Parallel Semiconductor Switches for Reliable Power Supply
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current current flow control devices in vehicles face challenges in supplying power to loads when there is an abnormality in the driving circuit that performs boosting, due to the complexity of circuit configuration and the need for multiple driving circuits to turn on semiconductor switches.
Innovation Solution
A current flow control device with multiple semiconductor switches connected in parallel, including a first semiconductor switch and a second semiconductor switch, where a driving circuit applies a voltage higher than the power source voltage to the first switch, and a resistor connected in series with the second switch reduces the voltage required to turn on the second switch, allowing power supply even if the boosting circuit fails.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single driving circuit is provided to the semiconductor switches, then the circuit configuration is simplified, but if there is an abnormality in that single driving circuit, boosting cannot be performed and none of the semiconductor switches can be turned on
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the semiconductor switches into two groups: first semiconductor switches controlled by a driving circuit with boosting function, and second semiconductor switches controlled by a switch control unit without boosting. This segmentation allows the system to use a single driving circuit while maintaining reliability, as the second group can operate independently when boosting fails.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the voltage parameter requirements for different semiconductor switch groups. The first group requires boosted voltage (higher than power source voltage) while the second group operates with unboosted voltage (lower than power source voltage). This parameter differentiation enables the system to maintain power supply capability even when boosting function fails.
2Reliability
If multiple driving circuits are provided to the semiconductor switches, then the reliability of power supply is improved, but the circuit configuration becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control functions by dividing semiconductor switches into two groups with different control mechanisms. The first group uses a driving circuit with boosting, while the second group uses direct control from the power source through a resistor. This segmentation achieves functional redundancy without requiring multiple complete driving circuits, thus improving reliability while controlling complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a resistor as an intermediary element in the circuit path of the second semiconductor switch. This resistor enables voltage reduction without requiring a boosting circuit, allowing the second switch to be controlled directly by the power source and simplifying the overall circuit configuration while maintaining reliability.
3Reliability
If a voltage higher than the power source voltage is applied to turn on the first semiconductor switch, then the first switch can be turned on reliably, but the circuit requires a boosting driving circuit which increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments semiconductor switches into two categories with different voltage requirements. The first group requires and receives boosted voltage for reliable turning on, while the second group is designed to operate with unboosted voltage. This segmentation allows the system to maintain reliable switch operation while reducing overall driving circuit complexity by not requiring boosting for all switches.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies boosting action only partially to the first group of semiconductor switches that require it, while the second group uses sufficient but not excessive voltage from the power source directly. This partial application of boosting reduces the complexity burden while maintaining necessary reliability for switches that require higher voltage.
4Device complexity
If the voltage applied to the second semiconductor switch is reduced by a resistor, then the switch can turn on with lower voltage without boosting, but the resistor introduces additional circuit elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a resistor as an intermediary voltage reduction element in the circuit path of the second semiconductor switch. This simple intermediary component enables the switch to operate with unboosted voltage, achieving the goal of reducing driving circuit complexity while adding only a single circuit element rather than an entire driving circuit.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a simple resistor, which is a low-cost and simple circuit element, to achieve voltage reduction for the second semiconductor switch. This disposable-like simple component replaces the need for complex boosting circuitry for the second switch group, reducing overall system complexity while adding minimal 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
Enables continuous power supply to loads by allowing the second semiconductor switch to turn on at a voltage lower than the power source, eliminating the need for boosting when the primary switch cannot be turned on due to an abnormality in the driving circuit, thus providing a reliable power supply.
Implementation Method 1
a resistor that is connected in series with a terminal on the power source side of the second semiconductor switch, the resistor lowering a voltage applied to the terminal
Data Source
AI summary
A current flow control device includes a plurality of semiconductor switches disposed between a power source and a load and that are connected in parallel with each other, and the current flow control device being configured to control the flow of current between the power source and the load by turning on and off the semiconductor switches. The plurality of semiconductor switches include a first and a second semiconductor switch. The current flow control device includes a driving circuit configured to apply, to the first semiconductor switch, a voltage that is higher than a voltage output from the power source, to turn on the first semiconductor switch, a switch control unit configured to turn on the second semiconductor switch, and a resistor that is connected in series with a terminal on the power source side of the second semiconductor switch, the resistor lowering a voltage applied to the terminal.