllers, and battery management systems.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
VUB-MOBI leads WP3 on design optimization for reliable power electronic systems and virtual prototyping. In this WP, it will be in charge of the development of co-design optimization framework and accurate multi-physics models of system components for the different defined applications and use-cases. Besides, it will contribute in UC1, UC2a, UC3, UC4, UC5a, UC5b and UC5c. In UC1, VUB-MOBI will contribute in the digital twin for predictive maintenance algorithms. In UC2a,VUB-MOBI will contribute in the thermal design optimization. For UC4, it will contributein the control design and realization. In UC5, it will contribute in the design and control of the OBC and DCDC that could be used and demonstrated in UC6 as well.
VUB-MOBI is the main powertrain expertise centre in Belgium. Thus, its expertise in the field of power electronics and in particular for the next generation WBG will be of high importance. Then, VUB-MOBI will provide the required expertise in the field of modelling (switching topologies, strategies, thermal management, system simulation and predective health maintaince) and testing in its state-of-the-art facilities.
CONTACT
Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB)- MOBI
Pleinlaan 2
1050 Brussels, Belgium
AVL SET GmbH
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
AVL SET is focused on the testing of power electronics
across the entire life cycle of power electronic components. Our testing
methods, test devices and test systems accompany these components from their
development to their manufacture and repair. In doing so, AVL SET breaks new
ground to make the test procedures as efficient and insightful as possible. The
technology originates entirely from within our own company and has permanently
established itself on the market.
The focus of our business field lies on the automotive, aerospace, industrial and marine sectors, whereby e-mobility, due to the agile development in this sector, is the subject of our particular attention. Our passion is to use the most modern testing technology possible to make electric powertrains cheaper and more reliable, and to increase the range of electric vehicles. OEMs, tier 1s and tier 2s are able to profit from AVL SET’s products and services.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
Having all the expertise in house that is required for
an attractive test solution including all technological sub-disciplines
involved in the field of testing power electronics makes us fast and flexible.
This is also how we are able to ensure perfectly aligned solutions. Highly
qualified teams, agile working methods, excellent project management,
international project execution and a holistic approach to application support
result in us being very much appreciated by our clients all over the world. We
are the recognised experts in the area “Test Systems for Power Electronics”,
from understanding of the methodology up to global project execution and
reliable service.
AVL SET contributes with a power component tester and PE lifetime testing methodology in WP 1, 3 and 5.
CONTACT
AVL SET GmbH
Franz-Joseph-Spiegler-Straße 5
88239 Wangen Germany
AT&S Austria Technologie & Systemtechnik AG
AT&S is a leading manufacturer of high-end printed circuit boards and IC substrates. AT&S industrializes leading-edge technologies for its core business segments Mobile Devices & Substrates, Automotive, Industrial and Medical. AT&S has a global presence with production sites in Austria (Leoben, Fehring) and plants in India (Nanjangud), China (Shanghai, Chongqing) and Korea (Ansan near Seoul). The company employs about 12,000 people.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
AT&S is one of the leading manufacturers of high-quality printed circuit boards and IC substrates. The company industrializes cutting-edge technologies for its core business areas Mobile Devices & Substrates, Automotive, Industrial and Medical.
With the advancing digitalization, ever-larger amounts of data have to be stored and processed at ever-higher speeds; in addition components such as processors and microchips are becoming ever smaller and finer. For these semiconductors to communicate with one another and for applications such as automation, virtual reality, or robotics to work, revolutionary interconnection technologies, developed by AT&S, are required.
AT&S reacted early on to the trend towards miniaturization in microelectronics and found ways to connect these chips, microprocessors, and sensors in such a way that they can communicate with one another. Thus, the company was able to achieve a significant competitive advantage, which was also reflected in the corresponding market growth.
By combining the core business with new technologies and entering another level of the value chain, AT&S is developing into a provider of high-quality interconnection solutions and is thus positioning itself for sustainable growth and future market opportunities. By developing innovative solutions, the company acts as a pioneer for future technologies such as 5G networks, IoT, autonomous driving, or artificial intelligence.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
AT&S contributes with the development of suitable embedding concepts, which include selection of efficient material, interconnect optimization and thermal considerations for packaging of discrete wide band gab devices (SiC and GaN) as well as a novel SoC with integrated GaN-half bridge and drivers. By use of embedding technology concepts, an improvement of efficiency, power density and lifetime will be demonstrated in 4 different use cases.
In WP2, the focus is on development to integrate a SoC including a GaN-half bridge with drivers on Poly-AlN into PCB material to realize a scalable package and module concept, which is going to be implemented in the demonstrator in UC2b - Highly integrated e-powertrain – as well as in UC5a - Smart OBC.
Furthermore AT&S pursues in WP5 the development of embedding technology concepts for prototyping power modules with integrated system of SiC devices providing very low thermal resistance and excellent electrical insolation properties, which to be demonstrated in UC1 - Electrification test systems. Finally AT&S exercises the development of embedding technology modifications to enable efficient concepts of GaN bare dies integration into a PCB-laminate construction realizing the electrical and thermal requirements specified for UC3 - High Power 48 V DC/AC Inverter.
