Voltage Converter Switch Control for Overvoltage Load Relief
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing voltage converter systems experience overvoltage issues due to faulty switches, leading to increased load on semiconductor switches, reduced reliability, and efficiency degradation, without effective protection mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A control system for a voltage converter that includes modules for measuring voltage and rotation speed, generating short-circuit and open-circuit commands to manage high-side and low-side switches, reducing load on switches by interrupting current flow when voltage stabilizes and rotation speed is low.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If all switches are closed to short-circuit phases during overvoltage, then overvoltage protection is achieved, but switch load and temperature increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the switch group into multiple subsets (first group, second group, third group) rather than closing all switches simultaneously. This segmentation allows selective closure of only necessary switches, reducing the total current burden on each individual switch while still achieving phase short-circuiting for overvoltage protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies local quality by differentiating the roles of different switch groups. The first group of switches is specifically designated for overvoltage protection, while other groups maintain their normal operational functions. This localized approach ensures that only the necessary switches bear the overvoltage protection load, reducing overall thermal stress.
2Reliability
If all switches are closed to short-circuit phases during overvoltage, then overvoltage protection is achieved, but voltage converter efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting switches into functional groups, the invention minimizes the number of switches closed during overvoltage events. Only the first group of switches is closed for protection, while other groups remain open or maintain normal operation, reducing resistive losses and improving overall energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies partial action by closing only the necessary subset of switches required for overvoltage protection rather than all switches. This partial closure achieves the protective function with minimal energy loss, avoiding the excessive action of closing every switch in the system.
3Device complexity
If simple short-circuit control is used, then device complexity is reduced, but switch lifetime decreases due to high current load
Solution Approach 1:
The control system maintains simplicity while extending switch lifetime by segmenting switches into groups with specific functions. The first group is dedicated to overvoltage protection, allowing the controller to selectively activate only these switches during faults, thereby reducing the cumulative current stress and thermal cycling on individual switches and extending their operational life.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operational parameters of switches by assigning different duty cycles and functional roles to different groups. The first group of switches operates specifically during overvoltage conditions, while other groups maintain normal operational parameters, thereby reducing the overall stress accumulation and extending switch lifetime without complicating the control architecture.
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
Reduces switch load and heat production, enhancing reliability and efficiency by minimizing short-circuiting and maintaining safe operation during overvoltage conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a first module for measuring a voltage of the DC voltage source; a module for comparing the measured voltage with a first safety threshold
Implementation Method 2
a second measurement module configured to measure a speed of rotation of the rotary electric machine
Implementation Method 3
reduces the duration of current flow through switches, minimizing heat production and extending their lifespan
Data Source
AI summary
A control system for a voltage converter includes a first module for measuring a voltage of the DC voltage source, a module for comparing the measured voltage with a first safety threshold, and a second measurement module for measuring a speed of rotation of the rotary electric machine. A control module generates an open-circuit command which is made up of a command to open the first group of switches and a command to open the second group of switches. If a variation over time of the measured voltage of the DC voltage source is less than a first safety variation. If the speed of rotation measured by the second measurement module is less than a first safety speed.