Drive circuit, charge pump, chip and electronic device

Abstract

This disclosure provides a driving circuit, a charge pump, a chip, and an electronic device. In any stage of the energy storage branch of the charge pump, through the configuration of a Zener diode, a voltage divider circuit, a switching transistor, and a level conversion circuit in the driving circuit, the voltage divider circuit makes the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor higher than the difference between the supply voltage and the divided voltage. The level conversion circuit converts the level value of the first clock signal and outputs the converted first clock signal at the output terminal of the level conversion circuit. The value range of the converted first clock signal is from the supply voltage to the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor, so that the voltage of the first clock signal in the energy storage branch where the driving circuit is located is small, reducing the current of the energy storage branch and achieving current limiting of the energy storage branch. With a simple modification to the driving circuit, current limiting of the charge pump can be achieved, improving reliability and safety while saving cost and circuit area.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of electronic technology, and more particularly to a drive circuit, charge pump, chip, and electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] A charge pump, also known as a switched capacitor voltage converter, is a DC-DC converter that uses a "flying" or "pumping" capacitor to store energy.

[0003] In charge pumps, switching transistors are typically used to control different energy storage branches.

[0004] However, since the impedance of the switching transistor is usually low, excessive current may occur in the charge pump, which can lead to reduced reliability or even circuit damage. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure provides a driving circuit, charge pump, chip, and electronic device to address the problem of reduced reliability of charge pumps.

[0006] In a first aspect, this disclosure provides a driving circuit for a charge pump, the charge pump including at least two energy storage branches, the output terminal of the first energy storage branch being connected to the input terminal of the second energy storage branch; each of the at least two energy storage branches including at least one switching transistor and a capacitor; the output terminal of the driving circuit being connected to the control terminal of at least one switching transistor in the first energy storage branch; the at least two energy storage branches including the first energy storage branch;

[0007] The driving circuit includes: a Zener diode, a voltage divider circuit, a current source, a level conversion circuit, a first switching transistor, and a second switching transistor;

[0008] The input terminal of the level conversion circuit is used to receive a first clock signal, and the output terminal of the level conversion circuit is the output terminal of the driving circuit. The first power supply terminal of the level conversion circuit is used to receive the power supply voltage, and the second power supply terminal of the level conversion circuit is connected to the second terminal of the first switching transistor. The control terminal of the first switching transistor is connected to the output terminal of the voltage divider circuit, the first terminal of the first switching transistor is connected to the second terminal of the second switching transistor, the control terminal of the second switching transistor is connected to the anode of the Zener diode, and the first terminal of the second switching transistor is grounded. The cathode of the Zener diode is used to receive the power supply voltage, and the anode of the Zener diode is grounded through the current source. The voltage divider circuit is connected in parallel with the Zener diode. The voltage divider circuit is used to divide the voltage across the Zener diode and output a divided voltage at the output terminal, so that the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor is higher than the difference between the power supply voltage and the divided voltage.

[0009] The level conversion circuit is used to convert the level value of the first clock signal and output the converted first clock signal at the output terminal of the level conversion circuit. The value range of the converted first clock signal is the range of the supply voltage to the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor.

[0010] In some embodiments, the voltage divider circuit includes a first resistor and a second resistor connected in series; a first end of the first resistor is connected to the negative terminal of the Zener diode, and a second end of the first resistor is connected to the first end of the second resistor; a second end of the second resistor is connected to the positive terminal of the Zener diode, and a first end of the second resistor is connected to the control terminal of the first switching transistor.

[0011] In some embodiments, the level conversion circuit includes a level converter and a series-connected multi-stage inverter connected in sequence; the input terminal of the level converter is used to receive the first clock signal; the output terminal of the last stage inverter in the series-connected multi-stage inverter is the output terminal of the driving circuit.

[0012] The driving circuit for a charge pump provided in this disclosure, in any stage of the energy storage branch of the charge pump, through the setting of a Zener diode, a voltage divider circuit, a switching transistor, and a level conversion circuit in the driving circuit, ensures that the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor is higher than the difference between the supply voltage and the divided voltage in the voltage divider circuit. The level conversion circuit converts the level value of the first clock signal and outputs the converted first clock signal at the output terminal of the level conversion circuit. The value range of the converted first clock signal is from the supply voltage to the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor, thereby making the output voltage of the level conversion circuit larger and the voltage of the first clock signal in the energy storage branch where the driving circuit is located smaller, reducing the current in the energy storage branch and limiting the current of the energy storage branch. By using the original driving circuit of the charge pump and making simple modifications to the driving circuit, current limiting protection for the charge pump is achieved, so that the current in the charge pump is controlled below the current limit value. While saving costs and circuit area, the normal operation of the charge pump is guaranteed, and the reliability and safety of the charge pump are improved.

[0013] Secondly, this disclosure provides a charge pump, the charge pump including a drive circuit and at least two energy storage branches, the output terminal of the first energy storage branch being connected to the input terminal of the second energy storage branch; each of the at least two energy storage branches includes at least one switching transistor and a capacitor; the output terminal of the drive circuit is connected to the control terminal of at least one switching transistor in the first energy storage branch; the at least two energy storage branches include the first energy storage branch;

[0014] The driving circuit is the driving circuit described in the first aspect above.

[0015] In some embodiments, the first-stage energy storage branch includes a third switching transistor and a first capacitor; a first terminal of the third switching transistor is used to connect to the input voltage; and a second terminal of the third switching transistor is connected to the top plate of the first capacitor.

[0016] The driving circuit includes a first driving circuit, the output terminal of which is connected to the control terminal of the third switching transistor, and the power supply voltage of the first driving circuit comes from the top plate of the first capacitor.

[0017] In some embodiments, the charge pump further includes a third resistor, and the second terminal of the third switching transistor is connected to the top plate of the first capacitor through the third resistor.

[0018] In some embodiments, the second-stage energy storage branch includes a fourth switching transistor and a second capacitor; the top plate of the second capacitor is connected to the top plate of the first capacitor through the fourth switching transistor.

[0019] The driving circuit includes a second driving circuit, the output terminal of which is connected to the control terminal of the fourth switching transistor, and the power supply voltage of the second driving circuit comes from the top plate of the second capacitor.

[0020] In some embodiments, the charge pump further includes a fourth resistor, and the second terminal of the fourth switching transistor is connected to the top plate of the second capacitor through the fourth resistor.

[0021] In some embodiments, the second-stage energy storage branch further includes a fifth switching transistor; the bottom plate of the second capacitor is connected to the bottom plate of the first capacitor through the fifth switching transistor.

[0022] The driving circuit includes a third driving circuit, the output terminal of which is connected to the control terminal of the fifth switching transistor, and the power supply voltage of the third driving circuit comes from the input voltage.

[0023] In some embodiments, the charge pump further includes a fifth resistor, and the second terminal of the fifth switching transistor is connected to the bottom plate of the second capacitor through the fifth resistor.

[0024] The charge pump provided in this disclosure, in any stage of the energy storage branch, through the setting of a Zener diode, a voltage divider circuit, a switching transistor, and a level conversion circuit in the driving circuit, ensures that the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor is higher than the difference between the supply voltage and the divided voltage in the voltage divider circuit. The level conversion circuit converts the level value of the first clock signal and outputs the converted first clock signal at the output terminal of the level conversion circuit. The value range of the converted first clock signal is from the supply voltage to the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor, thereby making the output voltage of the level conversion circuit larger and the voltage division of the first clock signal in the energy storage branch where the driving circuit is located smaller, reducing the current of the energy storage branch and limiting the current of the energy storage branch. By using the original driving circuit of the charge pump and making simple modifications to the driving circuit, current limiting protection for the charge pump is achieved, so that the current in the charge pump is controlled below the current limit value. While saving costs and circuit area, the normal operation of the charge pump is guaranteed, and the reliability and safety of the charge pump are improved.

[0025] Thirdly, this disclosure provides a charge pump, which further includes a control circuit; the at least two-stage energy storage branch includes a first-stage energy storage branch and a second-stage energy storage branch; the first-stage energy storage branch includes a third switch, a sixth switch, a fifth switch, a first capacitor, and a first current output circuit; the control terminal of the third switch, the control terminal of the first current output circuit, and the control terminal of the second-stage energy storage branch are respectively electrically connected to the control circuit; the first terminal of the third switch and the second terminal of the fifth switch are both electrically connected to the input voltage; and the second terminal of the third switch is electrically connected to the input terminal of the second-stage energy storage branch. The first terminal of the first capacitor is electrically connected between the second terminal of the third switch and the input terminal of the second-stage energy storage branch. The second terminal of the first capacitor is electrically connected to the first terminal of the sixth switch. The control terminal of the sixth switch is electrically connected to the first terminal of the first current output circuit. The first terminal of the fifth switch is electrically connected between the second terminal of the first capacitor and the first terminal of the sixth switch. The second terminal of the first current output circuit, the second terminal of the sixth switch, and the first terminal of the second-stage energy storage branch are all grounded. The output terminal of the second-stage energy storage branch is used to output the output voltage of the charge pump.

[0026] The control circuit is configured to, when the input voltage of the charge pump is less than a first threshold voltage, control the first current output circuit to turn on the sixth switch transistor according to a first clock signal so as to charge the first capacitor using the input voltage of the charge pump; and to, according to a second clock signal, control the second stage energy storage branch to charge using the output voltage of the first stage energy storage branch.

[0027] When the first clock signal is received, the third switch is turned on to charge the first capacitor; the second stage energy storage branch is used to boost the output voltage of the first stage energy storage branch to obtain the output voltage of the charge pump, and the output voltage of the charge pump is three times the input voltage of the charge pump;

[0028] When the second clock signal is received, the fifth switch is turned on, so that the first-stage energy storage branch boosts the input voltage of the charge pump to obtain the output voltage of the first-stage energy storage branch, which is twice the input voltage of the charge pump; the second-stage energy storage branch is used to charge using the output voltage of the first-stage energy storage branch.

[0029] The first clock signal and the second clock signal are two-phase clocks that do not overlap and have a duty cycle of 50%.

[0030] In some embodiments, the charge pump further includes a third resistor, and the second terminal of the third switching transistor is connected to the top plate of the first capacitor through the third resistor.

[0031] In some embodiments, the second-stage energy storage branch includes a fourth switching transistor and a second capacitor; the top plate of the second capacitor is connected to the top plate of the first capacitor through the fourth switching transistor.

[0032] The driving circuit includes a second driving circuit, the output terminal of which is connected to the control terminal of the fourth switching transistor, and the power supply voltage of the second driving circuit comes from the top plate of the second capacitor.

[0033] In some embodiments, the charge pump further includes a fourth resistor, and the second terminal of the fourth switching transistor is connected to the top plate of the second capacitor through the fourth resistor.

[0034] In some embodiments, the second-stage energy storage branch further includes a fifth switching transistor; the bottom plate of the second capacitor is connected to the bottom plate of the first capacitor through the fifth switching transistor.

[0035] The driving circuit includes a third driving circuit, the output terminal of which is connected to the control terminal of the fifth switching transistor, and the power supply voltage of the third driving circuit comes from the input voltage.

[0036] In some embodiments, the charge pump further includes a fifth resistor, and the second terminal of the fifth switching transistor is connected to the bottom plate of the second capacitor through the fifth resistor.

