Method and device for monitoring a switching unit in a solid state circuit breaker

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method and apparatus for monitoring a switching unit in a solid-state circuit breaker. The switching unit includes a first set of power devices, a first electrode of each power device in the first set of power devices is electrically connected to a first node, and a second electrode of each power device in the first set of power devices is electrically connected to a second node. The method includes: during a main loop current flowing from the first electrode to the second electrode of the first set of power devices in a first direction, causing a first turn-off voltage to be applied to a gate of each power device in the first set of power devices in a first time period; in response to the application of the first turn-off voltage, obtaining a voltage across a first capacitive element connected in series with a first resistive element between the first node and the second node; and based on the voltage across the first capacitive element, determining whether a turn-off function of each power device in the first set of power devices is normal when the main loop current flows therefrom in the first direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein generally relate to the field of electrical equipment, and particularly to methods and apparatus for monitoring switching units in solid-state circuit breakers, solid-state circuit breakers, and computer-readable storage media. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of power systems and the increasing demands for power reliability, solid-state circuit breakers (SSCBs), as a new type of power control and protection device, are becoming increasingly important. Power devices, as the core components of solid-state circuit breakers, are responsible for shutting off power in the event of a short circuit or other fault in the main circuit, thus protecting loads and cables from damage.

[0003] However, in practical applications, power devices may fail for various reasons, which can not only cause circuit breakers to malfunction but also trigger more serious power outages. Therefore, real-time monitoring and diagnosis of the health status of power devices is crucial for preventing failures and reducing potential losses.

[0004] Traditional power device testing methods typically require the solid-state circuit breaker to be shut down. This testing method affects the continuity of power supply, which contradicts the normal operational continuity requirements of the circuit breaker. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Embodiments of this disclosure provide methods and apparatus for monitoring switching units in a solid-state circuit breaker, a solid-state circuit breaker, and a computer-readable storage medium.

[0006] In a first aspect of this disclosure, a method for monitoring a switching unit in a solid-state circuit breaker is provided. The switching unit includes a first group of power devices, a first electrode of each power device in the first group of power devices being electrically connected to a first node, and a second electrode of each power device in the first group of power devices being electrically connected to a second node. The method includes: applying a first turn-off voltage to the gate of each power device in the first group of power devices during a first time period while a main circuit current flows from the first electrode of the first group of power devices to the second electrode in a first direction; acquiring a voltage across a first capacitive element in response to the application of the first turn-off voltage, the first capacitive element and a first resistive element being connected in series between the first node and the second node; and determining, based on the voltage across the first capacitive element, whether the turn-off function of each power device in the first group of power devices is normal when the main circuit current flows through it in the first direction.

[0007] In some embodiments, determining whether the shutdown function of each power device in the first group of power devices is normal when the main circuit current flows through it in the first direction includes: determining that the shutdown function of each power device in the first group of power devices is normal when the main circuit current flows through it in the first direction in response to the voltage across the first capacitive element being higher than a first voltage threshold at a predetermined time point or within a predetermined period after the first shutdown voltage is applied; and determining that the shutdown function of at least one power device in the first group of power devices is abnormal when the main circuit current flows through it in the first direction in response to the voltage across the first capacitive element being lower than the first voltage threshold at a predetermined time point or within a predetermined period.

[0008] In some embodiments, the method further includes: acquiring a voltage between a first node and a second node during a period when an enable voltage is applied to the gate of each power device in the first group of power devices; determining that the enable function of each power device in the first group of power devices is normal in response to the voltage between the first node and the second node being within a first predetermined voltage range; and determining that the enable function of at least one power device in the first group of power devices is abnormal in response to the voltage between the first node and the second node being outside the first predetermined voltage range.

[0009] In some embodiments, the method further includes: acquiring a first case temperature of the first group of power devices during a period when an enable voltage is applied to the gate of each power device in the first group of power devices; determining that the enable function of each power device in the first group of power devices is normal in response to the first case temperature being within a first predetermined temperature range; and determining that the enable function of at least one power device in the first group of power devices is abnormal in response to the first case temperature being outside the first predetermined temperature range.

[0010] In some embodiments, the switching unit further includes a second group of power devices, wherein a first electrode of each power device in the second group of power devices is electrically connected to a third node, a second electrode of each power device in the second group of power devices is electrically connected to a fourth node, and the fourth node is electrically connected to the second node. A second capacitive element and a second resistive element are connected in series between the third node and the fourth node. The method further includes: applying a second turn-off voltage to the gate of each power device in the second group of power devices during a second time period while the main circuit current flows from the second electrode of the second group of power devices to the first electrode in a first direction, wherein the length of the second time period is greater than the length of the first time period; acquiring a voltage between the fourth node and the third node in response to the application of the second turn-off voltage; and determining, based on the voltage between the fourth node and the third node, whether the turn-off function of each power device in the second group of power devices is normal when the main circuit current flows through it in the first direction.

[0011] In some embodiments, determining whether the shutdown function of each power device in the second group of power devices is normal when the main circuit current flows through it in the first direction includes: determining that the shutdown function of each power device in the second group of power devices is normal when the main circuit current flows through it in the first direction in response to the voltage between the fourth node and the third node being higher than the second voltage threshold after the second shutdown voltage is applied; and determining that the shutdown function of at least one power device in the second group of power devices is abnormal when the main circuit current flows through it in the first direction in response to the voltage between the fourth node and the third node being lower than the second voltage threshold after the second shutdown voltage is applied.

[0012] In some embodiments, the method further includes: measuring a current value from a shunt resistor electrically connected to the second node and the fourth node; obtaining a second case temperature of the second set of power devices; and determining a second voltage threshold based on the current value and the second case temperature.

[0013] In some embodiments, the method further includes: during the period when a turn-on voltage is applied to the gate of each of the first group of power devices and the second group of power devices, acquiring a voltage between a first node and a second node and a voltage between a fourth node and a third node; determining that the turn-on function of each power device in the first group of power devices is normal in response to the voltage between the first node and the second node being within a first predetermined voltage range; determining that the turn-on function of at least one power device in the first group of power devices is abnormal in response to the voltage between the first node and the second node being outside the first predetermined voltage range; determining that the turn-on function of each power device in the second group of power devices is normal in response to the voltage between the fourth node and the third node being within a second predetermined voltage range; and determining that the turn-on function of at least one power device in the second group of power devices is abnormal in response to the voltage between the fourth node and the third node being outside the second predetermined voltage range.

[0014] In some embodiments, the method further includes: during the period when a turn-on voltage is applied to the gate of each of the first group of power devices and the second group of power devices, acquiring a first case temperature of the first group of power devices and a second case temperature of the second group of power devices; determining that the turn-on function of each power device in the first group of power devices is normal in response to the first case temperature being within a first predetermined temperature range; determining that the turn-on function of at least one power device in the first group of power devices is abnormal in response to the first case temperature being outside the first predetermined temperature range; determining that the turn-on function of each power device in the second group of power devices is normal in response to the second case temperature being within a second predetermined temperature range; and determining that the turn-on function of at least one power device in the second group of power devices is abnormal in response to the second case temperature being outside the second predetermined temperature range.

[0015] In some embodiments, the main circuit current is alternating current, and the method further includes: applying a first turn-off voltage to the gate of each power device in the first group of power devices during a third time period while the main circuit current flows from the second electrode of the first group of power devices in a second direction to the first electrode; acquiring a voltage between the first node and the second node in response to the application of the first turn-off voltage; and determining, based on the voltage between the first node and the second node, whether the turn-off function of each power device in the first group of power devices is normal when the main circuit current flows through it in the second direction.

