FLEXIBLY CONFIGURED POWER REFERENCE ARRANGEMENT AND METHOD FOR CONFIGURING A POWER REFERENCE ARRANGEMENT

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a flexibly configurable power converter arrangement and a method for configuring a power converter arrangement.

[0002] Power converters are used in a wide variety of technical applications. They can be configured either as inverters, converting direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC), or as rectifiers, converting AC to DC. It is common practice to use semiconductor transistors in this context, for example, in half-bridge circuits. These transistors can be selectively activated via appropriate control signals to achieve the desired current rectification function (i.e., selectively opened and closed, or, in other words, selectively switched on and off). The semiconductor transistors can be used individually or in multiples within switching modules (or, in other words, semiconductor modules).

[0003] However, currently available semiconductor transistors are not suitable for all power classes, and especially not for high electrical power applications such as those required in traction systems for rail vehicles. Therefore, solutions exist in which switching modules, for example in the form of half-bridge modules, comprising two semiconductor transistors connected to form a half-bridge, are connected in parallel and controlled simultaneously to provide the desired current directional function at higher electrical power levels. Such half-bridge modules are also referred to as dual semiconductor modules.

[0004] Referring to Fig. 2 A well-known example of such a half-bridge module 10, or dual semiconductor module "LV100", which is available from various suppliers on the market, is explained. This or comparable modules are also referred to by the manufacturers as high-voltage IGBT modules. A schematic representation of the internal structure of such a module 10 is shown below. Fig. 1 explained. Module 10 is intended for use in an inverter or rectifier.

[0005] In Fig. 2 It can be seen that the half-bridge module 10 has various connections or contact options on its upper surface facing the viewer. In particular, a first connection area 12 for DC voltage and a second connection area 14 for AC voltage are visible, with the connection areas being formed on opposite sides of the half-bridge module 10. The connection areas 12 and 14 each comprise a plurality of round receiving openings 16 for corresponding contact plugs. The receiving openings 16 can also be referred to as terminals or connection points, or may be implemented as such. The receiving openings 16 in the second connection area 14 for AC voltage are connected in parallel (i.e., the same AC voltage phase is present at each receiving opening 16). In the first connection area 12 for DC voltage, however, two of the receiving openings 16 and two of the receiving openings 16 are connected in parallel.The connections are wired in parallel (two for the positive and two for the negative potential). Therefore, the half-bridge module 10 can convert DC voltage into single-phase AC voltage or AC voltage into DC voltage. Alternative dual-semiconductor modules, sold under the designations NHPD2, HV100, or XHP3, may differ, particularly with regard to the connection range.

[0006] On the top side of the half-bridge module 10 there are several further connections 18, which are intended, for example, for connecting a driver unit as described below.

[0007] Such a half-bridge module 10 offers a wide range of possibilities for constructing a power converter arrangement. For example, three such half-bridge modules 10 can be operated in such a way that each generates a single AC phase to form a three-phase inverter. Likewise, at least two such half-bridge modules 10 can be connected in parallel to generate a common AC phase at a correspondingly higher power level. According to a two-point connection, the current level can be increased. According to a three-point or multi-point connection, the voltage and, if necessary, also the current can be increased.

[0008] When multiple half-bridge modules 10 are used within a power converter arrangement, various approaches are known for providing driver circuits for the individual half-bridge modules 10. These approaches can also be applied to general switching modules, but lead to comparable disadvantages there.

[0009] One approach involves equipping each half-bridge module 10 with its own driver circuit (also known as a single GDU (Gate Drive Unit)). These driver circuits can then each be connected to a central (control) signal generation unit (also called a Drive Control Unit). This can also be described as a distributed driver architecture or, more generally, a distributed approach. A disadvantage of this approach is that, depending on which half-bridge modules 10 are to be connected in parallel, hardware modifications, such as a printed circuit board connecting the Drive Control Unit to the individual driver circuits, may be necessary.In this case, it is particularly important to determine in advance which of the half-bridge modules 10 will be connected in parallel. At least one common power supply and communication unit must be provided for these parallel-connected modules 10. This unit must enable a connection to a higher-level control system and route signals to the individual parallel-connected half-bridge modules 10 and their driver circuits. This increases the number of required hardware components and therefore the costs. If, for standardization reasons, the same power supply and communication units are always to be used, they may be oversized, as they must be able to handle or supply cases of 1 to n parallel-connected modules (i.e., they would be oversized in the case of, for example, only one or two modules to be supplied).

[0010] This increases the number of hardware components required and therefore the costs, especially if only a few (e.g. less than three) individual half-bridge modules 10 are to be connected in parallel.

[0011] Alternatively, a centralized approach exists in which a central driver unit is used for a plurality of parallel-connected half-bridge modules 10. The disadvantage of this approach is that separate hardware in the form of a printed circuit board must be manufactured for each configuration of the power converter arrangement (i.e., depending on which half-bridge modules 10 are to be connected in parallel), connecting the central driver unit to the correspondingly parallel-connected half-bridge modules 10. Furthermore, either driver units capable of covering all conceivable configurations (i.e., all possible numbers of parallel-connected half-bridge modules 10) would have to be used, or a driver unit specifically designed for each chosen configuration would have to be selected. Both options are disadvantageous in terms of cost and efficiency.

[0012] Finally, it can also be difficult to actually control parallel-connected half-bridge modules 10, and more precisely their semiconductor transistors, in parallel using such a centralized approach. Possible causes include differences in the propagation delay of the control signals to the different half-bridge modules 10, as well as possible semiconductor variations (e.g., with regard to forward voltage drop) and long and possibly high-impedance control lines.

[0013] DE 10 2013 220 940 A1 discloses an inverter with parallel-connected half-bridge modules and a clock generator controlling the semiconductor switches of the half-bridge modules, which is configured to control the semiconductor switches to generate a predefinable DC voltage at an output terminal of a filter module. The filter module is connected to the center terminals of the half-bridge modules.

[0014] DE 10 2017 212 829 A1 discloses an inverter-charger circuit topology with at least two parallel-connected B6 bridges, to which the six phases of at least one electric machine can be connected. Three phases of the at least one electric machine are connected in a star configuration and form at least one first and one second star point connection, to which a charging energy source can be connected.

[0015] The document "Powering the isolated Side of Your Half-Bridge Configuration" by author Ryan Schnell, Technical Article MS-2663-1, January 1, 2014 (2014-01-01), pages 1-4, XP055579219, found on April 9, 2019 at the URL: https: / / www.analog.com / media / en / technicaldocumentation / tech-articles / Powering-the-isolated-Side-of-Your-Half-Bridge-Configuration-MS-2663-1.pdf, describes a half-bridge topology in power converters.

