This thesis presents a novel Resonant Switched-Capacitor Converter with Multiple Resonant Frequencies, abbreviated as MRSCC for both high density and efficiency non-isolated large step-down Intermediate Bus Converter (IBC). Conventional Resonant Switched-Capacitor Converter (RSCC) proposed by Shoyama and its high voltage conversion ratio derivation such as Switched-Tank Converter (STC) by Jiang and li employ half sinusoidal-current charge transfer method between capacitors to achieve high efficiency and density operation by adding a small resonant inductor in series to pure switched-capacitor converter's (SCC) flying capacitor. By operating switching frequency to be the same as its resonant frequency, RSCC achieves zero-current turn off operation, however, this cause RSCC and its derivation suffer from component variation issue for high-volume adoption. Derived from RSCC, MRSCC adds additional high frequency resonant component, operates only during its dead-time, by adding small capacitor in parallel to RSCC's resonant inductor. By operating switching frequency higher than its main resonant frequency, MRSCC utilizes double chopped half-sinusoidal current charge transfer method between capacitors to further improve efficiency. In addition, operating switching frequency consistently higher than its resonant frequency, MRSCC provides high immunity towards component variation, making it and its derivation viable for high-volume adoption. / MS / Following the recent trend, most internet services are moving towards cloud computing. Large data applications and growing popularity of cloud computing require hyperscale data centers and it will continue to grow rapidly in the next few years to keep up with the demand [4]. These cutting-edge data centers will require higher performance multi-core CPU and GPU installations which translates to higher power consumption. From 10MWatts of power, typical data centers deliver only half of this power to the computing load which includes processors, memory and drives. Unfortunately, the rest goes to losses in power conversion, distribution and cooling [5]. Industry members look into increasing backplane voltage from 12V to 48V in order to reduce distribution loss. This thesis proposes a novel Resonant Switched-Capacitor Converter using Multiple Resonant Frequencies to accommodate this increase of backplane voltage.

The penetration of renewable and distributed generation sources (DGs) in power distribution systems has been increasing at an ever-faster rate. While DGs provide clean and affordable energy, their addition introduces new problems in the system operation. One of the main challenges due to the high penetration of DGs is the overvoltage issues that demand appropriate voltage control. This control is essential to maintain the power quality, energy efficiency, and voltage stability in the system. Voltage Regulators (VRs) and capacitor banks (CBs) are traditional control devices that are installed in the system to keep the desired voltage profile. However, they are not designed to operate in a way that can address the high frequency and magnitude changes occurring in systems with high penetration of DGs. Therefore, they need to be supplemented with voltage control performed by controlling the reactive power generation of the DGs. The coordination among these different control devices is essential for proper system operation. This thesis explores the design of the coordinated control of VRs, CBs, and DGs, by considering different control methods such as coordinated cooperative, predictive cooperative, and unified control of all voltage control devices. The proposed methods are implemented in a system with high penetration of DGs and tested by exploring the worst-case scenario in terms of DG sizing and placement. This scenario is determined analytically using sensitivities and verified using stochastic Monte Carlo simulation. The future generation of active power distribution systems need to be optimally controlled in order to be efficient, reliable, and resilient, while capable of effectively managing high penetration levels of DGs, and other controllable loads and devices. The important outcome of this thesis is the introduction of a practical voltage control method to achieve these goals.