[0037] Fourthly, this disclosure provides a chip including the driving circuit circuit described in the first aspect above.

[0038] The chip provided in this disclosure, in any stage of the energy storage branch of the charge pump, through the setting of a Zener diode, a voltage divider circuit, a switching transistor, and a level conversion circuit in the driving circuit, makes the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor higher than the difference between the supply voltage and the divided voltage. The level conversion circuit converts the level value of the first clock signal and outputs the converted first clock signal at the output terminal of the level conversion circuit. The value range of the converted first clock signal is from the supply voltage to the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor, thereby making the output voltage of the level conversion circuit larger, making the voltage of the first clock signal in the energy storage branch where the driving circuit is located smaller, reducing the current of the energy storage branch, and limiting the current of the energy storage branch. By using the original driving circuit of the charge pump and making simple modifications to the driving circuit, current limiting protection for the charge pump is achieved, so that the current in the charge pump is controlled below the current limit value. While saving costs and circuit area, the normal operation of the charge pump is guaranteed, and the reliability and safety of the charge pump are improved.

[0039] Fifthly, this disclosure provides a chip including the charge pump described in the second aspect above.

[0040] In a sixth aspect, this disclosure provides a chip including the charge pump described in the third aspect above.

[0041] The chip provided in this disclosure, in any stage of the energy storage branch, through the setting of a Zener diode, a voltage divider circuit, a switching transistor, and a level conversion circuit in the driving circuit, makes the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor higher than the difference between the supply voltage and the divided voltage. The level conversion circuit converts the level value of the first clock signal and outputs the converted first clock signal at the output terminal of the level conversion circuit. The value range of the converted first clock signal level value is the range from the supply voltage to the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor, thereby making the output voltage of the level conversion circuit larger, making the voltage of the first clock signal in the energy storage branch where the driving circuit is located smaller, reducing the current of the energy storage branch, and limiting the current of the energy storage branch. By using the original driving circuit of the charge pump and making simple modifications to the driving circuit, current limiting protection for the charge pump is achieved, so that the current in the charge pump is controlled below the current limit value. While saving costs and circuit area, the normal operation of the charge pump is guaranteed, and the reliability and safety of the charge pump are improved.

[0042] In a seventh aspect, this disclosure provides an electronic device including the driving circuit described in the first aspect above.

[0043] The electronic device provided in this disclosure, in any stage of the energy storage branch of the charge pump, through the setting of a Zener diode, a voltage divider circuit, a switching transistor, and a level conversion circuit in the drive circuit, makes the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor higher than the difference between the supply voltage and the divided voltage. The level conversion circuit converts the level value of the first clock signal and outputs the converted first clock signal at the output terminal of the level conversion circuit. The value range of the converted first clock signal is from the supply voltage to the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor, thereby making the output voltage of the level conversion circuit larger, making the voltage of the first clock signal in the energy storage branch where the drive circuit is located smaller, reducing the current of the energy storage branch, and limiting the current of the energy storage branch. By using the original drive circuit of the charge pump and making simple modifications to the drive circuit, current limiting protection for the charge pump is achieved, so that the current in the charge pump is controlled below the current limit value. While saving costs and circuit area, the normal operation of the charge pump is guaranteed, and the reliability and safety of the charge pump are improved.

[0044] Eighthly, this disclosure provides an electronic device including a charge pump as described in the second aspect above.

[0045] Ninthly, this disclosure provides an electronic device including a charge pump as described in the third aspect above.

[0046] The electronic device provided in this disclosure, in any stage of the energy storage branch, through the setting of a Zener diode, a voltage divider circuit, a switching transistor, and a level conversion circuit in the driving circuit, makes the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor higher than the difference between the supply voltage and the divided voltage. The level conversion circuit converts the level value of the first clock signal and outputs the converted first clock signal at the output terminal of the level conversion circuit. The value range of the converted first clock signal level value is the range from the supply voltage to the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor, thereby making the output voltage of the level conversion circuit larger, making the voltage of the first clock signal in the energy storage branch where the driving circuit is located smaller, reducing the current of the energy storage branch, and limiting the current of the energy storage branch. By using the original driving circuit of the charge pump and making simple modifications to the driving circuit, current limiting protection for the charge pump is achieved, so that the current in the charge pump is controlled below the current limit value. While saving costs and circuit area, the normal operation of the charge pump is guaranteed, and the reliability and safety of the charge pump are improved. Attached Figure Description

[0047] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a charge pump provided in this disclosure;

[0048] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a charge pump provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0049] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of another charge pump provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0050] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of another charge pump provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0051] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numerals in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this disclosure. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this disclosure as detailed in the appended claims.

[0052] In this disclosure, "at least one" means one or more, and "more than one" means two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can mean: A alone, A and B simultaneously, or B alone, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c alone can mean: a alone, b alone, c alone, a combination of a and b, a combination of a and c, a combination of b and c, or a, b, and c, where a, b, and c can be single or multiple. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0053] The terms "connected" and "connected" should be interpreted broadly. For example, in circuit structures, "connected" or "connected" can refer not only to physical connections but also to electrical or signal connections. This could be a direct connection (physical connection) or an indirect connection via at least one intermediate component, as long as the circuit is connected. It could also refer to the internal connection between two components. Similarly, a signal connection can refer to a connection via a circuit or a medium, such as radio waves. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meaning of these terms in this disclosure based on the specific circumstances.

[0054] The switching transistor in this disclosure is a three-terminal switching transistor, with its three terminals being a control terminal, a first terminal, and a second terminal. The switching transistor can be a bipolar switching transistor or a field-effect switching transistor, etc. For example, when the switching transistor is a bipolar switching transistor, its control terminal refers to the base of the bipolar switching transistor, the first terminal can be the collector or emitter of the bipolar switching transistor, and the corresponding second terminal can be the emitter or collector of the bipolar switching transistor; when the switching transistor is a field-effect switching transistor, its control terminal refers to the gate of the field-effect switching transistor, the first terminal can be the drain or source of the field-effect switching transistor, and the corresponding second terminal can be the source or drain of the field-effect switching transistor.

[0055] Charge pumps typically use a switching network to power or de-energize two or more capacitors for DC / DC voltage conversion. The basic charge pump switching network continuously switches between powering and de-energizing the capacitors.

[0056] Different charge pumps can achieve voltage conversion ratios of varying degrees; for example, they can perform half-voltage conversion, double-voltage conversion, triple-voltage conversion, etc. The following section combines... Figure 1 A charge pump with a 2x voltage conversion function is illustrated by way of example, showing the structure of the charge pump.

[0057] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a charge pump provided in this disclosure. Figure 1 The charge pump shown includes switching transistors M11, M12, M13, and M14, as well as capacitors C11 and C12. The first-stage energy storage branch includes switching transistors M11 and M12 and capacitor C11, while the second-stage energy storage branch includes switching transistors M13 and M4 and capacitor C12. In practical applications, the charge pump operates in two stages. In the first stage, the first-stage energy storage branch controls the conduction of switching transistors M11 and M12 via signal PH11, and the input voltage VCC1 charges capacitor C11. In the second stage, switches M11 and M12 in the first-stage energy storage branch are turned off, while switches M13 and M14 are turned on. The input voltage VCC1 can be represented by VCC1. The bottom plate of capacitor C11 is connected to the input voltage VCC1, and the top plate is connected to the output terminal of the charge pump. Since the voltage difference across the capacitor cannot change abruptly, the output voltage of the top plate of capacitor C11 is VCC1 + VCC1, which charges capacitor C12, resulting in an output voltage of VCC1 + VCC1. In other words, the charge pump achieves a 2x voltage conversion.

[0058] However, with Figure 1 Taking the charge pump shown as an example, the impedance of the switching transistors in the charge pump is relatively small. When the input voltage VCC1 is suddenly applied to the capacitor C11, its peak current can be expressed by the following formula (1).

[0059] Formula (1)

[0060] in, C1 is the peak current, C1 is the capacitance of capacitor C11, and V is the input voltage.

[0061] It can be seen that the input voltage is equivalent to a step voltage, and its peak current region is infinitely large.

[0062] Furthermore, when the charge pump is operating normally, only the impedance Ron of the switching transistor is visible in the charge pump circuit. Assuming the voltage across the top plate of capacitor C11 is VC11, the current in the circuit is (VCC1 - VC11) / Ron, or a reverse current (VC11 - VCC1) / Ron. Since the impedance of the switching transistor is relatively small, the peak current is large, as can be seen from the above analysis.

[0063] When the on-chip capacitor is large or an off-chip capacitor is used, the peak current in the charge pump may be large, which may further lead to problems such as damage to the charge pump circuit and reduced reliability of the charge pump.

[0064] To address the aforementioned technical issues, this disclosure provides a driving circuit, a charge pump, a chip, and an electronic device. By utilizing the existing driving circuit of the charge pump and making simple modifications to the driving circuit, current limiting protection for the charge pump is achieved, ensuring that the current in the charge pump is controlled below the current limit value. This ensures the normal operation of the charge pump while saving costs and circuit area, thereby improving the reliability and safety of the charge pump.

[0065] The technical solutions provided in this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments.

[0066] This disclosure provides a charge pump, which includes a drive circuit and at least two energy storage branches. The output terminal of the first energy storage branch is connected to the input terminal of the second energy storage branch. Each of the at least two energy storage branches includes at least one switching transistor and a capacitor. The output terminal of the drive circuit is connected to the control terminal of at least one switching transistor in the first energy storage branch. The at least two energy storage branches include the first energy storage branch.

[0067] The following is combined with Figure 2 This disclosure provides an exemplary charge pump structure, from which it can be understood that... Figure 2 The charge pump in the example is merely an example and does not constitute a limitation of this disclosure.

[0068] Please see Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a charge pump provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure. The driving circuit provided in this embodiment is applied to the charge pump. Figure 2The example illustrates a two-stage energy storage branch: a first-stage energy storage branch consisting of a third switch M23, a first capacitor C21, and a sixth switch M26; and a second-stage energy storage branch consisting of a fourth switch M24, a capacitor C22, and a fifth switch M25. Figure 2 The structure of the energy storage branch of the charge pump shown is the same as described above. Figure 1 The structure of the energy storage branch of the charge pump shown in the figure is similar and will not be described again here.

[0069] It should be noted that this disclosure does not limit the type of switching transistors involved in the charge pump. Figure 2 The exemplary switch shown is a field-effect transistor.

[0070] The output terminal of the first driving circuit 211 is connected to the control terminal of at least one switching transistor in the first energy storage branch. The first driving circuit 211 is used to control the switching transistor in the energy storage branch to turn the switching transistor on or off, thereby charging or discharging the capacitor in the energy storage branch. Figure 2 The structure of the first drive circuit 211 disposed in the first stage energy storage branch of the charge pump is illustrated in the example.

[0071] The following is combined with Figure 2 The structure of the first driving circuit provided in this embodiment is described. The first driving circuit provided in this embodiment includes: a first Zener diode DZ1, a first voltage divider circuit 212, a first current source I, a first level conversion circuit 211, a first switching transistor M21, and a second switching transistor M22.

