This unit of study covers knowledge and skills in the two broad areas of alternative energy systems and power electronics. The unit is delivered in two parts:
Part A - Alternative Energy Systems: Part A reflects on the concept of sustainability in the electrical energy generation sector in order to critique and recommend alternative energy systems for a range of contexts. Part A will diagnose conventional energy systems and the emissions associated with these systems. Then, students will investigate unconventional energy sources such as solar, wind, biomass and fuel cells as well as energy storage technologies. Technical properties, environmental and economic advantages of these technologies will be assessed with learning activities focusing on mathematical modelling, and analysis of these alternative generation technologies. Design of hybrid systems and their integration to existing distribution and transmission systems will be diagnosed.
Part B - Power Electronics: Part B critically examines the theory, design and analysis of conversion of electric power by means of power electronics, including AC to DC and DC to DC power converters, to critique and recommend power conversion systems for a range of applications. The use of electronic speed control techniques for DC motor drives will be explored for different applications. AC-DC single-phase and three-phase power converters: Diode and SCR bridge rectifiers will be investigated. DC-DC Switching Mode Power Converters, buck converters and boost converters, and Buck-boost converters will be analysed. Other topics to be covered include: unipolar and bipolar voltage switching method, push pull converters, and different electronic speed control techniques for DC motor drives.
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
Lecture and tutorial handouts will be distributed as required.
This unit is not compulsory for any specific course. Depending on the course you study, this unit may be taken as an elective.