Control device and control method

Abstract

The invention provides a control apparatus and a control method. The control device comprises a controller. The controller is operable to determine a magnitude of a first output current supplied from the first power converter to the dynamic load, and to determine a magnitude of a second output current supplied from the second power converter to power the dynamic load. The controller controls a magnitude of the second output current relative to a magnitude of the first output current according to a magnitude of a total output current consumed by the dynamic load.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a control device and a control method. Background Art

[0002] One type of conventional power converter is a buck converter. Typically, in order to maintain the output voltage within a desired range, a controller associated with the buck converter compares the magnitude of the generated output voltage to a set point reference voltage. Based on the corresponding error voltage, the controller modifies the corresponding switching frequency and / or pulse width modulation associated with activating the high-side switch circuitry and the low-side switch circuitry in the buck converter to maintain the magnitude of the output voltage.

[0003] In some cases, the controller controls the operation of the buck converter and the generation of the output voltage based on the amount of output current supplied to the load by the generated output voltage. For example, conventional techniques include receiving a so-called VID (voltage identification) from a load, such as a processor powered by the output voltage. The VID indicates a set point voltage for generating an output voltage to power the load. The size of the VID setting (e.g., a set point reference voltage) can vary depending on the size of the output current. In a manner as previously discussed, the controller of the power supply can be configured to adjust the size of the output voltage supplied to the load based on a target set point voltage obtained from the received VID value. Summary of the invention

[0004] The implementation of clean energy (or green technology) is very important for reducing the impact of human beings on the environment. Generally, clean energy includes any developing methods and materials used to reduce the overall toxicity to the environment caused by energy consumption.

[0005] The present disclosure includes the observation that raw energy received, for example, from green energy or non-green energy, often needs to be converted into an appropriate form (e.g., desired AC voltage, DC voltage, etc.) before it can be used to power end devices such as servers, computers, mobile communication devices, etc. Whether the energy is received from green energy or non-green energy, it is desirable to most efficiently utilize the raw energy provided by such a system to reduce our impact on the environment. The present disclosure helps reduce our carbon footprint (and green energy) via more efficient energy conversion.

[0006] The present disclosure also includes the observation that an important aspect of designing a power supply system is to consider providing optimal power delivery via controlling multiple power converter phases.

[0007] More specifically, a controller as discussed herein is operable to: determine a magnitude of a first output current supplied from a first power converter to a dynamic load; determine a magnitude of a second output current supplied from a second power converter to power the dynamic load; and control a magnitude of the second output current relative to a magnitude of the first output current based on a magnitude of a total output current consumed by the dynamic load.

[0008] The controller regulates the magnitude of an output voltage of the first power converter relative to a set point reference voltage via the first power converter. The output voltage supplies a first output current to the dynamic load.

[0009] According to another example, the total output current is equal to the magnitude of the first output current plus the magnitude of the second output current.

[0010] Furthermore, a controller as discussed herein may be configured to vary over time a ratio of the magnitude of the second output current relative to any measured signal, such as the magnitude of the first output current, or vice versa, according to a control function dependent upon the magnitude of the total output current consumed by the dynamic load.

[0011] In yet another example, the controller may be configured to receive a first signal indicating the magnitude of the first output current, and receive a second signal indicating the magnitude of the second output current. The controller or other suitable entity adds the first signal to the second signal to generate a third signal indicating the magnitude of the total output current consumed by the dynamic load. The controller or other suitable entity then multiplies the first signal by a gain value K to generate an output current control signal provided to the second power converter to control the magnitude of the second output current. The controller may be configured to select the magnitude of the gain value K based on which output current range of the plurality of output current ranges the magnitude of the total output current belongs to. The magnitude of the gain value K may be a function of the magnitude of the third signal.

[0012] In yet another example, the controller is further operable to control output of a control signal to a second power converter; the control signal indicates an output current control setting for generating a second output current. The controller may be configured to determine the magnitude of the second output current supplied from the second power converter via simulation; the simulation may be based on the output current control setting. The simulation that determines the magnitude of the second output current may also include applying a scaling factor to the output current control setting.

[0013] Furthermore, a controller as discussed herein may be configured to limit the magnitude of the first output current supplied from the first power converter to the dynamic load via a clamping function in a control loop associated with the first power converter.

[0014] According to yet another example, the controller can be configured to increase the ratio of the magnitude of the second output current relative to the magnitude of the first output current for a larger magnitude of the total output current consumed by the dynamic load. Conversely, the controller can be configured to decrease the ratio of the magnitude of the second output current relative to the magnitude of the first output current for a smaller magnitude of the total output current consumed by the dynamic load.

[0015] The controller as discussed herein can be configured to also include any number of control functions, such as a first control function, a second control function, and a third control function. Note that the total number of control functions can be more than 3. The first control function can be configured to: i) adjust the magnitude of the output voltage supplied to the dynamic load, and ii) generate a first control signal, the first control signal indicating a first magnitude of the supplementary output current to be supplied to the dynamic load. The second control function can be configured to: i) receive the first control signal, ii) via a second power converter, generate the magnitude of the second output current as a first portion of the supplementary output current indicated by the first control signal, and iii) generate a second control signal, the second control signal indicating a second portion of the supplementary output current to be supplied to the dynamic load. The third control function can be configured to: i) receive the second control signal, ii) via a third power converter, generate the magnitude of a third output current, the magnitude of the third output voltage being equal to the second portion of the supplementary output current indicated by the second control current signal.

[0016] In addition, the first control function can be configured to: i) adjust the magnitude of the output voltage supplied to the dynamic load, ii) generate a first control signal, the first control signal indicating a first magnitude of the supplementary output current to be supplied to the dynamic load, iii) generate a second control signal, the second control signal indicating a second magnitude of the supplementary output current to be supplied to the dynamic load. The second control function can be configured to: i) receive the first control signal, ii) generate a magnitude of a second output current via a second power converter, the magnitude of the second output current being equal to the first magnitude of the supplementary output current indicated by the first control signal. The third control function can be configured to: i) receive the second control signal, ii) generate a magnitude of a third output current from a third power converter, the magnitude of the third output current being equal to the second magnitude of the supplementary output current indicated by the second control signal. Note that the total number of control functions can exceed 3.

[0017] Another example herein includes a first power converter that supplies a first output current to an integrated voltage regulator in a circuit associated with or including a dynamic load. The integrated voltage regulator can be configured to convert the first output current into a third output current that is supplied to a core portion of the dynamic load. The second power converter can be configured to supply a second output current to the core portion of the dynamic load.

[0018] According to another example, the method as discussed herein includes: determining the magnitude of a first output current supplied from a first power converter to a dynamic load; determining the magnitude of a second output current supplied from a second power converter to power the dynamic load; and controlling the magnitude of the second output current relative to the magnitude of the first output current based on the magnitude of the total output current consumed by the dynamic load.

[0019] Additionally, the method may include regulating a magnitude of an output voltage of the first power converter relative to a set point reference voltage, the output voltage supplying a first output current to the dynamic load. The total output current may be equal to a magnitude of the first output current plus a magnitude of the second output current.

[0020] Additionally, methods as discussed herein may include varying, over time, a ratio of a magnitude of the second output current relative to a magnitude of the first output current as a function of a magnitude of the total output current.

[0021] The techniques herein are useful compared to conventional techniques. For example, a second power converter as discussed herein can be configured to supply currents of different magnitudes to a dynamic load, thereby reducing the need for the first power converter to supply current.

[0022] These and other more specific examples are disclosed in greater detail below.

[0023] Note that although the examples as discussed herein apply to power converters, the concepts disclosed herein may be advantageously applied to any other suitable topology as well as general power supply control applications.

[0024] Note that any resource discussed herein may include one or more computerized devices, controllers, mobile communication devices, servers, base stations, wireless communication equipment, communication management systems, workstations, user equipment, handheld or laptop computers, etc. to perform and / or support any or all of the method operations disclosed herein. In other words, one or more computerized devices or processors may be programmed and / or configured to operate as described herein to implement the different examples described herein.

[0025] Other examples herein include software programs for performing the steps and operations outlined above and disclosed in detail below. One such example includes a computer program product, which includes a non-transient computer-readable storage medium (i.e., any computer-readable hardware storage medium) on which software instructions are encoded for subsequent execution. When executed in a computerized device (hardware) with a processor, the instruction programs the processor (hardware) and / or causes the processor (hardware) to perform the operations disclosed herein. Such an arrangement is generally provided as software, code, instructions and / or other data (e.g., data structures) arranged or encoded on a non-transient computer-readable storage medium such as an optical medium (e.g., CD-ROM), a floppy disk, a hard disk, a memory stick, a storage device, etc. or on other media such as one or more ROMs, RAMs, PROMs, etc., or provided as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc. Software or firmware or other such configurations can be installed on a computerized device to enable the computerized device to perform the technology described herein.

