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M-TECH in Power Electronics Avionics at Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Power Electronics (Avionics) at Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology Thiruvananthapuram?
This Power Electronics (Avionics) program at Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) focuses on advanced power conversion techniques critical for modern aerospace and electrical systems. It encompasses the design, analysis, and control of power electronic converters, vital for applications in aircraft, spacecraft, and renewable energy integration within the Indian context. The program differentiates itself with a strong emphasis on avionics, reflecting India''''s growing space and defense sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for engineering graduates with a background in Electrical, Electronics, or Instrumentation seeking specialized knowledge in high-power conversion technologies. It caters to fresh graduates aiming for R&D roles in space agencies like ISRO or defense organizations, as well as working professionals from power, automotive, or aerospace industries in India looking to upskill and lead innovative projects.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue high-impact careers in India''''s space, defense, and renewable energy sectors. Typical roles include Power Electronics Design Engineer, R&D Scientist, and System Control Engineer with starting salaries ranging from INR 6-12 LPA for freshers and significantly higher for experienced professionals. The specialization prepares them for advanced roles in electric vehicles, smart grids, and aerospace power systems, aligning with national priorities in self-reliance and technological advancement.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Strengthen Core Power Electronics Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to deeply understand power semiconductor devices, converter topologies, and fundamental control theories introduced in core courses. Focus on solving analytical problems and simulating basic circuits to build a strong theoretical base.
Tools & Resources
MATLAB/Simulink, PSPICE/LTSpice, NPTEL courses on Power Electronics, Textbooks like Rashid, Mohan
Career Connection
A solid foundation is crucial for excelling in interviews for design and R&D roles and for tackling complex project work in later semesters.
Master Laboratory Skills and Simulation Tools- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in Power Electronics Laboratory sessions. Focus on hands-on implementation of converters, device characterization, and control strategies. Become proficient in simulation tools to predict and verify circuit behavior before hardware implementation.
Tools & Resources
Laboratory equipment (oscilloscopes, power supplies), MATLAB/Simulink, PSIM, Experimental Kits
Career Connection
Practical skills are highly valued by employers for roles involving prototype development, testing, and validation in companies like ABB, Siemens, or ISRO.
Engage in Technical Seminars and Literature Review- (Semester 1-2)
Utilize the ''''Seminar'''' course to develop strong literature review and presentation skills. Choose topics relevant to emerging trends in power electronics for avionics, electric vehicles, or smart grids. Actively attend departmental seminars.
Tools & Resources
IEEE Xplore, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, EndNote/Zotero for referencing
Career Connection
Develops critical thinking, research acumen, and communication skills essential for academic research, thesis work, and technical leadership roles.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini-Projects with Real-World Relevance- (Semester 2)
For the ''''Mini Project'''' and other coursework, select projects that address practical challenges in power electronics, especially those with avionics or aerospace applications. Focus on developing a complete solution from design to testing.
Tools & Resources
Microcontrollers (e.g., dSPACE, Arduino, STM32), FPGA boards, CAD software for PCB design, IIST innovation labs
Career Connection
Builds a portfolio of practical experience and demonstrates problem-solving abilities, making you attractive for R&D and product development roles.
Explore Electives Strategically for Specialization- (Semester 1-2 (Elective selection))
Carefully choose electives such as ''''Renewable Energy Systems and Smart Grid'''', ''''Electric Drives'''', or ''''EMI/EMC in Power Electronics'''' based on your career interests. Deep dive into these chosen areas to gain specialized knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Specialized textbooks and research papers, Online courses (Coursera, edX) in specific elective areas
Career Connection
Tailors your expertise to specific industry demands, enhancing your profile for niche roles in automotive, aerospace power systems, or renewable energy integration.
Network with Industry Professionals and Researchers- (Semester 1-3)
Attend conferences, workshops, and guest lectures organized by IIST or professional bodies like IEEE. Interact with faculty and visiting experts to gain insights into industry trends and potential research opportunities.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, IEEE local chapter events, IIST alumni network
Career Connection
Opens doors for internships, mentorship, and future job opportunities in leading organizations across India.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Thesis Research and Development- (Semester 3-4)
Devote significant effort to your Thesis (Part I & II). Choose a research topic with high impact, conduct thorough research, perform rigorous experimentation/simulation, and produce a high-quality thesis. Aim for publications if possible.
Tools & Resources
High-performance computing resources, Advanced simulation software, Access to IIST research labs and equipment
Career Connection
Demonstrates independent research capability and deep expertise, crucial for R&D positions in organizations like ISRO, DRDO, or pursuing a Ph.D.
Prepare for Placements and Interviews- (Semester 3-4)
Systematically prepare for placement interviews by revising core power electronics concepts, practicing technical questions, and developing strong communication skills. Prepare a compelling resume highlighting projects and skills.
Tools & Resources
IIST Career Development Centre, Mock interview sessions, Online aptitude and technical test platforms
Career Connection
Maximizes your chances of securing placements in top-tier companies and research institutions in India''''s space, defense, and electric vehicle sectors.
Develop Leadership and Teamwork through Projects- (Semester 1-4)
Take initiative in group projects, mini-projects, and thesis work to develop leadership and teamwork skills. Effectively manage project timelines, delegate tasks, and resolve conflicts to achieve project goals collaboratively.