CONTACT
AT&S Austria Technologie & Systemtechnik AG
Fabriksgasse 13
8700 Leoben , Austria
Valeo Systèmes De Contrôle Moteur
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
Today, Valeo have already demand from OEM’s on Powertrain low voltage (48 V) able to provide Integrated & Compact DCDC/OBC 48 V using the potentiality of Wide Bandgap Semiconductors (WBG), addressing higher temperatures and commutation flexibility at low voltage as GaN (Gallium Nitride) in China and in Europe.
The GaN technology exists through a large number of industrials founders, but the technology is young and not yet satisfied for the automotive field. Thanks to the HiEFFICIENT project and its consortium, Valeo will benefit from the results of the project, in order to be ready and more competitive, putting on the market more robust, proven solutions having undergone extensive validations using GaN technology.
Valeo will use the results of this project to develop the next generation of eMachine and sell the products to Word-Wide OEM’s. Via HiEFFICIENT project and the partner I-FEVs, Valeo will have the opportunity to go further by showing a new efficient and compact demonstrator DCDC/OBC 48 V.
CONTACT
14 Av. des Beguines,
95800 Cergy,
France
Infineon Technologies Austria AG
Headquartered in Villach, Infineon Technologies Austria AG is Infineon’s globally leading competence unit for power semiconductors. The company consolidates expertise in research and development, production, and global responsibility for business performance.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
Infineon Technologies Austria AG (IFAT) is a 100% subsidiary of the worldwide operating semiconductor producer Infineon Technologies AG and was founded in April 1999. IFAT develops and manufactures semiconductor- and system solutions for all business areas. In Austria, about 1,960 of 4,517 (09/2020) employees are working in the field of Research and Development. Hence, IFAT has the largest R&D unit for microelectronics in Austria. This requires a high level of comprehensive technology know-how in modelling, design and fabrication as well as in the field of security.
In the year 2020 expenses of IFAT in the field of Research & Development were ~498 million Euros, which corresponds to around 16% of the business volume of 3,108.7 million Euros.
In its worldwide 54 research and development locations, 21 manufacturing locations and sales offices, Infineon designs, develops, manufactures and markets a broad range of semiconductors and system solutions. The focus of its activities is on automotive, industrial power control, power & sensor systems and connected secure systems.
Combining entrepreneurial success with responsible action, at Infineon we make the world easier, safer and greener. Barely visible, semiconductors have become an indispensable part of our daily lives. Infineon’s components play an essential role wherever electric energy is generated, transmitted and used efficiently. Furthermore, they safeguard data communication, improve safety on roads and reduce automotive emissions.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
Infineon Technologies Austria AG is the leader of WP2 “GaN SoC and SiP integration and embedded technologies” that pursues the overall target of providing novel integrated GaN components for reliable benchmark efficiency
and power density. In its role as project partner and by using the pilot line established in the ECSEL project PowerBase and the knowledge gained in HiPERFORM, Infineon Austria will perform R&D work on a 100V GaN technology as well as a 100V switch and driver in a System-in-Package configuration and contribute with a research demonstrator of this device to Use Case 6 – GaN automotive DC/DC converter.
CONTACT
Infineon Technologies Austria AG
Siemensstraße 2
9500 Villach, Austria
Ideas & Motion S.r.l.
Ideas & Motion S.r.l. (I&M), Cherasco (CN) nearby Turin – Italy, offers high-tech solutions in the field of automotive applications. I&M has a well-recognized position of excellence on some key areas, stemming from more than 100 years of combined experience on innovative projects and related automotive products.
Its biggest technological background is in the design of silicon integrated circuits for the control of electro-actuators, and its integration in automotive powertrain applications.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
I&M’s core business is to provide engineering services (both HW and SW) to OEM and Tier1 companies in the automotive industry, while also being active as a supplier of Electronic Control Units in niche applications with low volumes and high technological contents.
The company focuses its efforts on some very clear goals:
- priority on R&D, with particular respect to the protection and exploitation of IP
- innovation transfer into products with a high technological content and limited production lots
- "fabless" organization featuring the unique access to technologies and test facilities to support the development of advanced automotive systems through its local industrial partner (e.g. MTM S.r.l.)
Main priority on 3 application areas, as a solid basis for the subsequent expansion on other domains:
- design of integrated circuits and IPs on silicon (e.g. ASIC, ASSP)
- design, development and manufacture of automotive control systems (high-tech for niche applications)
architecture exploration, design, development and manufacture of innovative control systems in the field of electro-mobility
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
I&M will be involved in the HW/SW design, development and realisation of the dual inverter. In order to do so I&M will be active part of the analysis of the requirements and will provide support for the integration of the dual inverter into the proposed vehicle demonstrator (e.g. JAC compact SUV IEV6S). The physical realization of the dual inverter will be accomplished in the modern assembly line available at I&M; it will cover also the testing, in the lab, and validation on the automotive demonstrator (ref. Use-Case 4).