[0016] In some embodiments, the method further includes: applying a second turn-off voltage to the gate of each power device in the second group of power devices during a fourth time period while the main circuit current flows from the first electrode to the second electrode in the second direction; acquiring the voltage across a second capacitive element in response to the application of the second turn-off voltage; and determining, based on the voltage across the second capacitive element, whether the turn-off function of each power device in the second group of power devices is normal when the main circuit current flows through it in the second direction.

[0017] In some embodiments, the first time period corresponds to a first predetermined phase angle when the main circuit current flows along the first direction, the second time period corresponds to a second predetermined phase angle when the main circuit current flows along the first direction, the third time period corresponds to a third predetermined phase angle when the main circuit current flows along the second direction, and the fourth time period corresponds to a fourth predetermined phase angle when the main circuit current flows along the second direction.

[0018] In some embodiments, the method further includes: triggering an alarm or causing the mechanical switch of the solid-state circuit breaker to open in response to an abnormality in the shutdown or opening function of at least one of the first group of power devices and the second group of power devices.

[0019] In a second aspect of this disclosure, an apparatus for monitoring switching units in a solid-state circuit breaker is provided. The apparatus includes: at least one processing unit; and at least one memory coupled to the at least one processing unit and storing instructions for execution by the at least one processing unit, the instructions causing the apparatus to perform the method of the first aspect of this disclosure when executed by the at least one processing unit.

[0020] In a third aspect of this disclosure, a computer-readable storage medium is provided having a computer program stored thereon, which can be executed by a processor to implement the method of the first aspect of this disclosure.

[0021] In a fourth aspect of this disclosure, a solid-state circuit breaker is provided, comprising: a switching unit including a first group of power devices and a second group of power devices, wherein a first electrode of each power device in the first group of power devices is electrically connected to a first node, a second electrode of each power device in the first group of power devices is electrically connected to a second node, a first electrode of each power device in the second group of power devices is electrically connected to a third node, a second electrode of each power device in the second group of power devices is electrically connected to a fourth node, and the fourth node is electrically connected to the second node; a first capacitive element and a first resistive element connected in series between the first node and the second node; a second capacitive element and a second resistive element connected in series between the third node and the fourth node; a shunt resistor connected between the second node and the fourth node; and a processing unit configured to perform the method of the first aspect of this disclosure.

[0022] As will be understood from the following description, in the embodiments of this disclosure, it is possible to monitor whether the switching unit can turn off normally during the operation of the solid-state circuit breaker without shutting down the solid-state circuit breaker, thus avoiding the situation where the circuit breaker cannot turn off when a short circuit occurs in the main circuit due to the failure of power devices. Other benefits will be described below in conjunction with corresponding embodiments.

[0023] It should be understood that the content described in this content section is not intended to limit the key or essential features of the embodiments of this disclosure, nor is it intended to restrict the scope of this disclosure. Other features of this disclosure will become readily apparent from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The above and other features, advantages, and aspects of the embodiments of this disclosure will become more apparent from the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description. In the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements, wherein:

[0025] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an example environment in which embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented is shown;

[0026] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of a monitoring device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0027] Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating the process of a monitoring switch unit according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0028] Figure 4 Timing diagrams of various signals are shown according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, where the main circuit current is DC flowing through the first group of power devices in a first direction and a first turn-off voltage is applied to the gate of the first group of power devices during a first time period.

[0029] Figure 5A flowchart is shown illustrating a process for monitoring the shutdown function of the first group of power devices when the main circuit current is DC flowing through the first group of power devices in a first direction, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 6 A flowchart is shown illustrating a process for monitoring the shutdown function of the second group of power devices when the main circuit current is DC flowing through the second group of power devices in a first direction, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 7 Timing diagrams of various signals are shown according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, where the main circuit current is DC flowing through the second group of power devices in a first direction and a second turn-off voltage is applied to the gate of the second group of power devices during a second time period.

[0032] Figure 8 A flowchart is shown illustrating a process for monitoring the turn-on function of the first group of power devices and the second group of power devices when the main circuit current is DC, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 9 A flowchart is shown illustrating a process for monitoring the turn-on function of the first group of power devices and the second group of power devices when the main circuit current is DC, according to some other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 10 A flowchart is shown illustrating a process for monitoring the shutdown function of a first group of power devices during a period when the main circuit current is alternating and flowing in a first direction, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 11 Timing diagrams of various signals are shown in some embodiments of the present disclosure when a first turn-off voltage is applied to a first group of power devices while the main circuit current is alternating and flowing in a first direction;

[0036] Figure 12 A flowchart is shown illustrating a process for monitoring the shutdown function of a second group of power devices during a period when the main circuit current is alternating and flowing in a first direction, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 13 Timing diagrams of various signals are shown according to some embodiments of the present disclosure when a second turn-off voltage is applied to a second group of power devices during a period when the main circuit current is alternating and flowing in a first direction; and

[0038] Figure 14 A block diagram of an apparatus capable of implementing several embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0039] Embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. While some embodiments of this disclosure are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that this disclosure can be implemented in various forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to provide a more thorough and complete understanding of this disclosure. It should be understood that the accompanying drawings and embodiments of this disclosure are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0040] In the description of embodiments of this disclosure, the term "comprising" and similar terms should be understood as open-ended inclusion, i.e., "including but not limited to". The term "based on" should be understood as "at least partially based on". The term "one embodiment" or "the embodiment" should be understood as "at least one embodiment". The term "some embodiments" should be understood as "at least some embodiments". Other explicit and implicit definitions may also be included below. The terms "first", "second", etc., may refer to different or the same objects. Other explicit and implicit definitions may also be included below.

[0041] As briefly mentioned earlier, traditional power device testing methods for solid-state circuit breakers typically require the circuit breaker to be shut down. This testing method affects the continuity of power supply, which contradicts the normal operational continuity requirements of circuit breakers.

[0042] Therefore, embodiments of this disclosure propose a scheme for monitoring the switching units in a solid-state circuit breaker. According to various embodiments of this disclosure, it is possible to monitor whether the switching units can normally turn off during the operation of the solid-state circuit breaker without shutting down the circuit breaker, thus avoiding situations where the circuit breaker cannot turn off due to power device failure causing a short circuit in the main circuit.

[0043] Some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Please note that in some descriptions of the embodiments, specific numerical values ​​may be used to better assist the reader in understanding. These values ​​are exemplary and may vary depending on the specific application scenario, and do not limit the scope of this disclosure in any way.

[0044] Figure 1A schematic diagram of an example environment 100 in which embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented is shown. Environment 100 includes a switching unit 110, which is part of a solid-state circuit breaker. Switching unit 110 may be connected to a main circuit (not shown) for use in shutting off in the event of a short circuit or other fault in the main circuit, thereby protecting loads and cables from damage. In some embodiments, switching unit 110 may include a first group of power devices 111 and a second group of power devices 112. The first group of power devices 111 may include one or more power devices, and may also be referred to herein as A-side power devices or A-side devices. A first electrode of each power device in the first group of power devices 111 is electrically connected to a first node ND1, and a second electrode of each power device in the first group of power devices 111 is electrically connected to a second node NS1. Where the first group of power devices 111 includes multiple power devices, these power devices are connected in parallel between the first node ND1 and the second node NS1. Similarly, the second group of power devices 112 may include one or more power devices, and may also be referred to herein as B-side power devices or B-side devices. The second group of power devices 112 and the first group of power devices 111 can have the same or different numbers of devices. The first electrode of each power device in the second group of power devices 112 is electrically connected to the third node ND2, and the second electrode of each power device in the second group of power devices 112 is electrically connected to the fourth node NS2. If the second group of power devices 112 includes multiple power devices, these power devices are connected in parallel between the third node ND2 and the fourth node NS2. The fourth node NS2 is electrically connected to the second node NS1, such that the first group of power devices 111 and the second group of power devices 112 are connected in reverse series. The on / off state of each power device in the first group of power devices 111 and the second group of power devices 112 can be controlled by the voltage applied to its gate. Using this arrangement, the switching unit 110 can achieve a bidirectional turn-off function. The first node ND1 and the third node ND2 are electrically connected to the main circuit.