[0026] Accordingly, examples herein are directed to methods, systems, computer program products, etc., that support the operations discussed herein.

[0027] An example herein includes a computer-readable storage medium and / or system having instructions stored thereon. When executed by computer processor hardware, the instructions cause the computer processor hardware (e.g., one or more co-located or differently located processor devices) to: determine a magnitude of a first output current supplied from a first power converter to a dynamic load; determine a magnitude of a second output current supplied from a second power converter to power the dynamic load; and control a magnitude of the second output current relative to a magnitude of the first output current based on a magnitude of a total output current consumed by the dynamic load.

[0028] The order of the above steps has been added for clarity. Note that any processing operations as discussed herein may be performed in any suitable order.

[0029] Other examples of the present disclosure include software programs and / or corresponding hardware for performing any of the method example steps and operations summarized above and disclosed in detail below.

[0030] It should be understood that the systems, methods, apparatus, instructions on computer-readable storage media, etc., as discussed herein may also be strictly implemented as software programs, firmware, as a hybrid of software, hardware and / or firmware, or solely as hardware, such as within a processor (hardware or software) or within an operating system or software application.

[0031] As discussed herein, the techniques herein are well suited for use in the field of implementing one or more power converters to deliver current to a load. However, it should be noted that the examples herein are not limited to use in such applications, and the techniques discussed herein are also well suited for other applications.

[0032] In addition, note that although each of the different features, techniques, configurations, etc. herein may be discussed in different places of the present disclosure, it is intended that each of the concepts in the concept may be optionally performed independently of each other or in combination with each other where appropriate. Thus, one or more of the present inventions as described herein may be implemented and observed in many different ways.

[0033] Additionally, note that this preliminary discussion of examples herein (a brief description of the examples) purposefully does not specify every example and / or incremental novel aspect of the present disclosure or claimed invention. Instead, the brief description presents only the overall examples and corresponding points of novelty relative to conventional techniques. For additional details and / or possible viewpoints (arrangements) of the present invention, the reader is referred to the Detailed Description of the Disclosure (which is a summary of the examples) and corresponding drawings as further discussed below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] Figure 1 is an exemplary general diagram of a power supply including a primary power converter (eg, including a first power converter phase) and a secondary power converter (eg, including a second power converter phase) as discussed herein.

[0035] Figure 2 is an example diagram illustrating an implementation of multiple power converter phases for providing power to a dynamic load as discussed herein.

[0036] Figure 3 is an example diagram showing details of a power converter phase as discussed herein.

[0037] Figure 4 is an example diagram illustrating an implementation of a first control loop using voltage mode control as discussed herein.

[0038] Figure 5 is an example diagram illustrating an implementation of a second control loop using current mode control as discussed herein.

[0039] Figure 6 is an example diagram illustrating an implementation of a second control loop using current mode control as discussed herein.

[0040] Fig. 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 7Cis an example diagram illustrating implementations of different techniques for generating a distribution value K for different magnitudes of total output current as discussed herein.

[0041] Figure 8 is an example diagram illustrating current distribution via implementation of function K as discussed herein.

[0042] Fig. 9 is an example timing diagram illustrating distribution of output current among multiple power converters as discussed herein.

[0043] Fig.10 is an example timing diagram illustrating distribution of output current among multiple power converters based on a multiplier function K as discussed herein.

[0044] Fig.11 is an example timing diagram illustrating distribution of output current among multiple power converters as discussed herein.

[0045] Fig.12 is an example diagram illustrating an implementation of a control loop using current mode control as discussed herein.

[0046] Fig.13A , Fig. 13B and Fig. 13C is an example diagram illustrating implementations of different techniques for generating a distribution value K for different magnitudes of total output current as discussed herein.

[0047] Fig.14 is an example diagram illustrating controlling the magnitude of output current from different power converters as discussed herein.

[0048] Fig.15 is an example timing diagram illustrating distribution of output current among power converters as discussed herein.

[0049] Fig.16 is an example timing diagram illustrating distribution of output current among power converters as discussed herein.

[0050] Fig.17 is an example timing diagram illustrating distribution of output current among power converters as discussed herein.

[0051] Fig.18 is an example timing diagram illustrating distribution of output current among power converters as discussed herein.

[0052] Fig.19 is an example timing diagram illustrating distribution of output current among power converters as discussed herein.

[0053] Fig. 20is an example timing diagram illustrating distribution of output current among power converters as discussed herein.

[0054] Fig.21 is an example diagram illustrating an implementation of distributing output current among power converters and internal voltage regulators in corresponding loads as discussed herein.

[0055] Fig. 22 is an example diagram illustrating an implementation of distributing output current among power converters and internal voltage regulators in corresponding loads as discussed herein.

[0056] Fig.23 is an example diagram illustrating an implementation of distributing output current among power converters and internal voltage regulators in corresponding loads as discussed herein.

[0057] Fig.24 is an example diagram illustrating an implementation of output current distribution in a dual load line system as discussed herein.

[0058] Fig.25 is an example diagram illustrating a closed current control loop based on simulated current for sensorless adaptive voltage positioning control as discussed herein.

[0059] Fig.26 is an example diagram illustrating computer processor hardware and associated software instructions operable to perform the methods discussed herein.

[0060] Fig. 27 is an example diagram illustrating a method as discussed herein.

[0061] The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following more particular description of the preferred examples herein as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout the different drawings. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but emphasis is placed on illustrating examples, principles, concepts, etc. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0062] In general, examples herein include a controller operable to receive a first input indicating a magnitude of a first output current supplied from a first power converter to a dynamic load. The controller receives a second input indicating a magnitude of a second output current supplied from a second power converter to power the dynamic load. The controller controls a magnitude of the second output current relative to a magnitude of the first output current based on a magnitude of a total output current consumed by the dynamic load.

[0063] Now, more specifically, Figure 1is an exemplary overall diagram of a power supply including a primary power converter (eg, one or more power converter phases) and a secondary power converter (eg, one or more power converter phases) showing output current distribution as discussed herein.

[0064] As shown, power system 100 includes controller 141 , controller 142 , power converter 121 , and power converter 122 .

[0065] Note that the resources in the power supply system 100 may be implemented in any suitable manner. For example, the resources in the power supply system 100 may be implemented as hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. In one example, the controller 141 may be implemented as controller hardware, controller software, or a combination of controller hardware and controller software; the controller 142 may be implemented as controller hardware, controller software, or a combination of controller hardware and controller software; and so on.

[0066] As further shown, power converter 121 receives input voltage Vin2; power converter 122 receives input voltage Vin1. The power converters may be configured to receive input voltages from the same or different sources.

[0067] The magnitudes of the input voltages Vin1 and Vin2 can be any suitable values. For example, a common voltage source (e.g., a battery, a wall power supply, etc.) can be configured to provide input voltages Vin1 and Vin2, wherein the magnitude of the input voltage Vin1 is equal to the magnitude of the input voltage Vin2. Alternatively, the input voltages Vin1 and Vin2 are supplied by different sources. In one example, the magnitude of the input voltage Vin1 is different from the magnitude of the input voltage Vin2.

[0068] In one non-limiting example, the input voltage Vin1 is 12VDC; in another example, the input voltage Vin1 is 6 to 12VDC obtained from an open-loop step-down of 48V; Vin1 can be 12V or 6 to 12V obtained from an open-loop step-down of 48V; Vin2 can be a lower voltage of 1.5V to 6V obtained from Vin1; and so on.

[0069] In other examples, the output voltage is a DC voltage.

[0070] In yet another example, the input voltage Vin1 is 48 V (nominal), and the power converter 122 provides a direct conversion to the appropriate voltage required by the dynamic load 118 .

[0071] Additional examples herein include generating one or more of the input voltages via a half-bridge converter.Other configurations include any transformer-based topology (including resonant converters) that can be used with any rectifier structure.

[0072] In one example, the input voltage Vin2 is 6 to 12 V obtained from an open-loop or closed-loop step-down of 48 V. Such an architecture saves the conversion stage of the main power processing to reduce the conduction loss and stress on the 48 V / 8 V converter.

[0073] Typically, during operation, the controller 141 provides voltage regulation with respect to generating the output voltage 123 to power the dynamic load 118. For example, the controller 141 receives a set point reference voltage signal VREF. Note that the magnitude of the set point reference voltage signal VREF may vary depending on operating conditions. Thus, the controller 141 and the first power converter 121 may be configured to regulate the magnitude of the output voltage 123 of the first power converter 121 relative to the set point reference voltage VREF. The output voltage 123 and the corresponding power converter 121 supply the first output current 131-1 to the dynamic load 118.

[0074] To provide regulation, the controller 141 also receives an output voltage feedback signal 123-F (e.g., the output voltage 123 itself or a resistor voltage divider value) and compares it with a set point reference voltage VREF. The controller 141 generates a control signal 105 supplied to the power converter 121 so that the output voltage 123 generated by the power converter 121 is substantially equal to the set point reference voltage VREF. Via the output voltage 123, the power converter 121 supplies an output current 131-1 to the dynamic load 118.

