SiC Power Module for SR and Synchronous Motor Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
The mass production of modules for three-phase half bridge circuits used in concentrated winding SR motors is hindered by the need for expensive configurations involving two three-phase bridge circuits, making it costly to drive these motors efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A module design that includes a package with specific terminal connections allowing it to function as both a half bridge circuit for concentrated winding SR motors and three-phase synchronous motors, utilizing SiC devices for reduced heat generation and improved performance, with terminals that can be easily short-circuited to adapt between configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two modules of three-phase bridge circuits are used to drive concentrated winding SR motor, then the motor can be driven, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a power conversion module that can function as both a three-phase bridge circuit module and a three-phase half bridge circuit module. By making terminals 3 and 4 connectable (through shorting or connection to external components), the same physical module adapts to different circuit configurations, enabling it to drive both synchronous motors and concentrated winding SR motors. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate modules for different motor types, reducing costs while maintaining versatility.
2Ease of manufacture
If mass production of half bridge circuit module is achieved, then cost decreases, but currently mass production is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The module incorporates specific terminal arrangements (terminals 3 and 4) that can be connected in various ways to accommodate different motor types. This design allows a single module type to serve multiple purposes - driving both synchronous motors (using full bridge configuration) and concentrated winding SR motors (using half bridge configuration). By standardizing the module design with adaptable terminals, mass production becomes feasible while maintaining broad motor type compatibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single module is used for both synchronous motor and SR motor, then versatility improves, but circuit configuration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The module uses a standardized bridge circuit design with specifically arranged terminals (terminals 1-5) that can be connected in different configurations. For synchronous motors, terminals are connected to form a full bridge; for SR motors, terminals 3 and 4 are shorted or connected externally to create a half bridge. The underlying circuit structure remains the same, and the adaptability is achieved through simple terminal connections rather than complex internal circuit changes, thus limiting the increase in actual device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A circuit element includes an upper switching device, a lower switching device, an upper diode device, and a lower diode device. An upper drain is connected to a first terminal connected to a positive electrode of a power supply, and an upper source is connected to a third terminal. A lower drain is connected to a fourth terminal, and a lower source is connected to a second terminal connected to a negative electrode of the power supply. An upper anode is connected to the fourth terminal, and an upper cathode is connected to the first terminal. A lower anode is connected to the second terminal, and a lower cathode is connected to the third terminal. The third terminal and the fourth terminal are arranged so as to be able to be short-circuited outside of a package.