This research area, led by Dr. Vincenzo Barba, focuses on the on advanced control systems, optimization, with applications to power systems, smart grids, microgrids, and power electronics converters. The activities include modeling, design, and experimental analysis of electrical machines, intelligent and resilient distribution networks, and systems supplying high pulse and transient loads. We develop and test new control methods, protection approaches, and power management techniques to improve performance, stability, and energy efficiency. By combining research, simulation, and hardware validation, we deliver practical solutions for modern and future power systems.

What we do

• Reconfigurable, fault-tolerant electrical distribution system for helicopters and aircraft, featuring real-time current-balancing optimization.
• Investigation of new technologies for high power density electrical motor drives.
• New strategies to increase the power capability of pulse generators for HPPL applications.

This research area, led by Eng. Sofia Caggese focuses on the study, design, and development of innovative cooling and heat-control solutions for modern electrical, electronic, energy systems, aerial and land platform. We work on managing high heat flux and dynamic thermal loads to improve system reliability, efficiency, and performance. The activities include thermal modeling and simulation, cooling system design, materials and heat transfer optimization, and experimental validation for power electronics, electrical machines, high-power devices, and energy systems. We develop and evaluate advanced techniques such as liquid cooling, phase-change methods, hybrid cooling architectures, and intelligent thermal control strategies to support next-generation technologies.

What we do

• Simulation and modeling of advanced thermal architecture for aerial and land platforms.
• Innovative cooling investigation.
• Heat source configurations optimization.
• Heat and energy recovery.

The Power & Energy Management area focuses on planning, monitoring, and optimization of energy generation, distribution, and consumption. We develop advanced methods and tools to improve energy efficiency, reliability, and operational performance across electrical and hybrid energy systems. The activities include energy modeling and analysis, smart energy management strategies, demand optimization, integration of renewable and distributed resources, and real-time monitoring and control solutions. Through research, simulation, and practical implementation, we help design and deploy efficient energy management frameworks that reduce losses, lower costs, and support sustainable power systems.

What we do

• Simulation and modeling of energy storage systems.
• Innovative research in the field of batteries, supercapacitors and super batteries.

2025 conference contributions

• AIAA AVIATION 2025 Framework for Design Optimization and Control of Hybrid Electric Propulsion Systems
• EUCASS 2025 Optimizing Thermal Management Design Process: a Graph-Theory-based Approach for a Full-Electric Aircraft
• EASN 15th international conference Dynamic Simulation and Comparison of Nanofluid applications on Aircraft Thermal Management System