Anti-Series Switching Module for Bidirectional DC Overcurrent Protection

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

In DC networks, existing technologies face challenges in providing effective overcurrent protection for loads that require protection against overcurrents in both current directions, as opposed to those that only need protection in one direction, often leading to damage from overloads or short circuits.

Innovation Solution

A switching module with two electronic switches connected in anti-series between module connections, allowing for bidirectional or unidirectional overcurrent protection by configuring connections between a load and a DC network, reducing losses and simplifying wiring through distinct module connections for each protection type.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If electronic switches are used to protect against overcurrents in both current directions, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveovercurrent protectionVSAvoidswitching module structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The switching module is divided into three distinct module connections (first, second, and third), allowing separate connection points for bidirectional and unidirectional protection configurations. This segmentation enables flexible wiring arrangements that simplify the overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive overcurrent protection capability in both current directions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If anti-series connection of electronic switches is used, then bidirectional overcurrent protection is achieved, but loss of energy increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebidirectional protectionVSAvoidswitching losses
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The switching module dynamically adapts its configuration based on the protection requirements. For bidirectional protection, the anti-series connection of electronic switches is activated between first and third module connections. For unidirectional protection, the configuration uses only one electronic switch between first and second module connections, reducing energy losses while maintaining adequate protection for the specific application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple module connections are provided for different protection types, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection configurationVSAvoidmodule connection structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The switching module incorporates three module connections that serve multiple functions: the first module connection serves as a common connection for both bidirectional and unidirectional configurations, while the second and third connections enable flexible wiring arrangements. This multi-functionality allows the same module to accommodate both bidirectional and unidirectional protection requirements, simplifying the overall system design despite the additional connection points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11876365B2Connecting a load to a direct current network
Publication Date: 2024.01.16 SIEMENS AG
  • US11876365B2 patent drawing
  • US11876365B2 patent drawing
  • US11876365B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A switching module a method for connecting a load to a DC network are disclosed. The switching module includes a first module connection, a second module connection, a third module connection, a first electronic switch connected between the first module connection and the second module connection, and a second electronic switch connected between the second module connection and the third module connection. The two electronic switches are connected in anti-series between the first module connection and the third module connection.