Evaluation of AC-AC matrix converter, a manufacturer's perspective

Abstract

Trend prediction for power electronic industry among researchers is more silicon and less passive components. Ac-ac matrix converter is an excellent example for such trend. However, as an equipment manufacturer, we are more interested in competitiveness of cost and size. As our investigation turns out, ac-ac matrix converter has all merits of both worlds, more silicon, less passive component values, more cost and bigger size. Therefore, the statement "more silicon and less passive components will certainly result in cost and size reduction" may not be true for all time.