A Predictive Maintenance Concept for LVDC Power Electronics-Based Circuit Breakers Using Artificial Intelligence

Power electronics-based circuit breakers for future DC systems, which are essential for the energy transition, have not yet reached a sufficient level of maturity. It is necessary to examine the requirements of real operation to improve these circuit breakers and to provide them with intelligent functions for optimized use under various environmental conditions. This concept paper outlines research detailing key innovations, impacts, methodology, current progress, and expected results. The investigation primarily focuses on researching, developing, and validating a real-time predictive maintenance concept for estimating the remaining useful lifetime (RUL) of power semiconductors in power electronics-based circuit breakers. This approach aims to significantly enhance the reliability and robustness of these circuit breakers and DC applications.