Master Thesis in Power Electronic Systems: Grid-Forming Control in DC Microgrids (80-100%)

Master Thesis in Power Electronic Systems: Grid-Forming Control in DC Microgrids (80-100%)At ABB, we are dedicated to addressing global challenges. Our core values: care, courage, curiosity, and collaboration - combined with a focus on diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities - are key drivers in our aim to empower everyone to create sustainable solutions. That's our story. Make it your story.
This position reports to

R&D Team Lead

Your role and responsibilities

In this role, you will have the opportunity to gain vocational experience through a temporary work placement (6 months). Each day, you will acquire knowledge by performing tasks as directed. You will also showcase your expertise by supporting ABB’s operations and enhancing personal education/employment opportunities.

DC microgrids are low-voltage DC networks designed to connect and manage various energy sources
and consumption devices that inherently use DC voltage, such as photovoltaic systems, battery
storage, electronic loads, electric vehicles, etc. A key challenge in operating DC microgrids is maintaining the DC voltage within certain predefined limits while ensuring the stability of the microgrid. The goal of this thesis is to investigate and design control techniques for DC/DC converters that can achieve DC voltage stabilization and desired load sharing between the available source converters.

The work model for the role is: on-site {Linkedin #Onsite}

This role is contributing to the Corporate Research Center, Industrial Solutions department in the Power Electronics System group in Baden-Dättwil, Switzerland.

The Master’s thesis tasks will consist of the following:
• Perform a literature review on existing grid-forming control methods in DC microgrids
• Analyze DC bus voltage regulation performance of existing methods by investigating their output impedance properties
• Perform passivity analysis to uncover stability characteristics of the existing methods
• Based on the performed analysis propose ways to improve the existing designs
• Develop a coordinated control design for a set of heterogeneous converters to provide a desired aggregate grid-forming response
• Summarize research findings in a report

You will join a dynamic and high-performing team, where you will be able to thrive.

Qualifications for the role

• Currently pursuing a Master’s degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering or related subject
• You have fulfilled prerequisites for starting master’s thesis at your university
• You possess knowledge of programming skills (MATLAB & Simulink)
• You have a strong background in power electronics (converter modeling and operation) and in control theory (stability analysis, classical control concepts, converter control)
• You are a self-organized team player with the ability to work independently and as a part of a team
• You are at ease communicating in English
• Non-EU/non-EFTA citizens, please note that official enrollment in a Swiss university is essential

More about us

ABB Corporate Research, in close cooperation with varied ABB business areas, is developing the foundations for the next generation of ABB products. In Switzerland, ABB Corporate Research, located in the proximity of Zurich, employs about 120 scientists from over 20 countries with expertise in automation and power technologies for manufacturing, consumer and process industries as well as power utilities.

We look forward to receiving your application. The recruiting process is led by Talent Partner Angelina Kothe. If you would like to learn more about ABB, take another look at our website www.abb.com.

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