[0072] The input terminal of the first level conversion circuit 211 is used to receive the first clock signal PH21, and the output terminal of the first level conversion circuit 211 is the output terminal of the first drive circuit 211. The output terminal of the first level conversion circuit 211 is connected to the control terminal of the switching transistor. Figure 2 The example shows the connection between the first level conversion circuit 211 and the control terminal of the third switching transistor M23.

[0073] The first power supply terminal of the first level conversion circuit 211 is used to receive the first power supply voltage. Wherein, Figure 2 The first supply voltage shown is the voltage VC21 of the top plate of capacitor C21. The first supply voltage can be a first supply voltage from other sources, and this disclosure does not limit it.

[0074] The second power supply terminal of the first level conversion circuit 200 is connected to the second terminal of the first switching transistor M21.

[0075] The first level conversion circuit 211 is used to convert the first clock signal PH21 received at the input terminal into a signal with a voltage range from the voltage received at the second power supply terminal to the voltage received at the first power supply terminal, and output the converted voltage signal from the output terminal of the first level conversion circuit 211.

[0076] The output terminal of the first level conversion circuit 211 serves as the output terminal of the first driving circuit 211 and is connected to the control terminal of the switching transistor, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the output of the first level conversion circuit 211 is connected to the control terminal of the third switching transistor M23. Since the third switching transistor M23 is located on the branch where the input voltage is connected to the capacitor C21, the switching transistor M23 is a high-voltage transistor. The first clock signal PH21 is a low-voltage signal. Therefore, the first level conversion circuit 211 needs to convert the low-voltage first clock signal PH21 into a relatively high-voltage signal so that it can drive the third switching transistor M23.

[0077] Furthermore, the first level conversion circuit 211 includes a first level converter and a series-connected multi-stage inverter connected in sequence. The input terminal of the first level converter is used to receive a first clock signal. The output terminal of the last stage inverter in the series-connected multi-stage inverter is the output terminal of the first driving circuit. The first level converter is used to convert the level value of the first clock signal and outputs the converted first clock signal at the output terminal of the level conversion circuit. The series-connected multi-stage inverter can be used to enhance signal strength and maintain signal integrity. For an example, please continue to refer to... Figure 2 , Figure 2 The example shows two stages of inverters, namely a first inverter and a second inverter. The input of the first inverter is connected to the output of the first level converter, the output of the first inverter is connected to the input of the second inverter, and the output of the second inverter is the output of the first driving circuit.

[0078] The control terminal of the first switching transistor M21 is connected to the output terminal of the first voltage divider circuit 212. The first terminal of the first switching transistor M21 is connected to the second terminal of the second switching transistor M22. The control terminal of the second switching transistor M22 is connected to the positive terminal of the first Zener diode DZ1. The first terminal of the second switching transistor M22 is grounded.

[0079] Furthermore, the first switch M21 can be a P-channel metal-oxide-semiconductor (PMOS) field-effect switch. Accordingly, the control terminal of the first switch M21 is the gate of the first switch M21, the first terminal of the first switch M21 is the source of the first switch M21, and the second terminal of the first switch M21 is the drain of the first switch M21.

[0080] Furthermore, the second switch M22 can be a PMOS. Accordingly, the control terminal of the second switch M22 is the gate of the second switch M22, the first terminal of the second switch M22 is the source of the second switch M22, and the second terminal of the second switch M22 is the drain of the second switch M22.

[0081] The cathode of the first Zener diode DZ1 is used to receive the first supply voltage. The anode of the first Zener diode DZ1 is grounded through the first current source I.

[0082] The first supply voltage received by the negative terminal of the first Zener diode DZ1 is the same as the first supply voltage received by the first power supply terminal of the first level conversion circuit 211.

[0083] The first voltage divider circuit 212 is connected in parallel with the first Zener diode DZ1. The first voltage divider circuit 212 is used to divide the voltage across the first Zener diode DZ1 and output the divided voltage at the output terminal so that the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor M21 is higher than the difference between the supply voltage and the divided voltage.

[0084] The level conversion circuit 211 is used to convert the level value of the first clock signal and output the converted first clock signal at the output terminal of the level conversion circuit.

[0085] The range of the level value of the converted first clock signal is the range from the supply voltage to the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor M21.

[0086] Furthermore, the first voltage divider circuit 212 can be implemented using series resistors, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the first voltage divider circuit 212 includes a first resistor R1 and a second resistor R2 connected in series. The first end of the first resistor R1 is connected to the negative terminal of the first Zener diode DZ1, and the second end of the first resistor R1 is connected to the first end of the second resistor R2; the second end of the second resistor R2 is connected to the positive terminal of the first Zener diode DZ1, and the first end of the second resistor R2 is connected to the control terminal of the first switching transistor M21.

[0087] In one possible design, the charge pump also includes a third resistor R3, and the second terminal of the third switch M23 is connected to the top plate of the first capacitor C21 through the third resistor R3.

[0088] In this embodiment, current is limited by the third resistor R3. When the input voltage VCC is applied, the peak current is VCC / R3, thus achieving the function of current limiting when the power is applied.

[0089] In practical applications, let's assume the source voltage of the second switch M22 is represented by HVSS. If the first switch M21 is not set in the first driving circuit, in order to ensure that HVSS can follow the transient change of VCC, when the charge pump is working normally, the clamping structure of the first Zener diode DZ1 can generate the HVSS voltage, and output HVSS at the output of the first level conversion circuit 211. The current limiting values ​​of the forward and reverse currents of the first energy storage branch are approximately (VC21-HVSS) / R. Let's assume the gate-source voltage of the third switch M23 is represented by VGS_M23, and R is the sum of the resistance of the third resistor R3 and the gate-source impedance of the third switch M23. Since VGS_M23 is small when the charge pump is working, it is ignored here for the sake of simplicity.

[0090] Furthermore, the first Zener diode DZ1 can be selected as a device with a voltage drop of approximately 6V. The following analysis uses a 6V voltage drop of the first Zener diode DZ1 as an example for illustration, which should be understood as not constituting a limitation of this disclosure.

[0091] Assuming the gate-source voltage of the second switching transistor is represented by VSG_M22, then HVSS is VC21-6+VSG_M22. Since the voltage drop of the first Zener diode DZ1 is 6V, HVSS is relatively small. However, according to the aforementioned current calculation formula (VC21-HVSS) / R, the current is still relatively large.

[0092] Based on the above circuit structure, a first switching transistor M21 and a first voltage divider circuit 212 are added to the first driving circuit 211. The gate bias voltage of the first switching transistor M21 is obtained by dividing the first Zener diode DZ1 by the first voltage divider circuit 212. The voltage division ratio of the first voltage divider circuit 212 can be set according to the current limiting value. Assuming that the voltage divided by the first voltage divider circuit 212 is represented by VR, the gate bias voltage of the first switching transistor M21 is VC21-VR, and the source voltage of the first switching transistor M21 is HVS=VC21-3V+VSG_M21, the current of the first stage energy storage branch can be approximately expressed as (VC21-HVS) / R3. It can be understood that HVS is larger than HVSS, so the current limiting value of the first stage energy storage branch can be controlled to a small range.

[0093] For example, when the resistance values ​​of the first resistor and the second resistor in the first voltage divider circuit 212 are equal, i.e., R1=R2, the voltage division ratio is 1 / 2, then the divided voltage VR=1 / 2*6V=3V. The gate bias voltage of the first switching transistor M21 is VC21-VR=VC21-3V, and the source voltage HVS of the first switching transistor M21 is VC21-3V+VSG_M21. HVS is output at the output terminal of the first level conversion circuit 211. At this time, the current limiting current value in the charge pump is approximately (VC21-HVS) / R3.

[0094] Meanwhile, since the first driving circuit contains the first Zener diode DZ1, the first driving circuit can still work normally when there is a violent transient change in the power supply, thereby limiting the current of the charge pump.

[0095] Furthermore, the gate-source impedance of the third switch M23 is a variable that changes with VGS_M23, approximately inversely proportional to it. A higher HVS voltage corresponds to a lower VGS_M23, resulting in a higher gate-source impedance for the third switch M23 and consequently lower charge pump efficiency. Therefore, a large HVS may affect the efficiency of the charge pump during normal operation. Thus, the voltage division ratio in the first voltage divider circuit 212 can be adjusted to regulate the HVS voltage, thereby balancing charge pump efficiency and current-limiting protection reliability.

[0096] This embodiment provides a driving circuit for a charge pump. In any stage of the charge pump's energy storage branch, through the configuration of a Zener diode, a voltage divider circuit, a switching transistor, and a level conversion circuit in the driving circuit, the voltage divider circuit ensures that the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor is higher than the difference between the supply voltage and the divided voltage. The level conversion circuit converts the level value of the first clock signal and outputs the converted first clock signal at its output terminal. The value range of the converted first clock signal is from the supply voltage to the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor, thereby making the output voltage of the level conversion circuit larger. This results in a smaller voltage division of the first clock signal in the energy storage branch where the driving circuit is located, reducing the current in the energy storage branch and limiting the current of that stage of the energy storage branch. By using the original driving circuit of the charge pump and making simple modifications to the driving circuit, current limiting protection for the charge pump is achieved, ensuring that the current in the charge pump is controlled below the current limit value. This ensures the normal operation of the charge pump while saving cost and circuit area, improving the reliability and safety of the charge pump.

[0097] In some embodiments, this disclosure provides a charge pump. The charge pump includes a drive circuit and at least two energy storage branches, the output terminal of the preceding energy storage branch being connected to the input terminal of the following energy storage branch; each of the at least two energy storage branches includes at least one switching transistor and a capacitor; the output terminal of the drive circuit is connected to the control terminal of at least one switching transistor in the first energy storage branch; the at least two energy storage branches include a first energy storage branch.

[0098] The driving circuit is the driving circuit in any of the above embodiments.

[0099] The implementation principle of the charge pump in this embodiment is similar to that in the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0100] The charge pump provided in this embodiment, in any stage of the energy storage branch, through the setting of a Zener diode, a voltage divider circuit, a switching transistor, and a level conversion circuit in the driving circuit, ensures that the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor is higher than the difference between the supply voltage and the divided voltage. The level conversion circuit converts the level value of the first clock signal and outputs the converted first clock signal at the output terminal of the level conversion circuit. The value range of the converted first clock signal is from the supply voltage to the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor, thereby making the output voltage of the level conversion circuit larger and the voltage division of the first clock signal in the energy storage branch where the driving circuit is located smaller, reducing the current of the energy storage branch and limiting the current of the energy storage branch. By using the original driving circuit of the charge pump and making simple modifications to the driving circuit, current limiting protection for the charge pump is achieved, so that the current in the charge pump is controlled below the current limit value. While saving costs and circuit area, the normal operation of the charge pump is guaranteed, improving the reliability and safety of the charge pump.

[0101] It should be noted that the specific structure of the charge pump provided in this disclosure can be as described above. Figure 2 The charge pump shown can also be a charge pump of other structures, which are not limited in this disclosure. The following examples illustrate this. Figure 2 The driving circuit in the charge pump is explained using the charge pump structure shown as an example.

