Hitachi's role in the area of power electronics for transportation

Advances in transportation systems have been spectacular. A variable-voltage variable-frequency (VVVF) inverter drive, which applies a large-capacity gate turn-off (GTO) thyristor and a high voltage insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) have been developed to attain higher speed, lighter weight and lower level of noise of transportation systems such as rolling stock, elevators and electric vehicles. In view of the above-mentioned needs, Hitachi has propelled research and development not only to improve individual component devices employing sophisticated power electronics and microcomputer technology, but also to maximize the performance and minimize the size, weight, and level of noise of conventional transportation controllers. In transportation systems, the inverter control is already becoming mainstream. In this light, Hitachi has tackled the development of large-capacity GTO thyristors, high voltage IGBTs, GTO and IGBT drive technology, cooling technology and installation technology. This paper describes Hitachi's role in the area of power electronics for transportation. Especially, new systems of rolling stock are explained.<>