A New Power Supplies Course: From Problem-Based-Learning to Research

Power supplies courses classically are related to auxiliar dc-dc power converters for electronic products. However, the current technological context has extended their applications to a wider range of products and devices. This paper presents an updated syllabus for a power supplies course oriented towards modern trends in the field, including power conversion for electric vehicles. The course is planned and developed using modern approaches such as project-based learning and the use and development of real-world components and technologies. During the course, the students design and implement a 48–12 V converter for electric vehicle applications using real specifications and components, and they have a first introduction to research in electric vehicle technology.