Semiconductor Switch Non-Operation Detection via Voltage Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting non-switching semiconductor switches are not reliable, especially in static operation, as they require switching off the semiconductor to verify its functionality, which is not always feasible.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a first and second semiconductor switch, each with a corresponding semiconductor component and resistors, uses a detection unit to analyze voltage drops across these components to determine if the semiconductor switches are switching correctly without needing to switch off the load.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a second power semiconductor is connected in series to ensure safe switching off, then the reliability of the switching operation is improved, but the costs, space requirements and power loss increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical solution of adding a second semiconductor switch with an electronic monitoring system that uses voltage detection and evaluation circuits to monitor the switching state of the existing semiconductor switch, thereby ensuring reliability without additional switching components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary monitoring system consisting of detection circuits and evaluation units that observe the switching behavior of the semiconductor switch through voltage measurements, providing indirect verification of proper operation without requiring direct intervention in the switching path
2Reliability
If existing detection methods are used to verify semiconductor switching, then fault detection capability is improved, but the load must be switched off which disrupts operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary monitoring of the semiconductor switch's switching state by continuously detecting voltage drops during operation, allowing fault detection to occur before the switch fails completely, while maintaining uninterrupted load operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuous monitoring of the semiconductor switch's switching behavior through ongoing voltage measurements and evaluation, maintaining both operational continuity of the load and uninterrupted fault detection capability
3Measurement precision
If voltage drop monitoring is implemented to detect non-switching semiconductors, then detection accuracy is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential information needed for switching state detection by monitoring voltage drops across specific points in the circuit, separating the critical diagnostic data from other circuit parameters and focusing monitoring resources on the most informative measurements
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 for accurate and reliable detection of non-switching semiconductor switches without disrupting the load, enhancing the reliability of fault detection in electronic power distribution systems.
Implementation Method 1
The determination unit is designed to detect, based on a profile of a first voltage drop across the first resistor, whether the first semiconductor switch is not switching
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a system (30) and a method for identifying a non-switching semiconductor switch (34a, 36a). The system (30) comprises a first semiconductor switch (34a), a first semiconductor component (34b), a second semiconductor switch (36a), a second semiconductor component (36b), a first resistor (64b), a second resistor (66b) and a detection unit (38). The detection unit (38) is designed to identify, on the basis of a curve of a first voltage dropping across the first resistor (64b), whether the first semiconductor switch (34a) is not switching. The detection unit (38) is designed to identify, on the basis of a curve of a second voltage dropping across the second resistor (66b), whether the second semiconductor switch (36a) is not switching.