Advanced power electronic converters are increasingly required to perform multiple functions, such as renewable energy conversion, grid support, and electric drives. These capabilities necessitate adaptive and multi-objective control techniques that can accommodate fast dynamics, multiple control goals, and system uncertainties.

Model Predictive Control (MPC) has been widely explored for such applications due to its ability to predict system behavior and enforce constraints. However, its practical implementation is often limited by its high computational complexity. To address this challenge, Inverse Model Predictive Control (IMPC) is introduced as an alternative approach that maintains the advantages of MPC while significantly reducing computational load.

This talk provides an overview of IMPC and its implementation in power electronics convertersTo demonstrate the applicability of IMPC, several case studies will be presented, including grid-following and grid-forming inverters, as well as converter-fed drives. These examples highlight the potential of IMPC for various converter topologies.

The semiconductor industry has become a cornerstone of modern technology, underpinning advancements in information technology, artificial intelligence, communications, transportation, and energy systems. This talk presents an overview of current trends and development in the semiconductor industry, using Taiwan as a representative and influential case. The presentation begins with an introduction to semiconductor materials and their classifications, including elemental semiconductors such as silicon, compound semiconductors, and emerging materials for advanced electronic and optoelectronic applications. Their respective roles in logic, memory, power electronics, and sensing applications are briefly discussed to provide a common technical foundation for a multidisciplinary audience.

Taiwan’s strategic importance in the global semiconductor ecosystem is then examined from both technological and geopolitical perspectives. Owing to its highly concentrated manufacturing capacity, mature supply-chain clusters, and strong integration between academia, industry, and government, Taiwan occupies a pivotal position in global semiconductor production. This unique role has also placed Taiwan at the center of international discussions on supply-chain resilience, economic security, and geopolitical stability. Special attention is given to Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), which has played a decisive role in shaping the global foundry model. TSMC’s emphasis on pure-play manufacturing, large-scale capital investment, and advanced process integration has enabled rapid technology scaling while allowing fabless companies worldwide to focus on design innovation.

By combining advanced manufacturing capabilities, flexible industrial collaboration, and long-term strategic planning, Taiwan has established a competitive advantage that is difficult to replicate. The presentation concludes by discussing future challenges and opportunities facing the semiconductor industry, highlighting the implications for technology development, global collaboration, and multidisciplinary research.