AgileSwitch to be awarded patent for innovative SiC module switching technique

AgileSwitch, LLC, innovator of intelligent IGBT and SiC MOSFET gate drivers, announces that it has “allowed patent claims” related to its proprietary ATOFF™ (Augmented Turn-Off)) switching technique. The firm expects the formal patent to be awarded within the next 60 to 90 days. 

AgileSwitch’s Augmented Turn-Off technology addresses two significant impediments to the successful implementation of Silicon Carbide modules in high-power applications. By reducing turn-off spikes and ringing both under normal operation as well as short-circuit (DSAT) conditions, SiC MOSFET modules can be operated in the higher frequencies that enable dramatic increases in power conversion density. (A whitepaper describing the performance improvements attained using ATOff is available for download.)     

The ATOff technology has been incorporated into AgileSwitch’s first SiC gate drive assembly. The software configurable EconoDual Electrical Master 3 (EDEM3) is optimized for driving SiC MOSFETs, currently offered by ROHM, up to 1200V. The EDEM3 provides up to 15 Amps of peak current at an operating frequency up to 100 kHz. The driver includes isolated HI and LO Side DC/DC converters and monitors seven fault conditions that are reported as a combination of the three fault lines via the 20 pin control header. Applications for the EDEM3 include: solar/PV inverters, wind turbines, energy storage, battery charging, induction heating/welding, electric vehicles (HEV/EV), trains and other traction vehicles.  

AgileSwitch intends to incorporate ATOff technology into new gate drivers for 62mm SiC MOSFETs from Wolfspeed, Semikron, Microsemi and others.

“SiC MOSFETs are bringing the promise of improved efficiency and size in power conversion systems, but complexity of designing drivers makes it very challenging for OEMs to take full advantage of these improvements,” said Rob Weber, AgileSwitch CEO. “Our drivers using Augmented Turn-Off are providing OEMs with a fully-integrated solution.”

Source: Agile Switch