[0016] WO 2018 / 103125 A1 discloses a traction power module comprising: a frame, a water-cooled substrate, IGBT components, two composite busbars, driver boards, high-voltage connectors, and optical wave receivers. The traction power module includes four IGBT half-bridges that can be used in two combinations. When the traction power module is used for rectification, any two of the four half-bridges are connected in parallel to serve as rectifier inputs. When the traction power module is used as an inverter, three of the four half-bridges serve as AC phases, and the remaining half-bridge serves as a chopper output.

[0017] To synchronize the circuits of parallel-connected half-bridges, it is proposed to achieve this either by matching the signal paths or by signal processing on the driver assembly.

[0018] One object of the present invention is to facilitate the formation of power converter arrangements from switching modules (such as half-bridge modules). In particular, cost-effective configurations of power converter arrangements from such half-bridge modules are to be enabled. Furthermore, the development and validation effort for newly developed arrangements is to be reduced.

[0019] This problem is solved by a power converter arrangement and a method according to the attached independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are specified in the dependent claims.

[0020] In contrast to the distributed and centralized approaches described above, the invention proposes enabling a flexibly configurable signal distribution of control signals to switching modules and, in particular, to the driver units of the switching modules. More precisely, it is provided that each switching module has its own driver unit, but the driver units can be controlled flexibly by means of a flexibly configurable signal distribution unit. Depending on which of the switching modules are to be connected in parallel for a specific application, the signal distribution unit can then be suitably configured to supply the correspondingly parallel-connected switching modules or their driver units with identical control signals as simultaneously as possible, by independently performing a calibration procedure according to the independent claims.

[0021] The advantages of this solution lie primarily in the fact that, regardless of which driver units or switching modules are to be connected in parallel, the same hardware can always be used. In particular, no circuit boards need to be adapted separately, and / or separate communication and power supply units need to be added according to the specifications of the parallel switching modules. Instead, the signal distribution unit can be connected to all driver units via consistent hardware, and only the signal distribution to the driver units needs to be adapted as required for the desired parallel configurations.

[0022] It is understood that this also reduces costs, particularly since the number of required components (see, for example, the power supply and communication units mentioned above) can be reduced. Figuratively speaking, the invention instead enables the production of a largely consistent and preferably completely prefabricated unit, which is then adapted to a specific desired application by programming a signal distribution unit. Because the driver units are still provided for each switching module, they can be positioned in close proximity to the corresponding modules and, in particular, to their semiconductor transistors. This allows for a generally preferred near-semiconductor control, which reduces impedance as well as propagation delays and / or propagation delay differences. By providing driver units for each switching module, they can also be optimally designed for the respective switching module.In particular, they do not need to be set up to cover multiple possible configurations of individually or in parallel connected switching modules.

[0023] The consistent hardware enabled by the invention, despite flexibly adaptable parallel connections of the modules, also reduces the connection effort, since numerous or even all lines can be provided in or by means of printed circuit boards. Such printed circuit boards (in particular, an additional circuit board superior to the drivers) also enable galvanic isolation between the individual lines and thus switching modules, allowing them to be individually controlled. This enables, for example, the operation of a corresponding power converter arrangement or the switching modules contained therein in a two- or three-point configuration.

[0024] Finally, greater flexibility is also enabled regarding the connection of the signal distribution unit to (control) signal generation units. Firstly, the signal distribution unit allows signal distribution to multiple driver units, and in particular to a greater number of driver units than the number of available input channels. For example, an input signal can be generated according to a serial communication protocol (e.g., as a light wave signal or a light pulse sequence) and, if necessary, transmitted to the signal distribution unit via only a single input channel. The signal distribution unit can then decode or extract the control signals for the individual driver units, which are encoded (serially) in the input signal, and distribute them to the corresponding driver units via multiple signal lines.

[0025] Furthermore, it is also possible to design the signal generation units themselves to be less complex and / or to avoid requiring them to have information regarding the connections and / or topology of the driver units. This task can instead be taken over by the signal distribution unit, which, for example, can have information about which driver units can be controlled via which signal lines.

[0026] The power converter assembly is configured as an inverter. It is preferably designed for use in a vehicle, such as a rail vehicle. According to one variant, the power converter assembly is intended for the high-voltage range of a rail vehicle. However, the power converter assembly can also be designed for low voltages and, for example, generate AC voltages below one kilovolt.

[0027] The switching modules are half-bridge modules, and in particular a half-bridge module that is in Fig. 2 of the type shown. In particular, it can be a high-voltage switching module, and especially a high-voltage half-bridge module, used in a high-voltage network of, for example, a rail vehicle. In this disclosure, a switching module can also simply be referred to as a module. Alternatively, a half-bridge module can also be referred to as a dual semiconductor, dual semiconductor package, and / or dual semiconductor valve. A switching module can generally be a structurally integrated unit and be handleable separately from other components of the power converter arrangement and positionable within the power converter arrangement. A switching module comprises a plurality of semiconductor transistors. According to a preferred embodiment, the switching modules are positioned adjacent to one another and, in particular, along a common line and / or axis. In other words, the switching modules can be arranged in series.Preferably, this is done in such a way that the connection areas of the modules, such as a first connection area for DC voltage and / or a second connection area for AC voltage, are arranged in a corresponding sequence. This simplifies the connection of the modules to other components, such as a power supply and / or a load. Such a connection can be made, for example, via strip-like elements which include contact elements such as terminals or connectors at suitable intervals for the modules arranged in a sequence or their connection areas.

[0028] The semiconductor transistors can be identical transistors per module, which, if they are half-bridge modules, are each connected to form a half-bridge. Examples include IGBTs (especially silicon-based IGBTs (Si IGBT)), silicon carbide diodes (SiCH), or complete solutions with silicon carbide chips (SiC).

[0029] The driver unit can comprise a separate (sub-)driver unit for each semiconductor transistor. These are also referred to herein as driver circuits. In a manner known per se, the driver unit (or its driver circuits) can be configured to perform gate control of the semiconductor transistors according to received control signals. For this purpose, it can electrically translate and / or amplify the received control signals in a suitable manner to enable gate control.

[0030] The signal distribution unit is a unit that distributes control signals generated by a separate signal generation unit. This can also include the signal distribution unit first converting or transforming the received control signals into a suitable format, for example, to generate switching signals for the driver units from received fiber optic switching pulses and / or input signals created according to a protocol. In other words, the signal distribution unit can also be configured to decode and / or convert switching signals generated by another unit and then distribute these decoded or converted signals as control signals to the driver units.

[0031] However, in this context, it is preferable if the switching sequences originally defined or encoded in the received input signals are retained and not modified by the signal distribution unit. Figuratively speaking, the signal distribution unit can be configured to generate control signals from the received input signals that are unchanged in content (e.g., unchanged with respect to the switching sequences of the semiconductor transistors or driver units defined by them). The input signals can be optical signals and / or signals generated according to predefined protocols.

