Robert Keilmann

My name is Robert Keilmann and I am researching reliable power electronics for future All-Electric Aircraft. Power electronics are needed to convert electrical energy from one form to another, for example, to drive an electric machine from a battery.

I’m trying to find a good trade-off between power density and reliability of converters and inverters. Our power electronics have to be designed so that huge amounts of electrical energy can be converted with minor losses, which is expected to be lightweight and reliable at the same time. These are conflicting priorities that have to be addressed for all-electric aviation.

I hope my research has an impact and contributes to the net-zero efforts.

Transitioning from conventional combustion-based propulsors to electric drivetrains often comes with questions regarding the reliability of the electronics. I am trying to find answers to this. The results of my findings might be used both for safety assessments and sustainability and life cycle assessments.

I find it demanding to fit the publication policy and the qualification plan into the day-to-day business at the institute. On the other hand, a great opportunity is the big network that forms when working with colleagues with their respective research focus.