Transistor Junction Temperature Sensing via Control Terminal Voltage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring the temperature of a transistor, such as junction temperature, are imprecise due to delays and inaccuracies when using temperature sensors on the package, which do not accurately reflect the transistor's temperature.
Innovation Solution
A method involving providing a current pulse of predefined length and magnitude to the transistor's control terminal, measuring the voltage at that terminal, and determining the transistor's temperature based on the measured voltage, using a transistor driver device with a driver circuit, voltage measurement device, and evaluation device to calculate the temperature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a temperature sensor is placed on the package, then the temperature can be measured, but the measurement is delayed and imprecise due to thermal conduction delays through the package
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an electrical signal (voltage measurement during current pulse) as an intermediary to indirectly determine transistor temperature without physically contacting the junction. The voltage response during a current pulse serves as a mediator that correlates to temperature through the transistor's electrical characteristics, bypassing the need for thermal conduction through the package.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/thermal measurement system (physical temperature sensor contacting the package) with an electrical measurement system. Instead of measuring temperature directly through thermal conduction, the system applies electrical current pulses and measures voltage responses, substituting thermal measurement with electrical characteristic analysis.
2Reliability
If a package-based temperature sensor is used, then temperature measurement is possible, but the sensor does not accurately reflect the transistor's actual temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage response during current pulse application serves as an intermediary that directly reflects the transistor junction's electrical characteristics, which are temperature-dependent. This electrical mediator provides a more accurate representation of the actual junction temperature compared to package-level thermal sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The transistor itself serves as the sensing element by utilizing its own electrical characteristics (voltage response to current pulse) that inherently change with temperature. The device being measured performs the measurement function through its own temperature-dependent electrical properties, eliminating the need for separate package sensors.
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
Accurately determines the transistor's temperature by measuring the voltage during a current pulse, providing precise temperature estimation without the delays and inaccuracies of package-based sensors.
Implementation Method 1
measuring a voltage at the control terminal... and determining the temperature of the transistor based on the measured voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A method of determining a temperature of a transistor is provided. The method includes providing a current pulse of a predefined length and a predefined current magnitude to a control terminal of the transistor, and measuring a voltage at the control terminal. The temperature of the transistor is then determined based on the measured voltage.