Mitsubishi electric corporation (20240348182). POWER CONVERSION DEVICE simplified abstract

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POWER CONVERSION DEVICE

Organization Name

mitsubishi electric corporation

Inventor(s)

Chiharu Morisaki of Tokyo (JP)

POWER CONVERSION DEVICE - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 20240348182 titled 'POWER CONVERSION DEVICE

The patent application describes a power conversion device with a semiconductor switching element that includes a first main electrode, a second main electrode, and a gate.

  • The device includes a first diode connected to the first main electrode, a second diode connected to the gate and the anode of the first diode, and a current source supplying current through a connection point between the anodes of the diodes.
  • When the voltage at the connection point exceeds a threshold, a short-circuit in the semiconductor switching element is detected, and the gate is set to an off voltage.

Potential Applications:

  • Power electronics
  • Renewable energy systems
  • Electric vehicles

Problems Solved:

  • Detecting short-circuits in semiconductor switching elements
  • Ensuring proper functioning of power conversion devices

Benefits:

  • Improved reliability of power conversion systems
  • Enhanced safety features
  • Increased efficiency in energy conversion

Commercial Applications:

  • Power supply units for various electronic devices
  • Solar inverters
  • Electric vehicle charging systems

Questions about the Technology: 1. How does the current source help in detecting short-circuits in the semiconductor switching element? 2. What are the implications of setting the gate to an off voltage when a short-circuit is detected?

Frequently Updated Research: Research on improving the efficiency and reliability of power conversion devices using semiconductor switching elements is ongoing. Stay updated on the latest advancements in this field for potential future applications and innovations.


Original Abstract Submitted

this power conversion device having a semiconductor switching element having a first main electrode, a second main electrode, and a gate includes: a first diode having a cathode connected to the first main electrode; a second diode having an anode and a cathode respectively connected to an anode of the first diode and the gate; and a current source which supplies current through a connection point between the anode of the first diode and the anode of the second diode, in a direction from each of the anode of the first diode and the anode of the second diode toward the corresponding cathode. when a voltage of the connection point between the first diode and the second diode is higher than a threshold voltage, short-circuit is determined to have occurred in the semiconductor switching element, and the gate is set to have an off voltage.