[0102] In some embodiments, as Figure 2 Taking the charge pump shown as an example, when the charge pump is working normally, the current direction is from left to right, which is a positive current. When the charge pump is malfunctioning, the current direction may be from right to left, so current limiting can be performed in both directions. The following describes the specific structure of the drive circuit for current limiting of the charge pump.

[0103] In one possible design, please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 2 The first-stage energy storage branch includes a third switch M23 and a first capacitor C21. The first terminal of the third switch M23 is connected to the input voltage VCC. The second terminal of the third switch M23 is connected to the top plate of the first capacitor C21. Figure 2 The example shown is a drive circuit 200 disposed in a first-stage energy storage circuit.

[0104] The driving circuit includes a first driving circuit 211, the output terminal of which is connected to the control terminal of the third switching transistor M23. The first supply voltage of the first driving circuit 211 comes from the top plate of the first capacitor C21. The first driving circuit 211 includes: a first Zener diode DZ1, a first voltage divider circuit 212, a first current source I, a first level conversion circuit 211, a first switching transistor M21, and a second switching transistor M22.

[0105] The control terminal of the first switching transistor M21 is connected to the output terminal of the first voltage divider circuit 212. The first terminal of the first switching transistor M21 is connected to the second terminal of the second switching transistor M22. The control terminal of the second switching transistor M22 is connected to the positive terminal of the first Zener diode DZ1. The first terminal of the second switching transistor M22 is grounded.

[0106] The cathode of the first Zener diode DZ1 is used to receive the first supply voltage. The anode of the first Zener diode DZ1 is grounded through the first current source I.

[0107] The first voltage divider circuit 212 is connected in parallel with the first Zener diode DZ1. The first voltage divider circuit 212 is used to divide the voltage across the first Zener diode DZ1 and output a first divided voltage at the output terminal, so that the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor is higher than the difference between the first supply voltage and the first divided voltage.

[0108] Furthermore, the first voltage divider circuit 212 includes a first resistor R1 and a second resistor R2 connected in series. The first end of the first resistor R1 is connected to the negative terminal of the first Zener diode DZ1, and the second end of the first resistor R1 is connected to the first end of the second resistor R2; the second end of the second resistor R2 is connected to the positive terminal of the first Zener diode DZ1, and the first end of the second resistor R2 is connected to the control terminal of the first switching transistor M21.

[0109] The input terminal of the first level conversion circuit 211 is used to receive the first clock signal PH21, and the output terminal of the first level conversion circuit 211 is the output terminal of the drive circuit 200. The output terminal of the first level conversion circuit 211 is connected to the control terminal of the third switching transistor M23.

[0110] The first power supply terminal of the first level conversion circuit 211 is used to receive the first power supply voltage. The second power supply terminal of the first level conversion circuit 200 is connected to the second terminal of the first switching transistor M21.

[0111] The level conversion circuit is used to convert the level value of the first clock signal PH21 and outputs the converted first clock signal at the output terminal of the level conversion circuit. The level value of the converted first clock signal is within the range of the first supply voltage to the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor.

[0112] Furthermore, the first level conversion circuit 211 includes a first level converter and a series-connected multi-stage inverter connected in sequence. The input terminal of the first level converter is used to receive a first clock signal. The output terminal of the last stage inverter in the series-connected multi-stage inverter is the output terminal of the first driving circuit. For example, please continue to refer to [the relevant documentation / reference]. Figure 2 , Figure 2The example shows two stages of inverters, namely a first inverter and a second inverter. The input of the first inverter is connected to the output of the first level converter, the output of the first inverter is connected to the input of the second inverter, and the output of the second inverter is the output of the first driving circuit.

[0113] In one possible design, the charge pump also includes a third resistor R3, and the second terminal of the third switch M23 is connected to the top plate of the first capacitor C21 through the third resistor R3.

[0114] The implementation principle of the first driving circuit in this embodiment is similar to that in the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0115] The charge pump provided in this embodiment, in the first-stage energy storage branch, utilizes a Zener diode, a voltage divider circuit, a switching transistor, and a level conversion circuit in the drive circuit. The voltage divider circuit ensures that the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor is higher than the difference between the supply voltage and the divided voltage. The level conversion circuit converts the level value of the first clock signal and outputs the converted first clock signal at its output terminal. The value range of the converted first clock signal is from the supply voltage to the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor, resulting in a larger output voltage of the level conversion circuit. This reduces the voltage division of the first clock signal in the energy storage branch where the drive circuit is located, thus lowering the current in the energy storage branch and limiting the current of this stage of the energy storage branch. By simply modifying the original drive circuit of the charge pump, current limiting protection for the charge pump is achieved, keeping the current in the charge pump below the current limit value. This ensures the normal operation of the charge pump while saving cost and circuit area, improving the reliability and safety of the charge pump.

[0116] In one possible design, please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 2 The charge pump also includes a third resistor R3, and the second terminal of the third switch M23 is connected to the top plate of the first capacitor C21 through the third resistor R3.

[0117] In practical applications, the first-stage energy storage branch in the charge pump is current-limited by the third resistor R3. When the input voltage VCC is applied, the peak current is VCC / R3, thus achieving the function of current limiting when the power is applied.

[0118] The charge pump provided in this embodiment limits the current when powered on by adding a resistor in the first-stage energy storage branch. Furthermore, when the charge pump is working normally, the current is approximately equal to the converted control voltage divided by the third resistor, which also limits the current in the first-stage energy storage branch, ensuring the normal operation of the charge pump and improving its reliability and safety.

[0119] In one possible design, please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 2 The second-stage energy storage branch includes a fourth switch M24 and a second capacitor C22. The top plate of the second capacitor C22 is connected to the top plate of the first capacitor C21 through the fourth switch M24.

[0120] The driving circuit provided in this embodiment includes a second driving circuit 212. The output terminal of the second driving circuit 212 is connected to the control terminal of the fourth switching transistor M24. The second power supply voltage of the second driving circuit comes from the top plate of the second capacitor C22.

[0121] The second driving circuit 212 includes: a second Zener diode, a second voltage divider circuit, a second current source, a second level conversion circuit, a seventh switch, and an eighth switch.

[0122] The control terminal of the seventh switch is connected to the output terminal of the second voltage divider circuit, the first terminal of the seventh switch is connected to the second terminal of the eighth switch, the control terminal of the eighth switch is connected to the positive terminal of the second Zener diode, and the first terminal of the eighth switch is grounded.

[0123] The cathode of the second Zener diode is used to receive the second supply voltage VCC+VCC. The anode of the second Zener diode is grounded through the second current source.

[0124] The second voltage divider circuit is connected in parallel with the second Zener diode. The second voltage divider circuit is used to divide the voltage across the second Zener diode and output a second divided voltage at the output terminal, so that the voltage at the second terminal of the seventh switch is higher than the difference between the second supply voltage and the second divided voltage;

[0125] Furthermore, the second voltage divider circuit includes a sixth resistor and a seventh resistor connected in series. The first terminal of the sixth resistor is connected to the negative terminal of the second Zener diode, and the second terminal of the sixth resistor is connected to the first terminal of the seventh resistor; the second terminal of the seventh resistor is connected to the positive terminal of the second Zener diode, and the first terminal of the seventh resistor is connected to the control terminal of the seventh switching transistor.

[0126] The input of the second level conversion circuit is used to receive the second clock signal PH22, and the output of the second level conversion circuit is the output of the second driver circuit 212. The output of the second level conversion circuit is connected to the control terminal of the fourth switching transistor M24.

[0127] The first power supply terminal of the second level conversion circuit is used to receive the second power supply voltage. The second power supply terminal of the second level conversion circuit is connected to the second terminal of the seventh switching transistor.

[0128] The second level conversion circuit is used to convert the level value of the second clock signal PH22, and outputs the converted second first clock signal at the output terminal of the second level conversion circuit. The value range of the converted second first clock signal is the range from the second power supply voltage to the voltage at the second terminal of the seventh switch.

[0129] Furthermore, the second level conversion circuit includes a second level converter and a series-connected multi-stage inverter connected in sequence. The input terminal of the second level converter is used to receive the first clock signal. The output terminal of the last stage inverter in the series-connected multi-stage inverter is the output terminal of the second drive circuit. For an example, please refer to [further details]. Figure 2 , Figure 2 The example shows two stages of inverters, namely a third inverter and a fourth inverter. The input of the third inverter is connected to the output of the second level converter, the output of the third inverter is connected to the input of the fourth inverter, and the output of the fourth inverter is the output of the second drive circuit.

[0130] The implementation principle of the second driving circuit in this embodiment is similar to that of the first driving circuit in the above embodiment, and will not be repeated here.

[0131] The charge pump provided in this embodiment, in the second-stage energy storage branch, utilizes a Zener diode, voltage divider circuit, switching transistor, and level conversion circuit in the drive circuit. The voltage divider circuit ensures that the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor is higher than the difference between the supply voltage and the divided voltage. The level conversion circuit converts the level value of the first clock signal and outputs the converted first clock signal at its output terminal. The value range of the converted first clock signal is from the supply voltage to the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor, resulting in a larger output voltage of the level conversion circuit. This reduces the voltage division of the first clock signal in the energy storage branch where the drive circuit is located, thus lowering the current in the energy storage branch and limiting the current of this stage of the energy storage branch. By simply modifying the original drive circuit of the charge pump, current limiting protection for the charge pump is achieved, keeping the current in the charge pump below the current limit value. This ensures the normal operation of the charge pump while saving cost and circuit area, improving the reliability and safety of the charge pump.

[0132] Furthermore, the charge pump also includes a fourth resistor R4, and the second terminal of the fourth switch M24 is connected to the top plate of the second capacitor C22 through the fourth resistor R4.

[0133] In practical applications, the second-stage energy storage branch in the charge pump uses the fourth resistor R4 for current limiting. When the input voltage is 2VCC, the peak current is 2VCC / R4, thus achieving the function of current limiting when powered on.

[0134] The charge pump provided in this embodiment, by adding a resistor in the second-stage energy storage branch, plays a current-limiting role when powered on. Furthermore, when the charge pump is working normally, the current is approximately equal to the converted control voltage divided by the fourth resistor, which also plays a current-limiting role in the second-stage energy storage branch, ensuring the normal operation of the charge pump and improving its reliability and safety.

[0135] In one possible design, please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 2 The second-stage energy storage branch also includes a fifth switching transistor M25. The bottom plate of the second capacitor C22 is connected to the bottom plate of the first capacitor C21 through the fifth switching transistor M25.

[0136] The driving circuit provided in this embodiment includes a third driving circuit 230. The output terminal of the third driving circuit 230 is connected to the control terminal of the fifth switching transistor M25. The third power supply voltage of the third driving circuit 230 comes from the input voltage.

[0137] The third driving circuit 230 includes: a third Zener diode, a third voltage divider circuit, a third current source, a third level conversion circuit, a ninth switching transistor, and a tenth switching transistor.

[0138] The control terminal of the ninth switch is connected to the output terminal of the third voltage divider circuit, the first terminal of the ninth switch is connected to the second terminal of the tenth switch, the control terminal of the tenth switch is connected to the positive terminal of the third Zener diode, and the first terminal of the tenth switch is grounded.

[0139] The cathode of the third Zener diode is used to receive the third supply voltage VCC. The anode of the third Zener diode is grounded through the third current source.

