Method of controlling a driver circuit, driver circuit, system comprising a driver circuit, and method of manufacturing an integrated circuit

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for controlling a driver circuit. The method comprises operating an amplifier to provide an output signal, e.g. an electronic signal, e.g. a voltage or a current, for driving or controlling a load, based on a control signal. The method further comprises operating a comparator to provide the control signal by comparing an input signal, e.g. an electronic signal having a lower level or amplitude than the output signal, with a feedback signal, wherein the feedback signal is based on the output signal. The method further comprises providing a first supply voltage to the comparator, and providing a second supply voltage to the amplifier, wherein the second supply voltage is higher than the first supply voltage.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to the field of amplifying electronic signals for driving capacitive loads, particularly for loads driven by high voltage. More specifically, embodiments relate to a method for controlling a driver circuit. Further embodiments relate to a driver circuit. Further embodiments relate to a system including a driver circuit. Further embodiments relate to a method for manufacturing an integrated circuit including a driver circuit. Further embodiments relate to a highly efficient and energy-saving high-voltage driver circuit for capacitive loads. Further embodiments relate to an electronic circuit for continuous-time or discrete-time high-voltage control of capacitive elements, the electronic circuit including integrated voltage processing. Background Technology

[0002] Driving capacitive loads, such as piezoelectric actuators, thermoelectric actuators, electrostatically activated actuators, or microelectromechanical system-based actuators, or energy storage devices, may require high voltages. These high voltages are typically provided and controlled by driver circuitry, such as amplifier circuitry.

[0003] Additionally, for HiFi applications that require high output current, there are so-called power amplifiers. These audio amplifiers can provide tens of watts of output power and thus can power speakers, which are characterized by their very small resistance (inductance).

[0004] Some electronic circuits used to drive capacitive elements, such as those for driving capacitive elements continuously, are typically based on the principles of audio amplifiers. In particular, class AB, D, and H amplifier circuits are widely used.

[0005] Typically, an AB amplifier consists of a push-pull stage of an operational amplifier, which is continuously controlled. The entire circuit is usually constructed as a non-inverting amplifier with a resistive voltage divider in the feedback loop. Since the input signal is provided at the output with a corresponding gain, no additional filter stage is required. However, power consumption of the amplifier class can be problematic, especially for high output voltages, when the output stage of the operational amplifier is permanently conducting current unrelated to the modulated signal.

[0006] Class H amplifiers are a method that attempts to minimize the high power losses of Class AB amplifiers by variably adjusting the output stage supply voltage. This is typically achieved using an external power supply with a boost / buck converter, which requires a suitable coil, but the coil may be too small to be integrated into the circuit. Besides the space required for external components, the high complexity of the setup is also a disadvantage.

[0007] The output stage of a Class D amplifier is typically controlled by pulse width modulation (PWM). Therefore, the power loss of a Class D amplifier is reduced to the current at switching moments. To generate the PWM signal, a sawtooth voltage is provided in the comparator to sample the input signal to be amplified. Therefore, a power-consuming low-pass filter with a sufficiently high cutoff frequency is needed after the output stage to filter out the fundamental oscillations of the input stage from the high-frequency digital signal. This filter after the output stage filters most of the output signal spectrum, much of which has already been amplified, thus reducing the efficiency of generating the desired output signal. Alternatively, an amplifier that provides low total harmonic distortion can be used.

[0008] One object of the present invention is to provide a concept that enables driver circuitry to achieve an improved trade-off between low power loss, small space consumption, high voltage output signal, and low circuit complexity. Summary of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, this problem is solved by providing a first supply voltage to a portion of the driver circuit configured to provide control signals to an amplifier of the driver circuit, and by providing a second supply voltage to the amplifier, wherein the second supply voltage is higher than the first supply voltage. Having a first supply voltage and a second supply voltage allows different supply voltages to be provided to different portions of the driver circuit. In particular, operating the portion of the driver circuit configured to provide control signals with a supply voltage lower than the supply voltage provided to the amplifier stage can simultaneously achieve low power consumption, high output voltage, and minimal total harmonic distortion of the output signal. Due to the low power consumption, space-saving components can be selected to configure the driver circuit.

[0010] An embodiment of the present invention provides a method for controlling a driver circuit. The method includes operating an amplifier based on a control signal, the amplifier being used to provide an output signal, such as an electronic signal of voltage or current, for example, to drive or control a load. The method further includes operating a comparator to provide the control signal by comparing an input signal, such as an electronic signal having a lower level or amplitude than the output signal, with a feedback signal, wherein the feedback signal is based on the output signal. The method further includes providing a first supply voltage to the comparator and providing a second supply voltage to the amplifier, wherein the second supply voltage is higher than the first supply voltage.

[0011] This invention is based on the principle of driving different elements of a driver circuit with different voltage levels to allow for low signal levels and low power consumption in logic elements or elements configured to provide control signals or internal signals to the driver circuit, while simultaneously achieving a high-voltage output signal by providing a high supply voltage to the output stage of the driver circuit, i.e., the amplifier. For example, the control signal can be small compared to the output signal, so providing a low supply voltage to the comparator is sufficient. Operating the comparator with a low supply voltage (lower than a second supply voltage) reduces the comparator's power consumption, for example, by reducing the switching current. Because the comparator's switching can occur at very high frequencies, such as frequencies higher than the input or output signal frequencies, for example, frequencies at least 100 times higher than the input signal frequency, reducing the switching current in the comparator is a very effective way to reduce the power consumption of the driver circuit.

[0012] A first supply voltage is provided to the comparator, and a second voltage is provided to the amplifier, allowing a high voltage in the output stage of the driver circuit, i.e., in the amplifier, thereby providing a high voltage output signal. At the same time, a low voltage level is provided in the control stage of the driver circuit, i.e., in the comparator, to reduce the power consumption of the driver circuit.

[0013] Minimizing the power consumption of the driver circuitry reduces heat dissipation, allowing for integration into a smaller geometry. This ability to integrate the driver circuitry into a smaller geometry and reduce its energy consumption is beneficial for its application in mobile and / or battery-powered applications. For example, the driver circuitry can be used to control capacitive components, such as those used in speakers or ultrasonic applications.

[0014] According to an embodiment, providing the first supply voltage is performed by a first voltage source, while providing the second supply voltage is performed by a second voltage source. Therefore, the first and second supply voltages can be selected independently of each other. Providing the first and second supply voltages from two different voltage sources increases the flexibility of the driver circuit design and offers the possibility of selecting two different types of voltage sources.

[0015] According to embodiments, providing the first supply voltage is performed by a first charge pump stage and / or providing the second supply voltage is performed by a second charge pump stage. A charge pump is a space-saving component; therefore, using a charge pump stage to provide the first and second supply voltages facilitates the integrated design of the driver circuitry. For example, it eliminates the need for coils or other inductive components to provide the first and / or second supply voltages. For instance, a charge pump can provide a high second supply voltage, thereby enabling the provision of a high output voltage without the need for external components for voltage processing. Therefore, using a charge pump to provide the first and / or second supply voltages is a space-saving and energy-efficient way to provide supply voltages to the comparator and / or amplifier, respectively. Furthermore, using a charge pump contributes to a fully integrated design of the driver circuitry.

