Inverter Module Bus Bar Layout for Miniaturization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing inverter modules face challenges in miniaturization and increased size due to the configuration of switching elements and bus bars, which affects their overall efficiency and mountability.

Innovation Solution

The inverter module is designed with switching elements disposed in a specific arrangement, where upper-stage and lower-stage elements are aligned in orthogonal directions, and bus bars are positioned to minimize component count and optimize space usage, allowing for compact integration and improved cooling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If multiple inverter modules are provided separately for each phase, then the inductance of the inverter circuit is reduced, but the overall size increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinductance lossVSAvoidoverall size
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple inverter modules for different phases into a single integrated inverter module. The first inverter module (first phase) and second inverter module (second phase) are combined in one housing, reducing the number of separate modules while maintaining low inductance through optimized internal layout of switching elements and bus bars.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement within the housing to accommodate multiple inverter modules. By arranging switching elements and bus bars in specific spatial configurations (different dimensions and orientations), the design achieves low inductance without increasing the external footprint, effectively using vertical and lateral space efficiently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If switching elements and bus bars are arranged in conventional configurations, then electrical connectivity is maintained, but miniaturization becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connectivityVSAvoidmodule size
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The inverter module is segmented into distinct functional units (first inverter module for first phase, second inverter module for second phase) with clearly defined switching element groups and bus bar connections. This segmentation allows for optimized routing of electrical connections while maintaining compact overall dimensions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs multi-dimensional arrangement of components - switching elements are positioned at different heights and lateral positions, bus bars extend in multiple directions (first direction, second direction perpendicular to first). This three-dimensional connectivity approach reduces the planar footprint while ensuring reliable electrical paths between all components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS11271491B2Inverter module
Publication Date: 2022.03.08 AISIN CORP
  • US11271491B2 patent drawing
  • US11271491B2 patent drawing
  • US11271491B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In an inverter module (10) including a plurality of switching elements (11), a positive-polarity bus bar (14), a negative-polarity bus bar (15), and a plurality of output bus bars (16, 17, and 18), the plurality of output bus bars (16, 17, and 18) are disposed in a first direction (D1) in which upper-stage-side switching elements (11U) and lower-stage-side switching elements (11L) are placed side by side, and the positive-polarity bus bar (14) and the negative-polarity bus bar (15) are disposed in a second direction (D2) intersecting the first direction (D1).