Microchip Introduces New All-in-One Hybrid Drive Module Solution Designed for Electric Aviation Applications, Reduces Development Time and Weight

Microchip introduces new all-in-one hybrid drive module solution designed for electric aviation applications, reducing development time and weight This highly integrated and configurable three-phase power module Silicon can be customized to reduce the size and weight of electric aircraft power solutions

Aircraft manufacturers designing more electric aircraft (MEAs) are looking to switch flight control systems from hydraulic to electric to reduce weight and design complexity. To meet the needs of aerospace applications for integrated and configurable power solutions, Microchip Technology Inc. today announced a new comprehensive hybrid drive module, the first in a new family of power devices. model. The series will have 12 different models, using silicon carbide (SiC) MOSFETs or insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs).

These hybrid drive modules are highly integrated power semiconductor devices that reduce component count and simplify overall system design. This configurable family of devices includes a three-bridge topology and is available in SiC or Si semiconductor technology. The new series of devices are highly reliable, compact and lightweight, helping to reduce the size and weight of more electric aircraft.

Other key features of these hybrid drive modules include a rich set of auxiliary power components to facilitate inrush current limit functionality. Optional extras include soft start, solenoid interface actuation, regenerative braking switch, and thermal sensor for external monitoring circuits. These drive modules also enable high switching frequency power generation, resulting in smaller and more efficient systems.

The standard voltage range of this power module is 650V to 1200V, and can be customized up to 1700V upon request. The device's low inductance design enables high power density, and the power and signal connectors can be soldered directly to the user's printed circuit board.

Leon Gross, vice president of Microchip's Discrete Power Management business unit, said: "Microchip is committed to providing the aviation industry with cornerstone products that enable the aviation industry to deploy lighter, more compact and more efficient system solutions. Provide customers with comprehensive power solutions."

Microchip is a mature integrated power solution provider in the industry. These hybrid drive modules are easily configurable with other Microchip products and components such as field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), memory ICs, motor drive controllers and motor drive monitoring ICs.