[0140] The third voltage divider circuit is connected in parallel with the third Zener diode. The third voltage divider circuit is used to divide the voltage across the third Zener diode and outputs the third divided voltage at the output terminal, so that the voltage at the second terminal of the ninth switch is higher than the difference between the third supply voltage and the third divided voltage.

[0141] Furthermore, the third voltage divider circuit includes an eighth resistor and a ninth resistor connected in series. The first terminal of the eighth resistor is connected to the negative terminal of the third Zener diode, and the second terminal of the eighth resistor is connected to the first terminal of the ninth resistor; the second terminal of the ninth resistor is connected to the positive terminal of the third Zener diode, and the first terminal of the ninth resistor is connected to the control terminal of the ninth switching transistor.

[0142] The input of the third level conversion circuit is used to receive the second clock signal PH22, and the output of the third level conversion circuit is the output of the third driver circuit 230. The output of the third level conversion circuit is connected to the control terminal of the fifth switching transistor M25.

[0143] The first power supply terminal of the third level conversion circuit is used to receive the third power supply voltage. The second power supply terminal of the third level conversion circuit is connected to the second terminal of the ninth switching transistor.

[0144] Furthermore, the third level conversion circuit includes a third level converter and a series-connected multi-stage inverter. The input terminal of the third level converter is used to receive the first clock signal. The output terminal of the last stage inverter in the series-connected multi-stage inverter is the output terminal of the third drive circuit. For an example, please refer to [further details]. Figure 2 , Figure 2 The example shows two stages of inverters, namely a fifth inverter and a sixth inverter. The input of the fifth inverter is connected to the output of the third level converter, the output of the fifth inverter is connected to the input of the sixth inverter, and the output of the sixth inverter is the output of the third drive circuit.

[0145] The level conversion circuit is used to convert the level value of the second clock signal PH22 and output the converted third first clock signal at the output terminal of the level conversion circuit. The level value of the converted third first clock signal is within the range of the third power supply voltage to the voltage at the second terminal of the ninth switch.

[0146] The implementation principle of the third driving circuit in this embodiment is similar to that of the first driving circuit in the above embodiment, and will not be repeated here.

[0147] The charge pump provided in this embodiment, in the second-stage energy storage branch, through the setting of the Zener diode, voltage divider circuit, switching transistor and level conversion circuit in the drive circuit, makes the resistive voltage division of the energy storage branch where the drive circuit is located small, thereby controlling the current of the energy storage branch and limiting the current of the energy storage branch. By using the original drive circuit of the charge pump and making simple modifications to the drive circuit, the current limiting protection of the charge pump is realized, so that the current in the charge pump is controlled below the current limit value. While saving cost and circuit area, the normal operation of the charge pump is guaranteed, and the reliability and safety of the charge pump are improved.

[0148] Furthermore, the charge pump also includes a fifth resistor R5, and the second terminal of the fifth switch M25 is connected to the bottom plate of the second capacitor C21 through the fifth resistor R5.

[0149] In practical applications, the second-stage energy storage branch in the charge pump is current-limited through the fifth resistor R5. When the input voltage VCC is applied, the peak current is VCC / R5, thus achieving the function of current limiting when the power is applied.

[0150] The charge pump provided in this embodiment limits the current when powered on by adding a resistor in the second-stage energy storage branch. When the charge pump is working normally, the current is approximately equal to the converted control voltage divided by the fifth resistor, which also limits the current in the second-stage energy storage branch, ensuring the normal operation of the charge pump and improving its reliability and safety.

[0151] It should be noted that in the charge pump, the drive circuit can be located in any of the above-mentioned possible design configurations, or it can be simultaneously located at the positions corresponding to the switching transistors of two or more energy storage branches. This disclosure does not limit the number of drive circuits installed in the charge pump. For example, in... Figure 2 In the charge pump shown, drive circuits can be respectively set on the branches of the third switch M23, the fourth switch M24 and the fifth switch M25 to limit the current of the charge pump.

[0152] The following is combined with Figure 3 This disclosure provides an example of another charge pump structure, which will be understood to be... Figure 3 The charge pump described herein is merely an example and does not constitute a limitation of this disclosure. The driving circuit provided in this embodiment can be applied to this charge pump. The charge pump provided in this embodiment may include: a first-stage energy storage branch, a second-stage energy storage branch, and a driving circuit. It should be noted that this disclosure does not limit the type of switching transistors involved in the charge pump provided in this embodiment. Figure 3 The exemplary switch shown is a field-effect transistor.

[0153] Figure 3 The example illustrates a two-stage energy storage branch, wherein the first-stage energy storage branch includes a third switch M33, a sixth switch M36, a fifth switch M35, a first capacitor C31, and a first current output circuit 320.

[0154] The control terminals of the third switch M33, the first current output circuit 320, and the second energy storage branch are electrically connected to the control circuit 330. The first terminal of the third switch M33 and the second terminal of the fifth switch M35 are both electrically connected to the input voltage VS2 of the charge pump. The second terminal of the third switch M33 is electrically connected to the input terminal of the second energy storage branch. The first terminal of the first capacitor C31 is electrically connected between the second terminal of the third switch M33 and the input terminal of the second energy storage branch. The second terminal of the first capacitor C31 is electrically connected to the first terminal of the sixth switch M36. The control terminal of the sixth switch M36 is electrically connected to the first terminal of the first current output circuit 320. The first terminal of the fifth switch M35 is electrically connected between the second terminal of the first capacitor C31 and the first terminal of the sixth switch M36. The second terminals of the first current output circuit 320, the sixth switch M36, and the second terminal of the second energy storage branch are all grounded. The output terminal of the second energy storage branch is used to output the output voltage VO2 of the charge pump.

[0155] The first-stage energy storage branch, the second-stage energy storage branch, and the control circuit 330 can be set up separately or integrated.

[0156] The first clock signal PH31 and the second clock signal PH32 are two-phase clocks that do not overlap and have a duty cycle of 50%. The charge pump is controlled by the first clock signal PH31 and the second clock signal PH32, that is, the switching transistors in the first-stage energy storage branch and the second-stage energy storage branch are alternately turned on with a duty cycle of 50%.

[0157] When the first clock signal PH31 is received, the first-stage energy storage branch is in the charging stage, and the second-stage energy storage branch is in the discharging stage. When the second clock signal PH32 is received, the first-stage energy storage branch is in the discharging stage, and the second-stage energy storage branch is in the charging stage.

[0158] When the input voltage VS2 of the charge pump is less than the first threshold voltage, that is, when the input voltage VS2 of the charge pump is relatively small, when the first clock signal PH31 is triggered, the control circuit 330 can control the first current output circuit 320 to conduct, causing the sixth switch M36 to conduct. Thus, when the first clock signal PH31 is triggered, the third switch M33 conducts, allowing the input voltage VS2 of the charge pump to charge the first capacitor C31, putting the first-stage energy storage branch in the charging phase. Furthermore, the first-stage energy storage branch can utilize the input voltage VS2 of the charge pump to charge the first capacitor C31. When the second clock signal PH32 is triggered, the control circuit 330 can control the second-stage energy storage branch to utilize the output voltage of the first-stage energy storage branch, i.e., the voltage at the first terminal of the first capacitor C31, to enter the charging phase, putting the second-stage energy storage branch in the charging phase.

[0159] When the first clock signal PH31 is triggered, both the sixth switch M36 and the third switch M33 are turned on. Therefore, the input voltage VS2 of the charge pump can charge the first capacitor C31, ensuring that the voltage stored in C31 is at most the input voltage VS2 of the charge pump. Simultaneously, the second-stage energy storage branch is in the discharging phase, boosting the output voltage of the first-stage energy storage branch to obtain the output voltage VO2 of the charge pump. Since the output voltage of the first-stage energy storage branch is twice the input voltage VS2 of the charge pump, the output voltage VO2 of the charge pump is three times the input voltage VS2 of the charge pump.

[0160] When the second clock signal PH32 is triggered, the first-stage energy storage branch is in the discharge phase, and the fifth switch M35 is turned on, causing the first-stage energy storage branch to boost the input voltage VS2 of the charge pump, thus obtaining the output voltage of the first-stage energy storage branch, which is the voltage at the first terminal of the first capacitor C31. Since the voltage stored on the first capacitor C31 can be up to twice the input voltage VS2 of the charge pump, and the second terminal of the fifth switch M35 is electrically connected to the input voltage VS2 of the charge pump, the voltage at the first terminal of the first capacitor C31 can be up to twice the input voltage VS2 of the charge pump. Simultaneously, the second-stage energy storage branch is in the charging phase, and it can be charged using the output voltage of the first-stage energy storage branch 100, i.e., the voltage at the first terminal of the first capacitor C31.

[0161] like Figure 3 As shown, the driving circuit includes a fourth driving circuit 310. This embodiment exemplarily illustrates the placement of a fourth driving circuit 310 on the first-stage energy storage branch. The fourth driving circuit 310 includes: a Zener diode DZ31, a voltage divider circuit 312, a current source, a level conversion circuit 311, a first switching transistor M31, a second switching transistor M32, and a control circuit 313.

[0162] The input terminal of the level conversion circuit 311 is used to receive the first clock signal PH31, and the output terminal of the level conversion circuit 311 is the output terminal of the fourth driving circuit 310. The first power supply terminal of the level conversion circuit 311 is used to receive the power supply voltage, and the second power supply terminal of the level conversion circuit 311 is connected to the second terminal of the first switching transistor M31. The control terminal of the first switching transistor M31 is connected to the output terminal of the voltage divider circuit 312, the first terminal of the first switching transistor M31 is connected to the second terminal of the second switching transistor M32, the control terminal of the second switching transistor M32 is connected to the anode of the Zener diode DZ31, and the first terminal of the second switching transistor M32 is grounded. The cathode of the Zener diode DZ31 is used to receive the power supply voltage, and the anode of the Zener diode DZ31 is grounded through the current source; the voltage divider circuit 312 is connected in parallel with the Zener diode DZ31.

[0163] The voltage divider circuit 312 is used to divide the voltage across the Zener diode DZ31 and output the divided voltage at the output terminal so that the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor M31 is higher than the difference between the supply voltage and the divided voltage.

[0164] The level conversion circuit 311 is used to convert the level value of the first clock signal PH31 and output the converted first clock signal at the output terminal of the level conversion circuit 311. The range of the level value of the converted first clock signal is the range from the power supply voltage to the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor M31.

