Asymmetric Semiconductor Module Switching Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing semiconductor modules and power converters face challenges in efficiently handling increased current demands without significant size increases, requiring drastic design changes when adding switching elements or multiple modules in parallel, which leads to increased size and complexity.
Innovation Solution
The technology allows for a semiconductor module with a varying number of upper and lower arm switching elements, using different semiconductor materials and configurations to optimize size and performance, and connecting multiple modules in parallel to adjust switching element counts, with a controller for selective switching control to manage power conversion efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple upper arm and lower arm switching elements are added to increase allowable current, then the current handling capability is improved, but the semiconductor module size increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the switching elements into two groups: a first group with switching elements of a first type (e.g., IGBTs) and a second group with switching elements of a second type (e.g., MOSFETs). This segmentation allows different switching element types to be used in different positions, optimizing both current handling capability and module size by selecting appropriate switching elements for each position based on their electrical characteristics.
2Power
If multiple semiconductor modules are connected in parallel to increase allowable current, then the current handling capability is improved, but the overall system size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges different types of switching elements (first type and second type) within a single semiconductor module, combining their advantages. This allows the module to achieve higher current handling capability without needing to connect multiple identical modules in parallel, thereby reducing the overall power converter size while maintaining the required current capacity.
3Device complexity
If the number of upper arm switching elements equals the number of lower arm switching elements, then the circuit configuration is simplified, but the flexibility to optimize for different current requirements is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different switching element types to different positions (upper arm vs. lower arm) based on their specific electrical requirements. The first group position receives switching elements optimized for its electrical characteristics, while the second group position receives switching elements optimized for its characteristics. This allows each position to have the appropriate switching element type, enhancing overall system performance and adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A semiconductor module may include a plurality of semiconductor elements; and a first power terminal, a second power terminal and a third power terminal electrically connected to the plurality of semiconductor elements. The plurality of semiconductor elements may include at least one upper arm switching element electrically connected between the first power terminal and the second power terminal; and at least one lower arm switching element electrically connected between the second power terminal and the third power terminal. A number of the at least one upper arm switching element may be different from a number of the at least one lower arm switching element.