[0016] According to the embodiment, the amplitude of the control signal is lower than the amplitude of the output signal. Even if the control signal is a high-frequency signal, the low amplitude of the control signal can allow the driver circuit to have high electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). Because the output signal can typically have a lower frequency and / or can be continuous, the high voltage of the output signal can still meet high EMC requirements.

[0017] According to an embodiment, the comparator is operated to provide a continuous-time signal. By operating the comparator to provide a continuous-time signal, the comparator can respond particularly quickly to changes in the input signal, thereby allowing the control signal to follow the input signal very accurately and very quickly. Therefore, providing a continuous-time control signal allows the output signal to quickly control the load. Providing a continuous-time signal to the amplifier allows for the provision of a high-quality output signal without the need for additional external filter elements or components. Continuous-time operation can provide low harmonic distortion for the output signal, i.e., for example, the output signal directly follows the input signal.

[0018] According to an embodiment, the comparator is operated to provide a discrete-time signal. Operating the comparator to provide a discrete-time signal may mean low power consumption of the comparator and high accuracy of the control signal. Discrete-time operation can provide low total harmonic distortion of the output signal by adjusting the frequency of the control signal, wherein adjusting the frequency of the control signal can be independent or adaptive.

[0019] According to an embodiment, the comparator includes a comparator self-timer. The comparator self-timer eliminates the need for a separate clock for the control signal. Furthermore, the comparator self-timer can provide low total harmonic distortion of the output signal by optimizing the circuitry, for example, by adjusting the frequency of the control signal.

[0020] According to an embodiment, the input signal and / or output signal are continuous in time. Therefore, the method can be applied to control a load based on a continuous-time signal and used to control a load with a continuous-time signal.

[0021] According to the embodiments, the input signal and / or output signal are discrete in time. Therefore, the method can be applied to control the load based on discrete-time signals and used to control the load with discrete-time signals.

[0022] According to an embodiment, the operational amplifier includes an operational push-pull stage, for example, similar to a Class AB amplifier stage. The push-pull stage avoids the amplifier's high standby current, thus improving the amplifier's efficiency, or power efficiency.

[0023] According to an embodiment, the operating amplifier includes controlling at least one first-type transistor and at least one second-type transistor, wherein the first-type transistor and the second-type transistor are complementary transistors, and wherein the first-type transistor and the second-type transistor are one of a FET, a power FET, and a bipolar junction transistor. For example, the complementary transistors can be p-type and n-type FETs; or p-type FETs and PNP bipolar junction transistors; or n-type FETs and NPN bipolar junction transistors. For example, the complementary transistors can be transistors with complementary majority charge carriers. Controlling at least one first-type transistor and at least one second-type transistor complementary to the first type is particularly advantageous for operating a push-pull stage. This operation of the amplifier can reduce or eliminate the amplifier's standby current, so that the amplifier's power consumption can be particularly low. At the same time, this operation of the amplifier allows the output signal to have a high range, such as a high voltage range. Operating the FET as a first-type transistor and / or a second-type transistor is advantageous when the output signal of the driver circuit includes low current or low power. Controlling at least one FET means that the control signal can be provided as a voltage, so the power consumption for providing the control signal can be particularly low. If the output signal includes high power or high current, it may be beneficial to operate a bipolar junction transistor as a first-type transistor and / or a second-type transistor.

[0024] According to an embodiment, during each time interval of the first operating condition, the operating amplifier includes: controlling at least one first-type transistor to either enter an on state or an off state, and controlling at least one second-type transistor to another state, for example based on a control signal, such as the voltage or current of the control signal. Controlling at least one first-type transistor and at least one second-type transistor to enter complementary states can imply low power consumption of the amplifier.

[0025] According to an embodiment, the method further includes obtaining a feedback signal from the output signal such that the ratio of the amplitude of the feedback signal to the amplitude of the output signal corresponds to the amplification factor of the driver circuit. For example, obtaining the feedback signal from the output signal may include dividing the voltage of the output signal by the amplification factor. Thus, the amplification factor between the input signal and the output signal can be selected accordingly by obtaining the feedback signal from the output signal, for example, by dividing the output signal. That is, controlling the driver circuit may include adjusting the amplification factor of the driver circuit, thereby providing high flexibility in controlling the driver circuit. Alternatively, the amplification factor of the driver circuit may be fixed to reduce the complexity of the driver circuit.

[0026] According to an embodiment, the first supply voltage is at least twice the size of the second supply voltage, preferably at least five times smaller, and more preferably at least ten times smaller. For example, the level of the second supply voltage can set an upper limit for the output voltage level. That is, the second supply voltage can be set according to the requirements of the driver circuit application. Although the second supply voltage meets the application requirements, a high ratio of the second supply voltage to the first supply voltage helps the comparator operate at low supply voltages. Therefore, a high ratio of the second supply voltage to the first supply voltage can mean particularly low power consumption of the comparator, thereby allowing the control driver circuit to combine high power efficiency and high output voltage.

[0027] According to an embodiment, the first supply voltage and / or the second supply voltage are constant. When the first supply voltage and / or the second supply voltage are constant, providing the first supply voltage and / or the second supply voltage separately via a charge pump may be particularly effective.

[0028] According to embodiments, providing a first supply voltage includes modulating the first supply voltage and / or providing a second supply voltage includes modulating the second supply voltage. By modulating the first supply voltage and / or the second supply voltage, the modulated supply voltage can be adapted to the operating conditions of each time interval of modulation, such as the power provided by the output signal. By modulating the first supply voltage and / or the second supply voltage, the power consumption of the driver circuit can be particularly low. Modulating the second supply voltage can provide high efficiency for the push-pull stage. As a non-limiting example, the modulation of the second supply voltage can be implemented by appropriately controlling two resistors or MOSFETs, either using current or voltage, wherein the resistors or MOSFETs can be positioned in the positive and negative power supply trunk paths, which, by a non-limiting example, can connect the second voltage supply stage to an amplifier. By a non-limiting example, the second supply voltage can be controlled according to a control signal for the amplifier, for example, for the push-pull stage.

[0029] According to an embodiment, the operating amplifier includes self-adjustment of the maximum current conducted through or through a push-pull stage, wherein the self-adjustment of the maximum current is load-based. By way of non-limiting example, the self-adjustment of the maximum possible (drive) current through the amplifier, for example through a push-pull stage, may include adjusting the maximum current based on the load at each time interval of modulation. For example, the self-adjustment of the maximum current may be based on a control signal. Since the control signal is based on a feedback signal, and the feedback signal is based on an output signal, the maximum current can be adjusted based on the power required by the output signal. That is, the maximum current can be adaptive during the operation of the driver circuit. Therefore, the driver circuit can simultaneously provide high power efficiency and low or optimal THD regardless of the load size. For example, in the case of a small load, the operating driver circuit includes conducting a low maximum current through the amplifier to achieve low power consumption, while in the case of a large load, the operating driver circuit includes conducting a high maximum current through the amplifier to provide lower THD. By way of non-limiting example, the self-adjustment of the maximum current can be achieved by controlling a plurality of resistors or a plurality of MOSFETs using either current or voltage. By way of non-limiting example, the maximum current can be adjusted based on a control signal.

