Advanced functional circuit concepts - Session summary

Summary form only given. A new era in power processing began with the development of power transistors and silicon-controlled rectifiers (SCRs) more than a decade ago. Advanced functional circuit designs based on a wide range of device ratings and characteristics will undoubtedly have major impact on present and future applications. The authors of the papers presented in this session are recognized contributors in the power processing field. The paper by Mr. C. J. Marlett deals with the analysis of a "push-pull" type modulator to power a 50 kw pulsed xenon arc lamp. In Mr. E. Reimer\´s paper, a new solid state switch concept, identified as the Integrated Hybrid Transistor Switch, is introduced. In the paper, "Analog Signal to Discrete Time Interval Converter," by Mr. V.R. Lalli and Mr. A.D. Schonfeld, the IADTIC is conceived, designed, and developed for the purpose of standardizing future power processor control circuitry. The important subject of soft commutation of high power SCR inverters is dealt with briefly by Mr. R.F. Kantz. Three more papers are on the subject of power processing involving batteries. The paper by Mr. H. L. Layte and Mr. D.W. Zerbel deals with the protection circuitry of a nickelcadmiurn battery cell from overcharge or discharge in long lifetime applications. Mr. F. Benjamin\´s paper explains the reflex principle of charging nickel-cadmium and other batteries. Effects on the various operating parameters are explained in the last paper by Mr. J.T. Lingle and Mr. W. Dudley. Their paper is a study to determine the optimum power processing circuitry between a remote battery or fuel cell source and sensors and communication devices. Progress is expected in providing a broader range of devices for future inverters and converters for higher voltages over a wider range of current ratings. Continued research and development of power processing circuitry should result in profitable new products for many commercial, industrial and defense applications.