Tools & Resources
Project management tools (e.g., Trello, Asana), Collaborative documentation platforms
Career Connection
Essential for leadership roles in any organization, demonstrating the ability to manage teams and drive complex technical projects to successful completion.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.E./B.Tech. or equivalent degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Electronics & Communication Engineering, Instrumentation Engineering, Power Electronics, Applied Electronics & Instrumentation, Electrical & Electronics Engineering, or other equivalent disciplines.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 61 Credits
Assessment: Internal: Typically 40% for theory, 100% for labs/projects, External: Typically 60% for theory (End Semester Examination)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AV631 | Power Semiconductor Devices and Converters | Core | 3 | Power semiconductor switches, DC-DC converters, DC-AC inverters, AC-DC rectifiers, AC-AC converters, Thermal management and protection |
| AV632 | Dynamic Modelling and Control of Converters | Core | 3 | Modeling of DC-DC converters, Modeling of DC-AC inverters, Linear control techniques, Non-linear control strategies, Digital control of power converters, Stability analysis |
| AV633 | Advanced Linear Control Theory | Core | 3 | State-space representation, Controllability and observability, State feedback and observer design, Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR), Kalman filter, Robust control fundamentals |
| AV634 | Power Electronics Laboratory I | Lab | 2 | Characterization of power devices, Design and testing of DC-DC converters, Performance evaluation of AC-DC rectifiers, Open-loop and closed-loop control, Simulation tools for power electronics, Implementation of gate drive circuits |
| AV699 | Seminar | Project/Seminar | 2 | Literature survey, Technical report writing, Oral presentation skills, Critical analysis of papers, Research methodology, Question and answer session |
| Elective I | Elective I | Elective | 3 | Choice from a pool of specialized topics, Focus on advanced concepts, Industry-relevant applications, Emerging technologies, Research frontiers, Problem-solving methodologies |
| Elective II | Elective II | Elective | 3 | Choice from a pool of specialized topics, Focus on advanced concepts, Industry-relevant applications, Emerging technologies, Research frontiers, Problem-solving methodologies |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AV641 | Digital Signal Processing for Power Electronics | Core | 3 | Discrete-time signals and systems, Z-transform and DFT/FFT, Digital filter design, DSP implementation in power electronics, Harmonic analysis and mitigation, Adaptive filtering applications |
| AV642 | Switched Mode Power Supplies | Core | 3 | Isolated SMPS topologies, Soft switching techniques, Power factor correction (PFC), Design considerations for magnetics, Control loop design for SMPS, EMI/EMC issues in SMPS |
| AV643 | Power Electronics Laboratory II | Lab | 2 | Design and implementation of SMPS, Power factor correction circuit, Control of inverters for grid connection, Testing of electric drive systems, High-frequency converter design, Microcontroller/DSP control of converters |
| AV698 | Mini Project | Project | 4 | Problem identification and literature review, System design and simulation, Hardware implementation or advanced simulation, Testing and validation, Report writing and presentation, Project management skills |
| Elective III | Elective III | Elective | 3 | Advanced power conversion techniques, Energy management systems, Smart grid applications, Electric vehicle power systems, Industrial power electronics, High voltage DC transmission |
| Elective IV | Elective IV | Elective | 3 | Power quality and harmonic mitigation, Renewable energy integration, Embedded control for power systems, Advanced semiconductor devices, Power electronics for aerospace applications, Custom power devices |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AV691 | Thesis Part I | Project | 8 | Comprehensive literature review, Problem definition and objectives, Methodology development, Initial experimental/simulation setup, Preliminary data collection and analysis, Research proposal and presentation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AV692 | Thesis Part II | Project | 16 | Advanced experimentation and simulation, Detailed data analysis and interpretation, Validation of results, Technical writing of thesis, Oral defense preparation, Contribution to knowledge in the field |
Semester pool
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AV635 | Advanced Digital Control | Elective | 3 | Discrete-time systems, Digital compensator design, State-space digital control, Quantization effects, Robust digital control, Real-time implementation |
| AV636 | Renewable Energy Systems and Smart Grid | Elective | 3 | Solar PV systems, Wind energy conversion systems, Grid integration of renewables, Smart grid concepts, Microgrids and distributed generation, Energy storage technologies |
| AV637 | Electric Drives | Elective | 3 | DC motor drives, AC motor drives, Brushless DC motor drives, Switched Reluctance Motor drives, Motion control applications, Power electronic converters for drives |
| AV638 | Power Quality | Elective | 3 | Voltage sags and swells, Harmonics and interharmonics, Power quality standards, Harmonic filters, FACTS devices for power quality, Measurement and mitigation techniques |
| AV639 | Energy Storage Systems | Elective | 3 | Battery technologies (Li-ion, lead-acid), Supercapacitors, Flywheels, Hydrogen fuel cells, Hybrid energy storage systems, Power electronics for storage integration |
| AV640 | Special Electrical Machines | Elective | 3 | Linear induction motors, Permanent magnet synchronous machines, Switched reluctance motors, Stepper motors, Reluctance motors, Control strategies for special machines |
| AV644 | EMI/EMC in Power Electronics | Elective | 3 | EMI/EMC standards and regulations, Sources and coupling paths of EMI, Conducted and radiated emissions, EMI filter design, Shielding and grounding techniques, Testing and measurement of EMI/EMC |
| AV645 | Microgrid and Distributed Generation | Elective | 3 | Microgrid architecture, Distributed energy resources (DERs), Control strategies for microgrids, Grid-connected and islanded operation, Protection of microgrids, Economic aspects of microgrids |
