Nine Switches Matrix Converter Using Bi-directional GaN Device

As market demand for energy conservation products are increasing, matrix converters need to be further improved in efficiency and downsizing. On the other hand, next generation power devices such as SiC, GaN, which are capable of high speed switching with low loss have recently gained attention. In particular, the bidirectional GaN device is constituted by connecting two devices in series on the same die, which has an advantage that the conduction loss and the mounting area can be reduced. Conventional matrix converter requires at least 18 devices, but if bi-directional GaN devices are used, they can be composed with only 9 devices, which is useful for high efficiency and downsizing by reducing the conduction loss of the matrix converter. Matrix converter chipset using bidirectional GaN devices has already been developed, but as far as the authors know, a three phase motor has not been driven. This paper introduces the prototype nine switches matrix converter using bi-directional GaN devices, which successfully drives a three phase motor.