[0032] In contrast, the signal distribution unit is designed to compensate for propagation delay differences of control signals (for example, by delaying individual control signals) and thus to switch on parallel-connected semiconductor transistors synchronously, preferably without influencing the switching sequence specified by the control signals (i.e., the controlled semiconductor transistors actually switch on and off according to the specified target switching frequency, even if the control signals are slightly offset from each other due to the propagation delay compensation).

[0033] The "similar control signals" can therefore be generally understood as control signals that result in similar, and in particular synchronous, switching operations of the controlled switching modules and / or driver units and / or semiconductor transistors. The term "similar" thus primarily refers to the "similar" effect achievable by means of the control signals. In the case of negligible propagation delay differences, the control signals can be identical to achieve the similar, and in particular synchronous, switching operations. In the case of significant propagation delay differences, this can be achieved via the propagation delay compensation described herein.

[0034] In other words, the distributed control signals are control signals or switching signals for the driver units or semiconductor transistors. Based on these control signals, the semiconductor transistors are switched on and off by the driver units (as a result of appropriate control), thereby providing the desired power converter function.

[0035] The signal distribution unit can be connected to the driver units via individual lines (i.e., having at least one line per driver unit, where this line is not connected to any other driver unit). These lines can be implemented as conductive traces, in particular as conductive traces on a printed circuit board (PCB). The signal distribution unit can also be located on this PCB and connected to the conductive traces. The conductive traces (or, more generally, the lines to the driver units) can be galvanically isolated from each other (e.g., by means of appropriate gaps on the PCB and, more precisely, isolation barriers (e.g., by means of functional isolation). Some galvanic isolation can also be achieved by capacitive, inductive, radio-based, or optical signal coupling or transmission. The driver units can also be located on this PCB.However, it is preferred that the driver units are arranged separately from this circuit board and preferably as close as possible to the semiconductor module, and are connected to the corresponding circuit board only via signal conductors. For example, the driver units can each be implemented as separate assemblies and / or as components arranged on at least one separate circuit board. They can then be connected to the circuit board of the signal distribution unit via, for example, connectors or similar terminals.

[0036] The flexible configurability of the power converter arrangement can include the possibility of defining at least two combinations of driver units to which similar control signals can be distributed, with these combinations differing from one another. For example, with at least three switching modules, the first and second of these can be combined, or the second and third, and the remaining module in each case can be omitted from the combination formed.

[0037] The combinations of driver units, due to the distribution of similar control signals, are equivalent to the corresponding driver units or the associated switching modules being connected in parallel. Therefore, when reference is made below to a parallel connection of switching modules, this is synonymous with the fact that these form a combination within the meaning of the invention (and vice versa).

[0038] The combinations can be defined during the initial configuration and / or manufacturing of the power converter assembly. For example, a power converter assembly manufacturer can configure the signal distribution unit once, thus delivering the power converter assembly with a specific number of parallel-connected driver units. However, it is also possible to create corresponding (new) combinations after delivery, and especially multiple times. The power converter assembly is therefore configurable multiple times. In other words, the invention provides for multiple configurability of the signal distribution unit.

[0039] According to the claims, configuration is carried out by programming the signal distribution unit. In this case, the signal distribution unit can already be connected to all driver units via corresponding lines (signal lines), and the programming can define which control signals are to be transmitted via which lines, and in particular, which control signals of the same type are to be transmitted via which lines.

[0040] For such programming, the signal distribution unit can comprise at least one microprocessor, memory device, or computer chip. As explained below, the signal distribution unit can generally comprise a programmable component, or in other words, a programmable building block, in particular an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) or a comparable integrated circuit (e.g., a programmable multiplexer or (especially for, but not limited to, the case of delay compensation) a CPLD (complex programmable logic device), ASiC (application-specific integrated circuit), DSP (digital signal processor), or microcontroller).

[0041] The term "similar control signals" can be understood to mean, in particular, that a similar and, in particular, identical switching frequency or on / off frequency of the semiconductor transistors can be achieved based on these control signals, or that the driver units can be caused to specify and / or implement corresponding switching frequencies based on these control signals. According to the invention, it is therefore possible to define different combinations of driver units and to send control signals (i.e., "similar control signals") to these driver units, resulting in similar switching frequencies of these driver units and / or the semiconductor transistors connected thereto. This means that the driver units, and thus the switching modules, can also be operated in the same manner and thus connected in parallel.

[0042] In general, identical control signals can define identical switching frequencies or, more precisely, on / off switching operations for the driver units or the semiconductor transistors controlled by them, all occurring at the same time, especially when propagation delay differences are negligible or should be disregarded. However, it is equally possible for the control signals to define slightly offset switching frequencies to compensate for the propagation delay differences explained below. Both variants (occurring at the same time or slightly offset) have in common that the identical control signals of the combinations can cause essentially or completely identical on / off switching operations of the driver units or the associated semiconductor transistors. Consequently, they can be described as identical, at least with regard to their achievable effect.This effect can be described as the parallel controllability of the driver units or the associated semiconductor transistors.

[0043] In summary, similar control signals can be understood as signals that, when combined appropriately, lead to similar switching operations, particularly regarding identical switching times. The switching times, and generally good symmetry of the control signal, relate especially to the load current.

[0044] Because the signal distribution unit allows for flexible configuration of which driver units are combined, connected in parallel, and consequently controlled in the same way, a flexible configuration of the power converter arrangement is possible without substantial hardware changes. The associated advantages have already been explained above.

[0045] A further development of the device and the method provides that the power converter arrangement comprises a DC voltage connection area and an AC voltage connection area; and that the switching modules are each electrically connected via a first connection area (of the switching modules) to one of the DC voltage connection areas and AC voltage connection areas; and via a second connection area (of the switching modules) are each electrically connected to the corresponding other of the DC voltage connection area and AC voltage connection area.

[0046] Figuratively speaking, the switching modules can be positioned between the DC voltage connection area and the AC voltage connection area, and connected to each. For this purpose, they can have connection areas that interact with both the DC and AC voltage connection areas (see the first and second connection areas above). The DC and / or AC voltage connection area can be a strip-like and / or linear connection area, allowing the switching modules to be arranged in a row along this connection area. The DC and AC voltage connection areas can be positioned opposite each other, and the switching modules can be positioned between these connection areas and, in particular, arranged in a row along the connection areas.The switching modules can generally be connected in such a way that the semiconductor transistors and / or the driver units are also electrically connected to the DC voltage connection area and the AC voltage connection area, for example via the corresponding first and second connection areas of the respective components.

[0047] The aforementioned options for connecting the switching modules to the various connection areas of the power converter arrangement enable a compact design and easy assembly.