[0030] According to another embodiment of the invention, a driver circuit is provided, such as a driver circuit for driving or controlling a load. The driver circuit includes an amplifier configured to provide an output signal based on a control signal, such as an electronic output signal like a voltage, while the control signal is, for example, a control voltage or a control current, configured to control the amplifier, for example, the magnitude or amplitude of the output signal. The driver circuit further includes a comparator configured to provide the control signal by comparing an input signal with a feedback signal, wherein the feedback signal is based on the amplifier's output signal. For example, the comparator may be part of a feedback loop. The comparator is connected to a first voltage supply stage configured to provide a second supply voltage to the comparator. The amplifier is connected to a second voltage supply stage configured to provide a second supply voltage to the amplifier. The second supply voltage is higher than the first supply voltage.

[0031] The driver circuit relies on the same concept as the methods described above, providing the same or equivalent functionality and advantages. The driver circuit can be selectively combined with or supplemented by any of the features, functions, and details described herein with respect to the corresponding methods for controlling the driver circuit. The driver circuit can be selectively combined individually or in any combination of the mentioned features, functions, and details.

[0032] According to an embodiment, the driver circuitry forms at least a portion of the integrated circuit. Because the driver circuitry is part of the integrated circuit, it can be implemented in a way that saves significant space.

[0033] The combination of the first voltage supply stage including a first charge pump stage and the second voltage supply stage including a second charge pump stage is particularly advantageous for implementing the driver circuit in an integrated circuit. The charge pump stage can be integrated into the integrated circuit while still providing a high voltage. Therefore, if the driver circuit includes a first charge pump stage configured to provide a first supply voltage to a comparator, and further includes a second charge pump stage configured to provide a second supply voltage to an amplifier, the driver circuit can be implemented in an integrated circuit including both the first and second voltage supply stages. Such an arrangement avoids the need for external components, such as discrete components like inductors, resistors, or capacitors.

[0034] Implementing a driver circuit in an integrated circuit can be advantageously combined with the following features: the amplifier includes at least one n-type FET and at least one p-type FET, for example, at least one n-type MOSFET and at least one p-type MOSFET. This structure of the driver circuit enables its fabrication via a CMOS fabrication process. Further combining these two features with the characteristic that a first voltage supply stage includes a first charge pump and a second voltage supply stage includes a second charge pump, a driver circuit including both a first and a second voltage supply stage can be fabricated in a single CMOS fabrication process. Fabricating a driver circuit using a CMOS fabrication process is a very cost-effective and flexible method for producing driver circuits and allows for their integration into integrated circuits that include other components.

[0035] Other embodiments of the invention provide a system including a load and a driver circuit. The system is configured to control the load based on the output signal of the driver circuit. By using the driver circuit for controlling the load, the load can be controlled by an input signal, which can be, for example, smaller than the output signal, thereby controlling the load using a small signal. For example, the driver circuit can be adapted to the load, that is, for example, the level of the output signal can be adjusted to suit the load and / or the power provided by the driver circuit can be adjusted to suit the load's needs.

[0036] According to an embodiment, the system includes an integrated circuit, and the integrated circuit includes driver circuitry. Because the integrated circuit includes driver circuitry, the system can be particularly space-saving and / or energy-saving, and can be manufactured very economically using processes for integrated circuits.

[0037] According to an embodiment, the load includes a capacitor and / or an inductor, and the resistance of the load is higher than 10kΩ, 100kΩ, or 1MΩ. Because the resistance of the load is high, the current required by the driver circuit to drive the load may be very small, even if the voltage of the output signal of the driver circuit used to drive the load may be high. Therefore, by adapting the design of the driver circuit to the power consumption of the load, the driver circuit can consume very little power to drive the load. Since the driver circuit includes first and second voltage supply stages, it can be adapted to the load very effectively by adjusting the voltage supply stages accordingly.

[0038] For example, the maximum output power of the driver circuit, such as the output power provided by the output signal, can be designed to be low, for example, in the mW range. Therefore, the second voltage supply stage can include a charge pump stage for providing the second supply voltage and still be able to provide a sufficiently high power to the amplifier. As a further adaptation of the driver circuit to low output power, the output signal can be configured to have a low level or low amplitude. Due to the low level of the control signal, the power consumption of the comparator can be very low, so the comparator can be adequately powered by the charge pump stage. Therefore, the combination of a high resistive load on the driver circuit allows for an integrated design where the driver circuitry of the first and second voltage supply stages can be part of an integrated circuit, such as an integrated circuit fabricated using CMOS processes. Therefore, the system layout can be particularly space-saving and / or the system can be configured to be particularly energy-efficient.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the load includes a MEMS actuator. The MEMS actuator can be integrated into an integrated circuit, so that the system including the MEMS actuator and the driver circuitry can be integrated into a common integrated circuit. Therefore, the system can save space and can be fabricated in a joint process of integrated circuit manufacturing.

[0040] According to embodiments, the load includes a piezoelectric actuator, a thermoelectric actuator, or an energy storage device. These elements may include highly capacitive loads or may include capacitors and / or inductors and / or may include high resistances, such that they can be advantageously driven by a driver circuit, wherein the driver circuit may, for example, include a charge pump stage to provide a second supply voltage to the driver circuit.

[0041] According to embodiments, the load includes at least one of a speaker, microphone, pump, valve, auxiliary system, positioning system, and mechanical control for moving the board. These components may include highly capacitive loads, meaning they may include high capacitance and / or high resistance, so that they can be advantageously driven by driver circuitry, even if the driver circuitry includes a charge pump stage to provide a second supply voltage.

[0042] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a method for manufacturing an integrated circuit is provided, the method comprising arranging an amplifier such that the amplifier is configured to provide an output signal based on a control signal. The method further comprises arranging a comparator such that the comparator is configured to provide the control signal by comparing an input signal with a feedback signal, wherein the feedback signal is based on the amplifier's output signal. Additionally, the method includes arranging a first voltage supply stage and a second voltage supply stage such that the first voltage supply stage is configured to provide a first supply voltage to the comparator, and the second voltage supply stage is configured to provide a second supply voltage to the amplifier, and such that the second supply voltage is higher than the first supply voltage.

[0043] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a computer program is provided, wherein the computer program is configured to implement the above-described method for controlling the driver circuit when executed on a computer or a signal processor, such that the above method is implemented by one of the computer programs. Attached Figure Description

[0044] In the following description, embodiments of the invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0045] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the driver circuit according to an embodiment.

[0046] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a driver circuit according to another embodiment.

[0047] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a system including driver circuitry according to an embodiment.

[0048] Figure 4A B is a graph showing the changes of the input signal, output signal, feedback signal, and control signal over time according to an embodiment.

[0049] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating a method for controlling a driver circuit according to an embodiment.

[0050] Figure 6 This is a block diagram illustrating a method for manufacturing an integrated circuit according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0051] In the following description, identical or equivalent elements or elements having the same or equivalent functions are represented by the same or equivalent reference numerals, even if they appear in different drawings.

[0052] Method steps described using block diagrams and referenced in block diagrams can also be performed in an order different from the order in which they are drawn and / or described. Furthermore, method steps involving specific features of the device can be replaced with features of the device, and vice versa.

[0053] In the following description, a plurality of details are set forth to provide a more thorough explanation of embodiments of the invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that embodiments of the invention can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form rather than in detailed form to avoid obscuring embodiments of the invention. Furthermore, unless specifically indicated otherwise, features of the different embodiments described below can be combined with each other.

[0054] Throughout this specification, all features, functions, and details described as examples should be understood as optional and non-restrictive.

