Date of Award
Spring 2021
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Electrical and Computer Engineering
First Advisor
Weise, Natan
Second Advisor
EL-Refaie, Ayman
Third Advisor
Carl, Joshua
Abstract
The landscape of direct current (DC) solid-state circuit breakers (SSCBs) isgrowing and so too is the choice of primary components. Early on in the development of electrical technology, DC electrical distribution networks were handicapped by short transmission distances, poor network configurations, and overall lowered efficiency. These issues arose out of the relatively lower voltage transmission capabilities, which do not exist in the modern day of semiconductors. There now exists a wide range of devices capable of withstanding voltage levels conducive to electrical transmission; though steady state efficiency of these devices remains a concern. Choosing primary components out of the growing selection pool can be cumbersome and prone to biased decision-making. Put forth in this thesis is a multifaceted methodology for determining primary components of SSCBs removing unwanted biasing, thus alleviating burden from the design process. This methodology consists of accurately and consistently simulating efficiency ofsolid-state devices of a variety of types, topologies, and materials; as well as developing methods for the comparison of solid-state devices and the associated voltage suppression components. These comparisons do not rely on efficiency alone, but also account for thermal characteristics and costing; allowing for a mathematically based bespoke solution for specific design applications. These individualized solutions are additionally simulated within an experimental test fixture, using non-ideal components to produce further confidence in SSCB primary component choice. As previously stated, the field of SSCB technology is growing and focusing solelyon one aspect of SSCB performance may introduce complications later in the system design process. The purpose of using a multifaceted mathematical approach to decision-making is to reduce these complications. The results contained within this thesis show a more holistic approach to SSCB primary component choice is achievable and warranted.