[0048] According to the claims, the signal distribution unit of the power converter arrangement is programmable for defining a specific combination, or the signal distribution unit is programmed using the method for defining a specific combination. Multiple programmability is provided. For this purpose, the power converter arrangement can have suitable interfaces to a programming device, such as a conventional PC. Generally, the signal distribution unit can be programmed using light signals or electrical signals. Through programming, the various combinations can be specified with minimal effort depending on the application of the power converter arrangement, and the power converter arrangement can thus be adapted flexibly and quickly to the desired operating scenario. Further explanation regarding the potential programmability of the signal distribution unit can be found above.

[0049] As mentioned, the signal distribution unit can include an FPGA. This represents a cost-effective, reliable, and easy-to-program option for defining the combinations of driver units, or in other words, for defining the individual, co-, or parallel connection of control signals for the switching modules.

[0050] According to a further embodiment of the converter arrangement and the method, the converter arrangement comprises an interface area via which the signal distribution unit can be connected to at least one control signal generation unit (e.g., a so-called drive control unit). The interface area can be designed as a connection area to which the control signal generation unit can be selectively and, in particular, non-destructively connected, e.g., by means of electrical contact connectors or fiber optic connectors. Alternatively, the interface area can comprise or form a section of the converter arrangement that is soldered to or otherwise permanently connected to a control signal generation unit via lines. This interface area is preferably also connected to the signal distribution unit (for example, via the conductor tracks of a common circuit board).The interface area can therefore generally enable a non-destructively detachable or a permanent connection.

[0051] In accordance with the claims, the power converter arrangement and the method are designed to include a signal distribution unit configured to take into account, when distributing the control signals, a signal propagation delay (i.e., the time required for signal transmission) between the signal distribution unit and the driver units, and optionally also a semiconductor transistor response time (in particular, the IGBT response time). Based on this, the transmission and distribution times of the control signals can be adjusted. Taking signal propagation delays into account can therefore be achieved by sending identical control signals to parallel-connected driver units with a time delay, the time delay being selected depending on or corresponding to the different signal propagation delays to the combined driver units (in particular, depending on a difference thereof).For this purpose, information about signal propagation times to individual driver units is determined and stored in advance, namely as part of a calibration procedure. It should be noted that not only the signal propagation times to individual driver units can be considered, but also those to typically at least two individual driver circuits and / or semiconductor transistors (especially IGBTs) of the driver units. The above cases are particularly relevant in parallel circuits to achieve simultaneous switching of the semiconductor on the power side.

[0052] During calibration, switching signals are transmitted from the signal distribution unit to individual driver units, where a change in current is measured at the semiconductor transistors. This current change can also be measured by the driver units themselves and transmitted back to the distribution unit. The propagation delay of the switching signal is then calculated as the time difference between the transmission of the control signal and the time at which an expected current change occurs.

[0053] A corresponding calibration procedure is performed automatically by the power converter assembly without manual activation. For example, the calibration procedure can be carried out at regular intervals and / or before delivery. In the calibration procedure, the driver units are activated sequentially, and the resulting current changes are recorded, as described above. The signal propagation times are saved and stored, particularly as a calibration file, and the future distribution of the control signals and their output to the driver units (especially the output time) is adjusted based on this information.

[0054] Furthermore, the signal distribution unit can be configured to adjust the distributed signals according to at least one temperature measurement. Preferably, the signal distribution unit can adjust the switching curves, which can be defined by the control signals, e.g., in the form of encoded switching operations, as a temperature-dependent function. To protect the semiconductor transistors at low temperature measurements (e.g., below 10°C or generally below a minimum limit), it may be preferable to slow down the switching curves (e.g., by reducing the slope of the switching curves). At high temperatures, e.g., above 60°C (or generally above a maximum limit), the switching curves can be accelerated, for example, by appropriately increasing the slope of the switching curve.The temperature measurements can be taken by the driver units, the semiconductor transistors or separate temperature measuring units connected to them, and the temperature readings can be transmitted to the signal distribution unit.

[0055] In general, bidirectional signal transmission is intended, for example, to transmit temperature measurements from the driver units to the signal distribution unit. Transmitting current change signals within the calibration procedure described above may also require bidirectional signal transmission.

[0056] According to the above variants (but also independently thereof), the signal distribution unit can not only distribute signals, but also evaluate and record operating states (temperature measurement, propagation delay differences) and / or decode signals (e.g., from input signals generated according to protocols). For this purpose, the signal distribution unit can have appropriate functionalities, in particular computational functionalities, which can be achieved using conventional FPGAs. For example, the signal distribution unit can include a microprocessor that can execute program instructions to provide the described functions.

[0057] One embodiment of the power converter arrangement and the method provides that the signal distribution unit is arranged on a first printed circuit board (PCB) and the driver units are arranged on at least one second PCB. In particular, each driver unit can be arranged on its own (second) PCB, and this PCB is / are preferably located near or even directly on an associated switching module (for example, attached directly to it). The PCB(s) of the driver units and the PCB of the signal distribution unit can be connected to each other via signal conductors, for example, via plug connectors. Traces can be defined on the PCB of the signal distribution unit to enable signal distribution to each of the driver units or their respective PCB(s).

[0058] Training on different circuit boards has the advantage that the driver units and / or their circuit board(s) can be optimized for specific switching modules, while the first circuit board can be designed to be suitable for signal distribution and the signal distribution unit. Furthermore, it also offers the possibility of a space-saving arrangement of the circuit boards, for example, by at least partially overlapping them.

[0059] For example, in this context, it can be provided that the first printed circuit board and the at least one second printed circuit board at least partially cover each other, or, in other words, overlap each other at least partially. In other words, the printed circuit boards can be arranged one above the other and preferably at least partially congruently. In particular, the printed circuit board of the signal distribution unit can be positioned opposite a top surface of the switching modules or of printed circuit boards of the driver units arranged on this top surface. This top surface can be the one described in Fig. 2 The side facing the viewer encompasses the various connection openings 16. The first and at least one second circuit board can extend in mutually parallel planes. The switching modules, or at least one upper and / or lower surface thereof, can also extend parallel to this plane.

[0060] A corresponding method is defined in independent method claim 8.

[0061] In other words, during configuration, a combination of driver units can be selected and thereby specified to which the signal distribution unit should distribute similar control signals. However, it is also possible to select other combinations of driver units, or the signal distribution unit is capable of distributing similar control signals to other combinations if configured accordingly. In summary, configuration involves specifying which combination of driver units (specifically, which combination from a plurality of possible combinations) should receive the distribution of similar control signals.

[0062] Analogous to the discussion of the above converter arrangement, individual driver units can thus be connected in parallel for common control, while other combinations can receive different control signals.

