Parallel IGBT Switching to Eliminate High-Current Bounce Chatter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical switches experience contact bounce or chatter when making and breaking high AC or DC currents, leading to pulsing currents rather than steady flow.
Innovation Solution
A debounced solid-state switching device using a parallel architecture of insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) with a controller to manage the switching, eliminating mechanical contact bounce.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If mechanical switches are used to make and break high AC or DC currents quickly, then the switching speed is improved, but contact bounce or chatter occurs causing current pulsing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical switches with solid-state insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) to eliminate mechanical contact bounce while maintaining fast switching capability. The IGBTs are controlled by gate signals to switch high currents without physical contact, thereby achieving both high switching speed and current stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the switching function into multiple parallel IGBT modules, each capable of independent operation. This segmentation allows the system to handle high currents through parallel conduction while maintaining individual module reliability and reducing overall bounce chatter through distributed switching.
2Power
If multiple IGBT modules are used in parallel architecture, then ampacity and voltage withstand capability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple discrete IGBT modules connected in parallel, where each module is an independent functional unit. This segmentation enables scalable power capacity while maintaining modular simplicity, as each module can be independently selected and replaced without affecting others.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs universal IGBT modules that can function independently or in parallel combinations, allowing the same module design to serve multiple power levels and voltage requirements. This universality reduces overall system complexity by standardizing components across different power configurations.
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
The solution provides a stable, full current flow without bounce chatter, improving efficiency and reliability in high-power applications.
Implementation Method 1
each module comprising a first connection terminal coupled to a circuit pathway; a second connection terminal communicatively coupled to the first connection terminal via the circuit pathway
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a debounced solid state switching device comprised of at least two insulated-gate bipolar transistors (“IGBTs”) within a parallel architecture. Multiple pairs of IGBTs may be used in a parallel architecture to extend ampacity and improve voltage withstand capability. The device provides improved flexibility and portability to facilitate time and cost efficiency, as the size and complexity of the device is directly dependent on the needs of the user. Furthermore, the procurement of the components of the device is simple, providing greater accessibility.