[0045] In some embodiments, the power devices in the second group of power devices 112 and the first group of power devices 111 may be silicon carbide metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (SiC MOSFETs). When the power devices in the second group of power devices 112 and the first group of power devices 111 are SiC MOSFETs, the first electrode is the drain (D) and the second electrode is the source (S). The principles of this disclosure will be described below using SiC MOSFETs as an example of power devices. However, it should be understood that the power devices in the second group of power devices 112 and the first group of power devices 111 may be other types, and the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto. As an example, each power device in the second group of power devices 112 and the first group of power devices 111 may include an insulated-gate field-effect transistor (IGBT) and a diode connected in parallel. In such an example, the first electrode is the collector and the second electrode is the emitter. Embodiments of this disclosure are also applicable to monitoring whether the IGBT's turn-off and turn-on functions are normal.

[0046] Under normal main circuit current conditions, the drive voltage VgsA applied to the gate G of the first group of power devices 111 and the drive voltage VgsB applied to the gate G of the second group of power devices 112 remain at the turn-on voltage, ensuring that each power device remains on. In the event of a short circuit or other fault in the main circuit, either the drive voltage VgsA or the drive voltage VgsB can be switched to the turn-off voltage to disconnect the main circuit. The main circuit current may also be referred to as the load current in this document.

[0047] Because the first group of power devices 111 and the second group of power devices 112 are connected in reverse series, the switching unit 110 can achieve bidirectional shutdown. Specifically, when the main circuit current flows through the switching unit 110 along the first direction X1 and a short circuit or other fault occurs in the main circuit, the drive voltage VgsA can be switched to the shutdown voltage, causing each power device in the first group of power devices 111 to switch to the shutdown state, thereby cutting off the main circuit current. Similarly, when the main circuit current flows through the switching unit 110 along the second direction X2, which is opposite to the first direction X1, and a short circuit or other fault occurs in the main circuit, the drive voltage VgsB can be switched to the shutdown voltage, causing each power device in the second group of power devices 112 to switch to the shutdown state, thereby cutting off the main circuit current. Because the switching unit 110 can achieve bidirectional shutdown, the solid-state circuit breaker containing this switching unit 110 can be applied to DC or AC scenarios.

[0048] like Figure 1As shown, in order to monitor the status of the switching unit 110, the environment 100 may also include a monitoring device 120. The monitoring device 120 can monitor whether the opening and / or closing functions of the switching unit 110 are normal without shutting down the solid-state circuit breaker, so as to detect faults in the switching unit 110 in a timely manner while ensuring the continuity of power supply. This will be described in detail below.

[0049] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of a monitoring device 120 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0050] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the monitoring device 120 may include a first capacitive element C1, a first resistive element R1, a second capacitive element C2, and a second resistive element R2. The first capacitive element C1 and the first resistive element R1 are connected in series between the first node ND1 and the second node NS1. The second capacitive element C2 and the second resistive element R2 are connected in series between the third node ND2 and the fourth node NS2.

[0051] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the first resistive element R1 is connected to the first node ND1, the first capacitive element C1 is connected to the second node NS1, the second capacitive element C2 is connected to the fourth node NS2, and the second resistive element R2 is connected to the third node ND2. It should be understood that the positions of the first capacitive element C1 and the first resistive element R1 can be interchanged, and the positions of the second capacitive element C2 and the second resistive element R2 can also be interchanged. Furthermore, each of the first capacitive element C1 and the second capacitive element C2 may include a single capacitor or multiple sub-capacitors connected in parallel. Similarly, each of the first resistive element R1 and the second resistive element R2 may include a single resistor or multiple sub-resistors connected in series.

[0052] In some embodiments, the power devices in the first group of power devices 111 and the second group of power devices 112 can be determined to be functioning normally by monitoring one or more of the voltage VA1 across the first capacitive element C1, the voltage VA2 between the first node ND1 and the second node NS1, the voltage VB1 across the second capacitive element C2, and the voltage VB2 between the fourth node NS2 and the third node ND2. This will be described in detail below.

[0053] In some embodiments, the switching unit 110 may include only a first group of power devices 111 or a second group of power devices 112. Such a switching unit 110 can be used in a DC scenario to achieve a unidirectional shutdown function. Accordingly, when the switching unit 110 includes only the first group of power devices 111, the monitoring device 120 includes a first capacitive element C1 and a first resistive element R1. When the switching unit 110 includes only the second group of power devices 112, the monitoring device 120 includes a second capacitive element C2 and a second resistive element R2.

[0054] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the monitoring device 120 may also include a shunt resistor RS, which is electrically connected between the second node NS1 and the fourth node NS2 to measure the current value Ishunt.

[0055] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the monitoring device 120 may further include a first temperature sensor 121 and a second temperature sensor 122. The first temperature sensor 121 detects the first case temperature Tc(A) of the first group of power devices 111. When the first group of power devices 111 is functioning normally, the first case temperature Tc(A) will be within a first predetermined temperature range. When the first group of power devices 111 is malfunctioning, the first case temperature Tc(A) will be outside the first predetermined temperature range. The second temperature sensor 122 monitors the second case temperature Tc(B) of the second group of power devices 112. When the second group of power devices 112 is functioning normally, the second case temperature Tc(B) will be within a second predetermined temperature range. When the second group of power devices 112 is malfunctioning, the second case temperature Tc(B) will be outside the second predetermined temperature range. Depending on the device type and number of the first group of power devices 111 and the second group of power devices 112, the first predetermined temperature range and the second predetermined temperature range may be the same as or different from each other, which can be preset according to design requirements. Furthermore, the first temperature sensor 121 and the second temperature sensor 122 can be thermocouples or any other suitable type, and the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0056] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the monitoring device 120 may further include a controller 123, which can determine whether the switching unit 110's on-state and / or off-state functions are normal based on one or more of the following: voltage VA1, voltage VA2, voltage VB1, voltage VB2, current value Ishunt, case temperature Tc(A), and case temperature Tc(B). Next, we will combine... Figures 1 to 14 This describes an example procedure for monitoring the turn-off and / or turn-on functions of switching units in a solid-state circuit breaker.

[0057] Figure 3 A flowchart of a process 300 for monitoring a switching unit according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Process 300 may be executed by a monitoring device 120 or a controller 123 to determine whether the shutdown function of each power device in the first group of power devices 111 is normal when a main circuit current flows through it in a first direction X1. The main circuit current may be direct current or alternating current.

[0058] In block 310, during the flow of main circuit current along the first direction X1 from the drain D to the source S of the first group of power devices 111, a first turn-off voltage is applied to the gate G of each power device in the first group of power devices 111 during a first time period. During the first time period, because the first turn-off voltage is applied to the gate G of the first group of power devices 111, the channel in the first group of power devices 111 will be cut off and the body diode will not conduct, thus being in a turn-off state, thereby cutting off the current path of the main circuit current. In order to ensure that the cutting off of the current path does not affect the normal operation of the load connected to the main circuit, the cut-off time should be as short as possible, for example, on the order of microseconds (μs). As an example, the first time period can be in the range of 1 μs to 2 μs. It should be understood that the first time period can be set accordingly, for example, higher or lower, depending on the type of load connected to the main circuit.