[0063] In particular, the configuration of the signal distribution unit can be performed depending on at least one parameter of the power converter arrangement (e.g., its semiconductor transistors) and / or include the adaptation of a control characteristic. The latter can be used to control one or more driver units (e.g., a parallel-connected module combination), for example, to suitably adapt the control signals for implementing a desired switching command. In particular, the number of parallel-connected modules can be considered as a parameter, e.g., for adapting / configuring a control characteristic. Likewise, the control characteristic can be adapted to expected and / or prevailing temperatures. An embodiment of the invention is explained below with reference to the accompanying schematic figures. Features that are identical in type and / or function can be provided with the same reference numerals. These represent: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a power converter arrangement according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 2 a perspective view of a half-bridge module according to the prior art; Fig. 3 a perspective view of a power converter arrangement according to a second embodiment of the invention; and Figs. 4 and 5 representations of a power converter arrangement according to a third embodiment of the invention in different assembly stages.

[0064] In Fig. 1 A power converter arrangement 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention is shown. The upper part of Fig. 1 the converter arrangement 1, while the one below in area B of Fig. 1 The transverse bars shown indicate possibilities for how the individual half-bridge modules 10 described below can be connected in parallel or controlled in parallel. The half-bridge modules 10 are examples of (semiconductor) switching modules according to the invention.

[0065] It should be noted that, contrary to the merely schematic representation in Fig. 1 The printed circuit boards described below, in particular, can be positioned not necessarily side by side, but also one on top of the other. This will be illustrated below. Figuren 3 bis 5 Explained in detail.

[0066] The power converter arrangement 1 comprises a first printed circuit board 20. A signal distribution unit 22 is arranged on this board, preferably configured as an FPGA or alternatively as a programmable multiplexer. In the illustrated case, the signal distribution unit 22 has only one input channel 52. It can receive an input signal via this channel, as indicated by the input arrow 52, ​​which is defined according to a predetermined signal protocol and can, in particular, be a light wave signal. However, it would also be possible to provide several input channels and, in particular, to provide a single input channel for each driver circuit 30 described below. Corresponding variants are explained in more detail below.

[0067] The input signal is generated by a signal generation unit 24, which is preferably not a component of the power converter arrangement 1, but according to the invention could also be a component of this power converter arrangement 1.

[0068] The signal distribution unit 22 has a plurality of output channels or signal lines 27. In the example shown, the number of signal lines 27 corresponds to the number of driver circuits 30 described below. Fig. 1 However, the diagram does not show twelve individual signal lines 27, but rather individual multi-strand line groups, which are depicted as a single line. The numbers marked with a horizontal line on the corresponding line groups indicate the number of lines actually present in each line group.

[0069] In general, at least one line can be provided for each driver circuit 30 described below, and preferably two lines are provided for (simultaneous) signal exchange in both directions (to and from a driver circuit 30).

[0070] More precisely, in Fig. 1 Two sets of six signal lines 27 are shown, which connect directly to the signal distribution unit 22 and each divide into two groups of three individual lines. Branching points are marked with dots, from which individual signal lines 27 branch off from the multi-stranded or bundled line groups to the respective driver circuits 30. More precisely, following the six-fold bundled signal lines 27 of the signal distribution unit 22, three-strand line groups are shown transversely, represented by only one line, but identified as three-strand line groups by corresponding numbers. However, only individual lines from these multi-strand power groups lead to the individual driver circuits 30 (each from the point-shaped branches in Fig. 1 ).

[0071] It should be noted that the signal lines 27 are also at least partially implemented on the first circuit board 20, specifically as galvanically isolated conductor tracks. This reduces the wiring effort and, in general, the manufacturing effort.

[0072] Further are in Fig. 1 Half-bridge modules (modules) 10 are shown, which are analogous to those from Fig. 2 The depicted known half-bridge modules 10 are formed. For the sake of clarity, in Figur 1 However, no plurality of possible connecting lines are shown, which are connected to the plurality of receiving openings 16 in the respective connection areas 12, 14 of the half-bridge modules 10. Figur 2 are connectable.

[0073] It can be seen that each half-bridge module 10 contains two semiconductor transistors 26, which are, for example, designed as silicon IGBTs. The semiconductor transistors 26 are connected in a half-bridge configuration. Other possible internal components of the half-bridge modules 10, such as resistors or additional internal connecting lines, are not shown.

[0074] Each half-bridge module 10 is assigned a driver unit 28. Each driver unit 28 has two driver circuits 30. These are electrically or signal-conductingly connected to each of the semiconductor transistors 26 and are configured as gate control or gate drivers for these semiconductor transistors 26, as is known per se. For clarity, in Fig. 1 Not all of the semiconductor transistors 26 and driver circuits 30 are marked with a corresponding reference symbol. However, the driver circuits 30, as well as the driver units 28 and half-bridge modules 10 in general, are identical to each other.

[0075] The driver units 28 are each arranged on an individually assigned (second or second type of) circuit board 32 (again, not all of these are shown in Fig. 1 (with a corresponding reference numeral). These printed circuit boards 32 (one per driver unit 28) and, more precisely, the driver circuits 30 arranged on them are connected to signal lines 27 of the first printed circuit board 20. As described above, each of the driver circuits 30 is connected to a corresponding signal line 27, whereby this connection can be established, for example, via plug connectors or the like.

[0076] In summary, the power converter arrangement 1 can be seen in Fig. 1 The signal distribution unit 22 can send control signals via the signal lines 27 to each of the driver units 28 and also to each of the driver circuits 30 encompassed by them. In principle, the driver circuits 30 can be controlled in such a way that each of the semiconductor transistors 26 can be controlled individually. Furthermore, feedback (i.e., signal transmission) in the reverse direction from each driver circuit 30 to the signal distribution unit 22 via the signal lines 27 is preferably also possible, e.g., via dedicated feedback signal lines.

[0077] In the example shown, the converter arrangement 1 can be operated as a rectifier or an inverter. The half-bridge modules 10 can therefore be controlled such that they are driven via the Fig. 1 The first connection area 12 (not shown) converts the DC voltage provided into an AC voltage, which is transmitted via the Fig. 1 The second connection area 14, shown only in simplified form, can be accessed. For this purpose, the signal distribution unit 22 receives logged switching signals (e.g., as a fiber optic protocol and, in particular, serially logged). The signal distribution unit 22 is configured to distribute the received switching signals to predetermined combinations of the six individual half-bridge modules 10 and their associated driver units 28. Possible combinations of driver units 28 and semiconductor modules 10 are shown in section B of Fig. 1 indicated by the individual bars.