[0165] The implementation principle of the fourth driving circuit 310 is similar to that of the first driving circuit described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0166] The charge pump provided in this embodiment, when the input voltage of the charge pump is less than a first threshold voltage, allows the control circuit to control the first current output circuit to turn on the sixth switch transistor according to a first clock signal. This enables the first-stage energy storage branch to charge the first capacitor using the input voltage of the charge pump, thus boosting the input voltage of the charge pump. Furthermore, the control circuit can control the second-stage energy storage branch to use the output voltage of the first-stage energy storage branch for charging according to a second clock signal, thus boosting the output voltage of the first-stage energy storage branch. Therefore, when the first clock signal is active, the first-stage energy storage branch can charge the first capacitor using the input voltage of the charge pump, and the second-stage energy storage branch can boost the output voltage of the first-stage energy storage branch to obtain the output voltage of the charge pump circuit. When the second clock signal is active, the first-stage energy storage branch can boost the input voltage of the charge pump to obtain its output voltage. The second-stage energy storage branch can then use the output voltage of the first-stage energy storage branch for charging. Since the output voltage of the first-stage energy storage branch is twice the input voltage of the charge pump, the output voltage of the charge pump obtained by the second-stage energy storage branch is three times the input voltage of the charge pump. Therefore, the charge pump can boost its output voltage to three times its input voltage, enabling the high-side switch drive circuit to meet the driving requirements of the high-side switch under the action of the charge pump's output voltage. In any stage of the energy storage branch in this charge pump structure, through the setting of the Zener diode, voltage divider circuit, switching transistor, and level conversion circuit in the drive circuit, the voltage divider circuit makes the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor higher than the difference between the supply voltage and the divided voltage. The level conversion circuit converts the level value of the first clock signal and outputs the converted first clock signal at the output terminal of the level conversion circuit. The value range of the converted first clock signal is from the supply voltage to the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor, thereby making the output voltage of the level conversion circuit larger, making the voltage of the first clock signal in the energy storage branch where the drive circuit is located smaller, reducing the current of the energy storage branch, and limiting the current of the energy storage branch. By using the original drive circuit of the charge pump and making simple modifications to the drive circuit, the current limiting protection of the charge pump is realized, so that the current in the charge pump is controlled below the current limit value. While saving costs and circuit area, the normal operation of the charge pump is guaranteed, and the reliability and safety of the charge pump are improved.

[0167] In some examples, when the input voltage VS2 of the charge pump is greater than the first threshold voltage (i.e., when the input voltage VS2 of the charge pump is relatively large), the control circuit 330 can control the third switch M33 to always be on and the first current output circuit 320 to always be off, regardless of whether the first clock signal PH31 or the second clock signal PH32 is active, thus preventing the first-stage energy storage branch from operating. This saves power consumption in the first-stage energy storage branch. Furthermore, the control circuit 330 can control the second-stage energy storage branch to be charged using the input voltage VS2 of the charge pump according to the second clock signal PH32. Therefore, when the input voltage VS2 of the charge pump is greater than the first threshold voltage, the power consumption of the charge pump is reduced.

[0168] When the first clock signal PH31 is triggered, the second-stage energy storage branch is in the discharge phase. This branch can boost the input voltage VS2 of the charge pump to obtain the output voltage VO2. The output voltage VO2 of the charge pump is twice the input voltage VS2.

[0169] When the second clock signal PH32 is triggered, the fifth switch M35 is turned on, and the second-stage energy storage branch is in the charging phase. This allows the second-stage energy storage branch to be charged using the input voltage VS2 of the charge pump, which is the voltage at the first terminal of the first capacitor C31. Since the voltage stored on the first capacitor C31 is 0, and the second terminal of the fifth switch M35 is electrically connected to the input voltage VS2 of the charge pump, the voltage at the first terminal of the first capacitor C31 is at most equal to the input voltage VS2 of the charge pump.

[0170] In summary, when the charge pump input voltage exceeds the first threshold voltage, the control circuit can keep the fifth switch always on and the first current output circuit always off, thus preventing the first-stage energy storage branch from operating and saving its power consumption. Furthermore, the control circuit can control the second-stage energy storage branch to be charged using the charge pump input voltage based on the second clock signal, keeping it in the charging phase. This further reduces the charge pump's power consumption.

[0171] Based on the description of the above embodiments, an exemplary possible implementation of the second-level energy storage branch is provided. Please refer to... Figure 4 , Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of another charge pump provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 Is Figure 3 Based on the charge pump shown, further examples are presented. Figure 3 The structure of a medium charge pump. For example... Figure 4As shown, the second-stage energy storage branch may include: a fourth switch M34, a seventh switch M37, a ninth switch M39, an eighth switch M38, a second capacitor C32, a third capacitor C33, and a second current output circuit 340.

[0172] The control terminal of the second current output circuit 340 is electrically connected to the control circuit 330. The first terminal of the fourth switch M34 is electrically connected to the second terminal of the third switch M33. The second terminal of the fourth switch M34 is electrically connected to the first terminal of the seventh switch M37. The second terminal of the seventh switch M37 is electrically connected to the first terminal of the second capacitor C32. The first terminal of the third capacitor C33 is electrically connected between the second terminal of the fourth switch M34 and the first terminal of the seventh switch M37. The second terminal of the third capacitor C33 is electrically connected to the first terminal of the ninth switch M39. The control terminal of the ninth switch M39 is electrically connected to the first terminal of the second current output circuit 340. The first terminal of the eighth switch M38 is electrically connected between the second terminal of the third capacitor C33 and the first terminal of the ninth switch M39. The second terminal of the eighth switch M38 is electrically connected to the second terminal of the second capacitor C32. The second terminals of the second current output circuit 340 and the ninth switch M39 are both grounded.

[0173] Specifically, the control circuit 330 can control the second current output circuit 340 to conduct according to the second clock signal PH32, thereby turning on the ninth switch M39. Thus, when the second clock signal PH32 is triggered, the fourth switch M34 is turned on, causing the third capacitor C33 to charge, and the second-stage energy storage branch enters the charging stage.

[0174] When the first clock signal PH31 is received, both the seventh switch M37 and the eighth switch M38 are turned on, allowing the third capacitor C33 to discharge to the second capacitor C32, thus enabling the second-stage energy storage branch to enter the discharge phase.

[0175] In summary, the control circuit can control the second current output circuit to conduct according to the second clock signal, thereby turning on the ninth switch. Thus, when the second clock signal is received, the fourth switch is turned on, allowing the second-stage energy storage branch to enter the charging phase. When the first clock signal is received, since both the seventh and eighth switches are turned on, the second-stage energy storage branch enters the discharging phase.

[0176] Based on the description of the above embodiments, an exemplary possible implementation of the control circuit 330 is provided. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the control circuit 330 may include: a first sub-control circuit 331, a second sub-control circuit 332, and a third sub-control circuit.

[0177] The output terminal of the first sub-control circuit 331 is electrically connected to the control terminal of the first current output circuit 320, the output terminal of the second sub-control circuit 332 is electrically connected to the control terminal of the second current output circuit 340, and the output terminal of the third sub-control circuit is electrically connected to the control terminal of the third switching transistor M33 and the control terminal of the first current output circuit 320, respectively.

[0178] When the input voltage VS2 of the charge pump is less than the first threshold voltage, the first sub-control circuit 331 can control the first current output circuit 320 to be turned on according to the first clock signal PH31, so that the first energy storage branch can enter the charging stage.

[0179] Regardless of whether the input voltage VS2 of the charge pump is less than the first threshold voltage or greater than the first threshold voltage, the second sub-control circuit 332 can control the second current output circuit 340 to be turned on according to the second clock signal PH32, so that the second-stage energy storage branch can enter the charging stage.

[0180] When the input voltage VS2 of the charge pump is greater than the first threshold voltage, the third sub-control circuit can control the third switch M33 to always be on and control the first current output circuit 320 to always be off, so that the first stage energy storage branch does not work.

[0181] In summary, when the input voltage of the charge pump is less than the first threshold voltage, the first sub-control circuit can control the first current output circuit to conduct according to the first clock signal, enabling the first-stage energy storage branch to charge. The second sub-control circuit can control the second current output circuit to conduct according to the second clock signal, enabling the second-stage energy storage branch to charge. When the input voltage of the charge pump is greater than the first threshold voltage, the third sub-control circuit can control the fifth switch to always conduct and control the first current output circuit to always be off, preventing the first-stage energy storage branch from operating.

[0182] Based on the description of the above embodiments, an exemplary possible implementation of the first current output circuit 320 is provided. Figure 4 As shown, the first current output circuit 320 may include: a constant current source, a first transistor M310, a second transistor M311, and a third transistor M312.

[0183] The output terminal of the constant current source is electrically connected to the second terminal of the first transistor M310. The first terminal of the first transistor M310 is electrically connected to the first terminal of the second transistor M311. The control terminal of the second transistor M311 is electrically connected to the control terminal of the sixth switch M36. The first terminal of the third transistor M312 is electrically connected between the first terminal of the first transistor M310 and the first terminal of the second transistor M311. The control terminals of the first transistor M310 and the third transistor M312 are both electrically connected to the output terminal of the first sub-control circuit 331. The second terminals of the second transistor M311 and the second terminals of the third transistor M312 are both grounded.

[0184] The constant current source can output a first charging current I1. Thus, when the first sub-control circuit 331 controls the first current output circuit 320 to conduct, the first transistor M310, the second transistor M311, and the third transistor M312 all conduct, causing the sixth switch M36 to conduct. Therefore, the sixth switch M36 can mirror the current of the second transistor M311, making the charging current of the sixth switch M36 N times the first charging current I1, where N is a positive integer. Consequently, the first capacitor C331 can be charged.

[0185] The charging current of the sixth switch M36 determines the voltage stored in the first capacitor C331.

[0186] Specifically, the first charging current I1 is greater than the maximum value of the second charging current I2 output by the second current output circuit 340, causing the charging current of the sixth switch M36 to be greater than the charging current of the ninth switch M39. This prevents the charging charge of the first capacitor C331 from being less than the discharge charge from the first capacitor C331 to the third capacitor C33, ensuring that the voltage stored in the first capacitor C331 does not drop to 0. Therefore, the risk of an excessively low output voltage VO2 can be avoided.

[0187] In summary, the constant current source can output a first charging current. Thus, the sixth switch can be turned on via the first, second, and third transistors, allowing the sixth switch to mirror the current of the second transistor. Consequently, the first capacitor can be charged.

[0188] Based on the description of the above embodiments, an exemplary possible implementation of the second current output circuit 340 is provided. Figure 4 As shown, the second current output circuit 340 may include: a first sampling circuit, an operational amplifier, a fourth transistor M313, a fifth transistor M314, and a sixth transistor M315.

[0189] The input terminal of the first sampling circuit is electrically connected to the first terminal of the second capacitor C32. The output terminal of the first sampling circuit is electrically connected to the first input terminal of the operational amplifier. The second input terminal of the operational amplifier is electrically connected to the reference voltage VREF. The output terminal of the operational amplifier is electrically connected to the second terminal of the fourth transistor M313. The first terminal of the fourth transistor M313 is electrically connected to the first terminal of the fifth transistor M314. The control terminal of the fifth transistor M314 is electrically connected to the control terminal of the ninth switch M39. The first terminal of the sixth transistor M315 is electrically connected between the first terminal of the fourth transistor M313 and the first terminal of the fifth transistor M314. The control terminals of the fourth transistor M313 and the sixth transistor M315 are both electrically connected to the output terminal of the second sub-control circuit 332. The second terminals of the fifth transistor M314 and the sixth transistor M315 are both grounded.

[0190] The first sampling circuit can acquire the voltage stored on the second capacitor C32. Furthermore, the first sampling circuit can transmit the voltage stored on the second capacitor C32 to the operational amplifier. Thus, the operational amplifier can adjust the magnitude of the second charging current I2 based on the relationship between the voltage stored on the second capacitor C32 and the reference voltage VREF, thereby controlling the second current output circuit 340.