[0075] As further shown, the controller 141 monitors the magnitude of the output current 131-1 supplied to the dynamic load 118 via the feedback 112 received from the monitor 108. In other words, the feedback 112 indicates the magnitude of the output current 131-1.

[0076] The magnitude of output current 131 - 1 may be determined in any suitable manner. For example, the magnitude of output current 131 - 1 may be physically measured by monitor 108 .

[0077] Additionally, or alternatively, as discussed further herein, note that the magnitude of output current 131 - 1 may be determined in whole or in part via simulation implemented by a controller or other suitable resource.

[0078] As further shown, the controller 142 may be configured to monitor the magnitude of the output current 131-2 supplied to the dynamic load 118 via feedback 111 received from the monitor 109. In other words, the feedback 111 from the monitor 109 indicates the magnitude of the output current 131-2.

[0079] The magnitude of the output current 131 - 2 may be determined in any suitable manner. For example, the magnitude of the output current 131 - 2 may be physically measured by the monitor 109 .

[0080] Additionally, or alternatively, note that the magnitude of output current 131 - 2 may be determined in whole or in part via simulation implemented by a controller or other suitable resource.

[0081] As previously discussed, in one example, power converter 121 regulates output voltage 123 relative to a desired set point reference voltage VREF.

[0082] As further discussed herein, controller 141 may be configured to control the distribution of the total output current supplied by power converter 121 and power converter 122 to dynamic load 118. For example, controller 141 generates control signal 105 to control the corresponding magnitude of output current 131-1 supplied by power converter 121 to dynamic load 118. Additionally, to maintain output voltage 123 within regulation based on reference voltage VREF, controller 141 generates a corresponding output current command ICSB-CMD (also referred to as output current control signal 271) that indicates the corresponding magnitude of output current 131-2 to be supplied by power converter 122 to dynamic load 118. Controller 142 controls power converter 122 to supply the magnitude of the current as specified by output current command ICSB-CMD.

[0083] As previously discussed, the controller 142 monitors the magnitude of the output current 131-2 via feedback 111 received from the monitor 109. The controller 142 generates a corresponding control signal 106 that controls the operation of the power converter 122 to maintain the magnitude of the output current 131-2 as indicated by the received output current command ICSB-CMD. For example, via the current control loop, if the magnitude of the output current 131-2 is greater than the set point magnitude of the output current as specified by the output current command ICSB-CMD, the controller 142 generates a corresponding control signal 106 to reduce the magnitude of the output current 131-2. Conversely, if the magnitude of the output current 131-2 is less than the set point magnitude of the output current as specified by the output current command ICSB-CMD, the controller 142 generates a corresponding control signal 106 to increase the magnitude of the output current 131-2.

[0084] As further shown, controller 142 provides feedback I-FDBK that indicates a corresponding magnitude of output current 131 - 2 supplied by power converter 122 to dynamic load 118 .

[0085] As discussed further herein, controller 141 may be configured to vary the magnitude ratio of the output current supplied by each of corresponding power converters 121 and 122 based on total output current 131-T supplied by output voltage 123 to dynamic load 118. Total output current 131-T in this example is equal to the sum of output current 131-1 and output current 131-2.

[0086] In this example, the controller 141 determines the magnitude of the output current 131-1 supplied from the first power converter to the dynamic load via the feedback 112 supplied by the monitor 108. The controller 141 determines the magnitude of the output current 131-2 supplied from the second power converter 122 to power the dynamic load 118 via the feedback I-FDBK. The controller 141 controls the magnitude of the second output current 131-2 relative to the magnitude of the first output current 131-1 based on the magnitude of the total output current 131-T consumed by the dynamic load 118.

[0087] As an example, if dynamic load 118 consumes 100 amps, controller 141 may be configured to control power converter 121 to provide 95 amps and generate control signal ICSB-CMD to controller 142 to control power converter 122 to generate 5 amps. In this case, power converter 121 provides 95% of total output current 131-T, and power converter 122 provides 5% of total output voltage 131-T.

[0088] As another example, if dynamic load 118 consumes 300 amps, controller 141 may be configured to control power converter 121 to provide 150 amps and generate control signal ICSB-CMD to controller 142 to control power converter 122 to produce 150 amps. In this case, power converter 121 provides 50% (150 amps) of total output current 131-T, and power converter 122 provides 50% of total output voltage 131-T.

[0089] As another example, if dynamic load 118 consumes 600 amps, controller 141 may be configured to control power converter 121 to provide 150 amps and generate control signal ICSB-CMD to controller 142 to control power converter 122 to produce 450 amps. In this case, power converter 121 provides 25% of total output current 131-T, and power converter 122 provides 75% of total output voltage 131-T.

[0090] As discussed further herein, any desired allocation is possible.

[0091] Figure 2is an example diagram illustrating an implementation of multiple power converters and corresponding one or more phases for providing power to a dynamic load according to examples herein.

[0092] In one non-limiting example, controller 141 and controller 142 (eg, a single controller or multiple controllers having multiple control functions) are implemented on the same silicon component (eg, a single semiconductor chip) with or without phase map 220, for example.

[0093] In this example, the controller 141 includes a control function 231 and a modulation function 241. The controller 142 includes a control function 232 and a modulation function 242.

[0094] Note that other examples herein include changing, via controller 141, the number of phases activated in power converter 121, and changing, via controller 142, the number of phases activated in power converter 122 based on the magnitude of power consumption of dynamic load 118 and the amount of output current supplied by each of power converter 121 and power converter 122.

[0095] In one example, power converter 121 is a multi-phase power converter including power converter phase 121 -P1, power converter phase 121 -P2, power converter phase 121 -P3, etc. In one non-limiting example, the power converter phases are via buck converter phases, however power converter 121 may be implemented via any suitable technology.

[0096] As further shown, in one example, the power converter 122 is a multi-phase power converter including power converter phase 122 -P1, power converter phase 122 -P2, power converter phase 122 -P3, power converter phase 122 -P4, power converter phase 122 -P5, etc. In one non-limiting example, the power converter phases are via buck converter phases, however the power converter 122 may be implemented via any suitable technology.

[0097] Controller 141 may be configured to control any number of power converter phases in power converter 121 to produce output current 131 - 1 Controller 142 may be configured to control any number of power converter phases in power converter 122 to produce output current 131 - 2 .

[0098] It should also be noted that the power system 100 includes a capacitor Co coupled to the power converter 121 and the power converter 122 to store the output voltage 123. The capacitor Co includes one or more capacitors.

[0099] As further shown, the power system 100 (i.e., the power supply) includes a current monitor 210 (e.g., including an analog-to-digital converter), a voltage monitor 211 (e.g., including an analog-to-digital converter), a modulation function 241, a modulation function 242, a phase mapping 220, a control function 231, and a control function 232.

[0100] As its name implies, each of the monitors 210 (e.g., associated with monitor 108 and / or monitor 109) monitors a respective output current supplied by a respective phase to dynamic load 118. Phase mapping 220 outputs output current information 221 (e.g., captured by signal 111) for each of the detected phases 121-P1, 121-P2, 121-P3, etc. to a control function 231 associated with controller 141.

[0101] Phase map 220 outputs detected output current information 222 associated with each of phases 122-P1, 122-P2, 122-P3, 122-P4, etc. to control function 232 associated with controller 142. In one example, signal 221 includes signal 111 and signal 112 (according to Figure 1 ). The control function (CF) 231 uses these two pieces of information for allocation. In one example, strictly speaking, Figure 2 The signal 222 in is Figure 1 The signal 111 in.

[0102] As further shown, the voltage monitor 211 of the controller 141 monitors the magnitude of the output voltage 123 (across the dynamic load 118) and generates an output voltage feedback signal 123-F that is supplied to the adder 213. The output voltage feedback signal 123-F indicates the magnitude of the output voltage 123. The adder 213 generates an error voltage signal 214 based on the difference between the set point reference voltage VREF and the output voltage feedback signal 123-F.

[0103] Based on the error voltage signal 214 and the monitored current supplied by each of the power converter phases in the power converter 121 as indicated by the output current information 221, the control function 231 generates a control signal 233 that is supplied to the modulation function 241. The modulation function 241 uses the control signal 233 to generate the control signal 105, which controls the operation of the power converter phases in the power converter 121 in a manner as previously discussed.

[0104] The control function 231 (controller 141 ) also outputs output current control information, such as an output current control signal 492 , to the adder 235 .

[0105] In one example, adder 235 (eg, associated with controller 142) generates error current signal 272 based on a difference between current reference IREF (eg, zero or other suitable value) and the magnitude of output current 131-2 indicated by output current control signal 271. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown in (e.g., different possible implementations of control function 232), control function 232 uses error current signal 272 (or, in the case of IREF=0, output current control signal 271) and output current information 222 to generate control signal 251 and control the operation of the power converter phases of power converter 122.