[0055] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a driver circuit 100 according to an embodiment. The driver circuit 100 includes an amplifier 180 configured to provide an output signal 182 based on a control signal 122. The driver circuit 100 further includes a comparator 120 to provide the control signal 122 by comparing an input signal 110 with a feedback signal 162, wherein the feedback signal 162 is based on the output signal 182 of the amplifier 180. The comparator 120 is connected to a first voltage supply stage 140 configured to provide a first supply voltage 142 to the comparator 120. The amplifier 180 is connected to a second voltage supply stage 150 configured to provide a second supply voltage 152 to the amplifier 180, wherein the second supply voltage 152 is higher than the first supply voltage 142.

[0056] According to the working principle of the driver circuit 100, by receiving the feedback signal 162 based on the output signal 182, the comparator can provide the control signal 122 to the amplifier 180 so that the amplifier 180 can control the output signal 182 according to the input signal 110.

[0057] Since the voltage domain of the control signal 122 can be independent of the voltage domain of the output signal 182, the comparator 120 configured to provide the control signal 122 can be provided with a first supply voltage 142, which can be independent of the second supply voltage 152 provided to the amplifier 180, which is configured to provide the output voltage 182.

[0058] according to Figure 1The driver circuit 100 may optionally be supplemented by all the features, functions, and details described herein for other driver circuits. Corresponding features, functions, and details may optionally be added to the driver circuit 100 individually or in any combination thereof.

[0059] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a driver circuit 200 according to an embodiment. The driver circuit 200 may be based, for example, on driver circuit 100.

[0060] The driver circuit 200 is configured to provide an output signal 182 based on the input signal 110. For example, the driver circuit 200 may be configured to drive a load 290 by utilizing the output signal 182, thereby controlling a selectable load 290 based on the input signal 110.

[0061] For example, driver circuit 200 is configured to provide output signal 182 to load 290, wherein the amplitude of output signal 182 is adaptive to drive load 290.

[0062] For example, the output signal 182 can be represented by a variable voltage. The voltage of the output signal 182 can generate a current, which can be based on the load 290, such as the resistance or impedance of the load 290. In other words, the driver circuit can be configured to provide power to the load 290 by providing the output signal 182 to the load.

[0063] For example, the voltage of the output signal can be in the range of ±24V. Alternatively, the voltage of the output signal 182 can be less than or greater than ±24V; for example, the driver circuit can provide an output voltage in the range of ±400V. The power provided by the output signal 182 can be, for example, in the range of mW. Alternatively, the power provided by the output signal 182 can be less than or greater than the power in the range of mW.

[0064] The driver circuit 200 is configured to receive the input signal 110. For example, the input signal 110 may be represented by a variable voltage and a voltage-dependent current.

[0065] For example, the voltage of input signal 110 can be within the range of a low-voltage signal or a low-level signal, such as within ±1V. Alternatively, the voltage of input signal 110 can be less than or greater than ±1V.

[0066] For example, the amplitude of the output signal 182 can be equal to or greater than the amplitude of the input signal 110. In other words, the driver circuit can be configured to amplify the input signal 110 to provide the output signal 182, wherein a magnification factor of the driver circuit 200 corresponds to the ratio of the amplitude of the output voltage 182 to the amplitude of the input voltage 110.

[0067] For example, the input signal 110 and / or the output signal 182 are continuous in time. For example, the input signal 110 and the output signal 182 can be analog signals. Alternatively, the input signal 110 and / or the output signal 182 can be discrete in time.

[0068] In order to amplify the input signal 110 to provide the output signal 182, the driver circuit 200 includes a feedback loop 260, which includes a comparator 120, an amplifier 180, and a voltage divider 261. The comparator 120 is configured to control the amplifier 180 based on the feedback signal 162, which is provided by the voltage divider 261 based on the output signal 182 provided by the amplifier.

[0069] Voltage divider 261 is configured to provide feedback signal 162 based on output signal 182, such that the ratio between output signal 182 and feedback signal 162 corresponds to the amplification factor of driver circuit 200, the error range of which may be due to the limited accuracy and speed of the components of driver circuit. For example, the ratio between output signal 182 and feedback signal 162 may be within ±1%, ±0.1%, or ±0.01% of the amplification factor.

[0070] For example, voltage divider 261 may include one or more resistors, one or more transistors, and / or one or more capacitors. Voltage divider 261 may be configured to divide the output signal 182 by an amplification factor to obtain the feedback signal 162. The amplification factor of the driver circuit may be fixed. Alternatively, voltage divider 261 may be adjustable, for example by an adjustment bit, so that the multiple between the output signal 182 and the feedback signal 162 can be adjusted, for example, depending on the application of driver circuit 200, such as depending on load 290 and / or depending on the amplitude of input signal 110.

[0071] That is, the driver circuit 200 includes a feedback loop 260, which is configured to obtain a feedback signal 162 from the output signal 182, wherein the ratio of the amplitude of the feedback signal 162 to the amplitude of the output signal 182 corresponds to the amplification factor of the driver circuit 200.

[0072] Comparator 120 is configured to compare input signal 110 with feedback signal 162 to obtain control signal 122. For example, comparator 120 may provide control signal 122 as a digital signal including high and low levels, wherein the comparator is configured to provide control signal 122 as either high or low when it is greater than input signal 110 during a time interval of feedback signal 162; and to provide control signal 122 at the other level when it is less than input signal 110 during a time interval of feedback signal 162.

[0073] For example, the comparator is a continuous-time comparator. For example, comparator 120 can be configured to provide control signal 122 as a continuous-time signal.

[0074] Alternatively, the comparator can be a discrete-time comparator. For example, the comparator can be configured to provide the control signal 122 as a discrete-time signal.

[0075] For example, the comparator is a discrete-time comparator and the comparator is self-timed. For example, comparator 120 may be configured to provide control signal 122 as a discrete-time signal, wherein control signal 122 includes synchronization information about the clock of control signal 122.

[0076] Amplifier 180 is configured to receive control signal 122 and control output signal 182 based on control signal 122. Amplifier 180 may include a push-pull stage. The push-pull stage may include at least two complementary stages.

[0077] At least one of the two complementary stages may include a transistor, such as a field-effect transistor (FET), like a MOSFET or power FET, or a bipolar junction transistor. The at least two complementary stages of the push-pull stage may include a first type of transistor and a second type of transistor complementary to the first type of transistor. For example, complementary transistors may include majority charge carriers of opposite types. For example, complementary transistors may be represented by a p-type FET and an n-type FET, or an npn bipolar junction transistor and a pnp bipolar junction transistor, or a p-type FET and a pnp bipolar junction transistor, or an n-type FET and an npn bipolar junction transistor.

[0078] That is, amplifier 182 includes at least one transistor of a first type and at least one transistor of a second type, wherein the transistor of the first type and the transistor of the second type are complementary transistors, and wherein the transistor of the first type and the transistor of the second type are one of FET, power FET, or bipolar junction transistor.

