IGBT Driver Power Supply Isolation via Capacitive Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current power supply solutions for IGBT/FET drivers are overly complex and costly due to the need for multiple separate power supplies or complex regulation of isolated outputs, especially when dealing with AC control, leading to increased manufacturing and operational expenses.
Innovation Solution
A power supply system that provides isolated power to each IGBT/FET driver using a single unit with diodes, capacitors, and a power supply unit switcher, eliminating the need for expensive isolation components by routing power pulses through capacitors referenced to the drive command signal, and supporting both AC and DC control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate power supplies are used for each IGBT/FET driver, then each driver receives isolated power, but the system complexity and manufacturing cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate power supplies into a single integrated power supply unit that serves all IGBT/FET drivers. This single power supply includes multiple isolated outputs that provide galvanic isolation to each driver channel, thereby maintaining the reliability benefits of isolated power supplies while eliminating the complexity and cost of having multiple separate power supply units.
2Ease of manufacture
If a single power supply with multiple isolated outputs is used, then power is provided to all drivers, but each output requires regulation increasing cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by providing regulation only where needed. The single power supply includes multiple outputs, with regulated outputs provided only for channels requiring precise voltage control, while other channels can use unregulated outputs. This selective regulation approach reduces the overall cost compared to regulating all outputs while still maintaining the necessary power quality for specific applications.
3Adaptability or versatility
If direct AC control is employed, then AC power control is achieved, but up to eight separate isolated power supplies are necessary increasing cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal power supply design that can handle AC control applications with any number of IGBT/FET drivers through a single integrated unit. The power supply includes multiple isolated outputs that can be configured to support various AC control topologies (single-phase, three-phase, bridge configurations) without requiring separate power supplies for each driver, thereby providing multi-functionality and reducing the total number of power supply units needed.
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
This solution reduces costs by eliminating the need for multiple power supplies, provides reliable and adaptable power to IGBT/FET drivers across various applications, including AC and DC control, and maintains low maintenance requirements while ensuring efficient power utilization across a complete sine wave.
Implementation Method 1
at least one diode for routing a predetermined amount of power from the at least one voltage controller to at least one capacitor
Implementation Method 2
at least one capacitor for routing said predetermined amount of power from said at least one diode to said at least one voltage controller
Data Source
AI summary
A power supply for IGBT/FET drivers (1) that provides separated, isolated power to each IGBT/FET driver in a system wherein the power supply (1) is connected to at least one voltage controller (16) having at least one line in main power connector (14), at least one line out main power connector (15) and at least one drive signal command input (11) for connection to at least one IGBT/FET driver. The power supply (1) includes at least one power supply unit (5) in connection with at least voltage controller (16), at least one diode (2) for routing a predetermined amount of power from the at least one voltage controller (16) to at least one capacitor (3) and at least one capacitor (3) for routing said predetermined amount of power from said at least one diode (2) to said at least one voltage controller (16).