Integrated Power Solution for Electrical Motor Control in TVC Actuation Applications

The thrust vector control (TVC) system is used to manipulate the direction of thrust from a launcher motor which is the primary method of propulsion in a space launch vehicle. The TVC comprises of several components which are designed to convert electrical energy into linear or rotary motion. Greater use of electrical and electromechanical systems has become a macro-trend across many markets in recent years. Space launchers are no exception with the replacement of hydraulic and pneumatic actuators with electromechanical systems. This paper outlines a Power Core Module (PCM) integrated power solution, developed by Microchip, for motor actuation applications in a TVC system. The main benefits of this highly integrated solution are compactness, low losses, short common mode noise path, stable converters, and integrated protections, which are presented, and key points are highlighted. The power modules contain silicon-carbide (SiC) power semiconductors and the reasons why SiC technology is preferred over silicon are also summarised.