 There is a rapidly
growing demand towards power electronic converters/systems in
different high-tech applications. These applications include the
well-known switching power supplies, personal computers, UPS
systems, modern industrial automation systems, home appliances, and
flexible AC transmission systems. They also include some less
well-known applications such as robotics, telecommunication systems,
electronic drives, VLSI, active filters, computerized control
systems, electric and hybrid electric vehicles, and cordless drives.
 The impetus towards
this expansion of power electronics has been provided by recent
advancements in the areas of semiconductor switching devices,
control electronics, and advanced microcontrollers and digital
signal processors (DSP). In fact, these advancements facilitate
high-tech applications and enable the introduction of power
electronic converters with highest performance, maximum efficiency,
and minimum volume and weight.
At Illinois
Institute of Technology, in order to provide state-of-the-art
courses and laboratories in electrical and computer engineering, we
have established the Grainger Power Electronics Laboratory with the
support of a generous gift from the Grainger Foundation, which is
gratefully acknowledged. In addition, in the academic year
2003/2004, we have improved this laboratory and added three new
experiments based on the NSF DUE-0311169 grant from the National
Science Foundation (NSF). The three new experiments (#12-14) have
been adapted and implemented from the exemplary materials,
laboratory experiences, and educational practices that had been
developed and proven successful at the University of Minnesota under
the NSF CCLI-EMD-9952704 grant, which is gratefully acknowledged.
Facilities of this laboratory are advanced specialized
experimental teaching setups for undergraduate power electronic
programs. Therefore, this laboratory is one of the best-equipped and
most advanced labs for undergraduate teaching purposes in the
nation. In fact, few universities have equipment of this
sophistication for their teaching laboratories.
 This lab consists of 14 experiments and one major design
experience. The laboratory experiments give simple practical
introduction to operation and control of electronic switching
circuits. They are done in groups of 2-3 students. This lab assumes
that the student is familiar with general circuit analysis
techniques. Therefore, it is appropriate for junior- or senior-level
undergraduate electrical engineering and computer engineering
students. It is also recommended as an elective course for all ECE
students. |
