Power Converter Frame Reinforcement via Intermediary Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric power conversion apparatuses face issues with low rigidity in frames that house semiconductor modules, leading to vibration-induced stress on control circuit boards, which can cause connection failures due to external vibrations.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a reinforcing and fixing member that connects the side walls of the frame and fixes the control circuit board, enhancing the frame's rigidity and preventing vibration-induced stress on the control circuit board, while also simplifying the structure and reducing parts count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the frame is completely opened by the opening to allow access to semiconductor modules, then ease of operation is improved, but rigidity of the frame deteriorates leading to vibration-induced stress
Solution Approach 1:
A reinforcing member is introduced as an intermediary element between the opening and the control circuit board. This member spans the opening to provide structural support and rigidity to the frame, while still allowing access to the semiconductor modules through the opening. The reinforcing member acts as a mediator that resolves the contradiction between openness for operation and structural strength.
2Reliability
If additional fixing members are added to prevent vibration-induced stress on control circuit board, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcing member is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it reinforces the frame structure to prevent vibration, and it also serves as the fixing member for the control circuit board. By merging these two functions into a single component, the patent reduces device complexity while maintaining reliability, avoiding the need for separate fixing members.
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcing member is designed as a multi-functional component that provides both structural reinforcement and fixation support. This universal element addresses multiple problems (frame rigidity and circuit board fixation) with a single component, thereby improving reliability without increasing device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An electric power conversion apparatus includes a plurality of semiconductor modules, a frame, a control circuit board, and a reinforcing and fixing member. Each of the semiconductor modules has a plurality of control terminals. The frame receives the semiconductor modules therein. The frame has, at least, a pair of side walls that face each other with the semiconductor modules interposed therebetween. The control circuit board is located outside of the frame and has the control terminals of the semiconductor modules connected thereto. The reinforcing and fixing member extends to connect the side walls of the frame, thereby reinforcing the frame. The reinforcing and fixing member also has the control circuit board fixed thereto so that the reinforcing and fixing member is positioned between the control circuit board and the semiconductor modules.