[0078] More precisely, according to variant B1, the half-bridge modules 10 are each individually controlled, so that each half-bridge module 10 generates a single-phase AC voltage from the applied DC voltage. In this case, the signal generation unit 24 can, for example, simply specify a switching frequency, which the signal distribution unit 22 then distributes to all half-bridge modules 10. This has the advantage that only one input channel and one signal generation unit 24 are required, but a multiple half-bridge modules 10 can be controlled based on this. Alternatively, several independent functions (especially half-bridge module-specific ones) can also be implemented by outputting several different switching frequencies.

[0079] According to variant B2, two adjacent half-bridge modules 10 are connected in parallel. This is represented by the transverse bars that extend across two AC voltage connection areas 14 of the correspondingly adjacent half-bridge modules 10. Thus, three combinations of half-bridge modules 10 are formed, which is equivalent to forming three combinations of driver units 28 or their driver circuits 30, which are to be controlled in parallel. The signal distribution unit 22 distributes identical control signals to the corresponding components of each combination. Preferably, the combinations are controlled individually, i.e., the first combination (from left to right) receives different control signals than the middle and third combinations. Furthermore, the signal generation unit 24 can, for example, provide different control signals for each of the combinations.Switching sequences can be defined in serial form and then distributed separately to the individual combinations by the signal distribution unit 22. However, several signal generation units 24 could also be connected to the signal distribution unit 22, and in particular, one module combination for each formed module combination.

[0080] Note that this change from variant B1 to B2 does not require any hardware modifications, but merely a reprogramming of the signal distribution unit 22, which then distributes the provided control signals accordingly.

[0081] Variants B3 to B5 show further possibilities for forming combinations of the driver units 28 and their associated half-bridge modules 10. In variant B3, the first two pairs (from left to right) of adjacent driver units 28 and half-bridge modules 10 are combined into a single combination, while the last two are controlled individually. In variant B4, a combination of four driver units 28 and their associated half-bridge modules 10 and a combination of two driver units 28 are formed (from left to right: the first four form one combination and the last two another). In variant B5, three adjacent driver units 28 and their associated half-bridge modules 10 each form one combination, resulting in only two combinations in total.

[0082] A general advantage of optionally connecting the modules 10 in parallel or operating them individually is that different loads can be connected to the power converter arrangement 1, depending on the application. In the case of variant B4, a correspondingly high single-phase power can be supplied to an electrical load via the four driver units 28 and half-bridge modules 10 combined into one configuration, while the further combination of just two driver units 28 and half-bridge modules 10 can supply an electrical load with a lower power requirement. In the case of B1, six individual electrical loads with correspondingly low energy requirements could be supplied separately. The signal distribution unit 22 thus enables the power converter arrangement 1 to be configured as needed for a desired application without requiring any hardware modifications.

[0083] It should be noted that even with an optional plurality of input channels of the signal distribution unit 22, and in particular one input channel per driver circuit 30 (i.e., twelve input channels in the case shown), advantages can be achieved using the power converter arrangement 1 according to the invention. For example, the power converter arrangement 1 according to the invention allows a plurality of signal generation units 24 to be connected, for example via at least one additional input channel. The signal distribution unit 22 can then be configured such that an assignment is made according to which control signals from which signal generation unit 24 are to be distributed to which possible combinations of half-bridge modules 10 or their associated driver units 28. This also increases the flexibility of the power converter arrangement 1.

[0084] Furthermore, there is an advantage in that the signal generation units 24 (even if only one is present) do not need to store information about which input lines of a signal generation unit 24 are connected to which signal lines 27 or driver units 28. This is particularly relevant if the signal generation unit 24 does not have a corresponding information storage capability or if such a capability is deliberately omitted for cost reasons. Instead, such information or connections can be considered and defined by the signal distribution unit 22.This also makes it possible for the power converter arrangement 1 to be used as a retrofit solution for existing signal generation units 24, which may not have the ability to split their output signal into different channels and / or to flexibly define such a split.

[0085] In particular, the power converter arrangement 1 according to the invention avoids the need to establish separate connections between one or more signal generation units 24 and the driver units 28, depending on the desired application. Instead, this can be flexibly configured via the existing and preferably always unchanged signal lines 27 and the signal distribution unit 22 connected thereto.

[0086] In Fig. 3 An embodiment of the invention is shown in perspective, based on the general principle of Fig. 1 constructs. In this power converter arrangement 1, not all components are shown, and in particular not the first circuit board 20 or the circuit boards 32 of the driver units 28. However, their position is also clear from the following. Figuren 4 und 5 .

[0087] The power converter arrangement 1 from Fig. 3 It can in turn be operated as a rectifier or as an inverter. Six half-bridge modules 10 can be identified according to... Fig. 2 , which are arranged in a row. In particular, these are arranged in such a way that their AC connection areas 14 are located on a first common side (i.e., are arranged along a first common axis A). Correspondingly, the oppositely arranged DC connection areas 12 are arranged along a second axis C, which extends parallel to axis A. A DC connection area 40 of the converter arrangement 1 is connected to the DC connection areas 12 of the half-bridge modules 10. This includes a strip-shaped connection component 42, which is connected to the receiving openings 16 of the modules 10 (see Fig. 2 The corresponding positions comprise connectors. The strip-shaped component 42 thus enables parallel connection of all half-bridge modules 10 to a DC voltage source (not shown).

[0088] The AC connection areas 14 of the half-bridge modules 10 are connected to plate-shaped connection elements 44. These plate-shaped connection elements 44 are encompassed by, or form, an AC connection area 46 of the power converter arrangement 1.

[0089] Here one can see that the in Fig. 3 From left to right, the first four half-bridge modules 10 share a plate-shaped connection element 44 or are each connected to the same plate-shaped connection element 44. The last two half-bridge elements 10 have their own plate-shaped connection element 44. This corresponds to case B4 from Fig. 1 , with the exception that the shorter bar would have to be divided into two separate bars, analogous to variant B3.

[0090] In other words, in the case of Fig. 3 The first four half-bridge modules 10 are connected in parallel and generate a uniform single-phase AC voltage from the supplied DC voltage. As a result of the parallel connection, the generated AC voltage is at a correspondingly higher power level. The remaining individual half-bridge modules 10, on the other hand, each generate a comparatively low single-phase AC voltage from the supplied DC voltage. The signal distribution unit 22 (not shown) (see Fig. 1 ) is therefore configured to supply the first four half-bridge modules 10 with identical voltage signals in the form of identical switching frequencies or to send corresponding identical control signals to the in Fig. 3 to distribute the driver units 28, which are not yet shown. The remaining two half-bridge modules 10, however, are operated based on other control signals.

[0091] Based on the Figuren 4 und 5 a converter arrangement is made of Fig. 3 A comparable case was described, in which circuit boards 32 and 20 were also made of Fig. 1 shown. The only significant difference to the configuration from Fig. 3 The advantage is that in this case, only a plate-shaped connection element 44 is present, which is connected to all six half-bridge modules 10 on the output side (i.e., to their connection areas 14 for alternating voltage) and thus connects all six half-bridge modules 10 in parallel. Therefore, with this variant, single-phase alternating power or single-phase alternating current can be generated at a particularly high level.

