ELECTRIC-POWER CONVERSION APPARATUS

Organization Name

Inventor(s)

ELECTRIC-POWER CONVERSION APPARATUS - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18203421 titled 'ELECTRIC-POWER CONVERSION APPARATUS

Simplified Explanation

The patent application describes an electric-power conversion apparatus that includes a driving circuit for controlling semiconductor switching devices, a short-circuit control means, an excessive-current detection means, and a gate-drive-abnormality detection means. The short-circuit control means activates all semiconductor switching devices in case of abnormalities detected by the excessive-current and gate-drive-abnormality detection means.

Driving circuit controls semiconductor switching devices
Short-circuit control means for electric-power conversion circuit
Excessive-current detection for abnormality detection
Gate-drive-abnormality detection for gate voltage abnormality
Short-circuit control activates all semiconductor switching devices in case of abnormalities

Key Features and Innovation

Driving circuit for precise control of semiconductor switching devices
Short-circuit control means for safety and protection
Excessive-current detection for early abnormality detection
Gate-drive-abnormality detection for monitoring gate voltage
Automatic activation of all semiconductor switching devices in case of abnormalities

Potential Applications

This technology can be applied in various electric-power conversion systems, renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, and industrial automation.

Problems Solved

Ensures safe and efficient operation of electric-power conversion systems
Early detection of abnormalities in semiconductor switching devices
Prevents damage to the system due to excessive current or gate voltage abnormalities

Benefits

Enhanced safety and protection in electric-power conversion systems
Improved reliability and performance of semiconductor switching devices
Early detection and prevention of potential system failures

Commercial Applications

Electric-power conversion apparatus for renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, industrial automation, and power distribution systems. This technology can improve the efficiency and safety of these systems, leading to increased reliability and reduced maintenance costs.

Questions about Electric-Power Conversion Apparatus

How does the driving circuit control semiconductor switching devices?

The driving circuit uses switching control to regulate the operation of semiconductor switching devices in the electric-power conversion apparatus.

What are the potential applications of this technology in industrial automation?

This technology can be used in industrial automation systems to improve the efficiency and reliability of power conversion processes.

Original Abstract Submitted

An electric-power conversion apparatus includes a driving circuit that performs switching control of semiconductor switching devices, a short-circuit control means that performs short-circuit control of an electric-power conversion circuit, an excessive-current detection means that detects whether or not an abnormality caused by an excessive current exists in the semiconductor switching device, and a gate-drive-abnormality detection means that detects whether or not an abnormality exists in a gate voltage of the semiconductor switching device; based on a result of the abnormality detection by the excessive-current detection means and a result of the abnormality detection by the gate-drive-abnormality detection means, the short-circuit control means turns on all the semiconductor switching devices in any one of the upper arm and the lower arm so as to perform the short-circuit control.