A hybrid high-power electronic switching module will be developed from a combination of discrete power devices, such as SCRs and FETs, with the goal of improving the performance above that of any monolithic power switch. The potential for improvement seems real since each aspect of the switching cycle, i.e. off, turn-on, on, turn- off, may be optimized separately. The project will start by designing, operating and analyzing several modest- power prototype switching modules. In the following phase an attempt will be made to scale up to the 50-100 kW power level. At this level a number of large-scale industrial facilities are locally available. A very positive feature of this project is the U.S. Army Pulse Power Center collaboration through an existing Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRDA). The research area, particularly in connection with ac motor drives, is of great importance in improving manufacturing efficiency and capability.
