Switch Module Generating Multiple Voltage Levels with Reduced Component Count
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switch modules for converters require a large number of power semi-conductor switches and diodes to achieve multiple voltage levels, leading to increased complexity and component count, which is inefficient in terms of space and switching time.
Innovation Solution
A switch module design with a reduced number of power semi-conductor switches and diodes, utilizing controllable semi-conductor switches and capacitors to generate multiple voltage levels, with optional free-wheeling diodes for reverse current capability, allowing for efficient voltage adjustment and reduced component count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of power semi-conductor switches and diodes are used to achieve multiple voltage levels, then the voltage level adjustment capability is improved, but the device complexity and component count increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into fewer components. The series connection of two power semi-conductor switches with a parallel capacitor configuration allows a single switch module to generate multiple voltage levels (0, +Uc, -Uc) that would traditionally require separate components. This merging approach reduces the overall component count while maintaining voltage level adjustment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch module design makes each component serve multiple functions. The capacitor serves both as an energy storage element and as a voltage reference for generating multiple output levels. The power semi-conductor switches simultaneously perform switching operations and voltage level selection, eliminating the need for dedicated components for each function.
2Manufacturing precision
If more power semi-conductor switches and diodes are used, then the voltage level control precision is improved, but the construction space required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple voltage generation functions into a compact switch module. By combining two power semi-conductor switches in series with a parallel capacitor, the design achieves precise voltage level control (0, +Uc, -Uc) within a small footprint, eliminating the need for separate voltage generation circuits that would occupy more space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a planar arrangement of multiple discrete components to a hierarchical modular structure. The switch module with series-parallel configuration creates a three-dimensional functional integration, where components are arranged in multiple electrical dimensions (series and parallel combinations) rather than simply spreading out in two-dimensional space.
3Area of stationary object
If a simplified switch module design is used with fewer components, then the construction space is reduced, but the number of adjustable voltage levels may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The simplified switch module design makes each component highly multi-functional. The single capacitor provides multiple voltage references (+Uc, -Uc, 0), and the two power semi-conductor switches collectively control all three voltage levels. This universal design achieves the same voltage level versatility as complex designs but with fewer components occupying less space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the power semi-conductor switches to achieve multiple voltage levels. By controlling the switching states (on/off combinations) of the two switches, the module generates different output voltages without requiring additional components. The parameter change approach (switching states) replaces the need for additional hardware.
4Reliability
If more components are used in the switch module, then the reliability of voltage level generation is improved, but the switching time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the voltage level generation function into a single integrated switch module with only two power semi-conductor switches. This consolidation reduces the total switching operations required compared to distributed component arrangements, as all voltage level control is handled within one module, thereby reducing cumulative switching time while maintaining reliability through the redundant capacitor-based voltage references.
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 design achieves at least five voltage levels with fewer components, minimizing construction space and switching time, while enabling flexible voltage adjustment and reduced component count, suitable for use in converters and power conversion applications.
Implementation Method 1
the switch module presents two power semi-conductor switches, with which a diode is connected in series. Parallel to both the series connections a capacitor is arranged. Depending on the switching conditions of both the power semi-conductor switches the current flow can be used for charging the capacitor and/or discharging the capacitor.
Data Source
AI summary
A switch module and a converter developed with the help of a switch module. The switch module presents two series connections comprising a power semi-conductor switch and a diode and. Parallel to the first series connection a first capacitor is connected. Between the first capacitor and the second series connection at least one intermediate connection is connected. This is designed as quadripole, whereby between both the output connections a second capacitor is connected. The first output connection is connected through a third power semi-conductor switch with the first input connection. The second output connection is connected with the cathode of a third diode, whose anode is connected with the second input connection of the intermediate circuit. With this switch module at least five voltage levels can be set up for an output voltage. For each additionally present intermediate circuit the number of the possible voltage levels increases by two.