New structures of multi-cellular conversion based on GaN transistors for DC-DC conversion: conditioning in renewable energies applications

In order to improve the management and the production efficiency in renewable energy, power electronics systems have become important contributors. In this context, gallium nitride transistors (GaN HFETs) provide new opportunities for high power density, high switching speed and they pull up the effective management of renewable energies. However, this new opportunity requires effective gate drivers and optimal packaging and assembly. This thesis will introduce the general approach of a new architecture for multi cellular conversion and a monolithic multichannel and synchronized drive for GaN components, which are applicable in our specific context. This thesis is composed of four chapters. A bibliographic section is presented in first chapter. A new comparative methodology has been developed in this chapter in order to benchmark the DAB (Dual Active Bridge) converter with respect to other DC converters. In the second chapter, a generic solution (converter grid) has been explained in order to reduce the energy conversion constraints. Chapter 3 presents the important parts of the experimentation and the optimization of DAB converter. High frequency transformer replacing by capacitors is the main objective of this section. The design of the Quad Gate Driver (QGD) IC dedicated to GaNs transistors control in H bridge configuration and the results of their performances are presented in the last chapter. Some comparisons of this approach with other signal transfer solutions are also discussed. The implementation of the QGD in a full bridge transistor converter is introduced into the perspective section. (author)