[0106] Figure 3 is an example diagram showing payload power converter phases and thruster power converter phases according to examples herein.

[0107] In this example, each of the power converter phases in power converter 121-PY (where Y is an integer value indicating the phase) includes an inductor L1-Y, a switch Q111-Y, a switch Q112-Y, a driver D111-Y, and a driver D112-Y. Note that any of the switches as discussed herein may be implemented in any suitable manner, such as via MOSFETs, semiconductor materials including GaN and SiC, and any power semiconductors including BJTs, IGBTs, JFETs, etc.

[0108] The switch Q111-Y and the switch Q112-Y are connected in series between the input voltage Vin2 (or other power source) and the ground reference. For example, the drain (D) of the switch Q111-Y is connected to receive the input voltage Vin2; the source (S) of the switch Q111-Y is connected to the drain (D) of the switch Q112-Y; the source (S) of the switch Q112-Y is connected to the ground reference. The inductor L1-Y is connected to the source node of the switch Q111-Y and the drain node of the switch Q112-Y.

[0109] Via the control signal 105-Y generated by the controller 141, the controller 141 controls the operation of the switches Q111-Y and Q112-Y in the corresponding power converter phase 121-PY. For example, the high-side switch Q111-Y is activated while the low-side switch Q112-Y is deactivated, so that the magnitude of the current 131-Y1 increases during the corresponding control cycle; the high-side switch Q111-Y is deactivated while the low-side switch Q112-Y is activated, so that the magnitude of the current 131-Y1 decreases during the corresponding control cycle. As discussed herein, the controller 141 changes the duty cycle of the generated control signal 105-Y to control the magnitude of the output current 131-1Y supplied from the inductor L1-Y to the dynamic load 118.

[0110] In this example, each of the power converter phases 122-PX in the power converter 122 (where X is an integer value indicating the phase) includes an inductor L2-X, a switch Q211-X, a switch Q212-X, a driver D211-X, and a driver D212-X. Note that any of the switches as discussed herein may be implemented in any suitable manner, such as via MOSFETs, semiconductor materials including GaN and SiC, and any power semiconductors including BJTs, IGBTs, JFETs, etc.

[0111] The switch Q211-X and the switch Q212-X are connected in series between the input voltage Vin1 and the ground reference. For example, the drain (D) of the switch Q211-X is connected to receive the input voltage Vin1; the source (S) of the switch Q211-X is connected to the drain (D) of the switch Q212-X; the source (S) of the switch Q212-X is connected to the ground reference. The inductor L2-X is connected to the source node of the switch Q211-X and the drain node of the switch Q212-X.

[0112] Via the control signal 106-X generated by the controller 142 for a given power converter phase X, the controller 142 controls the operation of the switches in the corresponding power converter phase 122-PX. For example, the high-side switch Q211-X is activated while the low-side switch Q212-X is deactivated, so that the magnitude of the current 131-2X increases during the corresponding control cycle; the high-side switch Q211-X is deactivated while the low-side switch Q212-X is activated, so that the magnitude of the current 131-2X decreases during the corresponding control cycle. As discussed herein, the controller 142 changes the duty cycle of the generated control signal 106-X to control the magnitude of the output current 131-2X supplied to the dynamic load 118.

[0113] Figure 4 is an example diagram showing a thruster control loop using voltage mode control according to examples herein.

[0114] In this example, as previously discussed, the adder 213 generates the error voltage signal 214 as the difference between the reference voltage VREF (also referred to as the set point reference voltage) and the output voltage feedback signal 123-F (e.g., the error voltage signal 214 is generally equal to VREF minus the magnitude of the output voltage 123, and vice versa). The HAVP 429 (for adaptive voltage positioning, if implemented) provides adjustments to the error voltage signal 214 based on ITOTAL. The adder 213 outputs the error voltage signal 214 to the compensator 420 (e.g., a PID filter). The compensator 420 generates a filtered error signal 416. As its name implies, as further shown, the clamp 432 potentially clamps the received signal 416 to generate a signal 418 supplied to the corresponding adder 431 (431-1, 431-2, etc.).

[0115] It should also be noted that control function 231 can be configured to include current balancing function 410. As its name implies, current balancing function 410 balances the current supplied by each of the active phases in power converter 121. Current balancing function 410 receives corresponding output current information 221 associated with power converter phase 121-P and generates corresponding duty cycle control information 411 associated with each of the power converter phases 121-P. For example, current balancing function 410 generates signal 411-1 associated with power converter phase 121-P1 based on signal 221-1; current balancing function 410 generates signal 411-2 associated with power converter phase 121-P2 based on signal 221-2; and so on.

[0116] In addition, as further shown, adder 431-1 adds signal 411-1 and duty cycle signal 418 to generate a duty cycle control signal 233-1 that is provided to modulation function 241; modulation function 241 uses duty cycle control signal 233-1 to generate control signal 105-1 for controlling the high-side switch and the low-side switch in power converter phase 121-P1.

[0117] Adder 431 - 2 adds signal 411 - 2 and duty cycle signal 418 to generate duty cycle control signal 233 - 2 that is provided to modulation function 241 ; modulation function 241 uses duty cycle control signal 233 - 2 to generate control signal 105 - 2 for controlling high-side and low-side switches in power converter phase 121 - P2 .

[0118] Summer 431 -N adds signal 411 -N and duty cycle signal 418 to generate duty cycle control signal 233 -N that is provided to modulation function 241 ; modulation function 241 uses duty cycle control signal 233 -N to generate control signal 105 -N for controlling power converter phase 121 -PN.

[0119] In a manner as previously discussed, generation of control signal 105 maintains the magnitude of output voltage 123 relative to set point reference voltage VREF.

[0120] As previously discussed, each of the signals 221-1, 221-2, ..., 221-N indicates a respective magnitude of current supplied by the phase-to-dynamic load 118. As further shown, the adder 471 adds the signals 221-1, 221-2, ..., 221-N to generate a signal 491 representing or indicating the magnitude of the output current 131-1.

[0121] Summer 472 adds signal 491 (indicative of the magnitude of output current 131 - 1 ) and signal I-FDBK (indicative of the magnitude of output current 131 - 2 ) to produce signal 493 (ITOTAL) indicative of the total magnitude (ITOTAL) of output current 131 -T.

[0122] Function 490 (e.g., a gain stage) derives control signal ICSB-CMD (a current set point reference indicating the magnitude of the current to be provided by power converter 122) based on the magnitude of total output current 131-T (ITOTAL) in a manner as previously discussed (and as further discussed herein) such that power converter 121 and power converter 122 supply different ratios of output current to dynamic load 118 depending on the magnitude of total output current 131-T. In one example, function 490 is a gain multiplier whose magnitude depends on gain K of ITOTAL. In one embodiment, output current control signal 492 is equal to K times first signal 491 (magnitude of current 131-1).

[0123] Therefore, the controller 141 and the corresponding control function 231 can be configured to receive a first signal 491 indicating the magnitude of the first output current 131-1; receive a second signal I-FDBK indicating the magnitude of the second output current 131-2; add the first signal 491 and the second signal I-FDBK to generate a third signal ITOTAL 493 indicating the magnitude of the total output current consumed by the dynamic load; and multiply the first signal 491 by a gain value K to generate an output current control signal 492 supplied to the second power converter 122 to control the magnitude of the second output current 131-2.

[0124] As further discussed herein, the controller 141 may be configured to select the magnitude of the gain value K based on which of the multiple output current ranges the magnitude of the total output current ITOTAL belongs to. Thus, the magnitude of the gain multiplier value K is a function of the magnitude of the third signal 493 (ITOTAL).

[0125] Note that the control function 231 may or may not include the compensator 437, such as a PID filter. In a first system implementation, in the absence of the compensator 437, the signal ICSB-CMD (271) is equal to the output current control signal 492. The first system implementation may include Figure 4 Controller 141 shown in FIG. 4 (eg, in the absence of compensator 437, output current control signal 271 is equal to output current control signal 492) and Figure 5 Controller 142 shown in .

[0126] In the presence of compensator 437, compensator 437 generates signal ICSB-CMD (271) by PID filtering the received output current control signal 492. In a second system implementation, in the presence of compensator 437, signal ICSB-CMD (271) is equal to the PID filtering of output current control signal 492. The second system implementation may include as follows: Figure 4 The controller 141 (with compensator 437) shown in FIG. Figure 6 Controller 142 shown in .

[0127] Figure 5 is an example diagram illustrating a control loop according to examples herein.

[0128] Generally, PID 437 and PID 520 provide similar functions. The difference lies in the location of the PID. Figure 6 As shown, if PID 437 exists in VR controller 141, ICSB-CMD 271 is sent to CSB controller 142. If PID 437 does not exist in the circuit, VR controller 141 sends output current control signal 492 (which is K*IVR) to Figure 5 This means that Figure 5 The signal 516 in is equivalent to the output current control signal 271.

