This theme is the scientific engine of the programme, solving the fundamental problems that have held integrated motor drives back. Conventionally the motor and its power electronics are designed separately and joined by bulky cabling; we are bringing them together into a single, deeply integrated unit. This raises hard engineering questions that our researchers tackle across several connected strands of work.
At its core is the physical and thermal integration of power electronics and motor components, designing them to share structure and cooling rather than duplicate it, supported by advanced thermal management to handle the concentrated heat that integration creates. Alongside this, we work on drive topologies and control optimisation, finding the configurations and control strategies that deliver the greatest efficiency and power density.
We also investigate the reliability and longevity of these tightly packed systems, ensuring they perform in demanding conditions over time, and pursue materials and component research that reduces or removes dependence on scarce rare-earth elements. Together, these strands form the technical foundations on which the rest of the programme builds.