CONTACT
VIA SANTA MARGHERITA 8
12051 Alba, Italy
IMEC - Interuniversitair Micro-Electronica Centrum
IMEC is the world-leading R&D and innovation hub in nano-electronics and digital technologies. The combination of its widely acclaimed leadership in microchip technology and profound software and ICT expertise is what makes IMEC unique. By leveraging its world-class infrastructure and local and global ecosystem of partners across a multitude of industries, IMEC creates ground-breaking innovation in application domains such as healthcare, smart cities and mobility, logistics and manufacturing, energy and education.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
As a trusted partner for companies, start-ups and universities, IMEC brings together close to 4,500 brilliant minds from over 90 nationalities. IMEC is headquartered in Leuven, Belgium and also has distributed R&D groups at a number of Flemish universities, in the Netherlands, Taiwan, USA, China, and offices in India and Japan. In 2019, IMEC's revenue (P&L) totalled 640 million euro.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
IMEC has been pioneering GaN technology for more than 17 years, leveraging its state of the art 200 mm GaN platform to realize GaN power devices at lower costs while maintaining world-class performance. Our research covers GaN epitaxy as well as device engineering and processing technology.
IMEC offers its breakthrough 100 Volt GaN-IC technology on GaN-on-SOI and 650 Volt GaN-on-poly-AlN GaN-IC platforms for processing System-on-Chips (SoCs) containing power devices with integrated drivers and additional functionalities (e.g. temperature sensor), providing galvanic isolation between high-side and low-side parts of half-bridges. These platforms build further on the work in previous EU projects such as PowerBase, HiPERFORM and UltimateGaN, bringing the technology to a higher level of maturity and offering it for design, prototyping and reliability studies of GaN SoCs within the HiEFFICIENT project.
CONTACT
IMEC
Kapeldreef 75
3001 Leuven - Belgium
Elaphe Propulsion Technologies Ltd.
Founded in
2006, Elaphe Propulsion Technologies Ltd. is a leading EU-based developer and
manufacturer of in-wheel electric propulsion systems. The Elaphe in-wheel
powertrain platform includes motors, power electronics, and intelligent
multiple-motor propulsion control. Elaphe’s achievements include the world’s
highest-performance in-wheel-powered applications to date. Patented and
innovative electromagnetic and mechanical designs for in-wheel propulsion
enable Elaphe™ products to be tailored for specific ranges of torque and power
to fit most vehicle configurations.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
Elaphe Propulsion Technologies is a European in-wheel system provider, offering extensive support on designing customized in-wheel motors with suitable inverters and Propulsion Control Unit (PCU) system solutions.
With core know-how on developing and manufacturing in-wheel motors, Elaphe’s portfolio ranges from vehicle motion control software to full in-house powertrain design, manufacturing, and validation capabilities.
Over the past two decades, the company has developed direct-drive propulsion systems for different vehicle platforms, proving in-wheel is suitable for powering a pick-up truck, a light commercial vehicle or a supercar, for example. Focusing on the new vehicle development projects with the automotive industry, Elaphe’s technology is enabling a fundamental shift in mobility.
By applying modular in-wheel technology the focus is therefore on enabling user-centric and mission-focused vehicle design, new vehicle architectures and light-weight vehicles with extensive safety benefits due to individual wheel control and steering.
Elaphe is working with several global OEMs and startups to test the technology in various vehicle applications, thereby solidifying its position on the automotive market, where Elaphe’s in-wheel is soon to be mass-produced. The technology covers the segments where it can add real value to the industry, the users, and the planet.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
Elaphe Propulsion Technologies Ltd. is a fast-growing SME focused on in-wheel motors and powertrains: its role in the project is researching possible introduction of advanced inverters, using wide bandwidth semiconductor and enabling high switching frequencies. This is especially useful for compact high pole pair electric machine control, such as in-wheel motors. One of the key tasks will be related to the development of motor control algorithms and software, especially focused on inverters operating at high switching frequencies. Elaphe’s key motivation is to improve efficiency on the powertrain level by smart control algorithms, based on well characterized inverter and motor efficiency at different switching frequencies.
The project is in line with Elaphe‘s mission to revolutionize electric mobility by significantly improved powertrain with regard to packaging, weight, energy consumption and user experience.
CONTACT
Elaphe Propulsion Technologies Ltd.
Teslova ulica 30
1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Virtual Vehicle Research GmbH
The Virtual Vehicle Research GmbH is Europe’s largest R&D center for virtual vehicle technology with 300 employees. Research priority is the linking of numerical simulations and hardware testing, which leads to a powerful HW-SW whole system design and automation of testing and validation procedures. Following this focus on industry-related research VIRTUAL VEHICLE is the innovation catalyst for future vehicle technologies.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
The Virtual Vehicle Research GmbH has positioned itself as an independent, international platform for research and development in road and rail transport sector. It addresses the gap between academic research and the needs of industrial R&D departments. VIRTUAL VEHICLE strives for full system analysis using a multi-disciplinary approach and conducts research in various areas, including hardware/software co-simulation, model-based design and test, digital engineering, mixed criticality multi-core systems, embedded control systems for software-defined systems, ADAS, and automated driving challenges, and virtual engineering along the electronic value chain (from system-on-chip to vehicle system level). The main - but not only - application fields are the automotive and railway sectors.
The international partner network of VIRTUAL VEHICLE consists of around 100 national and international industrial partners (OEMs, Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers, software providers) as well as over 40 national and international scientific institutions.