[0092] The six semi-bridge modules 10 arranged in a row are mostly concealed, but analogous to Fig. 3 arranged. The same applies to the DC voltage range 40 of the converter arrangement 1, which is identical to that from Fig. 3 The circuit boards 32 are positioned on and thus above the half-bridge modules 10. It can be seen that each half-bridge module 10 is assigned a corresponding circuit board 32. The circuit boards 32 are connected to the corresponding connection areas 18 via only indicated connections 50. Fig. 2 of the individual modules 10 connected (not all corresponding connections 50 are in Fig. 4 (with a corresponding reference mark). This also applies to the information from Fig. 1 Removable connection created between the driver circuits 30 and the semiconductor transistors 26.

[0093] Not separately identifiable in Fig. 4 These are precisely the driver circuits 30, which are arranged on the individual circuit boards 32. As mentioned, these can be designed according to conventional variants and, in particular, as conventional integrated circuits.

[0094] In Fig. 5 Additionally, the circuit board 20 is visible, on which the signal distribution unit 22 (not shown separately) is arranged and on which the signal lines 27 (also not shown separately) are formed in the form of conductor tracks. It is also not shown that (as mentioned above) the circuit board 20 is connected to each of the circuit boards 32 via signal conductors. Connectors may be provided on an underside of the circuit board 20 facing away from the viewer, which are connected to the terminals 50 of the circuit boards 32. Fig. 4 can interact. Connections 52 of the circuit board 20 are shown only as examples; these are connection areas that can accommodate connectors for transmitting electrical or light-based signals from other components not shown (in particular signal generation units 24).

[0095] In general, the design and number of corresponding connections 52 are arbitrary. As shown above, only one corresponding connection 52 may be provided purely for signal transmission, preferably enabling the connection of an optical fiber to receive logged and, in particular, serially coded light pulse signals. This can be the Fig. 5 The signal distribution unit 20 (not shown) then provides control signals for the driver units 28 (see Fig. 1 ) divide and distribute to these according to the specified configuration. However, several corresponding ports 52 may also be provided, and in particular a number of ports 52 corresponding to the number of driver circuits 30.

[0096] Stacking or arranging the printed circuit boards 20, the driver printed circuit boards 32, and the half-bridge modules 10 on top of each other enables a space-saving configuration. Fig. 5 It follows directly that the first circuit board 20, with the signal distribution unit 22 (not shown), covers all circuit boards 32 and, in the case shown, is even essentially congruent with the total area spanned by the circuit boards 32, although this is merely optional. Furthermore, it can be seen that the half-bridge modules 10 are arranged in a common plane, or rather, that axes A and C are formed by Fig. 3 in a corresponding common plane. The circuit boards 32 and 20 also extend in or parallel to this plane. In general terms, it can therefore be provided that the first circuit board 20, the second circuit boards 32, and the half-bridge modules 10 each extend in planes parallel to each other, whereby in the case shown this is achieved by stacking or overlapping the aforementioned components.

[0097] Returning to Fig. 1 Finally, further advantages achievable according to the invention with the power converter arrangement 1 shown will be discussed.

[0098] First, the compensation of propagation delay differences that can occur along the individual signal lines 27 between the signal distribution unit 22 and the driver circuits 30 must be mentioned. For example, the in Fig. 1 From left to right, the third and fourth driver circuits 30 are significantly closer to the signal distribution unit 22 and thus connected to it via shorter conductor lengths than the outermost (i.e., first and sixth) driver circuits 30. However, if driver circuits 30 or modules 10 positioned in the same position are to be combined and thus connected in parallel (see, for example, the case in Fig. 4 It is preferred that all driver circuits 30 are actually controlled in parallel in order to provide an inverter effect that is as identical as possible and, in particular, simultaneous.

[0099] Accordingly, the signal distribution unit 22 is designed to access calibration information. This information can be stored, for example, in a memory device of the signal distribution unit 22 (not shown separately). This calibration information can specify the propagation times to the individual driver units 28 or driver circuits 30.

[0100] If a control signal is to be distributed to a driver unit 28, the signal distribution unit 22 determines the propagation times to all combined or parallel-connected driver units 28 and then adjusts the distribution times, or in other words, the transmission times of the control signals, appropriately, taking into account the differences in these propagation times. In particular, control signals to driver units with comparatively short propagation times can be transmitted with a delay compared to control signals sent to driver units 28 that have or require a comparatively long propagation time. The individual distribution or transmission times of the control signals can be defined, in particular, based on the differences between the propagation times of the parallel-connected driver units 28.

[0101] To determine the propagation times, according to a calibration operation of the power converter arrangement 1, the signal distribution unit 22 sends control signals to individual driver units 28 and / or individual driver circuits 30 and receives a current change signal. For this purpose, the signal lines 27 between the signal distribution unit 22 and the driver units 28 are bidirectional, and the channels or connections of the signal distribution unit 22 that are connected to the corresponding signal lines 27 can be configured as combined input-output channels.

[0102] The current change or current change signal can be determined, for example, as follows: By measuring the voltage across the inductor on the half-bridge module between a main emitter, which is positioned between the two semiconductor transistors (e.g., between an upper and lower IGBT), and an auxiliary emitter, which can be provided for each semiconductor transistor, an increase in the current in the main current path between collector and emitter can be measured.

[0103] It should be noted that according to the double arrow shown in Fig. 1 Optionally, bidirectional signal transmission between the signal distribution unit 22 and the signal generation unit 24 can also be provided. This allows, for example, acknowledgments of receipt to be transmitted from the signal distribution unit 22 to the signal generation unit 24, confirming that and / or which control signals have been received. These acknowledgments of receipt can contain checksums in a known manner or be defined as such.

[0104] As a further achievable advantage, optional temperature measurements can be taken by the signal distribution unit 22. In particular, the temperatures of the modules 10 or the semiconductor transistors 26 contained therein can be detected by the driver unit 28 and preferably transmitted to the signal distribution unit 22 via bidirectional signal transmission over the signal lines 27. If the signal distribution unit 22 detects a temperature above a permissible maximum value, it can prevent the transmission of control signals. Alternatively, it can select a higher switching frequency than if temperatures below this maximum value are measured. Additionally or alternatively, the transmission of control signals can be stopped and / or the switching frequency can be slowed down if a minimum temperature value is undershot. The temperature can be detected and, in particular, measured by the driver unit in the area of ​​the terminals 50.

[0105] It is understood that the additional variants described above for taking into account runtime differences and temperature measurements are not limited to the present exemplary embodiments and are also independent of the related details, as they are described in particular in the Figuren 1 bis 5 shown, can be claimed.