[0059] Here, we will take the example of the main circuit current I_Load being DC to illustrate this. Figure 4 A timing diagram of various signals is shown when the main circuit current I_Load is DC flowing through the first group of power devices 111 along the first direction X1 and a first turn-off voltage is applied to the gate G of the first group of power devices 111 during a first time period. The signals shown include the drive voltage VgsA applied to the gate G of the first group of power devices 111, the main circuit current I_Load, the voltage VA1 across the first capacitive element C1, and the drain-source voltage VdsA between the drain D and source S of the first group of power devices 111.

[0060] like Figure 4 As shown, when the drive voltage VgsA changes to the first turn-off voltage (e.g., drops to 0V) in the first time period t1, the main circuit current I_Load will be cut off accordingly because the first group of power devices 111 will be in the off state, and the drain-source voltage VdsA will increase significantly. However, the time for the drain-source voltage VdsA to increase is relatively short, basically corresponding to the first time period t1. Within such a short time, the change in drain-source voltage VdsA is difficult to capture. Therefore, in the embodiments of this disclosure, a first capacitive element C1 and a first resistive element R1 connected in series are provided between the first node ND1 and the second node NS1, as referenced above. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As described.

[0061] like Figure 4 As shown, when the driving voltage VgsA changes to the first turn-off voltage in the first time period t1, the voltage VA1 across the first capacitive element C1 increases instantaneously (e.g., to approximately 1.6V). Since the first resistive element R1 is connected in series with the first capacitive element C1, the voltage VA1 decreases relatively slowly, thus providing sufficient time to capture the change in voltage VA1. For example, as... Figure 4 As shown, voltage VA1 can be maintained for more than 1 millisecond (ms).

[0062] In block 320, in response to the application of a first turn-off voltage, the voltage VA1 across the first capacitive element C1 is acquired. When the first turn-off voltage is applied to the gate G of the first power device 111 during a first time period t1, VA1 rises instantaneously and decreases relatively slowly, providing sufficient time to capture the change in voltage VA1, thus enabling reliable acquisition by the controller 123. Therefore, the change in voltage VA1 can be accurately captured.

[0063] In block 330, based on the voltage VA1 across the first capacitive element C1, it is determined whether the shutdown function of each power device in the first group of power devices 111 is normal when the main circuit current flows through it in the first direction X1. The change in voltage VA1 can reflect whether the first group of power devices 111 is properly shut down. Therefore, the shutdown function in the first direction X1 can be determined based on voltage VA1.

[0064] Figure 5 A flowchart of a process 500 for monitoring the shutdown function of the first group of power devices when the main circuit current is DC flowing through the first group of power devices in a first direction is shown. The process 500 can be executed by a monitoring device 120 or a controller 123 to determine whether the shutdown function of each power device in the first group of power devices 111 is normal when DC flows through it in the first direction X1.

[0065] In block 510, during the period when the main circuit current (DC) flows from the drain D to the source S of the first group of power devices 111 in the first direction X1, the voltage VgsA becomes the first turn-off voltage in a first time period t1, for example, from 1 μs to 2 μs, so as to turn off the first group of power devices 111 in the first time period t1.

[0066] In block 520, in response to the application of the first turn-off voltage, the voltage VA1 across the first capacitive element C1 is acquired. As described above, since VA1 rises instantaneously and decreases relatively slowly, there is a sufficient amount of time to capture the change in voltage VA1.

[0067] In box 530, it is determined whether the voltage VA1 is greater than a first voltage threshold Vth1. The first voltage threshold Vth1 can be preset according to the device type and other design requirements. For example, if the voltage VA1 is greater than a first voltage threshold Vth1, it is determined whether the voltage VA1 is greater than a first voltage threshold Vth1. Figure 4 The first voltage threshold Vth1 can be set to 0.3V if the voltage rises instantaneously to over 1.4V and slowly decreases to slightly below 0.4V within 1ms.

[0068] In block 540, in response to a voltage VA1 exceeding a first voltage threshold Vth1 at a predetermined time point or within a predetermined period after the first turn-off voltage is applied, it is determined that each device in the first group of power devices 111 has a normal turn-off function when the main circuit current flows through it in the first direction X1. Since the voltage VA1 rises instantaneously and decreases relatively slowly, the value of VA1 at the predetermined time point or within the predetermined period after the first turn-off voltage is applied can be used as an evaluation criterion to diagnose the turn-off function of the first group of power devices 111. If the value of voltage VA1 is higher than the threshold Vth1, it indicates that the first group of power devices 111 can be reliably turned off.

[0069] In block 550, in response to a voltage VA1 falling below a first voltage threshold Vth1 at a predetermined time point or within a predetermined time period, it is determined that at least one power device in the first group of power devices 111 has an abnormal shutdown function when the main circuit current flows through it in the first direction X1. If the value of voltage VA1 is lower than the threshold Vth1, it indicates that at least one device in the first group of power devices 111 has failed to be reliably shut down.

[0070] In block 560, in response to an abnormal shutdown function of at least one of the power devices in the first group of power devices 111, an alarm is triggered or the mechanical switch of the solid-state circuit breaker is opened to facilitate timely maintenance. The alarm can be implemented using any suitable means, such as sound, light, or electricity, and embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0071] Next, we will combine Figure 2 and Figure 6 The process 600 describes monitoring the shutdown function of the second group of power devices when the main circuit current is DC flowing through the second group of power devices in a first direction. The process 600 can be executed by monitoring device 120 or controller 123 to determine whether the shutdown function of each power device in the second group of power devices 112 is normal when DC flows through it in the first direction X1.

[0072] In block 610, during the flow of main circuit current (DC) along the first direction X1 from the source S to the drain D of the second group of power devices 112, a second turn-off voltage is applied to the gate G of each power device in the second group of power devices 112 (B-side devices) during a second time period t2. The length of the second time period t2 is greater than the length of the first time period t1. As an example, the second time period t2 can be in the range of 1 ms to 2 ms. It should be understood that the second time period t2 can be set accordingly, for example, higher or lower, depending on the type of load connected to the main circuit. Depending on the device specifications, the second turn-off voltage can be the same as or different from the first turn-off voltage.

[0073] like Figure 2 As shown, when the turn-off function of the second power device 112 is normal, if a second turn-off voltage is applied to the gate G of the second power device 112, the channel in the second power device 112 will be cut off, but the main circuit current can flow through the body diode in the second power device 112. Therefore, the main circuit current will not be affected.

[0074] Figure 7 A timing diagram of various signals is shown when the main circuit current is DC flowing through the second group of power devices in a first direction and a second turn-off voltage is applied to the gate of the second group of power devices during a second time period. The signals shown include the drive voltage VgsB applied to the gate G of the second group of power devices 112, the main circuit current I_Load, and the voltage VB2 between the fourth node NS2 and the third node ND2.

[0075] like Figure 7 As shown, when the drive voltage VgsB changes to the second turn-off voltage (e.g., drops to 0V) in the second time period t2, the main circuit current I_Load is unaffected and therefore does not affect the normal operation of the load. Voltage VB2 will rise significantly when the drive voltage VgsB changes to the second turn-off voltage, and the duration essentially corresponds to the second time period t2. The longer turn-off time of the second set of power devices 112 helps to capture the change in voltage VB2. As an example, the second time period t2 can be on the order of milliseconds (ms), for example, 1 ms to 2 ms.

