Semiconductor Relay Module Series Input Circuit Topology

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing semiconductor relay configurations face challenges in securing stable operation characteristics and simplifying circuit board design due to complex wiring and input circuit connections.

Innovation Solution

A semiconductor relay module comprising multiple semiconductor relays with specific input and output circuits connected in series and parallel configurations, utilizing light emitting elements to control MOSFETs and simplify wiring, thereby stabilizing operation and reducing complexity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If the first input circuit controls two output semiconductor relays, then the control structure is simplified, but stable operation characteristics cannot be secured

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol structureVSAvoidoperation characteristics
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the control system into separate input circuits for each semiconductor relay. Specifically, the first input circuit controls the first and second output semiconductor relays, while the second input circuit controls the third grounding semiconductor relay. This segmentation allows each relay to have dedicated control paths, ensuring stable operation characteristics while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If the first and second input circuits are connected to two input terminals, then independent control is achieved, but wiring becomes complicated and circuit board design becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveindependent controlVSAvoidwiring
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the third input terminal with the first input terminal through the second input circuit. The second input circuit is configured such that it receives input from the third input terminal and controls the third grounding semiconductor relay. This merging approach allows independent control of each relay while reducing the number of separate wiring paths, thereby simplifying circuit board design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple semiconductor relays are used with separate input circuits, then independent control of each relay is achieved, but the circuit board design becomes complicated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveindependent controlVSAvoidcircuit board design
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements multi-functionality in the second input circuit, which serves dual purposes: it controls the third grounding semiconductor relay through the third input terminal, and it is electrically connected in series with the first input circuit. This universal design allows the circuit to perform multiple functions with a single circuit path, thereby simplifying circuit board design while maintaining independent control capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 solution achieves stable operation characteristics and simplifies circuit design by ensuring synchronized switching of output circuits and grounding, reducing variations and transmission losses, and facilitating easier high-frequency signal handling.

Implementation Method 1

The photodiode arrays of the two output semiconductor relays are configured to generate electromotive force by the light emission of the first LED to turn on the MOSFETs of the output semiconductor relays

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS11075631B2Semiconductor relay module and semiconductor relay circuit
Publication Date: 2021.07.27 OMRON CORP
  • US11075631B2 patent drawing
  • US11075631B2 patent drawing
  • US11075631B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A semiconductor relay module includes first to third semiconductor relays, first to third input terminals, first to third output terminals, and a first connection line. A first input circuit of the first semiconductor relay and a second input circuit of the second semiconductor relay are connected to the first and second input terminals. The first and second input circuits are connected in series. A third input circuit of the third semiconductor relay is connected to the first or second input terminal and the third input terminal. A first output circuit of the first semiconductor relay is connected to the first output terminal and the first connection line. A second output circuit of the second semiconductor relay is connected to the second output terminal and the first connection line. A third output circuit of the third semiconductor relay is connected to the third output terminal and the first connection line.