Key Takeaways
- IAV and Nexperia have created the ONE Inverter, enhancing battery management through software-defined controls and bidirectional GaN switching.
- This innovation addresses capacity limitations in conventional battery architectures by managing individual battery sections independently.
- Nexperia’s GaN technology enables efficient switching, crucial for the economical implementation of this advanced battery control system.
Next-Generation Battery Management Solution
IAV, an engineering specialist, has partnered with semiconductor firm Nexperia to develop a groundbreaking solution known as ONE Inverter. This system leverages software-defined controls and bidirectional gallium nitride (GaN) switching to enhance the management of battery sections within electric vehicles, rather than treating the entire battery pack as a single unit.
Traditional series-string battery architectures present a challenge: all cells must carry the same current, which can lead to capacity limitations due to the weakest cell in the stack. The ONE Inverter addresses this issue by allowing for dynamic allocation and management of individual battery sections. This software layer enables each section to perform according to its current condition, making the overall system more resilient and efficient. The innovation not only improves performance but also consolidates functions that typically require separate power electronics, into a unified system.
At the heart of the ONE Inverter is Nexperia’s bidirectional GaN device. This technology allows rapid and efficient switching, facilitating effective control at the battery section level. IAV highlights that alternative semiconductor technologies would complicate the design and drive up costs, making this approach impractical. GaN’s advantages, such as low switching losses and compact die size, are pivotal for enabling economic feasibility. Additionally, other bipolar devices from Nexperia’s range complement the overall design and support the innovation.
Jörg Astalosch, CEO of IAV, emphasized the synergy between the two companies, stating, “By combining IAV’s expertise in battery systems, software, and vehicle architectures with Nexperia’s semiconductor and packaging know-how, we are exploring new ways to help customers build more efficient, resilient, and future-ready electric mobility solutions.” This collaboration signifies a notable advancement in electric vehicle technology, aiming to foster more efficient power management and contribute to the evolution of electric mobility.
The ONE Inverter’s introduction marks a significant step forward in battery management, reflecting the ongoing efforts to enhance electric vehicle performance and reliability. As the industry moves toward more sustainable transportation solutions, innovations like this play a crucial role in shaping the future of electric mobility.
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