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One of the fundamental characteristics of the microprocessor application is its property of dynamic load change. Although idle most of the time, it wakes up in nanoseconds to support sudden workload demands, which are becoming increasingly severe in today's multi-core processors with large core count. From the standpoint of its voltage regulator (VR) design, it must have very good efficiency at light loads, while also supporting a very fast transient response. Thus, the variable-frequency constant on-time current-mode (COTCM) control scheme is widely used in the VRs, as it can automatically reduce its switching frequency during light-load conditions. But, from transient point of view, it has some limitations in response to heavy-load demands by microprocessors; this is resolved by adding different nonlinear controls in state-of-the-art control schemes. These nonlinear controls are difficult to optimize for the widely variable transient conditions in processors. Another major issue for this ripple-based COTCM control is that when the combined inductor-current ripple in multiphase operation becomes zero because of the ripple-cancellation effect, COTCM loses its controllability. Therefore, the goal of this research is to discover a new adaptive COT control scheme that is concurrently very efficient at light-load conditions and also provides a fast and optimized transient response without adding any nonlinear control; hence providing a complete solution for today's high-performance microprocessors. Firstly, the overview of state-of-the-art COTCM control is discussed in detail, and its limitations are analyzed. Analysis shows that one issue plaguing the COTCM control is its slow transient response in both single and multiphase operation. In this context, two methods have been proposed to improve the transient performance of conventional COTCM control in single and multiphase operations. These two methods can effectively reduce the output capacitor count in system, but the ripple-cancellation and phase overlapping issues in multiphase operation are yet to be improved. This provides motivation to search for a new COT control technique that can resolve all these problems together. Therefore, a new concept of inverse charge constant on-time (IQCOT) control is proposed to replace the conventional ripple-based COTCM; the goals are to improve noise immunity at the ripple-cancellation point without adding any external ramp into the system, and to improve the load step-up transient performance in multiphase operation by achieving natural and linear pulse overlapping without adding any nonlinear control. Additionally, the transient performance of the proposed IQCOT has been further improved by naturally increasing or decreasing the TON time during the load step-up or step-down transient period without adding any nonlinear control. As this transient property is inherent in proposed IQCOT control, it is adaptive to the widely variable transient requirements of processors, and always produces an optimized transient response. In order to design the proposed control with high bandwidth for supporting fast transient response, an accurate high-frequency small-signal model needs to be derived. Therefore, a high-frequency model for the proposed IQCOT control is derived using the describing function method. The model is also verified by simulation and hardware results in different operating conditions. From the derived model it is found that the quality factor (Q) of one double-pole set varies with changes in duty cycle. To overcome this challenge, an auto-tuning method for Q-value control is also proposed in this dissertation. / Ph. D. / High performance microprocessors are the heart of all the fascinating computing devices in use today- ranging from the large servers in data centers to the small smartphones. To supply power to these high performance microprocessors, obviously high performance voltage regulators will be required and the expectations from these voltage regulators are increasing day by day with the complexities of the modern microprocessors. The main focus of this research work is to investigate the state-of-the-art control methodologies of today’s voltage regulators, along with the study of their limitations for future challenging requirements, and therefore, propose some effective methodologies to overcome these limitations. In this regard, a novel control method, called ‘Inverse Charge Constant On-Time (IQCOT)’ control, has been proposed in this dissertation. The concept and the features of this new proposed control scheme, along with the comparison of its benefits with the conventional control methodologies, have been presented in detail in different chapters of this dissertation.

L’apparition de convertisseurs multicellulaires parallèles entrelacés et magnétiquement couplés a conduit ces dernières années à améliorer les performances des convertisseurs (densité de puissance, efficacité, dynamique,...). Il existe plusieurs topologies d’entrelacement qui utilisent des Transformateurs Interphases. L’objectif principal de cette étude est de trouver parmi ces topologies celles qui sont les mieux adaptées à un contexte d’intégration d’électronique de puissance pour minimiser la taille et réduire les pertes. Une première étape de modélisation a permis d’effectuer une étude comparative de quelques topologies. Un procédé de permutation des phases d’alimentation a été présenté afin de réduire les ondulations du courant de phases et les pertes ohmiques. Les résultats obtenus valident qualitativement l’avantage de la solution retenue par rapport à la solution standard. Enfin, la réalisation pratique d’un prototype de convertisseur modulaire utilisant des Transformateurs Inter-phases est abordé. Il s’agit d’un régulateur chargé d’alimenter les microprocesseurs (1,2V/100A) (Voltage Regulator Module (VRM)) à 5 modules. Les résultats expérimentaux montrent l’avantage de l’utilisation des Transformateurs Inter-phases par rapport à la solution classique / During the last years, using coupled parallel interleaved converters enhances converters performances (power density, efficiency, transient response,...). There are several possible interleaved coupled topologies that use Inter-phases Transformers. The main objective of this study is to find among these topologies the best adapted configuration in a context of power electronics integration in order to minimize converter size and to reduce losses. A model is proposed to compare some topologies. An optimal modified sequence of phase order to reduce current ripple and ohmic losses is presented. The obtained results validate the advantage of the coupled solution compared to the standard solution. At last, the implementation of a modular power converter using Inter-phases Transformers is shown. It is a Voltage Regulator Module (1,2V/100A) that consists of five identical modules. Experimental results show the advantage of using Inter-phases Transformers compared to conventional solution