[0076] In block 620, in response to the application of the second turn-off voltage, the voltage VB2 between the fourth node NS2 and the third node ND2 is acquired. As described above, since the turn-off of the second group of power devices 112 does not affect the main circuit current, the second time period t2 can be set to be relatively long, allowing sufficient time to capture changes in voltage VB2.

[0077] Subsequently, based on voltage VB2, it can be determined whether the shutdown function of each power device in the second group of power devices 112 is normal when the main circuit current flows through it in the first direction X1. For example, the shutdown function of the second group of power devices 112 can be determined by the operation of blocks 630, 640 and 650.

[0078] In box 630, it is determined whether voltage VB2 is greater than a second voltage threshold Vth2. The second voltage threshold Vth2 can be preset according to device type and other design requirements. For example, if voltage VB2 is greater than... Figure 7 When the voltage can rise above 2.2V, the second voltage threshold Vth2 can be set to 1.8V. In some embodiments, the second voltage threshold Vth2 can be predetermined. In other embodiments, the second voltage threshold Vth2 can be dynamically determined, as described below in conjunction with blocks 670, 680, and 690.

[0079] In block 640, in response to the voltage VB2 between the fourth node NS2 and the third node ND2 being higher than the second voltage threshold Vth2 after the second turn-off voltage is applied, it is determined that the turn-off function of each power device in the second group of power devices 112 is normal when the main circuit current flows through it in the first direction X1. Since the voltage VB2 rise can last for a relatively long time, the value of voltage VB2 can be used as an evaluation criterion to diagnose the turn-off function of the second group of power devices 112. If the value of voltage VB2 is higher than the threshold Vth2, it indicates that the second group of power devices 112 can be reliably turned off.

[0080] In block 650, in response to the voltage VB2 between the fourth node NS2 and the third node ND2 falling below the second voltage threshold Vth2 after the second turn-off voltage is applied, it is determined that at least one power device in the second group of power devices 112 has an abnormal turn-off function when the main circuit current flows through it in the first direction X1. If the value of voltage VB2 is lower than the threshold Vth2, it indicates that at least one device in the second group of power devices 112 has failed to be reliably turned off.

[0081] In box 660, in response to an abnormal shutdown function of at least one of the power devices in the second group of power devices 112, an alarm is triggered or the mechanical switch of the solid-state circuit breaker is disconnected so that maintenance can be performed in a timely manner.

[0082] In box 670, obtain the current value Ishunt measured by the shunt resistor RS.

[0083] In box 680, the second case temperature Tc(B) of the second group of power devices 112 is obtained.

[0084] In box 690, a second voltage threshold Vth2 is determined based on the current value Ishunt and the second case temperature Tc(B). Since the impedance of the body diode is related to the magnitude of the current flowing through it and the temperature, dynamically determining the second voltage threshold Vth2 allows for a more accurate assessment of whether the device's turn-off function is functioning correctly.

[0085] return Figure 2 When the main circuit current is DC and flows along the second direction X2 through the first set of switching devices 111 and the second set of switching devices 112, the monitoring process of the turn-off function of the first set of switching devices 111 and the second set of switching devices 112 is combined with... Figures 5 to 7 The described process is similar.

[0086] In some embodiments, when the main circuit current is DC and flows through the first group of switching devices 111 in the second direction X2, in order to monitor whether the turn-off function of the first group of power devices 111 is normal, a first turn-off voltage can be applied to the gate G of each power device in the first group of power devices 111 during a third time period t3. In response to the application of the first turn-off voltage, the voltage VA2 between the first node ND1 and the second node NS1 can be obtained. Subsequently, based on the voltage VA2 between the first node ND1 and the second node NS1, it can be determined whether the turn-off function of each power device in the first group of power devices 111 is normal when the main circuit current flows through it in the second direction X2. This process is similar to the process of monitoring whether the turn-off function of the second group of power devices 112 is normal when the main circuit current flows through the second group of power devices 112 in the first direction X1.

[0087] In some embodiments, when the main circuit current is DC and flows through the second group of switching devices 112 in the second direction X2, in order to monitor whether the turn-off function of the second group of power devices 112 is normal, a second turn-off voltage can be applied to the gate G of each power device in the second group of power devices 112 during a fourth time period t4. In response to the application of the second turn-off voltage, the voltage VB1 across the second capacitive element C2 can be acquired. Subsequently, based on the voltage VB1 across the second capacitive element C2, it can be determined whether the turn-off function of each power device in the second group of power devices 112 is normal when the main circuit current flows through it in the second direction X2. This process is similar to the process of monitoring whether the turn-off function of the first group of power devices 111 is normal when the main circuit current flows through the first group of power devices 111 in the first direction X1.

[0088] Next, we will combine Figure 8 and Figure 9This describes the process of monitoring whether the turn-on function of the first group of power devices 111 and the second group of power devices 112 is normal when the main circuit current is DC. The monitoring process for the turn-on function is the same when the main circuit current flows along the first direction X1 and the second direction X2.

[0089] Figure 8 A flowchart of the process 800 for activating the monitoring device is shown.

[0090] In block 810, a turn-on voltage is applied to the gate G of each of the first group of power devices 111 and the second group of power devices 112. In other words, the drive voltages VgsA and VgsB are kept at the turn-on voltage.

[0091] In box 820, obtain the voltage VA2 between the first node ND1 and the second node NS1, and the voltage VB2 between the fourth node NS2 and the third node ND2.

[0092] In box 830, it is determined whether voltages VA2 and VB2 are within predetermined voltage ranges. For example, it can be determined whether voltage VA2 is within a first predetermined voltage range, and whether voltage VB2 is within a second predetermined voltage range. The first and second predetermined voltage ranges may be the same or different, depending on the device type and design requirements.

[0093] In block 840, in response to voltages VA2 and VB2 being within a predetermined voltage range, it is determined that the first group of power devices 111 and the second group of power devices 112 are functioning normally. Specifically, in response to voltage VA2 being within a first predetermined voltage range, it is determined that the turn-on function of each power device in the first group of power devices 111 is functioning normally. In response to voltage VB2 being within a second predetermined voltage range, it is determined that the turn-on function of each power device in the second group of power devices 112 is functioning normally.

[0094] In block 850, in response to voltages VA2 and VB2 being outside a predetermined voltage range, it is determined that at least one power device in the first group of power devices 111 and the second group of power devices 112 has an abnormal turn-on function. Specifically, in response to voltage VA2 being outside a first predetermined voltage range, it can be determined that at least one power device in the first group of power devices 111 has an abnormal turn-on function. In response to voltage VB2 being outside a second predetermined voltage range, it can be determined that at least one power device in the second group of power devices 112 has an abnormal turn-on function.

[0095] In block 860, in response to determining that at least one of the power devices in the first group of power devices 111 and the second group of power devices 112 has an abnormal opening function, an alarm may be triggered or the mechanical switch of the solid-state circuit breaker may be disconnected so that maintenance can be performed in a timely manner.

[0096] Figure 9 A flowchart of the process 900 for activating the monitoring device is shown.

[0097] In block 910, an enable voltage is applied to the gate G of each of the first group of power devices 111 and the second group of power devices 112.

[0098] In box 920, the first case temperature Tc(A) of the first group of power devices 111 and the second case temperature Tc(B) of the second group of power devices 112 are obtained.

