This invention introduces a fast and self-powered electronic circuit that safely controls a special kind of switch used in modern power systems like electric vehicles and solar power devices. These switches, called normally-ON transistors, can be risky to use because they start conducting electricity by default. The invented circuit quickly turns them OFF during power-up and shutdown all without needing any extra power source or complex parts. This helps improve safety, cut costs, and shrink the size of power converters.
Figure (1) The circuit for gate driving of a normally-on wide band gap (WBG) device is connected to a conventional forward converter; (2) Prototype of isolated DC-DC converter with ultrafast self-powered gate driver for normally-ON WBG devices: (2a) assembled hardware, (2b) bottom view showing control circuits.
Modern electric vehicles and clean energy systems use special high-speed transistors that are always ON by default. These transistors need to be turned OFF quickly and safely when the system powers up or shuts down. However, existing solutions are slow, bulky, and often need extra power supplies. This delay and complexity can lead to electrical faults and system failure.
- Self-Powered Operation: This product uses energy already available during power-up to instantly turn off the switch, removing the need for extra power sources.
- Compact and Cost-effective Design: This design avoids the use of additional converters or magnetics, keeping the system lightweight, simple, and economical.
- Fast Response Time: This product can shut down the transistor within 2 microseconds, helping avoid short circuits and power faults.
- Smooth Shutdown Handling: This process keeps the switch OFF for several milliseconds after power-down, ensuring system safety even after shutdown.
- Compatibility with Existing Systems: This product works alongside regular gate drivers and doesn’t interfere with the converter’s normal function.
A full hardware prototype was built and tested in the lab. Real switching components were used, and the circuit’s behavior was analyzed both in simulations and in actual experiments. The switch turned off within 2 microseconds as planned, and the gate voltages matched analytical predictions.
A working prototype has been developed and tested in a lab setting using real hardware. The circuit has been simulated, built, and validated with actual measurements. It performs reliably during different modes of operation start-up, running, and shutdown.
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This innovation boosts the safety and efficiency of power systems in electric vehicles, solar inverters, and battery chargers. By avoiding the need for extra parts or power sources, it helps reduce cost, size, and complexity in green technologies. More efficient electronics mean less energy loss, fewer breakdowns, and more affordable renewable products. This supports global goals for clean energy and electrification while improving safety for both machines and people.
- Electric vehicles (EVs): Used to control power switches safely in EVs, helping manage battery energy and improve system reliability.
- Solar inverters: Helps quickly and safely handle switching in solar inverters that convert sunlight into usable electricity
- Battery management systems: Ensures safe power control in systems that monitor and protect batteries during charging and discharging
- DC-DC converters: Supports efficient voltage conversion in electronic devices by enabling fast and reliable switch control
- Power electronics modules: Improves performance of compact power units used in machines, vehicles, and energy systems
- Industrial automation equipment: Helps maintain stable power in automated machinery by managing high-speed switches
- Smart energy systems: Supports intelligent grids and renewable setups by making power conversion safer and more efficient
- Aerospace power systems: Enhances power safety and reliability in aircraft and space equipment with fast, compact switching circuits
Type of IP
202321043554
544374