[0079] One of the at least two complementary stages can be configured to contribute to the output signal 182 based on the inductance of the stage. For example, one of the at least two complementary stages can be in an on or off state, i.e., having a low or zero inductance compared to the on state inductance. Amplifier 180 can be configured to provide a signal to the at least two complementary stages based on control signal 122, the signal controlling the inductance of the at least two complementary stages to be either in an on or off state. For example, amplifier 180 can be configured to: control the first stage of the at least two complementary stages to be in an on state when the level of control signal 122 is in a first range; and control the second stage of the at least two complementary stages to be in an on state when the level of control signal 122 is in a second range. For example, the first range and the second range can be reversed, such that for a momentary level of control signal 122, such as a high level or a low level, one of the first stage and the second stage can be configured to be in an on state, while the other stage can be in an off state. For example, the first and second ranges can overlap so that both ranges are in the ON state at the moment of operation for the value of control signal 122 which is between high and low levels. Such overlap avoids the benefit of eliminating artifacts in the output signal.

[0080] For example, comparator 120 is configured to provide control signal 122, wherein control signal 122 includes a fast slew rate, such as a slew rate greater than 50 MV / s, greater than 100 MV / s, or greater than 400 MV / s. Additionally, the overlap between the first and second ranges of the control signal level can be small, for example, less than 10%, less than 5%, or less than 1% of the amplitude of control signal 122. This combination allows the amplifier to operate with very high efficiency and exceptionally low power consumption.

[0081] In other words, based on control signal 122, the first type of transistor and the second type of transistor are configured to be in an on state or an off state, or to change between an on state and an off state, or to change their conductivity.

[0082] In other words, the driver circuit 200 is configured to control at least one transistor of a first type to be either on or off during each time interval of the first operating condition, and to control at least one transistor of a second type to be in the other state. The driver circuit 200 includes a first voltage supply stage configured to provide a first supply voltage 142 to the comparator 120. The level or amplitude of the first supply voltage 142 may, for example, correspond to the maximum level or maximum amplitude of the control signal 122. The first voltage supply stage may include a first voltage conversion to provide the first supply voltage 142.

[0083] In other words, the amplitude of the control signal can be lower than the amplitude of the output signal.

[0084] For example, a push-pull stage can be implemented as an AB amplifier. For example, a push-pull stage can include standard inverters, such as p-type FETs and n-type FETs. Alternatively, a push-pull stage can include cascaded inverters with delayed or non-overlapping control to avoid short-circuit current during switching. Cascaded inverters can, for example, include one or more p-type FETs and one or more n-type FETs connected in series. Alternatively, a push-pull stage can include one or more MOSFETs and / or one or more bipolar junction transistors.

[0085] According to an embodiment, amplifier 180 is configured to self-adjust the maximum current flowing through or through the push-pull stage, wherein the self-adjustment of the maximum current is based on load 290.

[0086] For example, the maximum current could be the maximum possible current or an upper limit of the current, such as the current used or consumed to provide the output voltage 182. For example, amplifier 180 could be configured to self-adjust the maximum current based on control signal 122, and thus be unaffected by external factors. For example, the power required to provide the output signal may depend on load 290, and amplifier 180 could be configured to obtain information about the power required to provide the output signal 182 using control signal 122. Therefore, amplifier 180 could be configured to self-adjust the maximum current based on the power consumption or power demand of load 290.

[0087] The driver circuit 200 includes a charge pump 145. The charge pump 145 includes a first voltage supply stage 140 and a second voltage supply state 150. According to an embodiment, the first voltage supply stage 140 includes a first charge pump stage configured to provide a first supply voltage 142 to the comparator 120, and the second voltage supply stage 150 includes a second charge pump stage configured to provide a second supply voltage 152 to the amplifier 180. For example, the charge pump 145, the first charge pump stage, and / or the second charge pump stage may include a Dickson charge pump.

[0088] In other words, the first voltage supply stage 140 includes a first charge pump stage and / or the second voltage supply stage 150 includes a second charge pump stage.

[0089] According to an alternative embodiment, the first charge pump stage may be part of a first charge pump, and the second charge pump stage may be part of a second charge pump.

[0090] According to another alternative embodiment, the driver circuit 200 does not necessarily include the charge pump 145. According to an alternative embodiment, the first voltage supply stage 140 may include a first voltage source, and / or the second voltage supply stage 150 may include a second voltage source. For example, the first voltage source and / or the second voltage source may include a boost converter, a buck converter, a buck-boost converter, a charge pump, a charge pump stage, or a low-dropout regulator (LDO). By way of non-limiting example, the first voltage supply stage 140 and / or the second voltage supply stage 150 may be implemented by separate power supplies and subsequent controllers.

[0091] Therefore, the first voltage supply stage 140 may include a first voltage source and the second voltage supply stage 150 may include a second voltage source.

[0092] The first supply voltage 142 can be adjusted to the amplitude of the control signal 122, and it can be adjusted to the amplitude of the amplifier 180 and / or the output signal 182. For example, the first voltage supply stage 140 can be configured to provide the first supply voltage 142 as a constant or fixed voltage. That is, the first supply voltage 142 can be constant.

[0093] Alternatively, the first voltage supply stage can be configured to modulate the first supply voltage.

[0094] For example, the first supply voltage 142 can be modulated during each operating time interval, for example, based on the power consumption of comparator 120 or the current amplitude of the control signal.

[0095] The second supply voltage 152 can be adjusted to suit the maximum level or maximum amplitude of the output signal 182. For example, the second supply voltage 152 can be equal to or greater than the amplitude of the output signal 182.

[0096] According to an embodiment, the second supply voltage 152 can be constant.

[0097] For example, the second voltage supply stage 150 may be configured to provide the second supply voltage 152 as a constant or fixed voltage, wherein the second supply voltage 152 may correspond to the maximum required amplitude of the output signal, for example, as required by the load 290.

[0098] Alternatively, the second voltage supply stage 150 can be configured to modulate the second supply voltage 152.

[0099] For example, the second supply voltage 152 can be modulated, for example, during each operating time interval, based on the power consumption of amplifier 180, such as a push-pull stage, or based on the required level of the current of output signal 182. For example, the second voltage supply stage 150 may include low-voltage rails and high-voltage rails, and modulating the second supply voltage 152 may include controlling the corresponding contributions of the voltages of the low-voltage rails and high-voltage rails based on control signal 122. Since control signal 122 is based on feedback signal 162, the control signal may include information about the required power of amplifier 180 and / or output signal 182. Therefore, using control signal 122 to modulate the second supply voltage 152 can provide an adjustment for the second supply voltage 152 based on the power consumption of push-pull stage 280. That is, driver circuit 200 can be configured to self-adjust the second supply voltage 152. As a non-limiting example, control of the second supply voltage 152 based on control signal 122 can be implemented using two resistors or MOSFETs.

[0100] Since the second supply voltage 152 can be adjusted to the output signal 182 and the first supply voltage 142 can be adjusted to the control signal 122, the first supply voltage 142 can be different from the second supply voltage 152. In particular, the first supply voltage 142 can be less than the second supply voltage 152.

[0101] For example, the first supply voltage 142 is at least twice as small as the second supply voltage 152, preferably at least five times smaller, and more preferably at least ten times smaller.

[0102] For example, the amplitude of the output signal can be determined by the application of the driver circuit 200, such as by the load 290. Again, the amplitude of the control signal 122 can be smaller than the amplitude of the output signal 182. The smaller the amplitude of the control signal 122, the more power can be saved during the operation of the driver circuit 200.

[0103] According to an embodiment, the driver circuit 200 forms at least a portion of an integrated circuit.

[0104] For example, the driver circuit 200 may optionally be integrated into an integrated circuit, for example, together with the load 290 and / or other components. In particular, the driver circuit 200 may be integrated into an integrated circuit that includes a first charge pump stage and a second charge pump stage.

