DATA POINTS

Dec 1, 2001 12:00 PM

Dynex and Ecostar Join to Fabricate Prototype Semiconductor Modules

Dynex Semiconductor, Lincoln, U.K., and Ecostar Electric Drive Systems, Dearborn, Mich., joined to fabricate prototype power semiconductor modules for potential use in electric vehicles and power conversion systems. Ecostar will design the power module, while Dynex provides power module process and manufacturing expertise and IGBT knowledge to optimize the design and fabricate prototypes.

The project focuses on prototype power modules, incorporating IGBT technology to provide efficient power conversion and inverter motor drives.

“This is a milestone in our power product development,” said Dr. Paul Taylor, Dynex chief technology officer.

To learn more, visit the Web at www.dynex.com and www.ecostar.com.

Software Fueling Battery Charger Markets

A pressing challenge for many manufacturers in the battery market is to develop chargers that avoid overheating miniaturized batteries. To meet this fast-rising demand, manufacturers are using software to optimize charging. According to San Antonio-based Frost & Sullivan, a marketing consulting and training firm, the U.S. Battery Charger Market rose to $1.66 billion in 2000 and is expected to increase through 2007, with a projected industry revenue reaching $3.10 billion.

“Environmental concerns will help ignite demand for automotive battery chargers,” says Frost & Sullivan Industry Analyst Sara Bradford. “Concern over carbon emissions has resulted in governmental incentives to transform carbon fuel to electric fuel applications.”

To learn more, visit www.frost.com.

ABB Streamlines Research and Development

ABB is increasing its focus on technologies in productivity and sustainability for utility and industry customers. This move is linked to its initiative for industrial information technology (patented Industrial IT).

ABB president and CEO Jörgen Centerman said, “With Industrial IT, we are developing a common architecture — allowing customers to link our generic and branch-specific offerings into more efficient manufacturing and business operations.”

The new R&D strategy will shift research resources in the ABB Group R&D laboratories from mature technologies into Industrial IT and emerging technologies — aiming to make ABB's traditional products Industrial IT-compatible. For more information, visit www.abbsem.com.

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