[0191] When the voltage stored in the second capacitor C32 is greater than the target voltage stored in the second capacitor C32, the operational amplifier decreases the second charging current I2. Thus, when the second sub-control circuit 332 controls the second current output circuit 340 to conduct, the fourth transistor M313, the fifth transistor M314, and the sixth transistor M315 all conduct, causing the ninth switch M39 to conduct. Thus, the ninth switch M39 can mirror the current of the fifth transistor M314, making its charging current N times the second charging current I2, allowing the third capacitor C33 to charge. Here, N is a positive integer. Under the action of the decreased second charging current I2, the voltage stored in the third capacitor C33 also decreases. This, in turn, decreases the voltage stored in the second capacitor C32. When the voltage stored in the second capacitor C32 is less than the target voltage stored in the second capacitor C32, the operational amplifier increases the second charging current I2. Thus, under the action of the increased second charging current I2, the voltage stored in the third capacitor C33 also increases. This increases the voltage stored in the second capacitor C32.

[0192] Among them, the charging current of the ninth switch M39 determines the voltage stored in the third capacitor C33.

[0193] In summary, the first sampling circuit can acquire the voltage stored on the second capacitor and transmit this voltage to the operational amplifier, enabling the operational amplifier to obtain the voltage stored on the second capacitor. Thus, the operational amplifier can adjust the magnitude of the second charging current based on the voltage stored on the second capacitor and the reference voltage, thereby controlling the second current output circuit.

[0194] Based on the description of the above embodiments, an exemplary possible implementation of the second current output circuit 340 is shown in FIG5. The second current output circuit 340 may include: a first sampling circuit, a first operational amplifier OP1, a fourth transistor M313, a fifth transistor M314, and a sixth transistor M315.

[0195] The input terminal of the first sampling circuit is electrically connected to the first terminal of the second capacitor C32. The output terminal of the first sampling circuit is electrically connected to the first input terminal of the first operational amplifier OP1. The second input terminal of the first operational amplifier OP1 is electrically connected to the first reference voltage VREF1. The output terminal of the first operational amplifier OP1 is electrically connected to the second terminal of the fourth transistor M313. The first terminal of the fourth transistor M313 is electrically connected to the first terminal of the fifth transistor M314. The control terminal of the fifth transistor M314 is electrically connected to the control terminal of the ninth switch M39. The first terminal of the sixth transistor M315 is electrically connected between the first terminal of the fourth transistor M313 and the first terminal of the fifth transistor M314. The control terminals of the fourth transistor M313 and the sixth transistor M315 are both electrically connected to the output terminal of the second sub-control circuit 332. The second terminals of the fifth transistor M314 and the sixth transistor M315 are both grounded.

[0196] The first sampling circuit can acquire the voltage stored on the second capacitor C32. Furthermore, the first sampling circuit can transmit the voltage stored on the second capacitor C32 to the first operational amplifier OP1. Thus, the first operational amplifier OP1 can adjust the magnitude of the second charging current I2 based on the voltage stored on the second capacitor C32 and the first reference voltage VREF1, thereby stabilizing the voltage stored on the second capacitor C32.

[0197] In summary, the first sampling circuit can acquire the voltage stored on the second capacitor and transmit the stored voltage to the second operational amplifier, enabling the second operational amplifier to acquire the stored voltage. Thus, the second operational amplifier can adjust the magnitude of the second charging current based on the stored voltage on the second capacitor and the first reference voltage, thereby stabilizing the stored voltage on the second capacitor.

[0198] Based on the description of the above embodiments, an exemplary possible implementation of the second current output circuit 340 is provided. Figure 4As shown, the second current output circuit 340 may include: a first sampling circuit, a first operational amplifier OP1, a fourth transistor M313, a fifth transistor M314, and a sixth transistor M315.

[0199] The input terminal of the first sampling circuit is electrically connected to the first terminal of the third capacitor C33. The output terminal of the first sampling circuit is electrically connected to the first input terminal of the first operational amplifier OP1. The second input terminal of the first operational amplifier OP1 is electrically connected to the first reference voltage VREF. The output terminal of the first operational amplifier OP1 is electrically connected to the second terminal of the fourth transistor M313. The first terminal of the fourth transistor M313 is electrically connected to the first terminal of the fifth transistor M314. The control terminal of the fifth transistor M314 is electrically connected to the control terminal of the ninth switch M39. The first terminal of the sixth transistor M315 is electrically connected between the first terminal of the fourth transistor M313 and the first terminal of the fifth transistor M314. The control terminals of the fourth transistor M313 and the sixth transistor M315 are both electrically connected to the output terminal of the second sub-control circuit 332. The second terminals of the fifth transistor M314 and the sixth transistor M315 are both grounded.

[0200] The first sampling circuit can acquire the voltage stored on the third capacitor C33. Furthermore, the first sampling circuit can transmit the voltage stored on the third capacitor C33 to the first operational amplifier OP1. Thus, the first operational amplifier OP1 can adjust the magnitude of the second charging current I2 based on the voltage stored on the third capacitor C33 and the first reference voltage VREF, thereby stabilizing the voltage stored on the second capacitor C32.

[0201] In addition, the first sampling circuit has good transient performance, which allows it to follow the changes in the voltage stored on the third capacitor C33. The first sampling circuit can obtain a definite voltage stored on the third capacitor C33.

[0202] In summary, the first sampling circuit can acquire the voltage stored on the third capacitor and transmit the voltage stored on the third capacitor to the second operational amplifier. Thus, the second operational amplifier can adjust the magnitude of the second charging current based on the voltage stored on the third capacitor and the first reference voltage, thereby stabilizing the voltage stored on the second capacitor.

[0203] also, Figure 4 The third switch M33, the fifth switch M35, the fourth switch M34, the seventh switch M37, and the eighth switch M38 are all P-type switches.

[0204] In one possible design, the charge pump also includes a third resistor R3, and the second terminal of the third switch M23 is connected to the top plate of the first capacitor C21 through the third resistor R3.

[0205] The implementation principle of the first driving circuit in this embodiment is similar to that in the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0206] The charge pump provided in this embodiment, in the first-stage energy storage branch, utilizes a Zener diode, a voltage divider circuit, a switching transistor, and a level conversion circuit in the drive circuit. The voltage divider circuit ensures that the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor is higher than the difference between the supply voltage and the divided voltage. The level conversion circuit converts the level value of the first clock signal and outputs the converted first clock signal at its output terminal. The value range of the converted first clock signal is from the supply voltage to the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor, resulting in a larger output voltage of the level conversion circuit. This reduces the voltage division of the first clock signal in the energy storage branch where the drive circuit is located, thus lowering the current in the energy storage branch and limiting the current of this stage of the energy storage branch. By simply modifying the original drive circuit of the charge pump, current limiting protection for the charge pump is achieved, keeping the current in the charge pump below the current limit value. This ensures the normal operation of the charge pump while saving cost and circuit area, improving the reliability and safety of the charge pump.

[0207] In one possible design, please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 2 The charge pump also includes a third resistor R3, and the second terminal of the third switch M23 is connected to the top plate of the first capacitor C21 through the third resistor R3.

[0208] In practical applications, the first-stage energy storage branch in the charge pump is current-limited by the third resistor R3. When the input voltage VCC is applied, the peak current is VCC / R3, thus achieving the function of current limiting when the power is applied.

[0209] The charge pump provided in this embodiment limits the current when powered on by adding a resistor in the first-stage energy storage branch. Furthermore, when the charge pump is working normally, the current is approximately equal to the converted control voltage divided by the third resistor, which also limits the current in the first-stage energy storage branch, ensuring the normal operation of the charge pump and improving its reliability and safety.

[0210] In one possible design, please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 2 The second-stage energy storage branch includes a fourth switch M24 and a second capacitor C22. The top plate of the second capacitor C22 is connected to the top plate of the first capacitor C21 through the fourth switch M24.

[0211] The driving circuit provided in this embodiment includes a second driving circuit 212. The output terminal of the second driving circuit 212 is connected to the control terminal of the fourth switching transistor M24. The second power supply voltage of the second driving circuit comes from the top plate of the second capacitor C22.

[0212] The second driving circuit 212 includes: a second Zener diode, a second voltage divider circuit, a second current source, a second level conversion circuit, a seventh switch, and an eighth switch.

[0213] The control terminal of the seventh switch is connected to the output terminal of the second voltage divider circuit, the first terminal of the seventh switch is connected to the second terminal of the eighth switch, the control terminal of the eighth switch is connected to the positive terminal of the second Zener diode, and the first terminal of the eighth switch is grounded.

[0214] The cathode of the second Zener diode is used to receive the second supply voltage VCC+VCC. The anode of the second Zener diode is grounded through the second current source.

[0215] The second voltage divider circuit is connected in parallel with the second Zener diode. The second voltage divider circuit is used to divide the voltage across the second Zener diode and output a second divided voltage at the output terminal, so that the voltage at the second terminal of the seventh switch is higher than the difference between the second supply voltage and the second divided voltage;

[0216] Furthermore, the second voltage divider circuit includes a sixth resistor and a seventh resistor connected in series. The first terminal of the sixth resistor is connected to the negative terminal of the second Zener diode, and the second terminal of the sixth resistor is connected to the first terminal of the seventh resistor; the second terminal of the seventh resistor is connected to the positive terminal of the second Zener diode, and the first terminal of the seventh resistor is connected to the control terminal of the seventh switching transistor.

[0217] The input of the second level conversion circuit is used to receive the second clock signal PH22, and the output of the second level conversion circuit is the output of the second driver circuit 212. The output of the second level conversion circuit is connected to the control terminal of the fourth switching transistor M24.

[0218] The first power supply terminal of the second level conversion circuit is used to receive the second power supply voltage. The second power supply terminal of the second level conversion circuit is connected to the second terminal of the seventh switching transistor.

[0219] The second level conversion circuit is used to convert the level value of the second clock signal PH22, and outputs the converted second first clock signal at the output terminal of the second level conversion circuit. The value range of the converted second first clock signal is the range from the second power supply voltage to the voltage at the second terminal of the seventh switch.

[0220] Furthermore, the second level conversion circuit includes a second level converter and a series-connected multi-stage inverter connected in sequence. The input terminal of the second level converter is used to receive the first clock signal. The output terminal of the last stage inverter in the series-connected multi-stage inverter is the output terminal of the second drive circuit. For an example, please refer to [further details]. Figure 2 , Figure 2The example shows two stages of inverters, namely a third inverter and a fourth inverter. The input of the third inverter is connected to the output of the second level converter, the output of the third inverter is connected to the input of the fourth inverter, and the output of the fourth inverter is the output of the second drive circuit.

[0221] The implementation principle of the second driving circuit in this embodiment is similar to that of the first driving circuit in the above embodiment, and will not be repeated here.