[0105] In other words, the driver circuit 200 can be configured to receive a continuous-time input signal 110 with a variable and small amplitude. The driver circuit can be further configured to amplify the input signal 110 by a factor determined by the adjustable resistive voltage divider 261 to obtain a continuous-time output signal 182 with a variable amplitude greater than or equal to the amplitude of the input signal, compared to the small amplitude of the input signal 110. For example, a typical load of the MEMS element forming the main load 290 of the driver circuit can be represented by a capacitor. The continuous-time output signal 182 can be generated by a push-pull inverter stage, such as amplifier 180, which is connected to a high-voltage domain, such as a second supply voltage 152. Additionally, the push-pull inverter stage can be configured to be controlled by comparator 120, which can be connected to a low-voltage domain, such as a first supply voltage 142. The low-voltage and high-voltage domains can be generated by an integrated charge pump 145 and can be fixed at constant levels. The selective initial voltage source of the charge pump 145 can be of any type.

[0106] For example, the operating principle of driver circuit 200 corresponds to the principle of a feedback loop. Driver circuit 200 can be configured to feed back the continuous-time output signal 182 to one input of comparator 120 via adjustable voltage divider 261. Comparator 120 can be configured to receive input signal 110 at a second input and to compare input signal 110 with the returned feedback signal 162. Comparator 120 can be configured to generate a high-level or low-level signal based on its input signals, i.e., input signal 110 and feedback signal 162, wherein comparator 120 can be configured to generate a high-level or low-level signal based on a low voltage domain. Comparator 120 can be configured to provide a high-level or low-level signal at the output of generator 120 as a control signal 122. Driver circuit 200 can be configured to control amplifier 180, such as a push-pull inverter stage, based on the generated control signal 122, thus completing the feedback loop. Furthermore, the driver circuit 200 can be configured to rely on the capacitance of MEMS elements, such as load 290, to smooth or filter the output signal 182, so that the driver circuit 200 may require fewer or no additional external components or filter stages.

[0107] In contrast to conventional Class AB amplifiers that can be optimized for resistive loads, driver circuitry 200 includes a second voltage supply stage 150 configured to provide a second supply voltage 152, i.e., the voltage domain of the output signal 182. This second voltage supply stage is an integrated component of driver circuitry 200, i.e., an internal component. Other conventional solutions rely on boost converters, external components, additional pulse generators, analog-to-digital converters, and other signal processing units for controlling the output stage. Driver circuitry 200 includes a charge pump 145 and a comparator 120, such as an analog or digital comparator, and can be implemented in a fully integrated manner. Other conventional solutions require an RC low-pass output filter, while driver circuitry 200 can provide the output signal directly to load 290. Without using a bipolar high-voltage power amplifier, driver circuitry 200 can include MOSFETs and still provide a high output voltage. Furthermore, driver circuitry 200 can perform voltage and power amplification in a single-stage operation. The driver circuit 200 includes two voltage domains, for example, a low voltage domain provided by a first supply voltage 142 and a high voltage domain provided by a second supply voltage 152. Additionally, the driver circuit 200 can be configured to drive variable loads, such as variable capacitors. Besides conventional amplifiers of classes A, B, C, D, AB, G, or H, the driver circuit 200 can effectively amplify low-voltage input signals and effectively control capacitive loads with high, continuous-time voltages. In addition to some conventional solutions, the driver circuit 200 can be implemented, for example, without using an H-bridge, a digital-to-analog converter, a separate corrector unit, and a separate pulse width module.

[0108] In summary, the driver circuit 200 provides a low-complexity circuit design that combines high output voltage with low power consumption. Additionally, the driver circuit 200 can be selectively fully integrated into an integrated circuit and can utilize components that can be fabricated using CMOS processing techniques.

[0109] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a system 301 according to an embodiment. System 301 includes a driver circuit 300. Driver circuit 300 may correspond to driver circuits 100, 200. System 301 further includes a load 390 that may correspond to a load 290. System 301 is configured to control the load 390 based on an output signal 182 of driver circuit 300.

[0110] According to an embodiment, the load 390 includes a capacitor and / or an inductor, and the resistance of the load is greater than 10k ohms, 100k ohms, or 1M ohms.

[0111] Load 390 can be characterized, for example, by a capacitor. For instance, load 390 can be purely capacitive or primarily capacitive. Alternatively, load 390 can be primarily capacitive and may further include or be characterized by a resistor and / or inductor, such that the resulting resistance of load 390 can be in the range of M ohms or greater than 10 k ohms, 100 k ohms, or 1 M ohms. The greater the resistance of load 390, the lower the power consumption of the amplifier in driver circuit 300 for a given amplitude of output signal 182, so that the second supply voltage of driver circuit 300 can be provided by a charge pump.

[0112] According to an embodiment, system 301 includes an integrated circuit, and the integrated circuit includes driver circuitry 300.

[0113] For example, driver circuit 300 is part of an integrated circuit. For example, driver circuit 300 and load can be part of a combined integrated circuit.

[0114] According to an embodiment, the load 390 includes a MEMS actuator, a piezoelectric actuator, or a thermoelectric actuator.

[0115] The load 390 may include, for example, MEMS components and / or piezoelectric actuators, such as bending actuators, such as an electrostatic bending actuator (NED-actuator), piezoelectric actuator, or thermomechanical actuator.

[0116] According to an embodiment, the load 390 includes at least one of a speaker, microphone, pump, valve, health assistance system, positioning system, and mechanical control for moving the board.

[0117] According to another embodiment, load 390 includes an energy storage device.

[0118] The output signal 182 of the driver circuit 300 can be adapted to the characteristics of the load 390. For example, the load 390 may be primarily capacitive, so that the driver circuit 300 can be configured to provide low power to the load 390 via the output signal 182. Therefore, the driver circuit 300 may include a second charge pump stage configured to provide a second supply voltage to an amplifier. The amplifier may include a first type and a second type of FET or MOSFET, such that the amplifier can be configured to provide the output signal 182 based on a low-power control signal, i.e., the current and / or voltage of the control signal may be very small. Therefore, the driver circuit 300 may include a first charge pump stage configured to provide a first supply voltage to a comparator configured to provide the control signal. The first charge pump stage, the second charge pump stage, the comparator, and the amplifier can be integrated into an integrated circuit so that the driver circuit 300 can be fully integrated. Therefore, the driver circuit 300 and the optional load 390 can be fabricated using CMOS fabrication processes.

[0119] In contrast, traditional driver circuits, such as those of a typical Class AB amplifier, include a supply voltage domain corresponding to the desired output voltage level. Power amplifiers are a primary application of Class AB amplifiers, for example. The majority of power consumption in a power amplifier occurs in the output stage, requiring the power supply to be configured to provide high power. Therefore, power amplifiers may rely on external components, such as external inductors or capacitors.

[0120] Figure 4A This is a graph showing the changes of input signal 110, output signal 182, feedback signal 162, and control signal 122 over time according to an embodiment. The graph illustrates an exemplary time interval of 100 microseconds.

[0121] Figure 4B It is shown in Figure 4A The diagram shows a magnified view of time interval 402.

