Rolls-Royce has been granted a patent for a current limiting diode that features a thermoelectric generator. This generator absorbs heat from the diode’s channel, generating a thermoelectric voltage to control current flow, enhancing the diode’s efficiency in current limiting conditions. GlobalData’s report on Rolls-Royce gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.
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According to GlobalData’s company profile on Rolls-Royce, Photovoltaic drones was a key innovation area identified from patents. Rolls-Royce's grant share as of June 2024 was 60%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.
Current limiting diode with integrated thermoelectric generator
The granted patent US12046894B2 introduces a current limiting diode designed to enhance electrical safety and efficiency in power systems. This diode features a gate, source, and drain, with the source connected to the drain via an n-channel or p-channel. A key innovation is the integration of a thermoelectric generator within a fill structure that connects the source and gate. This generator operates by absorbing heat from the n-channel or p-channel and transferring it to a heat sink, generating a thermoelectric voltage that is applied between the gate and source. This mechanism effectively reduces current flow during current limiting conditions, thereby protecting the circuit from potential damage.
The patent further elaborates on the construction of the thermoelectric generator, which can include both p-type and n-type semiconductors, as well as metals with differing Seebeck coefficients. The claims also extend to a bidirectional current limiting device comprising two such diodes, and an electrical power system that incorporates the current limiting diode to manage fault currents. This system may include a controllable circuit interruption device and can be applied in various contexts, including aircraft power and propulsion systems. The integration of these components aims to enhance the reliability and safety of electrical networks, particularly in fault conditions, making it a significant advancement in electrical engineering.
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GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.
