Integrated Clamp Circuit for Power Module Parasitic Turn-On
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power modules face inadvertent operation due to parasitic current and voltage signals, which existing approaches have not adequately addressed, leading to issues with parasitic turn-on during switching operations.
Innovation Solution
A power module with an integrated clamp circuit is configured to clamp inputs to the gate of power devices, placing the clamp circuit in close physical proximity to the power module, which includes a base plate, power substrate, power contacts, gate-source board, and housing, to inhibit parasitic turn-on by reducing undesired voltage and current inputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a clamping circuit is integrated within the power module in close proximity to the power devices, then parasitic turn-on events are effectively limited and control reliability is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping circuit is integrated within the power module housing and electrically connected to the power devices, merging the protection function into the existing power module structure. This integration enhances control reliability by limiting parasitic turn-on events while avoiding the need for separate external protection circuits.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the clamping circuit is arranged in close proximity to the power devices, then parasitic resistance and induction are reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping circuit is positioned in close proximity to the power devices it protects, creating a localized protection zone. This local arrangement minimizes parasitic resistance and induction by reducing the length of electrical connections, while the integration into the housing keeps the overall manufacturing process manageable.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure is directed to a power module apparatus that includes a base plate, a power substrate positioned relative to the base plate, at least two power contacts, a gate-source board mounted relative to the power substrate, gate drive connectors electrically connected to the gate-source board, a housing secured to the power substrate, and a clamping circuit electrically connected to the at least one power device. The clamping circuit being configured to clamp an input to a gate of the at least one power device. The clamping circuit being arranged with at least one of the following: the base plate, the power substrate, one of the at least two power contacts, the at least one power device, the gate-source board, the gate drive connectors, and the housing. The disclosure is further directed to a process of configuring a power module apparatus.