[0122] According to Figure 4A and 4B In the embodiment shown, the feedback signal is derived from the output signal by dividing the output signal by 10, which can be executed by the voltage divider 261. The control signal is generated by comparing the input signal with the feedback signal, such that when the feedback signal is greater than the input signal for a certain period of time (e.g., at...), the control signal is activated. Figure 4B The level of the control signal (time 403) corresponds to a low level; and makes it so that when the feedback signal is greater than the input signal for a certain period of time (e.g., in...), the level of the control signal is lower than the input signal for a certain period of time (e.g., in...). Figure 4B The time (404) control signal level corresponds to a high level.

[0123] For example, amplifier 180 can be configured to adjust the output signal based on a control signal, wherein if the level of the control signal provided to the amplifier corresponds to a high level, amplifier 180 increases the output voltage; and wherein if the level of the control signal provided to the amplifier corresponds to a low level, amplifier 180 decreases the output voltage. For example, the amplifier can be configured to increase or decrease the output signal by switching between two complementary stages of the amplifier's push-pull stage or by changing the weights between the contributions of the two complementary stages of the amplifier's push-pull stage.

[0124] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating a method 5000 for controlling a driver circuit, such as driver circuits 100, 200, and 300, according to an embodiment. Method 5000 includes operating amplifier 180 to provide an output signal 182 based on a control signal 122. Method 5000 further includes operating comparator 120 to provide the control signal 122 by comparing an input signal 110 with a feedback signal 162, wherein the feedback signal 162 is based on the output signal 182. Additionally, method 5000 includes providing a first supply voltage 142 to comparator 120 at a rate of 5400 and a second supply voltage 152 to amplifier 180 at a rate of 5500, wherein the second supply voltage 152 is higher than the first supply voltage 142.

[0125] As in Figure 5 The order of the steps in method 5000 shown is chosen exemplarily, meaning that these steps can be performed in any order or in parallel. If the steps of method 5000 are performed in parallel, the control driver circuitry can be executed particularly efficiently or rapidly.

[0126] Figure 6 This is a block diagram illustrating a method 6000 for manufacturing an integrated circuit according to an embodiment. Method 6000 includes an amplifier 180 arranged 6800 such that the amplifier 180 is configured to provide an output signal 182 based on a control signal 122. Method 6000 further includes a comparator 120 arranged 6200 such that the comparator 120 is configured to provide the control signal 120 by comparing an input signal 110 with a feedback signal 162, wherein the feedback signal 162 is based on the output signal 182 of the amplifier 180. Additionally, method 6000 includes a first voltage supply stage 140 and a second voltage supply stage 150 arranged 6450 such that the first voltage supply stage 140 is configured to provide a first supply voltage 142 to the comparator 120, and the second voltage supply stage 150 is configured to provide a second supply voltage 152 to the amplifier 180, such that the second supply voltage 152 is higher than the first supply voltage 142.

[0127] As in Figure 6 The order of the steps in the method 6000 shown is chosen by way of example; that is, the steps can be performed in any order or in parallel.

[0128] Although some aspects have been described in the context of a device, it is clear that these aspects also represent a description of the corresponding method, where a block or device corresponds to a method step or feature of a method step. Similarly, aspects described in the context of a method step also represent a description of a corresponding block, item, or feature of the corresponding device.

[0129] The above embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles of the present invention. It should be understood that modifications and variations of the arrangements and details described herein will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the present invention is intended to be limited only by the scope of the forthcoming patent claims, and not by the specific details given in the description and explanation of the embodiments herein.

[0130] Some or all of the method steps may be executed by (or using) hardware devices, such as microprocessors, programmable computers, or electronic circuits. In some embodiments, one or more of the most important method steps may be executed by such devices.

[0131] Depending on the requirements of certain implementations, embodiments of the present invention may be implemented in hardware or software, or at least partially in hardware or at least partially in software. Implementations may be executed using digital storage media, such as floppy disks, DVDs, Blu-ray discs, CDs, ROMs, PROMs, EPROMs, EEPROMs, or flash memory, having electronically readable control signals stored thereon that cooperate with (or are capable of cooperating with) a programmable computer system to perform the corresponding methods. Therefore, the digital storage media may be computer-readable.

[0132] Some embodiments of the invention include a data carrier having electronically readable control signals that are capable of cooperating with a programmable computer system to perform one of the methods described herein.

[0133] Typically, embodiments of the present invention can be implemented as a computer program product having program code that, when run on a computer, operates to perform one of the methods. The program code may, for example, be stored on a machine-readable medium.

[0134] Other embodiments include a computer program stored on a machine-readable medium for performing one of the methods described herein.

[0135] In other words, therefore, an embodiment of the method of the present invention is a computer program having program code for performing one of the methods described herein, when the computer program is run on a computer.

[0136] Therefore, another embodiment of the method of the present invention is a data carrier (or digital storage medium, or computer-readable medium) comprising a computer program recorded thereon for performing one of the methods described herein. Data carriers, digital storage media, or recording media are generally tangible and / or non-transitory.

[0137] Therefore, another embodiment of the method of the present invention represents a data stream or signal sequence for performing a computer program of one of the methods described herein. The data stream or signal sequence may, for example, be configured to be transmitted via a data communication connection, such as via the Internet.

[0138] Another embodiment includes a processing component, such as a computer or programmable logic device, configured or adapted to perform one of the methods described herein.

[0139] Another embodiment includes a computer on which a computer program for performing one of the methods described herein is installed.

[0140] Another embodiment of the invention includes an apparatus or system configured (e.g., electronically or optically) to transmit a computer program for performing one of the methods described herein to a receiver. The receiver may be, for example, a computer, a mobile device, a memory device, etc. The apparatus or system may, for example, include a file server for transmitting the computer program to the receiver.

[0141] In some embodiments, a programmable logic device (e.g., a field-programmable gate array) may be used to perform some or all of the functions of the methods described herein. In some embodiments, the field-programmable gate array may cooperate with a microprocessor to perform one of the methods described herein. Generally, the methods can preferably be performed by any hardware device.

[0142] The apparatus described herein can be implemented using hardware devices, computers, or a combination of hardware devices and computers.

[0143] The methods described herein can be performed using hardware devices, computers, or a combination of hardware devices and computers.

Claims

1. A method (5000) for controlling a driver circuit (100; 200; 300), comprising: Operate (5100) amplifier (180) to provide output signal (182) based on control signal (122); Operate (5200) comparator (120) to provide the control signal (122) by comparing the input signal (110) with the feedback signal (162), wherein the feedback signal (162) is based on the output signal (182). Provide (5400) first supply voltage (142) to comparator (120); A second supply voltage (152) (5500) is supplied to the amplifier (180); The second supply voltage (152) is higher than the first supply voltage (142). The first voltage supply stage is provided by a first charge pump stage, and the second voltage supply stage is provided by a second charge pump stage.

2. The method (5000) according to claim 1, wherein providing the first supply voltage (142) is performed by a first voltage source, and wherein providing the second supply voltage (152) is performed by a second voltage source.

3. The method (5000) according to claim 1, wherein the amplitude of the control signal (122) is lower than the amplitude of the output signal (182).

4. The method (5000) according to claim 1, wherein the comparator (120) is operated to provide a continuous-time signal.

5. The method (5000) according to claim 1, wherein the comparator (120) is operated to provide a discrete-time signal.

6. The method (5000) according to claim 5, wherein the operation comparator (120) includes a self-timer of the comparator (120).

