Semiconductor device including power semiconductor element, branch line, and thermoelectric conversion element, and electrically powered vehicle

摘要

A Peltier element is provided so that an electrically conductive plate forming a heat absorbing portion is in close proximity to an insulating layer and an electrically conductive plate forming a heat radiating portion is provided in close proximity to an insulating layer. The Peltier element has one end connected to a branch line branched from a power line, and has the other end electrically connected to an electrode plate. Further, the Peltier element receives from the branch line a portion of electric power supplied to a power transistor, and outputs it to the electrode plate. In other words, the Peltier element uses the portion of the electric power supplied to the power transistor, to absorb heat generated by the power transistor and radiate it toward a heat radiating plate.

主权项

1. A semiconductor device comprising:
a power semiconductor element brought into an on state or an off state in accordance with a given command; a power line connected to said power semiconductor element; a branch line branched from the power line such that the branch line is electrically parallel to a part of the power line; and a thermoelectric conversion element electrically connected between a location where said branch line is connected to the power line and a terminal of said power semiconductor element to which said power line is connected, so as to cool said power semiconductor element using a portion of current supplied to said power semiconductor element.