Virtual Vehicle is the largest COMET funded research center and is also active in 30+ EU projects. Furthermore, VIRTUAL VEHICLE offers a broad portfolio of contract research for the vehicle development.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
VIRTUAL VEHICLE contributes to the project by its knowledge about automotive domain and its hardware expertise regarding electronic components, targeting next generation SiC/GaN-based components for future electric vehicles in highly automated/autonomous driving scenarios. VIRTUAL VEHICLE will provide a modular simulation environment for the prediction of efficiency increase, allowing the partners to set their cost goals early, connecting the electronic component and system level. By using this simulation approach, the efforts for reaching higher efficiencies can be evaluated and optimized to target costs.
Further, Silicon-based electronic components, e.g., high-frequency inverters, will be simulated and fail operation strategies developed, e.g., through software re-allocation and hardware redundancy.
In close collaboration with the partners, a new methodology for data driven modelling for predictive maintenance will be coordinated and developed throughout the course of the project, to provide individual maintenance information on a part basis, from component to system level.
The simulation environment will provide essential information on final mileage increase for clean, affordable and sustainable power trains.
CONTACT
Virtual Vehicle Research GmbH
Inffeldgasse 21/A
8010 Graz, Austria
AVL Software and Functions
AVL is the world's largest privately owned company for development of powertrains (combustion engines, hybrid systems, and electric drive) as well as simulation and test systems for passenger cars, trucks and marine engines.
AVL Software and Functions in Regensburg (AVL SFR) was founded 2008 as 100% daughter of AVL Graz, The AVL group the worldwide competence Center for software and electronics. Mainly high experienced engineers for automotive software, function and electronic development are with AVL SFR (~320 employees). AVL SFR is fully embedded in the AVL network for all disciplines and areas.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
For E-Mobility:
For electric mobility, AVL develops highly innovative components, systems and detailed solutions covering both hardware and software. Examples include high and low voltage electronic components such as inverters, DCDC converters, controllers and battery management systems but also e-motors and fully integrated systems such as e-axles. Services include requirement engineering, development of prototypes, support for industrialization and series production projects. AVL SFR has developed own development processes and methods according to automotive standards and is equipped with relevant tool chains and test hardware to effectively develop and validate these products. Available test equipment includes various model/software/hardware in the loop test systems and a Power-HIL as well as fully equipped e-motor or powertrain test rigs.
For model based development Combustion, Exhaust, Safety …
One main approach is the model-based development process with the appropriate tool chain for an efficient development for the different applications and related innovations. Furthermore, AVL Software and Functions develops safety-monitoring concepts (including architectural aspects) for new vehicle platforms and have its competences in the enhancement of interface between vehicle-energy management function and grid via wireless communication.
In General:
In the automotive industry, AVL SFR is a well-known and accepted partner for a lot of OEMs and Tier1s worldwide, involved in projects from concept up to serial development.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
AVL SFR will take over the lead of WP5 and coordinate the activities on system level design of complex inverters, chargers and test system.
AVL SFR will collaborate with Toyota, IFAG and other partners on the design of a new WBG based inverter system that is able to fulfil the set out efficiency and performance objectives.
CONTACT
Im Gewerbepark B 29
93059 Regensburg, Germany
RWTH Aachen University
With more than 150 years of successful contribution in science and technology, RWTH Aachen exploits strong research networks and the intellectual curiosity of its staff to address bold scientific questions, transfer forefront knowledge and drive innovative discoveries that affect global challenges.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
The Institute for Power Electronics and Electrical Drives (ISEA) of RWTH Aachen University, which will contribute to the project, has been working for more than 50 years in the research areas of power electronics, power electronic devices, electrical drives and electrochemical energy storage systems. With over 100 researches, it is one of the major research institutes in Germany in the mentioned fields. Besides publicly funded research projects, ISEA conducts bilateral research and development activities in close cooperation with national and international companies. In addition, ISEA offers engineering services (e.g., measurement/characterization, expert opinion and consulting) for companies. Numerous projects in the areas of traction and automotive applications, energy supply, industry applications as well as household and consumer applications demonstrate the broad spectrum of ISEA’s competences.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
Besides supporting the project partners in defining accelerated aging tests of inverter systems, RWTH Aachen University contributes to design optimization of power electronics modules through investigating optimal sensor selection and positioning within power modules. The other role of RWTH Aachen University will be to develop a thermal condition-monitoring system. Additionally we will develop and implement a thermal-management system for inverters in the scope of this project.