[0129] Figure 5 and Figure 6 The CSB control loop is shown in the case where the PID is in the CSB controller or the VR controller. Figure 5In this example, as previously discussed, adder 235 generates error current signal 272 as a difference between reference current IREF (a set point reference current value, e.g., zero or other suitable value) and output current control signal 492 received from controller 141. As previously discussed, output current control signal 492 informs controller 142 of the magnitude of output current 131-2 to be supplied by power converter 122 to dynamic load 118.

[0130] The compensator 520 (e.g., a PID compensator or PID filter including a sum of proportional-integral-derivative terms) receives the error current signal 272 and generates a filtered error current signal 516. The adder 235 can be configured to generate the error current signal 272 as a difference between the reference current IREF and the command current magnitude indicated by the output current control signal 492. The adder 235 outputs the error current signal 272 to the compensator (e.g., PID filter 520). The compensator 520 (e.g., PID filter) generates the filtered error current signal 516 based on the received error current signal 272. As its name implies, the clamp circuit 532 potentially clamps the signal 516 to generate the signal 518.

[0131] Also in this example, based on the filtered and potentially clamped error signal 518, the divider 534 generates a per-phase current reference signal 621 that is supplied to each of the adders 631 (631-1, 631-2, etc.) such that the power converter phase associated with the power converter 122 supplies a total output current at a magnitude as indicated by the signal ICSB-CMD.

[0132] As further shown, adder 631-1 adds signal 222-1 and current reference signal 621 to generate a corresponding output signal provided to a corresponding PI filter to generate duty cycle control signal 251-1; modulation function 242 receives duty cycle control signal 251-1 and uses it to generate control signal 106-1 for controlling power converter phase 122-P1.

[0133] Adder 631 - 2 adds signal 222 - 2 and current reference signal 621 to generate a corresponding output signal provided to a corresponding PI filter to generate duty cycle control signal 251 - 2 ; modulation function 242 receives duty cycle control signal 251 - 2 and uses it to generate control signal 106 - 2 for controlling power converter phase 122 - P2 .

[0134] Adder 631-N adds signal 222-N and current reference signal 621 to generate a corresponding output signal provided to a corresponding PI filter to generate a duty cycle control signal 251-N; modulation function 242 receives duty cycle control signal 251-N and uses it to generate control signal 106-N for controlling power converter phase 122-PN.

[0135] Generate and adjust control signal 251 via control function 232-1 and subsequently implement modulation function 242 to produce control signal 106 to maintain the magnitude of the output current of the power converter phases in power converter 122 so that the combination of power converter phases associated with power converter 122 produces an output current 131-2 that is generally equal to the output current magnitude specified by filtering of output current control signal 492.

[0136] As further shown, the control function 232-1 of the controller 142 can be configured to include an adder 572. The adder 572 receives feedback supplied by each of the power converter phases of the power converter 122, such as the magnitude of the current 222-1, 222-2, ..., 222-N (power converter phase 122-P1 supplies output current at a first magnitude 222-1; power converter phase 122-P2 supplies output current at a second magnitude 222-2, etc.) to generate a corresponding signal I-FDBK, which indicates the magnitude of the output current 131-2 supplied by the power converter 122 to the dynamic load 118. More specifically, the adder 572 adds the signals 222-1, 222-2, ..., 222-N to generate the signal I-FDBK.

[0137] Figure 6 is an example diagram illustrating a second control loop using current mode control as discussed herein.

[0138] This instance of control function 232 (e.g., control function 232-2) is similar to the one previously described in Figure 5 6. However, in this example, clamp 532 receives output current control signal 271 (e.g., ICSB-CMD) to generate signal 518. Divider 534 receives signal 518 and generates corresponding signal 621. Generally, in one example, divider 534 divides the received demand for output current specified by signal 621 into per-phase amounts according to how many phases in power converter 122 are activated to produce output current 131-2.

[0139] Fig. 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 7C is an example diagram illustrating implementations of different techniques for generating a distribution value K for different magnitudes of total output current as discussed herein.

[0140] exist Fig. 7A In, a decoder such as function 490 generates an allocation value K based on ITOTAL and different discrete threshold levels to determine the range within which the total size ITOTAL falls.

[0141] exist Figure 7B In the example, the decoder, such as function 490, generates a distribution value K based on a temperature dependency, such as the voltage regulator temperature TVR used as a feedback signal. This example shows the use of temperature adaptive current thresholds. As the voltage regulator temperature TVR increases, the current thresholds I1, I2, etc. are adjusted to change the scalar value K; and thus command more current from the CSB and reduce the power handling burden from the voltage regulator (power converter 121).

[0142] Figure 7C It is a multi-dimensional optimization, where in addition to the total current ITOTAL and the voltage regulator temperature TVR, other parameters can also be used to determine the scalar value K associated with function 490. For example, VID (voltage set point VREF) can be used to modify the threshold to improve efficiency. The temperature of the CSB phase (also known as TCSB) can be used to push the current back to the voltage regulator. The input voltage of power converter 121 and power converter 122 can also be used to adjust the distribution. The lookup table LUT allows for finer threshold granularity. If desired, the variables can also be linearized to achieve a continuously modified K.

[0143] Figure 8 is an example diagram illustrating current distribution via implementation of function K as discussed herein.

[0144] As previously discussed, this example includes a control loop that modifies / proportionally adjusts the voltage regulator current (output current 131-1 or signal IVR used as a feedback signal) to a CSB command control ICSB-CMD, allocating the magnitude of output current 131-1 and output current 131-2 according to the total magnitude of output current 131-T (ITOTAL). This is an overall block diagram of generating ICSB-CMD from IVR. Through the compensation network (Hc=PID), K*IVR produces ICSB-CMD. In Figure 5 In the corresponding configuration, PID 520 is the CSB control loop. Figure 6 In the corresponding configuration, PID is in the VR control loop.

[0145] Fig. 9 is an example timing diagram illustrating distribution of output current among multiple power converters as discussed herein.

[0146] In this example, power converter 122 generates output current 131 - 2 . Dynamic load 118 consumes total output current 131 -T (ITOTAL ). The distribution of output currents 131 - 1 and 131 - 2 varies over time according to the magnitude of ITOTAL .

[0147] Fig.10 is an example diagram illustrating distribution of output current among multiple power converters based on function K as discussed herein.

[0148] In this example, function 490 changes the size of the multiplier value K depending on the range in which ITOTAL falls.

[0149] For example, if the total output current ITOTAL falls within the range of 0 to 25% of the maximum output current value, function 490 generates the magnitude of the multiplier value K to be 0. In such a case, power converter 121 generates 100% of the total output current 131-T(ITOTAL), and power converter 122 supplies 0% of the total output current 131-T(ITOTAL). ICSB-CMD indicates that a current of zero amperes is provided.

[0150] If the total output current ITOTAL falls within the range of 25% to 50% of the maximum output current value, function 490 generates the magnitude of the multiplier value K as 0.25. In this case, power converter 121 generates 75% of the total output current 131-T(ITOTAL), and power converter 122 supplies 25% of the total output current 131-T(ITOTAL). ICSB-CMD indicates that 25% of the total amperes of current ITOTAL are provided.

[0151] If the total output current ITOTAL falls within the range of 50% to 75% of the maximum output current value, function 490 generates the magnitude of the multiplier value K as 0.50. In this case, power converter 121 generates 50% of the total output current 131-T(ITOTAL), and power converter 122 supplies 50% of the total output current 131-T(ITOTAL). ICSB-CMD indicates that 50% of the total amperes of current ITOTAL are provided.

[0152] If the total output current ITOTAL falls within the range of 75% to 100% of the maximum output current value, function 490 generates the magnitude of the multiplier value K as 0.75. In this case, power converter 121 generates 25% of the total output current 131-T(ITOTAL), and power converter 122 supplies 75% of the total output current 131-T(ITOTAL). ICSB-CMD indicates that 75% of the total amperes of current ITOTAL are provided.

[0153] Thus, the controller 141 may be configured to vary the ratio of the magnitude of the second output current 131 - 2 relative to the magnitude of the first output current 131 - 1 over time according to a control function that depends on the magnitude of the total output current ITOTAL.

[0154] This example shows that the controller 141 is operable to increase the ratio of the magnitude of the second output current 131-2 relative to the magnitude of the first output current 131-1 for a larger magnitude (range 4) of the total output current ITOTAL consumed by the dynamic load 118; the controller 141 is operable to decrease the ratio of the magnitude of the second output current 131-2 relative to the magnitude of the first output current 131-1 for a smaller magnitude (range 1) of the total output current ITOTAL consumed by the dynamic load.

[0155] Fig.11 is an example timing diagram illustrating distribution of output current among multiple power converters as discussed herein.