[0099] In box 930, it is determined whether the first case temperature Tc(A) and the second case temperature Tc(B) are within a predetermined temperature range. For example, it can be determined whether the first case temperature Tc(A) is within a first predetermined temperature range, and it can be determined whether the second case temperature Tc(B) is within a second predetermined temperature range. The first predetermined temperature range and the second predetermined temperature range may be the same or different, depending on the device type and design requirements.

[0100] In box 940, in response to the first case temperature Tc(A) and the second case temperature Tc(B) being within a predetermined temperature range, it is determined that the power-on function of the first group of power devices 111 and the second group of power devices 112 is normal. Specifically, in response to the first case temperature Tc(A) being within a first predetermined temperature range, it is determined that the power-on function of each power device in the first group of power devices 111 is normal. In response to the second case temperature Tc(B) being within a second predetermined temperature range, it is determined that the power-on function of each power device in the second group of power devices 112 is normal.

[0101] In block 950, in response to the first case temperature Tc(A) and the second case temperature Tc(B) being outside a predetermined temperature range, it is determined that at least one power device in the first group of power devices 111 and the second group of power devices 112 has an abnormal power-on function. Specifically, in response to the first case temperature Tc(A) being outside a first predetermined temperature range, it can be determined that at least one power device in the first group of power devices 111 has an abnormal power-on function. In response to the second case temperature Tc(B) being outside a second predetermined temperature range, it can be determined that at least one power device in the second group of power devices 112 has an abnormal power-on function.

[0102] In block 960, in response to determining that at least one of the power devices in the first group of power devices 111 and the second group of power devices 112 has an abnormal opening function, an alarm may be triggered or the mechanical switch of the solid-state circuit breaker may be disconnected so that maintenance can be performed in a timely manner.

[0103] Although the diagnostic process for the turn-on function was described separately for drain-source voltage and case temperature above, it should be understood that the turn-on function of the first group of power devices 111 and the second group of power devices 112 can be determined by combining voltage VA2, voltage VB2, first case temperature Tc(A) and second case temperature Tc(B), which will not be repeated here.

[0104] As mentioned above, the switching unit 110 may consist of only the first group of power devices 111 or the second group of power devices 112. Such a switching unit 110 can be used in a DC scenario to achieve a unidirectional shutdown function. In this case, the monitoring process for the turn-on and turn-off functions of the first group of power devices 111 or the second group of power devices 112 described above is also applicable and will not be repeated here.

[0105] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the solid-state circuit breaker including the switching unit 110 can be applied to DC or AC scenarios. Next, the diagnostic process for the turn-off and turn-on functions of the solid-state circuit breaker applied to AC scenarios will be described.

[0106] Figure 10 A flowchart of a process 1000 for monitoring the shutdown function of a first group of power devices during a period when the main circuit current is alternating and flowing in a first direction, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, is shown. Process 1000 can be executed by monitoring device 120 or controller 123. Process 1000 is similar to process 500, except that a predetermined phase angle needs to be selected in order to select a suitable first time period t1. In the following description, the differences between process 1000 and process 500 will be primarily described, while identical parts will not be repeated.

[0107] In box 1010, a first predetermined phase angle is selected, which corresponds to a first time period t1. In some embodiments, the first predetermined phase angle can be selected within the range of (1 / 100)*π and (99 / 100)*π. In other embodiments, the first predetermined phase angle can be selected within the range of (7 / 200)*π and (243 / 250)*π.

[0108] In block 1001, during the period when the main circuit current (AC) flows from the drain D to the source S of the first group of power devices 111 along the first direction X1, the voltage VgsA becomes the first turn-off voltage in a first time period t1 (e.g., 1 μs to 2 μs) corresponding to the first predetermined phase angle, so as to turn off the first group of power devices 111 during that time period.

[0109] The processes and combinations shown in boxes 1002 to 1006 Figure 5 The process described for boxes 520 to 560 is similar and will not be repeated here.

[0110] Figure 11 Timing diagrams of various signals are shown according to some embodiments of the present disclosure when a first turn-off voltage is applied to a first group of power devices during a period when the main circuit current is alternating and flowing in a first direction. The signals shown include the drive voltage VgsA applied to the gate G of the first group of power devices 111, the main circuit current I_Load, the voltage VA1 across the first capacitive element C1, and the drain-source voltage VdsA between the drain D and source S of the first group of power devices 111.

[0111] like Figure 11 As shown, when the driving voltage VgsA changes to the first turn-off voltage (e.g., drops to 0V) during the first time period t1 corresponding to the first predetermined phase angle, the main circuit current I_Load will be cut off accordingly, the drain-source voltage VdsA will increase significantly, and the voltage VA1 across the first capacitive element C1 will increase instantaneously. Since the first resistive element R1 and the first capacitive element C1 are connected in series, the voltage VA1 can decrease relatively slowly, thus providing sufficient time to capture the change in voltage VA1, allowing it to be reliably acquired by the controller 123. For example, as... Figure 11 As shown, voltage VA1 can be maintained for more than 1ms.

[0112] Figure 12 A flowchart of a process 1200 for monitoring the shutdown function of a second group of power devices during a period when the main circuit current is alternating and flowing in a first direction, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, is shown. Process 1200 can be executed by monitoring device 120 or controller 123. Process 1200 is similar to process 600, except that a predetermined phase angle needs to be selected in order to select a suitable first time period t2. In the following description, the differences between process 1200 and process 600 will be primarily described, while identical parts will not be repeated.

[0113] In box 1210, a second predetermined phase angle is selected, which corresponds to the second time period t2. In some embodiments, the second predetermined phase angle can be selected within the range of π and 2π. In other embodiments, the second predetermined phase angle can be selected within the range of (36 / 25)*π and (73 / 50)*π.

[0114] In block 1201, during the period when the main circuit current (AC) flows from the source S to the drain D of the second group of power devices 112 along the first direction X1, a second turn-off voltage is applied to the gate G of each power device in the second group of power devices 112 during a second time period t2 corresponding to a second predetermined phase angle, so as to turn off the second group of power devices 112 during that time period.

[0115] The processes and combinations shown in boxes 1202 to 1209 Figure 6The process described for boxes 620 to 690 is similar and will not be repeated here.

[0116] Figure 13 Timing diagrams of various signals are shown according to some embodiments of the present disclosure when a second turn-off voltage is applied to a second group of power devices during a period when the main circuit current is alternating and flowing in a first direction. The signals shown include the drive voltage VgsB applied to the gate G of the second group of power devices 112, the main circuit current I_Load, and the voltage VB2 between the fourth node NS2 and the third node ND2.

[0117] like Figure 13 As shown, when the drive voltage VgsB changes to the second turn-off voltage (e.g., drops to 0V) during the second time period t2 corresponding to the second predetermined phase angle, the main circuit current I_Load is unaffected and therefore does not affect the normal operation of the load. Voltage VB2 increases significantly when the drive voltage VgsB changes to the second turn-off voltage, and the duration substantially corresponds to the second time period t2. The longer turn-off time of the second set of power devices 112 helps to capture the changes in voltage VB2.

[0118] The process of monitoring the turn-off function of the first group of power devices 111 during the period when the main circuit current is alternating and flows in the second direction X2 is similar to the process 1200 of monitoring the turn-off function of the second group of power devices 112 during the period when the main circuit current is alternating and flows in the first direction X1. For example, when the main circuit current flows through the first group of switching devices 111 in the second direction X2, in order to monitor whether the turn-off function of the first group of power devices 111 is normal, a first turn-off voltage can be applied to the gate G of each power device in the first group of power devices 111 during a third time period t3 corresponding to a third predetermined phase angle. In response to the application of the first turn-off voltage, the voltage VA2 between the first node ND1 and the second node NS1 can be obtained. Then, based on the voltage VA2 between the first node ND1 and the second node NS1, it can be determined whether the turn-off function of each power device in the first group of power devices 111 is normal when the main circuit current flows through it in the second direction X2. The third predetermined phase angle can be selected similarly to the second predetermined phase angle.