Este trabalho apresenta uma estratégia para realizar o controle de tensão em um sistema de distribuição de energia elétrica dotado de comutadores de tap sob carga. Será investigada a aplicação de sistemas inteligentes para tornar os relés reguladores de tensão mais flexíveis. A inserção de módulos inteligentes em relés reguladores de tensão convencionais irá permitir um melhor aproveitamento das funcionalidades já existentes destes dispositivos. Ainda como foco do estudo, pretende-se atuar apenas na subestação de distribuição, realizando medições no barramento secundário e tomando medidas de controle também neste barramento. A capacidade dos sistemas fuzzy em tratar informações incertas, bem como sua potencial aplicabilidade em problemas tendo comportamentos não previsíveis, permitiram a criação de uma estratégia de controle de tensão que atende todas as regulamentações dos órgãos fiscalizadores e, também, os anseios das concessionárias de distribuição de energia elétrica devido aos resultados promissores obtidos em simulação com dados reais das subestações. / This work presents an approach to voltage control in power distribution systems with load tap changers. Intelligent approaches are studied and applied in voltage regulator relay in order to improve the voltage profiles of the system. The proposal of this work is the addition of fuzzy modules in the conventional voltage regulator relays, which allows the exploration of the main functionalities already implemented in such devices. The adaptive fuzzy voltage regulator relay controls the voltage in the distribution substation, monitoring electrical variables and performing the regulation on secondary bus based on the results provided by the fuzzy modules, which are capable to take into account the voltage profile standards for distribution systems as well as operational interests defined by electrical distribution companies. Simulation results using real data from substations are presented to validate the proposed approach.

Present day electrical equipment is rapidly becoming more and more sensitive to power quality problems, especially voltage sags. Various voltage sag correction devices are avaliable. This thesis analyzes a two-switch, single-phase electronic voltage regulator for correcting voltage sags. The theory of this voltage regulator has been investigated. An analytical method for sizing the energy storage capacitors has been established. The voltage regulator has been modeled and its steady-state and dynamic behavior has been studied by means of detailed computer simulations. A 220-V, 50-Hz, 1-kW rated regulator has been designed, simulated, and built. The results on the performance of voltage regulator and conclusions are also given.

The new regulations in the electric sector utilities have have requested greater efficiency and quality both in terms of continuity and in conformity of the energy supplied. Electrical equipments quality, efficiency and useful life depend directly of the power quality supplied. In addition to operation of equipments, supply of energy within the limits must be appropriate for the economic development of regions attended. Considering these factors, to improve quality and ensure conformity of the voltage levels over the distribution networks, the companies are investing in improvements in the system, equipment, voltage regulators and exchange of the conductors and building of new feeders and / or substations. Nowadays due to availability of computational tools and algorithms that allow the estimation of state variables at each point of distribution feeders it is possible to evaluate and plan actions for improvement in the system with more correct. But the improvements planned for the primary network, aiming to reduce the voltage drop and make the system more robust, reflecting the voltage levels in the secondary network and therefore require simultaneous actions to enable the benefits of the study are obtained . In this context, this work objective is to develop a methodology that allows the definition of TAP's appropriate for each distribution transformer, grouping them in TAP zones, together with an algorithm that defines the settings of voltage regulators, taking into consideration not only the primary desired voltage, but also its impact on distribution transformers. This methodology can be used on power utilities for power assisting in the planning and operation of the system. The work is divided into 7 chapters dealing respectively: review, steady state voltage levels and means of control applied in distribution networks, defining the TAP zones of processors, defining the parameters of adjustment of voltage regulators, integrated assessment of the voltage regulators and TAP zones, the author's contributions and considerations on the methodology presented. / As novas regulamentações do setor elétrico têm solicitado das concessionárias uma maior eficiência e qualidade tanto em termos de continuidade como na conformidade da energia fornecida. A qualidade, eficiência e vida útil dos aparelhos elétricos dependem diretamente da qualidade da energia fornecida. Além do funcionamento dos equipamentos, o fornecimento da energia dentro dos limites adequados é necessário para o desenvolvimento econômico das regiões atendidas. Diante desses fatores, a fim de melhorar a qualidade e garantir a conformidade dos níveis de tensão ao longo das redes de distribuição, as empresas distribuidoras investem em melhorias no sistema, equipamentos reguladores de tensão, recondutoramento, construção de novos alimentadores e/ou subestações. Atualmente graças a disponibilidade de ferramentas computacionais e algoritmos que permitem estimar as variáveis de estado em cada ponto dos alimentadores de distribuição torna-se possível avaliar e planejar ações de melhorias no sistema com maior assertividade. Porém as melhorias planejadas para a rede primária, com o objetivo de reduzir a queda de tensão e tornar o sistema mais robusto, refletem nos níveis de tensão da rede secundária e por isso necessitam de ações simultâneas para possibilitar que os benefícios do estudo realizado sejam obtidos. Nesse contexto, o presente trabalho tem a proposta de desenvolver uma metodologia que permita a definição dos TAP s adequados para cada transformador de distribuição, agrupando-os em zonas de TAP, juntamente com um algoritmo que defina os ajustes dos reguladores de tensão levando em consideração não somente a tensão primária desejada, mas também seu impacto nos transformadores de distribuição. Esta metodologia poderá ser aplicada nas empresas distribuidoras de energia elétrica auxiliando nas áreas de planejamento e operação do sistema. O trabalho está divido em 7 capítulos tratando respectivamente de: revisão bibliográfica; níveis de tensão e meios de controle aplicados nas redes de distribuição; definição das zonas de TAP dos transformadores; definição dos parâmetros de ajuste dos reguladores de tensão; avaliação integrada dos reguladores de tensão e zonas de TAP; contribuições e considerações do autor a respeito da metodologia apresentada.

