Parallel Semiconductor Switch Modules for Current Sharing Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic switches for high currents are complex and expensive due to the need for parallel connections of mechanical switches, which require additional protective relays and complex constructions to manage current distribution asymmetries, leading to inefficiencies and high costs.
Innovation Solution
A modular electronic switch design using parallel semiconductor switching modules with a data interface for current distribution control, allowing for dynamic adjustment of on-state resistance to ensure even current distribution and prevent overloading, enabling cost-effective production of switches with varying performance capacities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If mechanical switches are connected in parallel to switch high currents, then the switching capacity is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional protective relays and complex constructions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical switches with semiconductor switches (IGBTs or MOSFETs) to eliminate the need for mechanical contactors and protective relays. The semiconductor switches are controlled by microcontrollers that manage current distribution, substituting mechanical operation with electronic control while maintaining high current switching capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the high current switching task into multiple parallel semiconductor switches, each controlled by independent microcontrollers. This segmentation allows current distribution to be managed electronically rather than requiring complex mechanical constructions, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining switching capacity.
2Power
If mechanical switches are connected in parallel, then the switching capacity is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase due to asymmetry deductions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control through microcontrollers that monitor current distribution among parallel semiconductor switches. The controllers adjust switching signals to compensate for asymmetries in real-time, eliminating the need for high manufacturing precision in conductor feeds and ensuring even current distribution without strict symmetry requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses dynamic control of semiconductor switch timing and duration to balance current distribution. Unlike mechanical switches with fixed characteristics, the semiconductor switches can be dynamically adjusted through control signals, allowing the system to adapt to asymmetries and maintain even current distribution regardless of manufacturing variations.
3Speed
If semiconductor switches are used for high current switching, then the switching speed is improved, but the on-state resistance causes energy losses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the total current into multiple parallel paths through multiple semiconductor switches. By segmenting the current flow, the on-state resistance of each individual switch is reduced, thereby decreasing conduction losses (P = I²R) while maintaining fast switching characteristics of semiconductor devices.
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 modular design allows for efficient and cost-effective production of electronic switches with high switching currents by evenly distributing current among parallel modules, reducing material costs and avoiding asymmetry-related inefficiencies, while ensuring reliable operation and long service life.
Implementation Method 1
An electronic switch includes a solid state switch that conducts or interrupts the current through the electronic switch
Implementation Method 2
If a current flows through the semiconductor, a voltage drop occurs across the switching connections due to the on-resistance, among other things. At the same time, the on-state resistance causes losses in the semiconductor depending on the current
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The invention relates to a switch module (1) for an electronic switch (10). In order to improve the switch module, according to the invention, the switch module has a semiconductor switch (2) with a control circuit (5), a current sensor (3) and a data interface (4) for connecting to a further switch module (1), wherein the switch module (1) is designed to change the on-resistance of the semiconductor switch (2) by means of the control circuit (5) according to data exchanged via the data interface and/or according to measurement values of the current sensor (3). The invention also relates to an electronic switch (10) comprising at least two switch modules (1) of this type, wherein the the switch modules (1) are arranged in parallel in such a way that the semiconductor switches (2) are arranged electrically in parallel and that a current (i) through the electronic switch (10) can be distributed to the semiconductor switches (2) of the switch modules (1), wherein the data interfaces (4) of the respective switch modules (1) are connected to one another, wherein the electronic switch (10) is designed to control a distribution of the current (i) through the electronic switch (10) to the semiconductor switches (2) in an open-loop and/or closed-loop manner by means of the control circuits (5) by changing the respective on-resistance of the semiconductor switches (2). The invention also relates to a method for operating an electronic switch (10) of this type.