Circuit Assembly with Parallel Semiconductor and Relay Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing circuit assemblies face challenges in efficiently switching both AC and DC voltages with minimal power loss and wear, particularly when handling a wide range of currents, as semiconductor switches are not equally suitable for both types of currents and electromechanical switches suffer from contact erosion.
Innovation Solution
A circuit assembly comprising a semiconductor switch and a relay connected in parallel, with a sensor to detect voltage and current characteristics, and a controller that switches them at signal-specific times to minimize power loss and wear, allowing efficient switching of AC and DC voltages across a wide current range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If an electromechanical switch is used to switch high current, then power loss is reduced, but the switch life is reduced due to contact erosion
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit is divided into two parallel signal branches: one with a semiconductor switch for low-current/DC operation and another with an electromechanical relay for high-current AC operation. This segmentation allows each component to operate in its optimal range, reducing overall power loss while extending switch life by preventing the electromechanical relay from undergoing unnecessary switching cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller dynamically switches between the semiconductor switch and electromechanical relay based on real-time detection of voltage polarity changes and current characteristics. This dynamic adaptation enables the system to automatically select the most appropriate switching component for the current operating conditions, optimizing both power efficiency and component longevity.
2Reliability
If a semiconductor switch is used for switching, then switch life is extended with minimal wear, but power loss increases when switching high current
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit is divided into two parallel signal branches: one with a semiconductor switch for low-current/DC operation and another with an electromechanical relay for high-current AC operation. This segmentation allows each component to operate in its optimal range, reducing overall power loss while extending switch life by preventing the electromechanical relay from undergoing unnecessary switching cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller dynamically switches between the semiconductor switch and electromechanical relay based on real-time detection of voltage polarity changes and current characteristics. This dynamic adaptation enables the system to automatically select the most appropriate switching component for the current operating conditions, optimizing both power efficiency and component longevity.
3Device complexity
If a single switch type is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different current types (AC and DC) is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit assembly is designed with dual switching capabilities through parallel signal branches, enabling a single device to handle both AC and DC currents effectively. The controller universally manages both the semiconductor switch and electromechanical relay, allowing the system to adapt to different current types and loading conditions without requiring separate dedicated circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller dynamically switches between the semiconductor switch and electromechanical relay based on real-time detection of voltage polarity changes and current characteristics. This dynamic adaptation enables the system to automatically select the most appropriate switching component for the current operating conditions, optimizing both power efficiency and component longevity.
4Loss of time
If the relay is switched frequently, then switching precision is improved, but wear of the relay increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller detects voltage polarity changes in advance and proactively manages the switching sequence by first closing the semiconductor switch before actuating the relay. This preliminary action allows the system to prepare for high-current AC switching conditions before they fully develop, enabling precise timing while minimizing the number of times the electromechanical relay must open and close, thereby reducing wear.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller dynamically switches between the semiconductor switch and electromechanical relay based on real-time detection of voltage polarity changes and current characteristics. This dynamic adaptation enables the system to automatically select the most appropriate switching component for the current operating conditions, optimizing both power efficiency and component longevity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution reduces power loss and wear, increases the service life of the circuit assembly, and enhances reliability by optimizing switching times based on detected voltage and current patterns, enabling efficient operation across a broad range of electrical loads.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor, which is electrically connected to the signal connection and is configured to test the electrical signal for a polarity change within a test time interval
Implementation Method 2
a semiconductor switch is arranged, wherein the semiconductor switch is configured to electrically close the first signal branch in a closed state in order to electrically connect the electrical load to the signal connection
Implementation Method 3
a relay is arranged, wherein the relay is configured to electrically close the second signal branch in order to electrically connect the electrical load to the signal connection
Implementation Method 4
a controller, which is configured to determine a first signal time for actuating the semiconductor switch and a second signal time for actuating the relay in the event of a detected polarity change
Data Source
AI summary
A circuit assembly includes a first signal branch connecting a signal connection to an electrical load via a semiconductor switch and a second signal branch connecting the signal connection to the electrical load via a relay. When a sensor detects a polarity change in an electrical signal within a test time interval, a controller may close the semiconductor switch at a first signal time such that electrical energy is supplied to the electrical load, actuate the relay at a second signal time after the semiconductor switch has been closed, and open the semiconductor switch after the relay has been closed such that electrical energy is supplied to the electrical load solely via the second signal branch.