Analysis, Modulation and Control of a Ground Power Unit for Aircraft Applications

This paper presents a PLECS-based simulation of innovative AC-AC converter configurations tailored for Ground Power Units (GPUs), addressing the critical demand for airport electrification, a cornerstone of sustainable aviation and ground operations. The proposed design incorporates a Current-Synthesized Power Factor Correction (CSPFC) rectifier, operating with a suitable harmonic injection technique, and proper modulation strategies. Simulation results demonstrate the system’s effectiveness in mitigating issues such as harmonic distortion, voltage ripple, and other operational challenges, underscoring its potential to enhance performance and sustainability in GPU applications.