Parallel Switching Element Thermal Control for Electric Range Power Conversion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Power semiconductor devices used in high-voltage and high-current applications face challenges in maintaining high output over time due to heat generation, and existing parallel connection methods degrade durability without effectively reflecting the state of individual semiconductor elements.
Innovation Solution
An electric range with a control unit that manages switching elements in parallel by determining driving signals based on temperature or current levels, ensuring that only the switching element with a low temperature or low current is driven when the voltage or input level is below a certain threshold, thereby reducing heat generation and extending high output maintaining time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If power semiconductor devices are connected in parallel to handle high current, then the current handling capability is improved, but heat generation increases and durability is degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of parallel-connected power semiconductor devices by adjusting the duty cycles of individual devices based on real-time temperature feedback. The control unit modifies switching patterns to balance thermal loads, preventing any single device from overheating while maintaining high current handling capability. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction by enabling high power operation without proportional heat accumulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes operational parameters (duty cycle, switching timing) of parallel-connected devices based on temperature conditions. When temperature increases, the control unit adjusts the duty cycle of affected devices to reduce their power dissipation. This parameter adaptation allows the system to maintain high current capability while dynamically managing heat generation to preserve durability.
2Power
If power semiconductor devices are connected in parallel to increase output, then the output capability is improved, but the high output maintaining time is reduced due to heat accumulation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic duty cycle adjustments based on temperature monitoring. When temperature thresholds are approached, the control unit periodically reduces the duty cycle of affected devices, allowing thermal dissipation while maintaining overall high output capability. This periodic modulation extends the duration for which high output can be sustained by preventing thermal runaway.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements temperature feedback control where sensors monitor the thermal state of each parallel-connected device, and the control unit adjusts switching patterns accordingly. This closed-loop feedback enables the system to maintain high output capability while automatically reducing stress on heated devices, thereby extending the high output maintaining time before thermal limits are reached.
3Power
If parallel connection structure is used to handle high current, then the current capacity is improved, but the durability of individual elements is degraded due to inability to reflect individual device states
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control of parallel-connected devices by individually monitoring and controlling each device's switching pattern based on its specific temperature condition. This segmentation allows the system to maintain high current capacity through parallel operation while treating each device's durability independently through customized duty cycle adjustments, preventing any single device from premature failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies individualized parameter changes to each parallel-connected device based on its specific operational state and temperature. The control unit modifies duty cycles, switching timings, and other parameters for each device independently, enabling high current capacity while optimizing durability for each element based on its real-time conditions.
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 approach allows all switching elements to respond to high voltages or currents while minimizing heat and maximizing output duration by selectively controlling each element based on real-time conditions, enhancing durability and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a working coil disposed under the plate and configured to heat the object to be heated using an induced current
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are a power conversion device, an electric range including same, and a control method therefor. The electric range of the present invention comprises: a plate; a working coil; an interface unit; a voltage providing unit for providing a rectified voltage to the working coil; a first switching element; a second switching element connected in parallel with the first switching element; and a control unit, wherein the control unit determines a driving signal for driving at least one of the first switching element and the second switching element, according to the temperatures of the first switching element and the second switching element, and outputs same to the first switching element and the second switching element, and when the rectified voltage is greater than or equal to a predetermined level, the control unit provides the first switching element and the second switching element with driving signals for driving the first switching element and the second switching element, respectively, and when the rectified voltage is less than the level, the control unit transmits a driving signal to a switching element having a lower temperature among the first switching element and the second switching element, and provides an off control signal to the switching element having a higher temperature.