Parallel Diode Current Distribution via Parasitic Inductance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Semiconductor elements like IGBTs and diodes connected in parallel exhibit individual differences in manufacturing processes, leading to uneven current distribution, which can concentrate current on certain elements, causing abnormal heat generation and potential breakage.
Innovation Solution
An electronic circuit and semiconductor module design where diodes or switching elements with lower forward or ON voltages are connected in parallel with those having higher voltages, with paths extending via lower voltage elements having larger parasitic inductance to distribute current evenly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple semiconductor elements are connected in parallel to handle heavy current, then the current handling capability is improved, but current concentrates on certain elements due to individual differences, causing abnormal heat generation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different parasitic inductance values to different current paths by designing wiring members with varying inductance characteristics. Specifically, paths through semiconductor elements with lower forward voltages are assigned larger parasitic inductances, while paths through elements with higher forward voltages are assigned smaller parasitic inductances. This local differentiation compensates for individual element differences and achieves uniform current distribution across all parallel-connected elements.
2Reliability
If wiring members are designed with different parasitic inductances to suppress current concentration, then current distribution uniformity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parasitic inductance parameter of wiring members to achieve current distribution control. By adjusting the inductance values of different wiring members based on the forward voltage characteristics of connected semiconductor elements, the system achieves uniform current distribution. This parameter-based approach provides a systematic method to balance current flow without requiring complex additional control circuits or active components.
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 design effectively suppresses current concentration on specific semiconductor elements, preventing abnormal heat generation and enhancing long-term reliability by distributing current across multiple paths.
Implementation Method 1
an inductance of a first path from a first terminal via a first diode to a second terminal is larger than an inductance of a second path from the first terminal via a second diode to the second terminal
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic circuit having a first terminal and a second terminal. The electronic circuit includes a plurality of diodes connected in parallel, the plurality of diodes including a first diode and a second diode that respectively have applied thereto a first forward voltage and a second forward voltage, the second forward voltage being higher than the first forward voltage. A first path and a second path are formed from the first terminal, respectively via the first diode and the second diode, to the second terminal. An inductance of the first path is larger than an inductance of the second path.