CONTACT
RWTH Aachen University
Jägerstr. 17-19
52066 Aachen, Germany
Silicon Austria Labs GmbH
COMPANY SUMMARY
Silicon Austria Labs (SAL) is a top research center for Electronic Based Systems (EBS). At three locations (Graz, Villach, Linz), SAL is conducting research along the entire EBS value chain in the areas of sensor systems, power electronics, RF (radiofrequency) systems, system integration and embedded systems to develop future-oriented solutions for industrial production, health, energy, mobility, safety and more.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
With contract research as well as in cooperation with industrial and scientific partners, SAL conducts research on relevant key topics in the areas of health, energy, mobility, safety and more. In the field of Sensor Systems, we conduct research on the fundamentals of highly integrated sensor technology for industrial application conditions. In the area of RF (Radio Frequency) Systems, we focus on innovation in relation to wireless communications and radar technologies in the radio-frequency spectrum from MHz through to the very high GHz range. In the research area Power Electronics, we work on new and more powerful solutions for all types of electric energy converters in all power classes as well as electromagnetic compatibility. In the field of System Integration, we focus on (heterogeneous) inte¬gra¬tion of sepa¬rately manu¬fac¬tured compo¬nents into a higher system. In the area of Embedded Systems, we research the reliability, real-time capability and energy efficiency of smart devices. Our cooperative research model offers industrial partners access to infrastructure and know-how along the entire value chain of EBS. In addition to numerous highly equipped laboratories, an ISO class 5 clean room for processing chips and wafers as well as using the latest packaging technologies is available for research in Villach.
ROLE AND KEY CONTRIBUTION
SAL will drive multi-domain measurement, integration, and control topics within project HiEFFICIENT. SAL has two primary technical responsibilities within the project.
1) Optimizing embedded packages for various criteria via simulation
2) Characterizing and regulating thermal transients via sensing and control approaches
The contributions will improve the dimensioning and conceptual design of power electronic packages and add valuable prognostics and health management features to converter firmware. In terms of project structure, SAL’s effort is focused primarily into
• WP2 – GaN system-on-chip (SoC) and system-in-package (SiP) integration and embedded technologies
• WP4 – Optimized and modular cooling concepts and thermal management
with some additional contributions to WP5. In all, SAL is advancing key developments in a GaN-based charger, GaN-based inverter, and test systems broadly supporting electrification.
In all, SAL will leverage its know-how in the areas multi-domain modeling, sensing, and control, especially coming from past funded projects, such as Power2Power and UltimateGaN, to upgrade technologies used to design, realize, and protect converter systems.
CONTACT
Infineon Technologies AG
Infineon Technologies AG, Neubiberg, Germany, is one of the top 10 semiconductor companies and offers semiconductor and system solutions addressing three central challenges to modern society: Energy efficiency, mobility and security. In the 2020 fiscal year (ending September 30), the company reported sales of Euro 8.5 billion with close to 46,700 employees worldwide
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
Infineon designs, develops, manufactures and markets a broad range of semiconductors and system solutions. The focus of its activities is on automotive and industrial electronics, communication and information technologies, IoT, sensor technology and security. The product range comprises standard components, software, customer-specific solutions for devices and systems, as well as specific components for digital, analogue, and mixed-signal applications. The main involved division of Infineon within HiEFFICIENT is the Automotive Division, in cooperation with the Industrial Power Control Division and the corresponding front end and back end technology providers from the operational organization in Warstein and Regensburg. Further information is available at www.infineon.com.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
The contribution of Infineon Technologies is an integrated part of HiEFFICIENTand covers topic from the locations in Munich, Warstein and Regensburg.
CONTACT
Infineon Technologies AG
Am Campeon 1-12
85579 Neubiberg, Germany
Fraunhofer Institut für Zuverlässigkeit und Mikrointegration (IZM)
The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft (FHG) is one of the leading organizations of applied research in Europe. As part of the FHG, Fraunhofer IZM focus on packaging technology and the integration of multifunctional electronics into heterogeneous systems. In key development topics, the Fraunhofer IZM researchers monitor and develop highly promising research topics, paving the way for future projects with industry.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
The Fraunhofer is a non-profit organization undertaking contract research on behalf of industry, the service sector and government with a staff of more than 29,000 employees, who work with an annual research budget totaling more than 2.8 billion euros. Of this sum, 2.4 billion euros are generated through contract research. Fraunhofer has filed some 600 patent applications and many spin-off companies have been set up.
Fraunhofer IZM has two sites in Germany. Apart from its headquarters in Berlin Mitte, the institute is also represented in Dresden, a strategically important center for electronic development and manufacturing. For over 25 years as institute for applied research, more than 450 employees have been generating knowledge and technological solutions. The Fraunhofer IZM assists companies with application-oriented pre-competitive research, as well as the development of prototypes and small volume production. Our services include application advice, technology transfer and further qualification of personnel through practical training.
The power electronics group at IZM has a high percentage of direct industry contracts enabling a constant transfer of results. The IZM has many years of experience in the topics packaging and application of WBG semiconductors and developing of high performance WBG circuits. Fraunhofer IZM implements cutting-edge designs for sophisticated applications industries such as aeronautics and automotive technology. It can support and close supply chain gaps starting from chip backend ending with product reliability testing.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
Fraunhofer IZM provides the design and manufacturing capability for semiconductor packaging, design of high frequency, efficiency and low volume power electronics, topology selection, magnetics design as well as electrical and reliability testing.
Within use case 5 - On board Chargers (OBC), Fraunhofer IZM will develop an ultra-small bidirectional on-board charger with 22 kW, suited for one and three phases and world-wide grid compatibility. The work includes a design, prototyping and experimentally testing of the OBC solution. Furthermore the IZM will work in use case 6 (GaN automotive DC/DC converter) together with the partners on new concepts for integration and packaging strategies for high volume and low cost manufacturing of 100 V SoC devices.
