Switching Circuit Voltage Boosting for Component Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing semiconductor switching element driving methods require multiple voltage sources and specific components for different voltage levels, leading to increased complexity, cost, and limited options for components with high breakdown voltage and low driving voltage requirements.
Innovation Solution
A switching circuit that includes a capacitor, a rectification circuit with diodes, and a switching element, where a pulse signal from a control unit is input to the capacitor, and the rectified voltage is applied between the switching element's terminals, allowing for voltage boosting and eliminating the need for separate voltage conversion and ground connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple voltage sources and separate switching elements are used for high voltage switching, then the switching capability is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
A capacitor is introduced as an intermediary component between the control unit and the switching element. The capacitor stores charge from the control unit's voltage source and releases it to provide the necessary gate voltage for high voltage switching, eliminating the need for separate voltage sources and complex voltage conversion circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The switching element is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as both the main power switching device and the high voltage switching device. By properly configuring the capacitor to provide the necessary gate voltage, a single switching element can control both low voltage and high voltage circuits, reducing the total number of components needed.
2Strength
If high breakdown voltage components are used, then the voltage handling capability is improved, but the component options and cost efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the voltage parameter dynamically by using a capacitor to store and release voltage. The switching element operates at its optimal low voltage for switching control, while the capacitor provides temporary high voltage pulses when needed. This allows the use of switching elements with low breakdown voltage ratings for the switching function, while still achieving high voltage control capability through the capacitor's voltage storage and release mechanism.
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 configuration reduces the number of components needed, allows for the use of lower breakdown voltage components, increases options for components, and simplifies the circuit while enabling the switching of high voltage systems without requiring additional switching elements, thus reducing costs and improving efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a rectification circuit including at least a first diode and a second diode, the rectification circuit rectifying a voltage input from the first capacitor, and generating a first voltage higher than a peak voltage of the pulse signal
Data Source
AI summary
The switching circuit includes a first capacitor to which a pulse signal output from a control unit is input, a rectification circuit including at least a first diode and a second diode, the rectification circuit rectifying a voltage input from the first capacitor, and generating a first voltage, and a first switching element including a first terminal, a second terminal and a third terminal, the first voltage generated by the rectification circuit being applied between the first terminal and the second terminal.