Enthusiastic responses to joint edition of Power Electronics & Energy Storage

Flying trains and emission-free transport locomotives: during the Power Electronics & Energy Storage event, on 14 June in Den Bosch, sustainability was a common thread throughout the programme. Almost 250 visitors found their way to the sun-drenched Congrescentrum 1931 where over a hundred exhibitors welcomed them. The quality of the lectures was high and this was noticeable in the attendance in the halls and the enthusiastic reactions of visitors.

It was the first joint edition of Power Electronics and Energy Storage but certainly not the last – if it were up to the visitors and exhibitors. The lecture program covered a broad spectrum of both power electronics as energy storage-related topics, which allowed interested parties to not only deepen but also broaden their knowledge.

Futuristic train

In total, there were no fewer than 27 presentations, ranging in theme from electric charging systems with supercapacitors to controlling and securing DC grids. Chief Electronics Hidde de Bos of Delft Hyperloop VI opened the event with a lecture on the technology behind the Helios 1, a magnetic levitation train that shoots through a vacuum tube at 1000 km/h, making it a serious alternative for short-haul flights. De Bos presented the prototype of the hyperloop and delved deeper into the technology behind this futuristic means of transport.

Wireless charging for emergency vehicles

Afterwards the audience had the choice of four tracks with presentations from companies, universities and colleges on power electronics and energy storage. Ernest Aberson from Wifi Power Transfer gave a lecture on behalf of Elincom Electronics on wireless charging of emergency vehicles. When every second counts, it is vital that batteries on board are optimally charged. In practice, charging cables sometimes cause annoying situations, especially when an ambulance has to drive away immediately. During his presentation, Aberson talked about a wireless charging platform that will make cables unnecessary in the future.

Packed room

Guido de Hek and Usman Hassan of Strukton Power closed the day for a packed hall with listeners who wanted to know everything about the first battery-electric powered locomotive in the Netherlands. The locomotive, which is to make its first test drive this year, uses electricity from both the overhead line and batteries. This makes it possible to drive completely emission-free. A unique event in the Netherlands that is also attracting international attention.

Watch the replays

Would you have liked to attend but were unable to travel to Den Bosch, or were you there but would like to watch the lectures again? All replays of the event will be available next week on the website: www.fhi.nl/powerelectronicsevent.