Este trabalho apresenta uma estratégia para realizar o controle de tensão em um sistema de distribuição de energia elétrica dotado de comutadores de tap sob carga. Será investigada a aplicação de sistemas inteligentes para tornar os relés reguladores de tensão mais flexíveis. A inserção de módulos inteligentes em relés reguladores de tensão convencionais irá permitir um melhor aproveitamento das funcionalidades já existentes destes dispositivos. Ainda como foco do estudo, pretende-se atuar apenas na subestação de distribuição, realizando medições no barramento secundário e tomando medidas de controle também neste barramento. A capacidade dos sistemas fuzzy em tratar informações incertas, bem como sua potencial aplicabilidade em problemas tendo comportamentos não previsíveis, permitiram a criação de uma estratégia de controle de tensão que atende todas as regulamentações dos órgãos fiscalizadores e, também, os anseios das concessionárias de distribuição de energia elétrica devido aos resultados promissores obtidos em simulação com dados reais das subestações. / This work presents an approach to voltage control in power distribution systems with load tap changers. Intelligent approaches are studied and applied in voltage regulator relay in order to improve the voltage profiles of the system. The proposal of this work is the addition of fuzzy modules in the conventional voltage regulator relays, which allows the exploration of the main functionalities already implemented in such devices. The adaptive fuzzy voltage regulator relay controls the voltage in the distribution substation, monitoring electrical variables and performing the regulation on secondary bus based on the results provided by the fuzzy modules, which are capable to take into account the voltage profile standards for distribution systems as well as operational interests defined by electrical distribution companies. Simulation results using real data from substations are presented to validate the proposed approach.

abstract: Power management integrated circuit (PMIC) design is a key module in almost all electronics around us such as Phones, Tablets, Computers, Laptop, Electric vehicles, etc. The on-chip loads such as microprocessors cores, memories, Analog/RF, etc. requires multiple supply voltage domains. Providing these supply voltages from off-chip voltage regulators will increase the overall system cost and limits the performance due to the board and package parasitics. Therefore, an on-chip fully integrated voltage regulator (FIVR) is required. The dissertation presents a topology for a fully integrated power stage in a DC-DC buck converter achieving a high-power density and a time-domain hysteresis based highly integrated buck converter. A multi-phase time-domain comparator is proposed in this work for implementing the hysteresis control, thereby achieving a process scaling friendly highly digital design. A higher-order LC notch filter along with a flying capacitor which couples the input and output voltage ripple is implemented. The power stage operates at 500 MHz and can deliver a maximum power of 1.0 W and load current of 1.67 A, while occupying 1.21 mm2 active die area. Thus achieving a power density of 0.867 W/mm2 and current density of 1.377 A/mm2. The peak efficiency obtained is 71% at 780 mA of load current. The power stage with the additional off-chip LC is utilized to design a highly integrated current mode hysteretic buck converter operating at 180 MHz. It achieves 20 ns of settling and 2-5 ns of rise/fall time for reference tracking. The second part of the dissertation discusses an integrated low voltage switched-capacitor based power sensor, to measure the output power of a DC-DC boost converter. This approach results in a lower complexity, area, power consumption, and a lower component count for the overall PV MPPT system. Designed in a 180 nm CMOS process, the circuit can operate with a supply voltage of 1.8 V. It achieves a power sense accuracy of 7.6%, occupies a die area of 0.0519 mm2, and consumes 0.748 mW of power. / Dissertation/Thesis / Doctoral Dissertation Electrical Engineering 2019