Circuit Designs to Lower Harmonic and Electromagnetic Noise

Suppresses Harmonic and Electromagnetic Interference Noise in Power Electronics and Power Converters

These circuit designs use energy mitigation to improve the conventional sinusoidal pulse width modulation (SPWM). This technique can dampen both current harmonic and electromagnetic circuit noise. The need for shielding electromagnetic interference continues to grow as more electronic products are developed and the market projects it’s value to exceed $7 billion by year 2022. The generation of electromagnetic circuit noise, or electromagnetic interference (EMI) disturbs the components within electrical and mechanical devices, such as computer motor drives or power converters. Available technologies use a thin foil to coat components within the devices to prevent electromagnetic interference. However, this expensive tactic causes the device to overheat.

Researchers at the University of Florida have developed two complementary techniques that reduce harmonic and EMI noise as well as amplify voltage. Their simple designs allow either electrical or mechanical devices to achieve optimal performance.

Application

Circuit designs use electromagnetic interference energy mitigation and sinusoidal pulse width modulation for harmonic and EMI noise suppression

Advantages

• Provides low cost and easy implementation, enabling its use in many power electronics and power converters
• Decreases noise interference, allowing devices to operate more quietly and efficiently
• Controls circuit noise interference in compact areas, making it possible to design smaller devices and still reduce noise

Technology

These designs lessen electromagnetic circuit noise that interferes with the performance of devices. The mitigation technique limits the spread of electromagnetic interference in mechanical devices, including power converters, motor devices, and solar panels. Also, this technique amplifies the voltage of the transformers within devices, lowering current loss while powering them. The sinusoidal pulse with modulation (SPWM) technique suppresses the electromagnetic interference and harmonic noise in electrical devices such as a motor drive and an electric vehicle or train. This technique applies a DC offset to a sinusoidal modulation waveform to change the average duty cycle of a switching circuit, thereby reducing the total energy.