Rap Sessions

Tuesday, February 7, 2012
5:00 pm – 6:30 pm

Session 1: Smart grid and green technologies: A good use of power-electronics or a waste of money?

Moderator: Professor Babak Fahimi, Director of Renewable Energy and Vehicular Technology Laboratory, University of Texas at Dallas

Panelists:
Dr. Patrick Chapman, Solar Bridge Technologies
Dr. Dushan Boroyevich, Virginia Tech
Dennis Monticelli, Silicon Valley Labs



Smart grids and green technologies promise superior reliability and sustainable generation in a decentralized and environmentally friendly form which is suitable for fast growing economies around the world. Power electronics, as the enabling technology, plays a central role in eventual success of these concepts. However, different interpretations of smart grid and sustainability have caused confusion on the implementation and potential consequences of these developments. This rap session attempts to shed light on pros and cons of each concept and their respective impact on power electronic market.

Session 2: Future of R&D: Skill roadblocks, outsourcing engineering, and power electronics as a commodity.

Moderator: Alix Pultre, Editorial director, Design group, Advantage Business Media

Panelists:
Dave Freeman, TI
Steven Oliver, Vicor
Patrick le Fevre, Ericsson
Athar Zaidi, Semtech Power Management Group 

One of the most powerful and disruptive forces in this industry (and the world today) is technology convergence, and the related issues. Today’s development environment demands cross-disciplinary skills, competition is increasing from overseas suppliers with increased technical capabilities, and standardization and regulation pressures create serious challenges to the designer. This rap session will discuss and explore the issues surrounding R&D and tech development and how some companies are addressing it.

Session 3: Solar micro-inverters: Sizzling strategy or cool solution?

Moderator: Arnold N. Alderman, Anagenesis, Inc.

Panelists:
Chevonne Yee, Power-One
Martin Fortnage, Enphase Energy
Jason Lai, Virginia Tech
Bob White, Embedded Power Labs

Imagine replacing one central inverter housed in a cool room with 40 micro-inverters operating on a hot roof. Is that even feasible? Is the system reliable when if the component count goes ballistic? Thermal cycling becomes a daily routine. They are promoted as creating automatic redundancy. If one fails the rest of the system continues to operate. But doesn’t product repair become a nightmare? What do you think? Come join us, grab a beer, and support your side in this hot debate.