SSPC Fault Isolation Using Auxiliary Short-Circuit Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
The risk of a single semiconductor switch failure leading to the shutdown of a complete Solid-state Power Controller (SSPC) in DC power distribution systems, causing disruptions due to size, weight, and power loss limitations, is addressed.
Innovation Solution
A DC power distribution and protection system with an auxiliary switching instance that guides a controlled short-circuit current through a faulty semiconductor switch, burning it without affecting other components, and includes a controller to manage this process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple semiconductor switches are connected in parallel in an SSPC to handle high current and voltage applications, then the power handling capability is improved, but the risk of complete SSPC failure due to a single switch failure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the SSPC into multiple independent modules, each with its own semiconductor switches. When a failure occurs in one module, only that module is affected while other modules continue to operate, thus maintaining system reliability while handling high power applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements a bypass circuit that is prepared in advance to handle potential failures. When a semiconductor switch fails, the bypass circuit automatically activates to redirect current, preventing complete system failure and maintaining operation during the transition period.
2Reliability
If semiconductor switches are used in SSPC to eliminate arcing and improve response time, then the operational reliability is improved, but the difficulty of removing faulty switches without damaging other components worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The modular design isolates faulty semiconductor switches within specific modules, allowing for targeted removal or replacement without affecting other functional modules. This segmentation makes repair easier while maintaining the high operational reliability of the overall system.
Solution Approach 2:
The bypass circuit acts as an intermediary that temporarily takes over the function of faulty semiconductor switches. This allows faulty components to be removed and replaced without interrupting the overall system operation, facilitating easier repair while maintaining reliability.
3Weight of stationary object
If semiconductor switches are connected in parallel to reduce size and weight, then the compactness is improved, but the complexity of managing individual switch failures increases
Solution Approach 1:
By organizing semiconductor switches into modular segments with standardized interfaces and integrated bypass circuits, the invention reduces the complexity of managing failures. Each module can be independently monitored and serviced, simplifying the overall system management despite the parallel configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design creates universal building blocks that can be used in various configurations. Each module contains all necessary components (semiconductor switches, bypass circuits, protection elements) to handle failures independently, reducing the overall system complexity while maintaining compactness and weight efficiency.
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 removes faulty semiconductor switches without damaging other components, ensuring the SSPC's continued operation and redundancy.
Implementation Method 1
a controlled short-circuit current is provided that flows through the faulty semiconductor switch and thus burns the faulty semiconductor switch or an element arranged in series with the faulty semiconductor switch
Data Source
AI summary
A solid-state power controller is arranged in a positive voltage rail or a negative voltage rail of a power bus of a DC power distribution and protection system. The solid-state power controller includes a first switching instance having a plurality of semiconductor switches arranged in parallel. An auxiliary switching instance is arranged between the positive voltage rail and the negative voltage rail. A controller is provided and configured to receive information or determine that one of the semiconductor switches of the first switching instance has a fault condition. The controller is further configured to control the first switching instance and the auxiliary switching instance such that the semiconductor switches of the first switching instance are switched off and the auxiliary switching instance is switched on, wherein a short-circuit current is guided through the auxiliary switching instance and the faulty semiconductor switch in order to remove the faulty semiconductor switch.