CONTACT
Fraunhofer IZM
Gustav-Meyer-Allee 25
13355 Berlin
Ford Otomotiv Sanayi A.S
Ford Otosan is a major automotive OEM in Turkey, designing and producing heavy duty trucks, light/medium commercial vehicles, passenger vehicles and diesel powertrains for all these automotive applications. Founded in 1959, Ford Otosan has the biggest R&D center of the Turkish automotive industry, with over 1,300 engineers developing advanced technologies for global competition.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
Ford Otosan positioned as lead manufacturing plant of Ford Transit globally, single source of Ford Custom & Ford Courier and Center of Excellence for Ford Trucks (heavy trucks). With these key roles, Ford Otosan accounted for 74% of Turkey’s commercial vehicle production and over 79% of commercial vehicle exports. On the product development side, Ford Otosan is positioned as global hub for Ford Trucks (heavy trucks) and related powertrain development. Ford Otosan also works as the global support for light commercial vehicle development and diesel powertrain engineering.
During the IAA 2018 in Hannover, Germany, the new Ford F-Max tractor was unveiled and it was chosen to be the International Truck of the Year 2019. Ford Trucks is available in European countries with increasing brand presence. F-Max will be marketed in different continents globally. Current annual production capacity is 15000 units. Ford Trucks has a wide product portfolio which covers long haulage, construction and road trucks between 18 and 40 tons. Future plan is to increase the market shares in European market with high-end technologies that pave the way for high-end safety, comfort and efficiency that this project will trigger in heavy duty truck segment.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
Ford Otosan as a vehicle manufacturer will contribute with its system and component level knowledge from heavy duty vehicle perspective on 48V systems. Expertise on requirements engineering, system modeling and design validation process will be utilized within the project. Ford Otosan will utilize its SOA F-MAX Tractor design as reference and evaluate 48V Powertrain effect which is developed within the scope of project on vehicle and engine control, powertrain architecture and vehicle performance at realistic use cases.
CONTACT
Ford Otomotiv Sanayi A.S
Akpınar Mahallesi Hasan Basri Caddesi No: 2 34885 Sancaktepe/Istanbul
34885, İstanbul, Turkey
FH JOANNEUM Gesellschaft mbH
FH JOANNEUM, founded in 1995, is one of Austria's leading Universities of Applied Sciences running educational programs at bachelor and master level in the fields of Engineering, Management and Information Technology among others. With more than 530 employees and about 800 external lecturers FH JOANNEUM offers to more than 4000 students a high-level, application-oriented foundation for a successful future career.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
Teaching expertise of the Institute Electronic Engineering relies on strong Research and Development activities, which are carried out primarily in close cooperation with Austrian industry as well as with European partners, which is done in EU funded projects where FH JOANNEUM takes part.
Special research interests of the Institute of Electronic Engineering are new technologies and architectures for power converters in automotive and renewable energy applications, accompanied by FPGA-based computational platforms facilitating extremely high control dynamics. In this field the Institute of Electronic Engineering has built a solid know-how. This know-how goes from the modelling and simulation of power converters till the development of lab prototypes.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
Due to numerous projects and realized prototypes in the field of application of wide-band-gap (WBG) switches, FH JOANNEUM is especially interested in contributing to the work packages WP1, WP3 and WP5. Our main contributions are:
Development of a 48V GaN Module, which will be used in UC3 (High power 48V motor inverter)
Development of a 650V GaN Module, which will be used in UC1 (Electrification of test systems)
Development of a 80V/700A GaN based module tester, which will be used in UC1 (Electrification of test systems)
Expansion of real time control platform to be used for implementing advanced control algorithms (Simulink models) for ultra-fast switching converter systems.
CONTACT
FH JOANNEUM GmbH
Alte Poststraße 149
8020 Graz, Austria
TU Dortmund University
TU Dortmund University is with 35,000 students and 6,200 staff one of the 15 largest universities in Germany, offering around 80 bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. The chair of energy conversion at TU Dortmund has deep knowledge of the characterization and modeling of power semiconductors. This includes also modern wide-bandgap semiconductors such as GaN-HEMTs and SiC-MOSFETs. In addition to that, the chair of energy conversions contributes to gate driver research, including several patent applications and one granted patent. Here, approaches have been proposed for lower switching losses. Finally, the chair of energy conversions pursues research on electrical machines, also focusing on the reliability of motor windings and on new machine concepts with tightly integrated power electronics.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
TU Dortmund will contribute to UC4. WBG power semiconductors, in this UC SiC-MOSFETs, allow very fast switching. This is attractive because switching losses can be reduced, even though the resulting steep voltage and current slopes are challenging with respect to EMC performance and must, therefore, be controlled. Commonly, this is done by choosing a sufficiently large gate resistance between gate driver and SiC MOSFET. However, improved gate drive networks, going beyond a single resistor, are very promising candidates to achieve better switching performance. TU Dortmund will propose and evaluate suitable networks that allow fast and clean switching without requiring significant changes to other components.
