Power Module Degradation Prediction via Structure Function
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power modules in electric vehicles experience degradation due to thermal or power cycling, leading to potential faults that existing detection methods fail to address effectively, posing risks during operation.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that determine a structure function of the power module, compare it to an initial function, and generate alerts when degradation exceeds a predetermined criterion, using a processing circuitry to monitor and predict degradation, thereby identifying reliability issues before severe events occur.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing fault detection methods based on thermal resistance are used, then fault detection capability is provided, but degradation prediction accuracy is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from monitoring only thermal resistance to monitoring multiple thermal parameters including thermal resistance, thermal capacitance, and their derivatives. This parameter expansion enables more accurate degradation prediction by capturing different aspects of thermal behavior changes in the power module
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary degradation prediction by continuously monitoring thermal parameters and comparing them against baseline values before actual faults occur. This allows proactive maintenance scheduling and prevents severe failures by detecting degradation trends early
2Reliability
If continuous monitoring of power module degradation is implemented, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power module monitors its own degradation by utilizing its existing thermal sensors and control circuitry to measure thermal parameters. The module performs self-diagnosis by comparing its current thermal behavior against baseline characteristics, eliminating the need for external complex monitoring equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuitry within the power module serves multiple functions: it controls the power semiconductor device operation, measures thermal parameters, performs degradation prediction, and generates maintenance alerts. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity by consolidating monitoring capabilities within the existing module structure
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 system effectively predicts and alerts for power module degradation, enabling proactive maintenance and maximizing the lifespan of power modules by detecting changes in thermal resistance and capacitance, ensuring safety and reliability of electric vehicle operations.
Implementation Method 1
detecting changes in thermal resistance and capacitance
Implementation Method 2
detecting changes in thermal resistance and capacitance
Data Source
AI summary
A system, computer readable medium, and a method for monitoring power module degradation in a vehicle are provided. The method includes determining a structure function of a power module, determining a change in the structure function based on a comparison between the structure function and an initial or baseline structure function associated with the power module, outputting a degradation determination result based on the change in the structure function, and generating an alert when the degradation determination result exceeds a predetermined or adaptively determined degradation criterion value.