[0156] In this example, power converter 122 generates output current 131 - 2 . Dynamic load 118 consumes total output current 131 -T (ITOTAL ). The different portions of the output current of power converter 121 and power converter 122 depend on the size of ITOTAL .

[0157] Fig.12 is an example diagram illustrating an implementation of a control loop using voltage mode control as discussed herein.

[0158] In this example, in a similar manner, as previously discussed, the adder 213 generates the error voltage signal 214 as the difference between the reference voltage VREF (also referred to as the set point reference voltage) and the output voltage feedback signal 123-F (e.g., the error voltage signal 214 is generally equal to VREF minus the magnitude of the output voltage 123, and vice versa). The HAVP 429 (for adaptive voltage positioning, if implemented) provides adjustments to the error voltage signal 214 based on ITOTAL.

[0159] The adder 213 outputs the error voltage signal 214 to the compensator (e.g., PID filter 420). The compensator 420 (e.g., PID filter) generates a filtered error signal 416. As its name implies, the clamp 432 optionally clamps the received signal 416 to generate a signal 418 supplied to the corresponding adder 431 (431-1, 431-2, etc.).

[0160] It should also be noted that control function 231 can be configured to include current balancing function 410. As its name implies, current balancing function 410 balances the current supplied by each of the active phases in power converter 121. Current balancing function 410 receives corresponding output current information 221 associated with power converter phase 121-P and generates corresponding duty cycle control information 411 associated with each of the power converter phases 121-P. For example, current balancing function 410 generates signal 411-1 associated with power converter phase 121-P1 based on signal 221-1; current balancing function 410 generates signal 411-2 associated with power converter phase 121-P2 based on signal 221-2; and so on.

[0161] Additionally, as further shown, adder 431-1 adds signal 411-1 to duty cycle signal 418 to generate duty cycle control signal 233-1 that is provided to modulation function 241; modulation function 241 uses duty cycle control signal 233-1 to generate control signal 105-1 for controlling high-side switches and low-side switches in power converter phase 121-P1.

[0162] Adder 431 - 2 adds signal 411 - 2 with duty cycle signal 418 to generate duty cycle control signal 233 - 2 that is provided to modulation function 241 ; modulation function 241 uses duty cycle control signal 233 - 2 to generate control signal 105 - 2 for controlling high-side and low-side switches in power converter phase 121 - P2 .

[0163] Summer 431 -N adds signal 411 -N and duty cycle signal 418 to generate duty cycle control signal 233 -N that is provided to modulation function 241 ; modulation function 241 uses duty cycle control signal 233 -N to generate control signal 105 -N for controlling power converter phase 121 -PN.

[0164] In a manner as previously discussed, generation of control signal 105 maintains the magnitude of output voltage 123 relative to set point reference voltage VREF.

[0165] As previously discussed, each of the signals 221-1, 221-2, ..., 221-N indicates a respective magnitude of current supplied by a phase to the dynamic load 118. As further shown, the adder 471 adds the signals 221-1, 221-2, ..., 221-N to generate a signal 491 representing or indicating a total magnitude of the output current 131-1.

[0166] Summer 472 adds signal 491 (indicative of the magnitude of output current 131 - 1 ) and signal I-FDBK (indicative of the magnitude of output voltage 131 - 2 ) to produce signal 493 (ITOTAL) indicative of the total magnitude of output current 131 -T (ITOTAL).

[0167] Lookup table function 1220 derives control signal ICSB-CMD 271 (e.g., a current set point reference value indicating the magnitude of current to be provided by power converter 122) based on the magnitude of total output current 131-T (ITOTAL or signal 493) in a manner as previously discussed (and as further discussed herein) such that power converter 121 and power converter 122 supply different ratios of output current to dynamic load 118 depending on the magnitude of total output current 131-T.

[0168] Note that combined Figure 6 The control function 232 in implements the control function 231 - 2 to provide distribution of current to power the dynamic load 118 .

[0169] Fig.13A , Fig. 13B and Fig. 13C is an example diagram illustrating implementations of different techniques for distributing ICSB-CMD for different sizes of total output current generation as discussed herein.

[0170] exist Fig.13A In the example, the size of ICSB-CMD varies according to the discrete threshold and the range that ITOTAL falls into.

[0171] exist Fig. 13B In the example, the size of ICSB-CMD depends on the temperature. The temperature of the voltage regulator can be used as a feedback signal. The example shown uses temperature adaptive current thresholds. For example, as the VR (voltage regulator) temperature increases, the current thresholds I1, I2, etc. will be adjusted to change the size of ICSB-CMD; and thus command more current from CSB and reduce the power handling burden from the voltage regulator.

[0172] exist Fig. 13C Multi-dimensional optimization is shown in FIG. For example, in addition to the total current ITOTAL and the VR temperature, other parameters can be used to control the size of ICSB-CMD. For example, VID (voltage set point) can be used to modify the threshold to improve efficiency. The temperature of the CSB phase (power converter 122) can be used to push the output current back to be provided by VR (power converter 121). The input voltage of power converters 121 and 122 can also be used to adjust the distribution. Implementing a lookup table LUT allows for finer threshold granularity. Note that the variables can also be linearized to achieve continuously modified ICSB-CMD.

[0173] Fig.14 is an example diagram illustrating controlling the magnitude of output current from different power converters as discussed herein.

[0174] In this example, controller 141 controls power converter 121 to provide output current 131 - 1 to dynamic load 118 . Based on received output current control signal 271 , controller 142 controls power converter 122 to provide output current 131 - 2 to dynamic load 118 .

[0175] Fig.15 is an example timing diagram illustrating distribution of output current among power converters as discussed herein.

[0176] Timing diagram 1200 illustrates how different power converters supply different amounts of output current to dynamic load 118 over time.

[0177] Fig.16 is an example timing diagram illustrating static distribution of output current among power converters as discussed herein.

[0178] Later in this specification, the terms static and dynamic are used when describing multiple CSBs. Fig.11 and Fig.16 "Static" CSB behavior is shown. In one example, note that "static" means static for a given operating point.

[0179] Timing diagram 1300 illustrates how different power converters supply different amounts of output current to dynamic load 118 over time.

[0180] Between time T0 and time T1, the voltage regulator (power converter 121 and controller 141) responds to transients to provide regulation and also provides some non-zero average power. Controller 141 sends ICSB-CMD to CSB controller (controller 142). Controller 142 controls the CSB phase in power converter 122 to provide a stable current with magnitude LOW.

[0181] Between time T1 and time T2, the magnitude of the output current transient has increased. Controller 141 responds to the transient and has increased the current commanded from CSB (to MED). Controller 141 still provides some average power, but now its minimum transient current drops below zero.

[0182] Between time T2 and time T3, the dynamic load 118 transient has increased further. Controller 141 commands a HIGH output current from CSB (power converter 122). Controller 141 still provides non-zero average power.

[0183] In this example, increasing ICSB-CMD to increase the current provided by CSB causes: i) more CSB phases to be activated in power converter 122 to provide output current, ii) a reduction in the average power provided by power converter 121 (the VR average power must always be greater than or equal to zero to avoid circulating currents), and iii) a reduction in the VR (power converter 122) minimum current. The increase in commanded current may be to reduce VR heating, to maintain some peak VR current, to maintain some value of the average power provided by VR, etc.

[0184] Fig.17 is an example timing diagram illustrating dynamic distribution of output current among power converters as discussed herein.

[0185] Timing diagram 1400 illustrates how different power converters provide different amounts of output current to dynamic load 118 over time.

[0186] Fig.18 is an example diagram illustrating distribution of output current among power converters as discussed herein.

[0187] In this example, the controller 141 generates the control signal ICSB- CMD1 according to dynamic or static behavior as previously discussed.

[0188] The power converter 122, such as CSB 1 (e.g., 16 power converter phases), activates phases to meet the current requirement of ICSB-CMD1. The control signal ICSB-CMD2 is generated by the controller 142 to control the CSB controller 2. The CSB controller 2 is operable to activate one or more phases (e.g., 8 phases) associated with the power converter 1823 to meet the current requirement of ICSB-CMD2.

[0189] More specifically, the control functions associated with the controller 141 as discussed herein may be configured to: i) regulate the magnitude of the output voltage 123 supplied to the dynamic load 118, and ii) generate a first control signal ICSB-CMD1 indicating a first magnitude of a supplemental output current supplied to the dynamic load 118 in addition to the output current 131-1 provided to the dynamic load 118 by the power converter 121. The control functions associated with the controller 142: i) receive the first control signal ICSB-CMD1, ii) via the second power converter 122, the controller 142 generates a magnitude of the second output current 131-2 as a first portion of the supplemental output current indicated by the first control signal ICSB-CMD1, and ii) generate a second control signal ICSB-CMD2 indicating a second portion of the supplemental output current for supply to the dynamic load 118. Control function (CSB controller 2): i) receives the second control signal ICSB-CMD2, ii) and generates via the third power converter (8 phases) a magnitude of a third output current ICSB2 equal to the second portion of the supplemental output current as indicated by the second control signal ICSB-CMD2.

