Inverter Gate Activation Sequence for Parallel Semiconductor Switching Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing electronic modules in electric vehicles experience significant switching energy losses due to parasitic capacitances in parallel-connected power semiconductors, which affect efficiency and battery range, especially during stationary periods where switching operations occur without current flow.
Innovation Solution
A circuit arrangement is proposed where power semiconductors are divided into two groups, with the first group having a separate driver for initial activation and the second group experiencing delayed activation via decoupling inductances, reducing switching energy losses by optimizing the discharge of output capacitances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If power semiconductors are connected in parallel to increase output, then the power handling capability is improved, but switching energy losses increase due to parasitic capacitances
Solution Approach 1:
The power semiconductors are divided into two groups (first group and second group), each with separate drivers. This segmentation allows independent control of switching sequences, enabling the first group to discharge the second group's capacitances before full voltage application, thereby reducing switching losses while maintaining parallel connection for high power capability
Solution Approach 2:
The first group of power semiconductors is activated in advance to discharge the output capacitances of the second group before the second group is switched on. This preliminary action removes the harmful charge from the parasitic capacitances, reducing the energy losses when the second group subsequently handles full power
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate drivers are provided for each group of power semiconductors, then switching control flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The driver system is segmented into separate drivers for the first and second groups of power semiconductors. This segmentation provides flexible independent control of each group's switching sequence, allowing optimization of capacitance discharge timing while maintaining manageable complexity through modular driver architecture
3Loss of energy
If decoupling inductances are introduced between groups, then switching loss reduction is achieved, but circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Decoupling inductances are introduced as intermediary elements between the first and second groups of power semiconductors. These inductances facilitate controlled current transfer and capacitance discharge while electrically decoupling the two groups, enabling loss reduction through a manageable increase in circuit elements
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 approach reduces switching losses by allowing the first group to discharge the second group's capacitances with already applied voltage, thereby minimizing charge-reversal losses and enhancing the range and efficiency of battery electric vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
the second group has a separate driver and/or a passive network, which brings about a delay of the activation of the second group
Data Source
AI summary
A method for activating a circuit arrangement for power semiconductors of an inverter with at least one phase, having at least two power semiconductors, which are connected in parallel with one another, wherein the power semiconductors are divided into two groups, of which at least one first group has a separate driver, and wherein the activation of the power semiconductors takes place in such a manner that during the switch-on operation, initially the first group and subsequently the second group is switched on.