CONTACT
August-Schmidt-Straße 4,
44227 Dortmund,
Germany
AVL Arastirma ve Muhendislik Sanayi ve Ticaret Limited Sirketi
With more than 11,000 employees, AVL is the world’s largest independent
company for development, simulation and testing in the automotive industry, and
in other sectors. Drawing on its pioneering spirit, the company provides
concepts, solutions and methodologies to shape future mobility trends.
AVL creates innovative and affordable technologies to effectively reduce CO2 by
applying a multi-energy carrier strategy for all applications – from hybrid to
battery electric and fuel cell technologies. The company supports customers
throughout the entire development process from the ideation phase to serial production.
To accelerate the vision of automated and connected mobility AVL has
established competencies in the fields of ADAS, autonomous driving and
digitalization.
AVL’s passion is innovation. Together with an international network of experts
that extends over 26 countries and with 45 Tech- and Engineering Centers
worldwide, AVL drives sustainable mobility trends for a greener future. In
2020, the company generated a turnover of 1.7 billion Euros, of which 12% are
invested in R&D activities. The company was founded in 1948 with the
headquarters in Graz, Austria [www.avl.com].
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
AVL Research and Engineering Turkey’s objective is to produce effective
and sustainable engineering solutions through the activities it has been
carrying out since it was established in August 2008. AVL Turkey has adopted
the mission to offer smart, flexible, and contemporary engineering solutions,
expertise and training to the vehicle and powertrain industry in Turkey. AVL
Turkey has a strong team of more than 200 engineers with
electrical-electronics, mechanical, computer, mechatronics, automotive and control
engineering background. Most of the team has professional and/or academic
experience gained abroad. AVL Turkey is a key member of the engineering tech
centers in the global AVL network, in area of e-mobility. AVL Turkey is
involved in such projects for more than 10 years now.
AVL Research and Engineering Turkey’s objective is to produce effective and sustainable engineering solutions through the activities it has been carrying out since it was established in August 2008. AVL Turkey has adopted the mission to offer smart, flexible, and contemporary engineering solutions, expertise and training to the vehicle and powertrain industry in Turkey. AVL Turkey has a strong team of more than 200 engineers with electrical-electronics, mechanical, computer, mechatronics, automotive and control engineering background. Most of the team has professional and/or academic experience gained abroad. AVL Turkey is a key member of the engineering tech centers in the global AVL network, in area of e-mobility. AVL Turkey is involved in such projects for more than 10 years now.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
• Electrical Architecture Design of the Inverter
• Hardware Design Requirements
• Component Selection (MOSFETs, Gate Drivers, DC Link Capacitors etc)
• Alignment and Communication with Component Suppliers and PCB Manufacturers
• Simulation based Analysis of the Design in SPICE
• Schematic and Layout Design of the Inverter
• Hardware Test Requirements
• Measurement of the Inverter
• Alignment and Communication with the consortium partners, especially for the thermal analysis, system requirements, control algorithm of the processor and the mechanical integration of the inverter
The main objective of AVL Turkey within the project is to deliver a functional 48V power stage of the inverter based on Embedded GaN technology. The 48V power stage will be developed in close cooperation with the AVL SFR hardware team. AVL SFR and AVL Turkey hardware design teams have a long history of cooperation to offer competitive inverter design solutions for the automotive industry.
CONTACT
AVL Arastirma ve Muhendislik Sanayi ve Ticaret Limited Sirketi
Akpinar Mah. Tuna Cad. Ballica Sok. No:1
34885, Istanbul, Turkey
Interactive Fully Electrical Vehicles, srl I-FEVS
I-FEVS is focused on generating new technology solutions so that pure electric mobility could be mainstream. Our goal is to manufacture best-in-class urban mobility vehicles per safety, security, energy consumption, robustness and total cost of ownership.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
Group of experienced people managing all phases from vehicle concepts to fully working demonstrators. Parternship with large automotive players to address large scale manufacturing.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
The network of collaborations established in EU Member States allows the company to maintain a leading proposition for state-of-the-art Research and Development in all forms of electro-mobility. I-FEVS owns a large patent portfolio that has originated new companies addressing urban mobility in Poland, Russia, Malta and Israel.
I-FEVS as a car manufacturer will contribute with its knowledge on 48 V systems in EV and hence will give valuable input to the related UCs.
CONTACT
Interactive Fully Electrical Vehicles, srl
Strada Carignano 50
10040, La Loggia, Italy
University of Pisa
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
Technical University Chemnitz (TUC), Center for Microtechnologies
COMPANY SUMMARY
In the project HiEFFICIENT TU Chemnitz is involved with the group of Prof. Rzepka from the Center for Microtechnologies (ZfM). The group focusses on the research and development in the field of thermo-mechanical reliability of electronic components and smart systems. It has a long experience in testing, evaluating, and optimizing of micro and power electronic components, packages, and systems regarding quality assurance, reliability, functionality and durability.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
Chemnitz University of Technology: Established in 1836 as Royal Mercantile College, it soon developed into an academic institution renowned for its strong contributions to mechanical and electrical engineering. In 1986, it became Technical University. Today, it has over 10,000 students at the following eight faculties: Natural Sciences, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, Computer Science, Economics and Business Administration, Humanities and Behavior, Social Sciences. The group of Prof. Rzepka at TU Chemnitz belongs to the Center for Microtechnologies (ZfM) within the faculty Electrical Engineering and Information Technology. The focus of the group lies on research and development in the field of thermo-mechanical reliability of electronic components and smart systems with partners in Germany, Europe and all over the world. With its long-term of experience in testing, evaluating, and optimizing of micro and power electronic components, packages, and systems it can improve quality , reliability, functionality and durability by combining advanced multi-field FEM simulation with latest experimental test methods of electronic systems.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
Within the project TUC aims to introduce highly efficient 'testing methods' and a virtual 'design for reliability' schemes for speeding up the package definition phase as well as for providing AI training data for the development of prognostics health monitoring methods. Together with the partner VIF, TUC will lead the reliability and PHM research within HiEFFICIENT.
