Junction Temperature Calculation for Power Conversion Modules

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing junction temperature calculation methods for power conversion modules, whether hardware-based or software-based, face challenges in precision and practicality, particularly due to variations in modulation ratio and alternating-current frequency, leading to deviations from actual temperature readings.

Innovation Solution

A method and device for calculating junction temperature in power conversion modules that correct conduction and switching losses using specific correction coefficients associated with modulation ratio and alternating-current frequency, ensuring more precise temperature calculations by adjusting coefficients based on these factors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a hardware apparatus is added to measure temperature directly, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetemperature measurement precisionVSAvoidhardware apparatus complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical/hardware temperature measurement system with a software-based calculation system. Instead of using physical temperature sensors and hardware apparatus to directly measure junction temperature, the invention calculates temperature through software by measuring electrical parameters (voltage, current, power loss) and applying thermal models, thereby eliminating the need for complex hardware temperature measurement devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Device complexity

If conventional software calculation method is used without correction coefficients, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to variations in modulation ratio and frequency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecalculation system complexityVSAvoidjunction temperature calculation precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces correction coefficients (K1, K2, K3) that dynamically adjust the temperature calculation based on operating parameters such as modulation ratio and frequency. These coefficients modify the relationship between power loss and temperature rise, allowing the calculation model to adapt to different operating conditions and maintain high precision without increasing hardware complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the calculated junction temperature and power loss are continuously monitored, and correction coefficients are applied to refine the calculation. This feedback loop ensures that the temperature calculation remains accurate across varying operating conditions by continuously adjusting for deviations from ideal thermal models.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP4178096A1Junction temperature calculation method and device for power conversion module, medium, and vehicle
Publication Date: 2023.05.10 NIO TECH ANHUI CO LTD
  • EP4178096A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4178096A1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP4178096A1 patent drawingFigure 4~5(a)

AI summary

The disclosure relates to a junction temperature calculation method for a power conversion module. The power conversion module includes a first switching device. The junction temperature calculation method includes: correcting a conduction loss of the first switching device, where the correction of the conduction loss is based on at least a first correction coefficient K1, and the first correction coefficient K1 is associated with a modulation ratio of the power conversion module; and calculating a junction temperature of the first switching device as a junction temperature of the power conversion module, where the calculation of the junction temperature of the first switching device is based on at least the corrected conduction loss. The disclosure also relates to a junction temperature calculation device for a power conversion module, a computer-readable storage medium, and a vehicle. In the junction temperature calculation solution proposed by the disclosure, the conduction loss and a switching loss of the switching device are corrected based on the correction coefficient according to factors such as the modulation ratio and an alternatingcurrent frequency, thereby improving the calculation precision of the junction temperature of the power conversion module.