Switch Module Forward-Resistance Control for Parallel Current Balancing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
High-current electronic switches are expensive and complex to produce, especially when designed for DC voltage, due to asymmetries and inefficiencies in current distribution, which require additional protective measures and complex wiring designs.
Innovation Solution
A modular electronic switch comprising parallel semiconductor switches with adjustable forward resistance via a drive circuit and data interface, allowing for open-loop or closed-loop control of current division among modules, enabling uniform current distribution and maximizing the utilization of switching modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If mechanical switches are connected in parallel to manage large currents, then the switchable current capacity increases, but the current distribution becomes asymmetric and complex protective measures are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the electrical parameter of forward resistance dynamically by controlling the on-state current of each semiconductor switch. By adjusting the forward resistance of individual switches in parallel, the system achieves symmetric current distribution without complex protective relays or asymmetric wiring designs. This parameter control allows each switch to carry its share of the total current uniformly.
2Reliability
If additional protective relays are used for parallel mechanical switches, then the protection function improves, but the overall system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical protective relays and monitoring arrangements with electronic control of semiconductor switches. The drive circuits electronically adjust the forward resistance of each semiconductor switch to maintain symmetric current distribution, eliminating the need for mechanical protective devices. This substitution reduces system complexity while maintaining or improving protection capabilities.
3Ease of manufacture
If the forward resistance of semiconductor switches is not controlled, then the device structure remains simple, but current distribution among parallel switches becomes asymmetric leading to overheating
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control where the drive circuit monitors and adjusts the on-state current of each semiconductor switch to maintain a predetermined relationship (equality) of forward resistances. This feedback mechanism ensures symmetric current distribution among parallel switches, preventing overheating while maintaining relatively simple device structure. The control system continuously regulates current distribution based on actual operating conditions.
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 cost-effective production of electronic switches with varying performance capabilities, reducing material costs and heat dissipation issues, while ensuring efficient and synchronized operation of high-current switching.
Implementation Method 1
the forward resistance of the semiconductor switch is changeable by means of the drive circuit depending on data exchanged via the data interface and/or depending on measurement values of the current sensor
Implementation Method 2
If a current flows through the semiconductor, then a voltage drop across the switching terminals arises on account of the forward resistance
Implementation Method 3
At the same time, depending on the current, losses arise in the semiconductor on account of the forward resistance
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic switch includes switching modules to change a forward resistance of a semiconductor switch via a drive circuit depending on data exchanged via a data interface and depending on measurement values of a current sensor. The semiconductor switches of the switching modules are arranged electrically in parallel and a current through the electronic switch is divided among the semiconductor switches. The electronic switch controls a division of the current through the electronic switch among the semiconductor switches via the drive circuits by changing a forward resistance of the semiconductor switches, synchronously switches the semiconductor switches via the drive circuit and operates the semiconductor switches in a linear region in a time range of 1 μs to 10 μs upon a change between ON and OFF and a change between OFF and ON in such a way that the current through the switching modules is reduced in a controlled manner.