7. The method (5000) according to claim 1, wherein the input signal (110) and / or the output signal (182) are continuous in time.

8. The method (5000) according to claim 1, wherein the input signal (110) and / or the output signal (182) are discrete in time.

9. The method (5000) of claim 1, wherein the operating amplifier (180) includes an operating push-pull stage.

10. The method (5000) of claim 1, wherein the operating amplifier (180) comprises controlling at least one first-type transistor and at least one second-type transistor. in, The first type of transistor and the second type of transistor are complementary types of transistors, and Among them, the first type of transistor and the second type of transistor are one of FET, power FET or bipolar junction transistor.

11. The method (5000) of claim 10, wherein the operating amplifier (180) includes controlling at least one transistor of a first type to enter a conducting state or a cut-off state during each time interval of the first operating condition, and controlling at least one transistor of a second type to enter another state.

12. The method (5000) according to claim 1, further comprising obtaining a feedback signal (162) from the output signal (182) such that the ratio of the amplitude of the feedback signal (162) to the amplitude of the output signal (182) corresponds to the amplification factor of the driver circuit (100; 200; 300).

13. The method (5000) according to claim 1. in, The first supply voltage (142) is at least 2 times smaller, or at least 5 times smaller, or at least 10 times smaller than the second supply voltage (152).

14. The method (5000) according to claim 1. in, The first supply voltage (142) and / or the second supply voltage (152) are constant.

15. The method (5000) according to claim 1. in, Providing a first supply voltage (142) includes modulating the first supply voltage (142); and / or Providing the second supply voltage (152) includes modulating the second supply voltage (152).

16. The method (5000) of claim 1, wherein the operating amplifier (180) includes self-adjustment of the maximum current conducted through the push-pull stage, wherein the self-adjustment of the maximum current is based on the load.

17. A driver circuit (100; 200; 300), comprising: The amplifier (180) is configured to provide an output signal (182) based on a control signal (122); The comparator (120) is configured to provide a control signal (122) by comparing an input signal (110) with a feedback signal (162), wherein the feedback signal (162) is based on the output signal (182) of the amplifier (180). The comparator (120) is connected to a first voltage supply stage (140), which is configured to provide a first supply voltage (142) to the comparator (120). The amplifier (180) is connected to a second voltage supply stage (150), which is configured to provide a second supply voltage (152) to the amplifier (180). Wherein, the second supply voltage (152) is higher than the first supply voltage (142); and Wherein, the first voltage supply stage includes a first charge pump stage, and wherein the second voltage supply stage includes a second charge pump stage.

18. The driver circuit (100; 200; 300) according to claim 17, wherein the first voltage supply stage (140) includes a first voltage source and the second voltage supply stage (150) includes a second voltage source.

19. The driver circuit (100; 200; 300) according to claim 17, wherein the amplitude of the control signal (122) is lower than the amplitude of the output signal (182).

20. The driver circuit (100; 200; 300) according to claim 17, wherein the comparator (120) is a discrete-time comparator or a continuous-time comparator.

21. The driver circuit (100; 200; 300) according to claim 17, wherein the comparator (120) is a discrete-time comparator, and wherein the comparator (120) is self-timer.

22. The driver circuit (100; 200; 300) according to claim 17, wherein the input signal (110) and / or the output signal (182) are continuous in time.

23. The driver circuit (100; 200; 300) according to claim 17, wherein the input signal (110) and / or the output signal (182) are discrete in time.

24. The driver circuit (100; 200; 300) of claim 17, wherein the amplifier (180) includes a push-pull stage.

25. The driver circuit (100; 200; 300) according to claim 17, wherein the amplifier (180) comprises at least one transistor of a first type and at least one transistor of a second type, in, The first type of transistor and the second type of transistor are complementary types of transistors, and Among them, the first type of transistor and the second type of transistor are one of FET, power FET or bipolar junction transistor.

26. The driver circuit (100; 200; 300) of claim 25, wherein the driver circuit (100; 200; 300) is configured to control at least one transistor of a first type to enter a conducting state or a cut-off state during each time interval of the first operating condition, and to control at least one transistor of a second type to enter another state.

27. The driver circuit (100; 200; 300) according to claim 17 further includes a feedback loop configured to obtain a feedback signal (162) from the output signal (182). in, The ratio of the amplitude of the feedback signal (162) to the amplitude of the output signal (182) corresponds to the amplification factor of the driver circuit (100; 200; 300).

28. The driver circuit (100; 200; 300) according to claim 17. in, The first supply voltage (142) is at least 2 times smaller, or at least 5 times smaller, or at least 10 times smaller than the second supply voltage (152).

29. The driver circuit (100; 200; 300) according to claim 17. in, The first supply voltage (142) and / or the second supply voltage (152) are constant.

30. The driver circuit (100; 200; 300) according to claim 17. in, The first voltage supply stage (140) is configured to modulate the first supply voltage (142); and / or The second voltage supply stage (150) is configured to modulate the second supply voltage (152).

31. The driver circuit (100; 200; 300) of claim 17, wherein the amplifier (180) is configured to self-adjust the maximum current conducted through the push-pull stage, wherein the self-adjustment of the maximum current is based on the load.

32. The driver circuit (100; 200; 300) of claim 17, wherein the driver circuit (100; 200; 300) forms at least a portion of an integrated circuit.

33. An electronic circuit (301), comprising: Load (290; 390); The driver circuit (100; 200; 300) according to claim 17; The electronic circuit is configured to control the load (290; 390) based on the output signal (182) of the driver circuit (100; 200; 300).

34. The electronic circuit (301) according to claim 33. in, The electronic circuit includes integrated circuits, and The integrated circuit includes the driver circuit (100; 200; 300).

35. The electronic circuit (301) according to claim 33. in, The load (290; 390) includes capacitors and / or inductors; Furthermore, the resistance of the load (290; 390) is higher than 10k ohms, 100k ohms, or 1M ohms.

36. The electronic circuit (301) of claim 33, wherein the load (290; 390) comprises a MEMS actuator.

37. The electronic circuit (301) of claim 33, wherein the load (290; 390) comprises a piezoelectric actuator.

38. The electronic circuit (301) according to claim 33, wherein the load (290; 390) comprises a thermodynamic actuator.

39. The electronic circuit (301) according to claim 33, wherein the load (290; 390) includes an energy storage device.

40. The electronic circuit (301) of claim 33, wherein the load (290; 390) comprises at least one of a speaker, a microphone, a pump, a valve, a health assist system, a positioning system, and mechanical control for moving the board.

41. A method (6000) for manufacturing an integrated circuit, the method (5000) comprising: Arrange (6800) amplifier (180) such that amplifier (180) is configured to provide output signal (182) based on control signal (122); Arrange (6200) a comparator (120) such that the comparator (120) is configured to provide a control signal (122) by comparing an input signal (110) with a feedback signal (162), wherein the feedback signal (162) is based on the output signal (182) of an amplifier (180). Arrange (6450) a first voltage supply stage (140) and a second voltage supply stage (150). This causes the first voltage supply stage (140) to be configured to provide a first supply voltage (142) to the comparator (120), and This enables the second voltage supply stage (150) to provide a second supply voltage (152) to the amplifier (180); This makes the second supply voltage (152) higher than the first supply voltage (142); and The first voltage supply stage includes a first charge pump stage, and the second voltage supply stage includes a second charge pump stage.

Images