[0190] Note that ICSB-CMD2 can be dynamic or static; and does not have to be the same as ICSB-CMD1. For example, ICSB-CMD1 can be dynamic and ICSB-CMD2 can be static.

[0191] However, once a command is static, all remaining downstream commands will also be static.

[0192] In About Fig.18 In another example, each CSB controller (eg, controller 142 , CSB controller 2 , etc.) receives a commanded current signal and provides a desired amount of current to the dynamic load 118 .

[0193] In the event that the commanded current exceeds the capability of the corresponding CSB (power converter), the excess current is passed to (commanded from) the subsequent stage.

[0194] For example, assume that signal ICSB-CMD1 corresponds to 630 amps. Controller 142 (e.g., CSB controller 1) will attempt to meet the demand and activate all 16 phases of power converter 122 to provide 480 A. The command to supplement the current will be passed to CSB controller 2 via ICSB-CMD2. In this example, CSB2 controller will activate, for example, 5 phases to supply the remaining 150 A (the remainder of the requested current).

[0195] Note that many CSBs can be added to the daisy chain. For example, 24 CSB phases shown as 16+8 (such as power converter 122 with 16 power converter phases and power converter 1823 with 8 power converter phases) can be implemented as 12+12, or 8+8+8, or 6+6+6+6, etc.

[0196] Phase division can be done based on cost, layout / routing, thermal, etc.

[0197] Fig.19 is an example diagram illustrating distribution of output current among power converters as discussed herein.

[0198] In this example, the controller 141 generates ICSB-CMD1 and ICSB-CMD2 according to dynamic behavior or static behavior as previously discussed.

[0199] Note that the commanded CSB current signals can be any combination of static or dynamic. For example, ICSB-CMD1 can be dynamic and ICSB-CMD2 can be static; both control signals can be static or both can be dynamic.

[0200] The choice of static / dynamic is based on the desired system behavior.

[0201] Each CSB control may be configured to activate the phases needed to supply the commanded current. The controller 141 must know the capabilities of each CSB to scale the commanded current appropriately.

[0202] In this example, a first control function associated with the controller 141: i) regulates the magnitude of the output voltage 123 supplied to the dynamic load 118, ii) generates a first control signal ICSB-CMD1, the first control signal ICSB-CMD1 indicating a first magnitude of the supplemental output current to be supplied to the dynamic load 118, and iii) generates a second control signal ICSB-CMD2, the second control signal ICSB-CMD2 indicating a second magnitude of the supplemental output current to be supplied to the dynamic load 118.

[0203] A second control function associated with controller 142: i) receives the first control signal ICSB-CMD1, ii) generates, via second power converter 122, a magnitude of second output current 131 - 2 equal to the first magnitude of the supplemental output current indicated by first control signal ICSB-CMD1.

[0204] The third control function associated with the CSB controller 2: i) receives the second control signal ICSB-CMD2, ii) generates a third output current ICSB2 from the third power converter 1823 (8 phases), and the third output current ICSB2 is equal to the second output current ICSB2 indicated by the second control signal ICSB-CMD2.

[0205] exist Fig.19 In another example, the controller 141 (also referred to as VR) may be configured to provide a synchronization command.

[0206] For example, controller 142 may be configured to control power converter 122 to provide 2 / 3 of the requested total output current ITOTAL while requesting power converter 122 to provide 1 / 3 of the requested total output current.

[0207] It should also be noted that controller 141 can be configured to interleave CSB operations associated with power converters 122 and 1823. For example, ICSB-CMD1 commands current from CSB1 controller (142) until it reaches its limit (e.g., 2 / 3 of the maximum), and then sends command ICSB-CMD2 to control CSB controller 2 to provide additional current via power converter 1823.

[0208] The CSB controller 2 and corresponding power converter 1823, for example 8 phases, may be active only when the last 1 / 3 of the current is needed. That is, at half load, the VR and CSB 1 will operate while the CSB 2 is inactive.

[0209] Fig. 20 is an example diagram illustrating distribution of output current among power converters as discussed herein.

[0210] In this example, controller 141 generates ICSB-CMD according to dynamic behavior or static behavior as previously discussed. Each CSB controller (e.g., controller 142 and CSB controller 2) receives the same signal (ICSB-CMD) and scales it according to a pre-programmed factor to control the output current to dynamic load 118.

[0211] Note that the pre-programmed scaling factor is most likely based on the CSB phase count; but may include other factors such as heat (in poorly cooled areas); or losses (further from dynamic loads 118 such as xPUs; and therefore more conduction losses). Each CSB controller activates its corresponding phase required to supply the commanded current.

[0212] In another example, the scaling factor is based on the phase count. For example, controller 142 (CSB controller 1) is programmed by the system designer to scale ICSB-CMD by 2 / 3. CSB controller 2 is programmed to scale by 1 / 3. For all operating points where VR controller 141 requires current, both CSB controllers will be active. Both CSB controllers can be active in PFM (e.g., VR requires 3 amps - CSB controller 1 provides 2 amps; CSB controller 2 provides 1 amp).

[0213] Fig.21 is an example diagram illustrating an implementation of an internal voltage regulator in a corresponding load and distribution of output current among power converters as discussed herein.

[0214] In this example, controller 141 and power converter 121 (VR) and controller 142 and power converter 122 (CSB) provide input power (via output current 131-1 and output current 131-2) to voltage regulator 2100 disposed in dynamic load 118. Voltage regulator 2100 converts the received current ITOTAL (also referred to as ITOT) into a corresponding output voltage 123-21 to power core load 2118. This is a direct extension of other examples discussed herein.

[0215] Fig. 22 is an example diagram illustrating an implementation of an internal voltage regulator in a corresponding load and distribution of output current among power converters as discussed herein.

[0216] In this example, VR provides the integrated VR input power and CSB increases the integrated VR output power. VR commands a boost current to reduce the power it must supply to the dynamic load 118. Note that the boost current can be connected to the same node as the VR output, or to a downstream node (e.g., the integrated VR output). As further shown, the integrated voltage regulator 2101 associated with the dynamic load 118 can be configured to generate a corresponding VID setting that is transmitted to the controller 141 to control the magnitude of the output voltage 123 supplied to the integrated voltage regulator 2101.

[0217] Fig.23 is an example diagram illustrating an implementation of an internal voltage regulator in a corresponding load and distribution of output current among power converters as discussed herein.

[0218] In this example, the integrated voltage regulator system shows a single CSB controller (controller 142) and power stage. However, any of the example configurations discussed may be applied to an integrated VR system.

[0219] Fig.24is an example diagram illustrating an implementation of output current distribution in a dual load line system as discussed herein.

[0220] In this example, the VR loop and CSB loop can have different load lines and AVP filters as shown. VR filter 2401 can be tuned to the system impedance for optimal performance and capacitor reduction. CSB filter 2402 can be low frequency; determines the steady state set point.

[0221] Fig.25 is an example diagram illustrating a closed current control loop based on simulated current for sensorless adaptive voltage positioning control as discussed herein.

[0222] In one embodiment, in order to save the pins and circuit connections required to transmit the IFDBK signal from the controller 142 to the controller 141, ICSB-CMD can be fed back to estimate (simulate) the output current 131-2 at the controller 142. In other words, the controller 141 can be configured to determine the magnitude of the second output current 131-2 supplied from the second power converter 122 to the dynamic load 118 via the simulation and the signal ICSB-CMD. Therefore, the simulation can set ICSB-CMD based on the output current control. The PID output in the average current mode control is the commanded current. In VR / CSB, it is the commanded total current. This does not affect the current of the VR loop or the CSB loop, but it will affect the set point (low frequency).

[0223] Fig.26 is an example block diagram of a computer device for implementing any of the operations discussed herein according to examples herein.

[0224] As shown, the computer system 2600 of the present example (e.g., implemented by any of one or more resources of each controller such as controller 141, controller 142, etc.) includes: an interconnect 2611 coupling a computer-readable storage medium 2612, such as a non-transitory type of medium (or hardware storage medium) that can store and retrieve digital information, a processor 2613 (e.g., computer processor hardware, such as one or more processor devices), an I / O interface 2614 (e.g., for outputting control signals to power converter phases, monitoring current, etc.), and a communication interface 2617.

[0225] I / O interface 2614 provides connection to any suitable circuitry, such as power converter phases.

[0226] The computer-readable storage medium 2612 may be any hardware storage resource or device, such as a memory, optical storage, a hard drive, a floppy disk, etc. In one example, the computer-readable storage medium 2612 stores instructions and / or data used by the controller application 140-A (e.g., implemented by any of the controllers 141, 142, etc.) to perform any of the operations described herein.