TUC will contribute to the field of electro-thermo-mechanical reliability with new lifetime tests, physical failure analyses on the one hand and with simulation modelling and virtual qualification on the other hand. This work will be done in close cooperation with the industrial partners MBAG, IFAT, AVL, I&M, AT&S. They provide the application cases, the technology developments, and all physical samples needed for the testing, modelling and simulation studies. For those new application cases, TUC is able to develop and to improve its practical tests and theoretical models for lifetime estimation of new integrated power electronics components and packages according to the future industrial needs.
Within the project, TUC will contribute with new methods regarding lifetime testing and lifetime estimation to six use cases: UC1, UC2a, UC2b, UC3, UC6a and UC6b.
CONTACT
Reichenhainer Str. 70
09126, Chemnitz, Germany
https://www.zfm.tu-chemnitz.de/
Nano Design s.r.o
NanoDesign is a spin-off company, founded in 2007 by a group of specialists in field of precise measurement in bioelectronics.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
Today it is research and development company composed of 7 full-time research workers strengthened yearly by extra 3-4 master and PhD degree students. Several research projects are being resolved yearly, mostly in field of design of precise measurement devices, measurement modules for testing and characterization. High precision bioelectronics devices and measurement test stations were developed. The measurement devices (TDR, UIS) facilitate selective research tasks in EU projects with focus on new devices and technologies (GaN, Si).
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
Contribution to WP2 and WP5 - modification of UIS tester especially for testing of SiC, reliability testing of SiC and GaN devices.
CONTACT
NANO DESIGN SRO
Drotarskacesta 6385 19A
81104 Bratislava, Slovakia
Politecnico di Torino
With more than 150 years of history, Politecnico is internationally ranked among the most important universities in Europe for engineering and architecture studies, hosting a 35.000 student community, where 15% is composed of international students [coming from over 100 different countries]. As hub of excellence in the field of education, research and technology transfer in Engineering, Architecture, Design and Urban Planning, it works in close cooperation with the socio-economic system
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
Politecnico di Torino was founded in 1906 and has its roots in the Technical School for Engineers created in 1859.
It is internationally ranked among the most important universities in Europe for engineering and architecture studies, with 33,000 students (out of which 15% are international students coming from over 100 different countries).
Politecnico is a center of excellence for education and research in engineering, architecture, design and planning and it works in close cooperation with the socio-economic system. It is a comprehensive Research University where education and research complement each other and create synergies in order to address the needs of the economic system, of the local community and, above all, of its students.
Politecnico is committed to a strong internationalization process of its teaching, research and technology transfer activities: not only does it work in cooperation with the best universities and research centers in world, but it has also been signing agreements and contracts with important international corporations, as well as local businesses, meaning to be for the latter a focal point for innovation.
ROLE & KEY CONTRIBUTION
Polito is contributing in UC2a and UC2b with the selection of optimal E/E architecture and also with intelligent motor control algorithms (compliant with the automotive safety standards) for three-phase and dual three-phase eDrives for best drive efficiency and fault-tolerant operation.
CONTACT
Politecnico di Torino
Corso Duca degli Abruzzi, 24
10129 Torino, ITALY
THIS PROJECT HAS RECEIVED FUNDING FROM THE ECSEL JOINT UNDERTAKING (JU)
UNDER GRANT AGREEMENT NO. 101007281.
THE JU RECEIVES SUPPORT FROM THE EUROPEAN UNION’S HORIZON 2020 RESEARCH AND INNOVATION PROGRAMME AND AUSTRIA, GERMANY, SLOVENIA, NETHERLANDS, BELGIUM, SLOVAKIA, FRANCE, ITALY, AND TURKEY.
| This project is co-funded by the Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG): www.ffg.at |
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| This project is co-funded by the Ministry of Education, Universities and Research in Italy (www.istruzione.it) |  |
| This project is co-funded by Netherlands Enterprise Agency (www.english.rvo.nl) |  |
| This project is co-funded by The Ministry of Education, Science, Research and Sport of the Slovak Republic. (www.minedu.sk) |  |
| This Project is co-funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research of Germany. (www.bmbf.de) |  |
| This project is co-funded by TÜBİTAK in Turkey |
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| This project is co-funded by the agency for Innovation by Science and Technology in Belgium. (www.iwt.be) |  |
| This project is co-funded by the Ministry of Economic Development and Technology of the Republic of Slovenia. (www.mgrt.gov.si) |
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