We propose a high speed bipolar power semiconductor whose on/off operation is directly controlled by fiber coupled laser pulses for driving flight control motors. The direct light activation results in a) an increase in the switching power and speed of the device over the IGBT, which will reduce the size and weight of the motor control system, b) in a virtually noise immune motor control system. Control light pulses are delivered through fibers traveling in alternate paths through the structure to control the on - off operation of the power semiconductor in a logic or function directly. Thus, the presence of a signal from any or all of the fibers will cause the same switching action, thereby providing battle hardened configurations without additional signal processing.
Benefits: The benefit of this technology to the realization of a More Electric Aircraft (MOE) will be to enhance the performance and safety of military aircraft and it is anticipated that the technology will be quickly spun off to the commercial fleet with enhanced safety and greater economy of operation. Further, the application of this technology is envisioned in switching power supplies and factory automation in the reduction of the size and weight of the electronic control circuitry