[0227] Also in this example, communications interface 2617 enables computer system 2600 and processor 2613 to communicate through resources such as network 190 to retrieve information from remote sources and to communicate with other computers.

[0228] As shown, computer-readable storage medium 2612 is encoded with controller application 140-A (eg, software, firmware, etc.) that is executed by processor 2613. Controller application 140-A may be configured to include instructions for implementing any of the operations discussed herein.

[0229] During one example operation, the processor 2613 accesses the computer-readable storage medium 2612 via the use of the interconnect 2611 to launch, run, execute, interpret or otherwise perform instructions in the controller application 140 -A stored on the computer-readable storage medium 2612 .

[0230] Execution of controller application 140-A produces processing functionality, such as controller process 140-B in processor 2613. In other words, controller process 140-B associated with processor 2613 represents one or more aspects of controller application 140-A executing within or on processor 2613 in computer system 2600.

[0231] According to various examples, note that the computer system 2600 may be a microcontroller device, logic, hardware processor, mixed analog / digital circuitry, etc. configured to control power and perform any of the operations described herein.

[0232] Now it will pass Fig. 27 The functions supported by different resources are discussed with reference to the flowchart in . Note that the steps in the flowchart below may be performed in any suitable order.

[0233] Fig. 27 is an example diagram illustrating a method of controlling a power converter according to examples herein.

[0234] In processing operation 2710 , the controller 141 and / or corresponding control function 231 determines a magnitude of a first output current 131 supplied from the first power converter 121 to the dynamic load 118 .

[0235] In processing operation 2720 , the controller 141 and / or corresponding control function 231 determines a magnitude of the second output current 131 - 2 supplied from the second power converter 122 to power the dynamic load 118 .

[0236] In process operation 2730 , controller 141 and corresponding control function 230 controls the magnitude of second output current 131 - 2 relative to first output current 131 - 1 based on the magnitude of the total output current (ITOTAL) consumed by dynamic load 118 (eg, via a ratio as indicated by K).

[0237] Note again that the techniques herein are well suited for use in circuit applications, such as those implementing power conversion. However, it should be noted that the examples herein are not limited to use in such applications, and the techniques discussed herein are also well suited for other applications.

[0238] Based on the description set forth herein, many specific details have been set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the subject matter claimed. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the subject matter claimed can be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, methods, devices, systems, etc. known to ordinary technicians are not described in detail to avoid blurring the subject matter claimed. Some parts of the detailed description have been presented in the form of algorithms or symbolic representations of data bits or binary digital signals stored in a computing system memory such as a computer memory. These algorithm descriptions or representations are examples of techniques used by ordinary technicians in the field of data processing to convey the essence of their work to other technicians in the field. The algorithms described herein are generally considered to be self-consistent sequences of operations or similar processes that produce desired results. In this context, operations or processes involve physical manipulation of physical quantities. Typically, although not required, such quantities can take the form of electrical or magnetic signals that can be stored, transmitted, combined, compared, or otherwise manipulated. Sometimes, primarily for general reasons, it is convenient to refer to such signals as bits, data, values, elements, symbols, characters, items, numbers, numbers, etc. However, it should be understood that all of these terms and similar terms are associated with appropriate physical quantities and are only convenient markers. Unless otherwise expressly stated, as will be apparent from the following discussion, it should be understood that throughout this specification, discussions using terms such as "processing," "computing," "calculating," "determining," and the like refer to the actions or processes of a computing platform, such as a computer or similar electronic computing device, that manipulate or transform data represented as physical electronic or magnetic quantities within a memory, register, or other information storage device, transmission device, or display device of the computing platform.

[0239] Although the present invention has been specifically shown and described with reference to the preferred examples of the present invention, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present application as defined by the appended claims. Such variations are intended to be encompassed by the scope of the present application. Therefore, the foregoing description of the examples of the present application is not intended to be restrictive. Rather, any limitations to the present invention are presented in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A control device, comprising: A controller operable to: determining a magnitude of a first output current supplied from the first power converter to the dynamic load; determining a magnitude of a second output current supplied from a second power converter to power the dynamic load; as well as The magnitude of the second output current is controlled relative to the magnitude of the first output current based on the magnitude of the total output current consumed by the dynamic load.

2. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: The controller is also operable to: An output voltage of the first power converter is regulated in magnitude relative to a set point reference voltage via the first power converter, the output voltage supplying the first output current to the dynamic load.

3. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: The total output current is equal to the magnitude of the first output current plus the magnitude of the second output current.

4. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: The controller is further operable to vary a ratio of a magnitude of the second output current relative to a magnitude of the first output current over time.

5. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: The controller is also operable to: receiving a first signal indicating a magnitude of the first output current; receiving a second signal indicating a magnitude of the second output current; adding the first signal to the second signal to produce a third signal indicative of a magnitude of the total output current consumed by the dynamic load; and The first signal is multiplied by a gain value to generate an output current control signal, which is provided to the second power converter to control the magnitude of the second output current.

6. The control device according to claim 5, wherein: The controller is operable to select the magnitude of the gain value according to which output current range the magnitude of the total output current belongs to among a plurality of output current ranges.

7. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: The controller is further operable to vary over time a ratio of a magnitude of the second output current relative to a magnitude of the first output current according to a control function that is dependent upon a magnitude of the total output current consumed by the dynamic load.

8. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: The controller is further operable to control output of a control signal to the second power converter, the control signal indicating an output current control setting for generating the second output current.

9. The control device according to claim 8, wherein: The controller is further operable to determine a magnitude of the second output current supplied from the second power converter via simulation, the simulation being based on the output current control setting.

10. The control device according to claim 9, wherein: The simulation to determine the magnitude of the second output current includes applying a scaling factor to the output current control setting.

11. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: The controller is also operable to: The magnitude of the second output current supplied from the second power converter to the dynamic load is limited via a clamping function in a control loop of the second power converter.

12. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: The controller is operable to increase a ratio of a magnitude of the second output current relative to a magnitude of the first output current for a greater magnitude of the total output current consumed by the dynamic load.

13. The control device according to claim 12, wherein: The controller is operable to reduce a ratio of a magnitude of the second output current relative to a magnitude of the first output current for a smaller magnitude of the total output current consumed by the dynamic load.

14. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: The controller comprises: a first control function operable to: i) regulate a magnitude of an output voltage supplied to the dynamic load, and ii) generate a first control signal indicative of a first magnitude of a supplemental output current to be supplied to the dynamic load; a second control function operable to: i) receive the first control signal, ii) generate, via the second power converter, a magnitude of the second output current as a first portion of the supplemental output current indicated by the first control signal, and iii) generate a second control signal indicating a second portion of the supplemental output current to be supplied to the dynamic load; and A third control function is operable to: i) receive the second control signal, ii) generate a magnitude of a third output current via a third power converter, the magnitude of the third output current being equal to a second portion of the supplemental output current indicated by the second control signal.

15. The control device according to claim 14, wherein: The total number of the control functions exceeds 3.

16. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: The controller comprises: a first control function operable to: i) regulate the magnitude of an output voltage supplied to the dynamic load, ii) generate a first control signal indicative of a first magnitude of a supplemental output current to be supplied to the dynamic load, iii) generate a second control signal indicative of a second magnitude of a supplemental output current to be supplied to the dynamic load; a second control function operable to: i) receive the first control signal, ii) generate, via the second power converter, a magnitude of the second output current equal to the first magnitude of the supplemental output current indicated by the first control signal; and A third control function is operable to: i) receive the second control signal, ii) generate a magnitude of a third output current from a third power converter, the magnitude of the third output current being equal to the second magnitude of the supplemental output current indicated by the second control signal.

17. The control device according to claim 16, wherein: The total number of the control functions exceeds 3.

18. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: The controller comprises: a first control function operable to: i) regulate the magnitude of an output voltage supplied to the dynamic load, and ii) generate a first control signal indicative of a supplemental output current to be supplied to the dynamic load; a second control function operable to: i) receive the first control signal, ii) generate, via the second power converter, a magnitude of the second output current as a first portion of the supplemental output current indicated by the first control signal, and A third control function is operable to: i) receive the first control signal, ii) generate a magnitude of a third output current via a third power converter as a second portion of the supplemental output current indicated by the first control signal.

19. The control device according to claim 18, wherein: The total number of the control functions exceeds 3.

20. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: the first power converter being operable to supply the first output current to an integrated voltage regulator associated with the dynamic load, the integrated voltage regulator being operable to convert the first output current into a third output current supplied to a core portion of the dynamic load; and The second power converter is operable to supply the second output current to a core portion of the dynamic load.

21. A control method, comprising: determining a magnitude of a first output current supplied from the first power converter to the dynamic load; determining a magnitude of a second output current supplied from a second power converter to power the dynamic load; as well as The magnitude of the second output current is controlled relative to the magnitude of the first output current based on the magnitude of the total output current consumed by the dynamic load.

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