[0106] Finally, based on the Figuren 4 und 5 The differences between this approach and the previously described centralized and distributed approaches for operating driver units will be discussed again. With the distributed approach, the configuration would essentially be the same as that of... Fig. 4 correspond without a signal distribution unit 22 being used with the additional circuit board 20 Fig. 5 This would require an additional component. At least one further circuit board would then have to be positioned between a signal generation unit 24 and the individual driver units 28 of the circuit boards 32. This additional circuit board would need to be configured according to the desired parallel circuits and is therefore inflexible. In particular, separate power supply and communication units would have to be provided for each of the parallel-connected groups or combinations, depending on the desired parallel circuits. This further increases the costs.

[0107] In contrast, the central approach would not involve individual circuit boards 32, but only a single circuit board, such as circuit board 20. Fig. 5However, in this scenario, the signal distribution unit 22 would be replaced by a central driver circuit. If the number of parallel-connected modules 10 were changed, a new and separately manufactured circuit board for the central driver unit would have to be produced immediately. In some cases, a separate central driver unit would also have to be provided for each selected module parallel connection. Due to the potential range of applications, separate (central) driver units would therefore have to be selected depending on the desired configuration, which increases the number of different driver units that need to be kept in stock. Alternatively, a kind of universal driver unit would have to be used, which, as expected, would not have optimal properties for a specific application (or a specific number of modules 10 to be supplied).

[0108] Such disadvantages can be avoided through the flexible configurability according to the invention.

Claims

1. Flexibly configurable power converter arrangement (1) operable as an inverter, comprising: - a plurality of switching modules (10) which are half-bridge modules and each comprise a plurality of semiconductor transistors (26); - a driver unit (28) for each of the switching modules (10); - a signal distribution unit (22) which is designed to distribute control signals to each of the driver units (28) via signal lines (27), controlled by input signals received from at least one control signal generation unit (24); wherein the distribution of the control signals by the signal distribution unit (22) is flexibly configurable so that different combinations of driver units (28) can be specified to which control signals serving to achieve synchronous switching operations can be distributed, wherein the signal distribution unit (22) is programmable for defining a respective combination, and wherein the programming defines via which signal lines (27) which control signals, and in particular control signals serving to achieve synchronous switching operations, are to be transmitted. wherein the power converter arrangement (1) can be reconfigured in such a way that, in different configuration states of inverter operating modes, a different number of switching modules (10) are connected in parallel on the AC voltage side and that, in accordance with programming of the signal distribution unit (22) corresponding to the configuration state, semiconductor transistors (26) of the parallel-connected switching modules (10) are controlled for synchronous switching on and off and in this way convert a direct voltage into an alternating voltage, wherein the signal distribution unit (22) distributes switching signals received as input signals to the respective combination of the driver units (28) of the switching modules (10) corresponding to the parallel connection of the parallel-connected switching modules (10), wherein the signal distribution unit (22) is designed to take into account a signal propagation time between the signal distribution unit (22) and the driver units (28) when distributing the control signals, so that control signals of the same kind can be sent to parallel-connected driver units (28) with a time delay in order to achieve simultaneous switching of the semiconductor transistors (26) on the power side in parallel connections, and the power converter arrangement (1) or the signal distribution unit (22) is designed to independently perform a calibration procedure, whereby the driver units (28) are controlled one after the other, the resulting current changes are recorded, the signal propagation times of the switching signals are determined and stored as time differences between the transmission of the control signals and the times of the expected current changes.

2. Power converter arrangement (1) according to claim 1, wherein the power converter arrangement (1) comprises a DC voltage connection area (40) and an AC voltage connection area (42); and the switching modules (10) are each electrically connected via a first connection area (12, 14) to one of DC voltage connection area (40) and AC voltage connection area (42); and are each electrically connected via a second connection area (12, 14) to the other of DC voltage connection area (40) and AC voltage connection area (42).

3. Power converter arrangement (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the signal distribution unit (22) is designed to adjust the distributed signals in accordance with at least one temperature measurement value.

4. Power converter arrangement (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the signal distribution unit (22) is arranged on a first printed circuit board (20) and the driver units (28) are arranged on at least one second printed circuit board (32).

5. Power converter arrangement (10) according to claim 4, wherein the first printed circuit board (20) and the at least one second printed circuit board (32) at least partially overlap each other.

6. Power converter arrangement (10) according to claim 1, wherein each driver unit (28) per semiconductor transistor (26) of a half-bridge module has a driver circuit (30) which is designed to control the gate of an associated semiconductor transistor (26).

7. Power converter arrangement (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the switching modules (10) of a combination are connected in parallel on the output side and / or wherein the voltages generated by the combinations of switching modules (10) with in the same manner controlled driver units (28) differ from one another.

8. Method for configuring a power converter arrangement (1) operable as an inverter, wherein the power converter arrangement (1) comprises: - a plurality of switching modules (10) which are half-bridge modules and each comprise a plurality of semiconductor transistors (26); - a driver unit (28) for each of the switching modules (10); - a signal distribution unit (22) configured to distribute control signals to the driver units (28) via signal lines (27) controlled by input signals received from at least one control signal generation unit (24); (27); and wherein the method comprises: - configuring, by programming, the signal distribution unit (22) so that it can distribute control signals in each case to one of a plurality of possible combinations of driver units (28) to achieve synchronous switching operations, wherein the programming defines which control signals, and in particular control signals serving to achieve synchronous switching operations, are to be transmitted via which signal lines (27) in the respective combination, - reconfiguring the power converter arrangement (1) into one of several different configuration states of inverter operating modes, in which different numbers of switching modules (10) are connected in parallel on the AC voltage side and, in accordance with a programming of the signal distribution unit (22) corresponding to the configuration state, semiconductor transistors (26) of the parallel-connected switching modules (10) are each controlled for synchronous switching on and off and in this way convert a direct voltage into an alternating voltage, wherein the signal distribution unit (22) distributes switching signals, that are received as the input signals, to the respective combination of the driver units (28) of the switching modules (10) corresponding to the parallel connection of the parallel-connected switching modules (10) in accordance with the configuration state, - taking into account a signal propagation delay between the signal distribution unit and the driver units (28) when distributing the control signals, so that control signals of the same kind can be sent to parallel-connected driver units (28) with a time delay in order to achieve simultaneous switching of the semiconductor transistors (26) on the power side in parallel connections, and - independent calibration, wherein the driver units (28) are activated one after the other, the resulting current changes are detected, and the signal propagation times of the switching signals are determined and stored as time differences between the transmission of the control signals and the times of the expected current changes.

9. Method according to claim 8, wherein the configuration of the signal distribution unit (22) comprises the adaptation of at least one control characteristic curve depending on at least one parameter of the power converter arrangement (1).