[0119] The process of monitoring the turn-off function of the second group of power devices 112 during the period when the main circuit current is alternating and flows in the second direction X2 is similar to the process 1000 of monitoring the turn-off function of the first group of power devices 111 during the period when the main circuit current is alternating and flows in the first direction X1. For example, when the main circuit current flows through the second group of switching devices 112 in the second direction X2, in order to monitor whether the turn-off function of the second group of power devices 112 is normal, a second turn-off voltage can be applied to the gate G of each power device in the second group of power devices 112 during a fourth time period t4 corresponding to a fourth predetermined phase angle. In response to the application of the second turn-off voltage, the voltage VB1 across the second capacitive element C2 can be obtained. Then, based on the voltage VB1 across the second capacitive element C2, it can be determined whether the turn-off function of each power device in the second group of power devices 112 is normal when the main circuit current flows through it in the second direction X2. The fourth predetermined phase angle can be selected similarly to the first predetermined phase angle.

[0120] According to embodiments of this disclosure, it is possible to monitor whether the switching unit can be turned off normally during the operation of the solid-state circuit breaker without shutting down the solid-state circuit breaker, thus avoiding the situation where the circuit breaker cannot be turned off when a short circuit occurs in the main circuit due to the failure of power devices.

[0121] Figure 14 A block diagram is shown illustrating an electronic device 1400 in which one or more embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented. It should be understood that... Figure 14 The electronic device 1400 shown is merely exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the functionality and scope of the embodiments described herein. Figure 14 The illustrated electronic device 1400 can be used to implement at least a portion of the functionality.

[0122] like Figure 14 As shown, electronic device 1400 is in the form of a general-purpose electronic device. Components of electronic device 1400 may include, but are not limited to, one or more processors or processing units 1410, memory 1420, storage device 1430, one or more communication units 1440, one or more input devices 1450, and one or more output devices 1460. Processing unit 1410 may be a physical or virtual processor and is capable of performing various processes according to programs stored in memory 1420. In a multiprocessor system, multiple processing units execute computer-executable instructions in parallel to improve the parallel processing capability of electronic device 1400.

[0123] Electronic device 1400 typically includes multiple computer storage media. Such media can be any accessible media that is accessible to electronic device 1400, including but not limited to volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media. Memory 1420 can be volatile memory (e.g., registers, cache, random access memory (RAM)), non-volatile memory (e.g., read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory), or some combination thereof. Storage device 1430 can be removable or non-removable media and can include machine-readable media, such as flash drives, disks, or any other media that can be used to store information and / or data (e.g., training data for training) and can be accessed within electronic device 1400.

[0124] Electronic device 1400 may further include additional removable / non-removable, volatile / non-volatile storage media. Although not explicitly stated... Figure 14 As shown, disk drives for reading from or writing to removable, non-volatile disks (e.g., "floppy disks") and optical disk drives for reading from or writing to removable, non-volatile optical disks can be provided. In these cases, each drive can be electrically connected to a bus (not shown) via one or more data media interfaces. Memory 1420 may include computer program product 1425 having one or more program modules configured to perform various methods or actions of various embodiments of this disclosure.

[0125] The communication unit 1440 enables communication with other electronic devices via a communication medium. Additionally, the functionality of the components of the electronic device 1400 can be implemented using a single computing cluster or multiple computing machines capable of communicating via communication connections. Therefore, the electronic device 1400 can operate in a networked environment using logical connections to one or more other servers, networked personal computers (PCs), or another network node.

[0126] Input device 1450 can be one or more input devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, trackball, etc. Output device 1460 can be one or more output devices, such as a monitor, speaker, printer, etc. Electronic device 1400 can also communicate with one or more external devices (not shown) via communication unit 1440 as needed. These external devices include storage devices, display devices, etc., and can communicate with one or more devices that enable user interaction with electronic device 1400, or with any device that enables electronic device 1400 to communicate with one or more other electronic devices (e.g., network card, modem, etc.). Such communication can be performed via input / output (I / O) interface (not shown).

[0127] According to an exemplary implementation of this disclosure, an apparatus for monitoring switching units in a solid-state circuit breaker is provided. The apparatus includes at least one processing unit and at least one memory. The at least one memory is coupled to the at least one processing unit and stores instructions for execution by the at least one processing unit, which, when executed by the at least one processing unit, cause the apparatus to perform the methods described above.

[0128] According to an exemplary implementation of this disclosure, a solid-state circuit breaker is provided. The solid-state circuit breaker includes: a switching unit comprising a first group of power devices and a second group of power devices, wherein a first electrode of each power device in the first group is electrically connected to a first node, a second electrode of each power device in the first group is electrically connected to a second node, a first electrode of each power device in the second group is electrically connected to a third node, a second electrode of each power device in the second group is electrically connected to a fourth node, and the fourth node is electrically connected to the second node; a first capacitive element and a first resistive element connected in series between the first node and the second node; a second capacitive element and a second resistive element connected in series between the third node and the fourth node; a shunt resistor connected between the second node and the fourth node; and a processing unit configured to perform the method described above.

[0129] According to an exemplary implementation of this disclosure, a computer-readable storage medium is provided that stores computer-executable instructions thereon, wherein the computer-executable instructions are executed by a processor to implement the methods described above. According to an exemplary implementation of this disclosure, a computer program product is also provided, which is tangibly stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium and includes computer-executable instructions, which are executed by a processor to implement the methods described above.

[0130] Various aspects of this disclosure are described herein with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatuses, devices, and computer program products implemented according to this disclosure. It should be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer-readable program instructions.

[0131] These computer-readable program instructions can be provided to a processing unit of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine such that, when executed by the processing unit of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, they create means for implementing the functions / actions specified in one or more blocks of the flowchart and / or block diagram. These computer-readable program instructions can also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium that causes a computer, programmable data processing apparatus, and / or other device to operate in a particular manner. Thus, the computer-readable medium storing the instructions comprises an article of manufacture that includes instructions for implementing aspects of the functions / actions specified in one or more blocks of the flowchart and / or block diagram.

[0132] Computer-readable program instructions can be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to produce a computer-implemented process, thereby causing the instructions that execute on the computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to perform the functions / actions specified in one or more boxes of a flowchart and / or block diagram.

