Parallel IGBT-MOSFET Switching Layout for Lower Semiconductor Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional semiconductor devices, such as IPMs, face challenges in efficiently managing the switching operations of multiple switching elements, leading to increased power loss and reduced conversion efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The semiconductor device incorporates a configuration where first and second switching parts, each comprising an IGBT and a MOSFET respectively, are electrically connected in parallel, with protective diodes connected anti-parallel to manage reverse voltage. This configuration is controlled by dedicated drive signals from control elements, optimizing switching operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple switching elements are used to improve switching performance, then switching capability is enhanced, but power loss increases and conversion efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The switching elements are divided into multiple independent modules (first switching part with IGBT and diode, second switching part with MOSFET and diode), each capable of independent operation. This segmentation allows selective activation of switching elements based on operating conditions, reducing unnecessary switching operations and associated power losses while maintaining overall switching capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuit dynamically selects and activates appropriate switching elements based on real-time operating conditions, such as current direction and magnitude. This dynamic control optimizes the switching strategy to minimize power loss during different operational phases, thereby improving conversion efficiency while maintaining high switching capability.
2Speed
If switching elements are operated at high frequency to improve response speed, then switching performance is enhanced, but switching loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuit implements periodic switching strategies where switching elements are activated only when necessary based on periodic evaluation of operating conditions. This reduces the frequency of unnecessary switching operations, thereby decreasing switching loss while maintaining adequate response speed for the application.
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuit adjusts switching parameters such as switching frequency and duty cycle based on operating conditions. By dynamically changing these parameters, the system optimizes the balance between switching speed and switching loss, achieving high response speed when needed while minimizing energy loss during normal operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A semiconductor device includes a plurality of first switching parts, a first control element, at least one lead, a plurality of first connection members and a plurality of second connection members. Each first switching part includes a first switching element and a second switching element. In the plurality of first switching parts, the first switching element and the second switching element are electrically connected in parallel to each other and are of different types. The first switching element and the second switching element of each first switching part are disposed around the first control element as viewed in a thickness direction.