Marco Pürschel

Repetitive avalanche of automotive MOSFETs

This paper will focus on one of the most difficult operation modes of automotive MOSFETs, the operation in avalanche in particular repetitive avalanche. Whereas single pulse avalanche conditions are typically very well defined and tested, repetitive avalanche operation is always an area of discussion as the number of influencing parameters is considerably higher. In automotive applications a vast range of requirements for repetitive avalanche are visible: starting from applications with only a very limited number of avalanche cycles however with comparably high energy, via applications which use the MOSFET avalanche capability on purpose to turn off inductive loads, towards applications switching the MOSFETs billions of times with very low avalanche energies. In this paper we discuss the requirements of repetitive Avalanche from application point of view, give some basic information on avalanche mode and test results of single and repetitive avalanche explained and assessed. Failure modes will be highlighted.

Optimal PWM method for electric and electro-hydraulic power steering applications

This paper presents a methodology for choosing the optimal PWM method for the 3-phase automotive drives applications for electric and electro-hydraulic power steering. It shows how some of the automotive specific requirements transpose to PWM requirements. A system overview with motor and control principles has been presented, followed by the method of power loss calculations based on datasheet parameters and, after that, an overview of the PWM Methods is given. These Methods are compared based on: power loss minimisation, usage of the battery voltage, quality of output current and noise emission minimisation.

Power stage for permanent magnet synchronous motors in high current automotive applications

This paper focuses on the Driver-IC and the MOSFETs in inverter used in automotive applications to control a permanent magnet AC-motor with the focus on high current handling capability and high reliability for safety critical applications. The features of the Driver IC together with latest MOSFET technologies will be discussed.

Semiconductor for xEV: Different Voltage Classes for Optimized Fuel Saving to Cost Ratio to Market

This publication will give an overview of different voltage classes available in all kind of xEV (hybrid-, plug in hybrid-, and battery electric vehicle). What kind of power semiconductors should be used for what voltage class will be answered. The influence of different topologies at dedicated board net voltages on the selection for the power semiconductor will be explained.

PSpice simulation of the power stage for DC brush motors using state of the art power MOSFETs

This paper will focus on the simulation of a DC brush application in automotive surrounding. Commonly such drives are used in ABS (Antilock Braking System), HVAC (heating ventilation air conditioning) or wiper applications. An easy to use model of the DC brush motor will be introduced and combined with state of the art power MOSFET models. Some simulations with the complete setup will show the possibilities of such a model. Different kind of topologies will be investigated and conclusions for the device selection made. The paper will close with a summary with the main findings.