[0133] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of this disclosure. In this regard, each block in a flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or portion of an instruction, which contains one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function. In some alternative implementations, the functions indicated in the blocks may occur in a different order than those indicated in the drawings. For example, two consecutive blocks may actually be executed substantially in parallel, and they may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on the functions involved. It should also be noted that each block in the block diagrams and / or flowcharts, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and / or flowcharts, may be implemented using a dedicated hardware-based system that performs the specified function or action, or using a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

[0134] Various implementations of this disclosure have been described above. These descriptions are exemplary and not exhaustive, nor are they limited to the disclosed implementations. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described implementations. The terminology used herein is chosen to best explain the principles, practical applications, or improvements to technology in the market, or to enable others skilled in the art to understand the various implementations disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A method for monitoring a switching unit in a solid-state circuit breaker, the switching unit comprising a first group of power devices, wherein a first electrode of each power device in the first group of power devices is electrically connected to a first node, and a second electrode of each power device in the first group of power devices is electrically connected to a second node, the method comprising: During the period when the main circuit current flows from the first electrode to the second electrode of the first group of power devices in the first direction, a first turn-off voltage is applied to the gate of each power device in the first group of power devices in the first time period. In response to the application of the first turn-off voltage, the voltage across the first capacitive element is obtained, wherein the first capacitive element and the first resistive element are connected in series between the first node and the second node; as well as Based on the voltage across the first capacitive element, determine whether the shutdown function of each power device in the first group of power devices is normal when the main circuit current flows through it in the first direction.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein determining whether the shutdown function of each power device in the first group of power devices is normal when the main circuit current flows through it in the first direction comprises: In response to the voltage across the first capacitive element being higher than a first voltage threshold at a predetermined time point or within a predetermined period after the first turn-off voltage is applied, it is determined that the turn-off function of each power device in the first group of power devices is normal when the main circuit current flows through it in the first direction. as well as In response to the voltage across the first capacitive element being lower than the first voltage threshold at the predetermined time point or within the predetermined time period, it is determined that at least one power device in the first group of power devices has an abnormal shutdown function when the main circuit current flows through it in the first direction.

3. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: During the period when a turn-on voltage is applied to the gate of each power device in the first group of power devices, the voltage between the first node and the second node is acquired; In response to the voltage between the first node and the second node being within a first predetermined voltage range, it is determined that the power device in the first group of power devices is functioning normally. as well as In response to the voltage between the first node and the second node being outside the first predetermined voltage range, it is determined that the power-on function of at least one power device in the first group of power devices is abnormal.

4. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: During the period when the turn-on voltage is applied to the gate of each of the first group of power devices, the first case temperature of the first group of power devices is obtained; In response to the first case temperature being within a first predetermined temperature range, it is determined that the power device in the first group of power devices is functioning normally. as well as In response to the first case temperature being outside the first predetermined temperature range, it is determined that at least one power device in the first group of power devices has an abnormal power-on function.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein the switching unit further comprises a second group of power devices, wherein the first electrode of each power device in the second group of power devices is electrically connected to a third node, and the second electrode of each power device in the second group of power devices is electrically connected to a fourth node, wherein the fourth node is electrically connected to the second node. The second capacitive element and the second resistive element are connected in series between the third node and the fourth node, and The method further includes: During the period when the main circuit current flows from the second electrode to the first electrode of the second group of power devices along the first direction, a second turn-off voltage is applied to the gate of each power device in the second group of power devices during a second time period, wherein the length of the second time period is greater than the length of the first time period; In response to the application of the second shutdown voltage, the voltage between the fourth node and the third node is obtained; as well as Based on the voltage between the fourth node and the third node, determine whether the shutdown function of each power device in the second group of power devices is normal when the main circuit current flows through it in the first direction.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein determining whether the shutdown function of each power device in the second group of power devices is normal when the main circuit current flows through it in the first direction comprises: In response to the voltage between the fourth node and the third node being higher than the second voltage threshold after the second turn-off voltage is applied, it is determined that the turn-off function of each power device in the second group of power devices is normal when the main circuit current flows through it in the first direction. as well as In response to the voltage between the fourth node and the third node being lower than the second voltage threshold after the second shutdown voltage is applied, it is determined that at least one power device in the second group of power devices has an abnormal shutdown function when the main circuit current flows through it in the first direction.

7. The method according to claim 6, further comprising: Obtain the current value measured by the shunt resistor, which is electrically connected to the second node and the fourth node; Obtain the second case temperature of the second group of power devices; as well as The second voltage threshold is determined based on the current value and the second case temperature.

8. The method according to claim 5, further comprising: During the period when the turn-on voltage is applied to the gate of each of the first group of power devices and the second group of power devices, the voltage between the first node and the second node and the voltage between the fourth node and the third node are acquired; In response to the voltage between the first node and the second node being within a first predetermined voltage range, it is determined that the power device in the first group of power devices is functioning normally. In response to the voltage between the first node and the second node being outside the first predetermined voltage range, it is determined that the power-on function of at least one power device in the first group of power devices is abnormal. In response to the voltage between the fourth node and the third node being within a second predetermined voltage range, it is determined that the power device in the second group of power devices is functioning normally. as well as In response to the voltage between the fourth node and the third node being outside the second predetermined voltage range, it is determined that the turn-on function of at least one power device in the second group of power devices is abnormal.

9. The method according to claim 5, further comprising: During the period when the turn-on voltage is applied to the gate of each of the first group of power devices and the second group of power devices, a first case temperature of the first group of power devices and a second case temperature of the second group of power devices are obtained. In response to the first case temperature being within a first predetermined temperature range, it is determined that the power device in the first group of power devices is functioning normally. In response to the first case temperature being outside the first predetermined temperature range, it is determined that the power-on function of at least one power device in the first group of power devices is abnormal. In response to the second case temperature being within a second predetermined temperature range, it is determined that the power device in the second group of power devices is functioning normally. In response to the second case temperature being outside the second predetermined temperature range, it is determined that at least one power device in the second group of power devices has an abnormal power-on function.

10. The method of claim 5, wherein the main circuit current is alternating current, and the method further comprises: During the period when the main circuit current flows from the second electrode to the first electrode of the first group of power devices in the second direction, the first turn-off voltage is applied to the gate of each power device in the first group of power devices in the third time period; In response to the application of the first shutdown voltage, the voltage between the first node and the second node is acquired; as well as Based on the voltage between the first node and the second node, determine whether the shutdown function of each power device in the first group of power devices is normal when the main circuit current flows through it in the second direction.

11. The method of claim 10, further comprising: During the period when the main circuit current flows from the first electrode to the second electrode of the second group of power devices along the second direction, the second turn-off voltage is applied to the gate of each power device in the second group of power devices in the fourth time period; In response to the application of the second turn-off voltage, the voltage across the second capacitive element is acquired; as well as Based on the voltage across the second capacitive element, determine whether the shutdown function of each power device in the second group of power devices is normal when the main circuit current flows through it in the second direction.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the first time period corresponds to a first predetermined phase angle when the main circuit current flows along the first direction, the second time period corresponds to a second predetermined phase angle when the main circuit current flows along the first direction, the third time period corresponds to a third predetermined phase angle when the main circuit current flows along the second direction, and the fourth time period corresponds to a fourth predetermined phase angle when the main circuit current flows along the second direction.

13. The method of claim 10, further comprising: In response to an abnormal shutdown or startup function of at least one of the first group of power devices and the second group of power devices, an alarm is triggered or the mechanical switch of the solid-state circuit breaker is disconnected.

14. An apparatus for monitoring a switching unit in a solid-state circuit breaker, comprising: At least one processing unit; as well as At least one memory coupled to the at least one processing unit and storing instructions for execution by the at least one processing unit, the instructions causing the apparatus to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 13 when executed by the at least one processing unit.

15. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, the computer program being executable by a processor to implement the method according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

16. A solid-state circuit breaker, comprising: The switching unit includes a first group of power devices and a second group of power devices. The first electrode of each power device in the first group of power devices is electrically connected to a first node, the second electrode of each power device in the first group of power devices is electrically connected to a second node, the first electrode of each power device in the second group of power devices is electrically connected to a third node, the second electrode of each power device in the second group of power devices is electrically connected to a fourth node, and the fourth node is electrically connected to the second node. A first capacitive element and a first resistive element are connected in series between the first node and the second node; A second capacitive element and a second resistive element are connected in series between the third node and the fourth node; A shunt resistor is connected between the second node and the fourth node; as well as The processing unit is configured to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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