[0222] The charge pump provided in this embodiment, in the second-stage energy storage branch, utilizes a Zener diode, voltage divider circuit, switching transistor, and level conversion circuit in the drive circuit. The voltage divider circuit ensures that the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor is higher than the difference between the supply voltage and the divided voltage. The level conversion circuit converts the level value of the first clock signal and outputs the converted first clock signal at its output terminal. The value range of the converted first clock signal is from the supply voltage to the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor, resulting in a larger output voltage of the level conversion circuit. This reduces the voltage division of the first clock signal in the energy storage branch where the drive circuit is located, thus lowering the current in the energy storage branch and limiting the current of this stage of the energy storage branch. By simply modifying the original drive circuit of the charge pump, current limiting protection for the charge pump is achieved, keeping the current in the charge pump below the current limit value. This ensures the normal operation of the charge pump while saving cost and circuit area, improving the reliability and safety of the charge pump.

[0223] Furthermore, the charge pump also includes a fourth resistor R4, and the second terminal of the fourth switch M24 is connected to the top plate of the second capacitor C22 through the fourth resistor R4.

[0224] In practical applications, the second-stage energy storage branch in the charge pump uses the fourth resistor R4 for current limiting. When the input voltage is 2VCC, the peak current is 2VCC / R4, thus achieving the function of current limiting when powered on.

[0225] The charge pump provided in this embodiment, by adding a resistor in the second-stage energy storage branch, plays a current-limiting role when powered on. Furthermore, when the charge pump is working normally, the current is approximately equal to the converted control voltage divided by the fourth resistor, which also plays a current-limiting role in the second-stage energy storage branch, ensuring the normal operation of the charge pump and improving its reliability and safety.

[0226] In one possible design, please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 2 The second-stage energy storage branch also includes a fifth switching transistor M25. The bottom plate of the second capacitor C22 is connected to the bottom plate of the first capacitor C21 through the fifth switching transistor M25.

[0227] The driving circuit provided in this embodiment includes a third driving circuit 230. The output terminal of the third driving circuit 230 is connected to the control terminal of the fifth switching transistor M25. The third power supply voltage of the third driving circuit 230 comes from the input voltage.

[0228] The third driving circuit 230 includes: a third Zener diode, a third voltage divider circuit, a third current source, a third level conversion circuit, a ninth switching transistor, and a tenth switching transistor.

[0229] The control terminal of the ninth switch is connected to the output terminal of the third voltage divider circuit, the first terminal of the ninth switch is connected to the second terminal of the tenth switch, the control terminal of the tenth switch is connected to the positive terminal of the third Zener diode, and the first terminal of the tenth switch is grounded.

[0230] The cathode of the third Zener diode is used to receive the third supply voltage VCC. The anode of the third Zener diode is grounded through the third current source.

[0231] The third voltage divider circuit is connected in parallel with the third Zener diode. The third voltage divider circuit is used to divide the voltage across the third Zener diode and outputs the third divided voltage at the output terminal, so that the voltage at the second terminal of the ninth switch is higher than the difference between the third supply voltage and the third divided voltage.

[0232] Furthermore, the third voltage divider circuit includes an eighth resistor and a ninth resistor connected in series. The first terminal of the eighth resistor is connected to the negative terminal of the third Zener diode, and the second terminal of the eighth resistor is connected to the first terminal of the ninth resistor; the second terminal of the ninth resistor is connected to the positive terminal of the third Zener diode, and the first terminal of the ninth resistor is connected to the control terminal of the ninth switching transistor.

[0233] The input of the third level conversion circuit is used to receive the second clock signal PH22, and the output of the third level conversion circuit is the output of the third driver circuit 230. The output of the third level conversion circuit is connected to the control terminal of the fifth switching transistor M25.

[0234] The first power supply terminal of the third level conversion circuit is used to receive the third power supply voltage. The second power supply terminal of the third level conversion circuit is connected to the second terminal of the ninth switching transistor.

[0235] Furthermore, the third level conversion circuit includes a third level converter and a series-connected multi-stage inverter. The input terminal of the third level converter is used to receive the first clock signal. The output terminal of the last stage inverter in the series-connected multi-stage inverter is the output terminal of the third drive circuit. For an example, please refer to [further details]. Figure 2 , Figure 2The example shows two stages of inverters, namely a fifth inverter and a sixth inverter. The input of the fifth inverter is connected to the output of the third level converter, the output of the fifth inverter is connected to the input of the sixth inverter, and the output of the sixth inverter is the output of the third drive circuit.

[0236] The level conversion circuit is used to convert the level value of the second clock signal PH22 and output the converted third first clock signal at the output terminal of the level conversion circuit. The level value of the converted third first clock signal is within the range of the third power supply voltage to the voltage at the second terminal of the ninth switch.

[0237] The implementation principle of the third driving circuit in this embodiment is similar to that of the first driving circuit in the above embodiment, and will not be repeated here.

[0238] The charge pump provided in this embodiment, in the second-stage energy storage branch, through the setting of the Zener diode, voltage divider circuit, switching transistor and level conversion circuit in the drive circuit, makes the resistive voltage division of the energy storage branch where the drive circuit is located small, thereby controlling the current of the energy storage branch and limiting the current of the energy storage branch. By using the original drive circuit of the charge pump and making simple modifications to the drive circuit, the current limiting protection of the charge pump is realized, so that the current in the charge pump is controlled below the current limit value. While saving cost and circuit area, the normal operation of the charge pump is guaranteed, and the reliability and safety of the charge pump are improved.

[0239] Furthermore, the charge pump also includes a fifth resistor R5, and the second terminal of the fifth switch M25 is connected to the bottom plate of the second capacitor C21 through the fifth resistor R5.

[0240] In practical applications, the second-stage energy storage branch in the charge pump is current-limited through the fifth resistor R5. When the input voltage VCC is applied, the peak current is VCC / R5, thus achieving the function of current limiting when the power is applied.

[0241] The charge pump provided in this embodiment limits the current when powered on by adding a resistor in the second-stage energy storage branch. When the charge pump is working normally, the current is approximately equal to the converted control voltage divided by the fifth resistor, which also limits the current in the second-stage energy storage branch, ensuring the normal operation of the charge pump and improving its reliability and safety.

[0242] It should be noted that in the charge pump, the drive circuit can be located in any of the above-mentioned possible design configurations, or it can be simultaneously located at the positions corresponding to the switching transistors of two or more energy storage branches. This disclosure does not limit the number of drive circuits installed in the charge pump. For example, in... Figure 2In the charge pump shown, drive circuits can be respectively set on the branches of the third switch M23, the fourth switch M24 and the fifth switch M25 to limit the current of the charge pump.

[0243] In some embodiments, the driving circuit may further include, for example, Figure 4 At least one of the fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth driving circuits shown has a similar structure, implementation principle, and beneficial effects to the first driving circuit described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0244] This disclosure provides a chip including a driving circuit as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0245] The chip provided in this embodiment has a similar implementation principle and technical effect to the above embodiments, and will not be described again here.

[0246] This disclosure provides a chip including a charge pump as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0247] The chip provided in this embodiment has a similar implementation principle and technical effect to the above embodiments, and will not be described again here.

[0248] This disclosure provides an electronic device including a driving circuit as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0249] The electronic device provided in this embodiment has a similar implementation principle and technical effect to the above embodiments, and will not be described again here.

[0250] This disclosure provides an electronic device including a charge pump as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0251] The electronic device provided in this embodiment has a similar implementation principle and technical effect to the above embodiments, and will not be described again here.

[0252] Other embodiments of this disclosure will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the disclosure herein. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this disclosure that follow the general principles of this disclosure and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the following claims.

Claims

1. A driving circuit, characterized in that, The method is applied to a charge pump, which includes at least two energy storage branches, with the output of the first energy storage branch connected to the input of the second energy storage branch; each of the at least two energy storage branches includes at least one switching transistor and a capacitor; the output of the drive circuit is connected to the control terminal of at least one switching transistor in the first energy storage branch. The at least two-stage energy storage branch includes the first energy storage branch; The driving circuit includes: a Zener diode, a voltage divider circuit, a current source, a level conversion circuit, a first switching transistor, and a second switching transistor; The input terminal of the level conversion circuit is used to receive a first clock signal, and the output terminal of the level conversion circuit is the output terminal of the driving circuit; the first power supply terminal of the level conversion circuit is used to receive the power supply voltage, and the second power supply terminal of the level conversion circuit is connected to the second terminal of the first switching transistor; the control terminal of the first switching transistor is connected to the output terminal of the voltage divider circuit, the first terminal of the first switching transistor is connected to the second terminal of the second switching transistor, the control terminal of the second switching transistor is connected to the anode of the Zener diode, and the first terminal of the second switching transistor is grounded; the cathode of the Zener diode is used to receive the power supply voltage, and the anode of the Zener diode is grounded through the current source; the voltage divider circuit is connected in parallel with the Zener diode; The voltage divider circuit is used to divide the voltage across the Zener diode and output the divided voltage at the output terminal, so that the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor is higher than the difference between the supply voltage and the divided voltage. The level conversion circuit is used to convert the level value of the first clock signal and output the converted first clock signal at the output terminal of the level conversion circuit. The value range of the converted first clock signal is the range of the supply voltage to the voltage at the second terminal of the first switching transistor.

2. The driving circuit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The voltage divider circuit includes a first resistor and a second resistor connected in series; the first end of the first resistor is connected to the negative terminal of the Zener diode, and the second end of the first resistor is connected to the first end of the second resistor; the second end of the second resistor is connected to the positive terminal of the Zener diode, and the first end of the second resistor is connected to the control terminal of the first switching transistor.

3. The driving circuit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The level conversion circuit includes a level converter and a series-connected multi-stage inverter; the input terminal of the level converter is used to receive the first clock signal; the output terminal of the last stage inverter in the series-connected multi-stage inverter is the output terminal of the driving circuit.

4. A charge pump, characterized in that, The charge pump includes a drive circuit and at least two energy storage branches, with the output terminal of the first energy storage branch connected to the input terminal of the second energy storage branch; each of the at least two energy storage branches includes at least one switching transistor and a capacitor; the output terminal of the drive circuit is connected to the control terminal of at least one switching transistor in the first energy storage branch; the at least two energy storage branches include the first energy storage branch. The driving circuit is the driving circuit as described in any one of claims 1-3.

5. The charge pump according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first-stage energy storage branch includes a third switching transistor and a first capacitor; the first terminal of the third switching transistor is used to connect to the input voltage; the second terminal of the third switching transistor is connected to the top plate of the first capacitor. The driving circuit includes a first driving circuit, the output terminal of which is connected to the control terminal of the third switching transistor, and the power supply voltage of the first driving circuit comes from the top plate of the first capacitor.

6. The charge pump according to claim 5, characterized in that, The charge pump further includes a control circuit; the at least two-stage energy storage branch includes a first-stage energy storage branch and a second-stage energy storage branch; the first-stage energy storage branch includes a third switch, a sixth switch, a fifth switch, a first capacitor, and a first current output circuit; the control terminal of the third switch, the control terminal of the first current output circuit, and the control terminal of the second-stage energy storage branch are respectively electrically connected to the control circuit; the first terminal of the third switch and the second terminal of the fifth switch are both electrically connected to the input voltage; the second terminal of the third switch is electrically connected to the input terminal of the second-stage energy storage branch; the first terminal of the first capacitor is electrically connected between the second terminal of the third switch and the input terminal of the second-stage energy storage branch; the second terminal of the first capacitor is electrically connected to the first terminal of the sixth switch; the control terminal of the sixth switch is electrically connected to the first terminal of the first current output circuit; the first terminal of the fifth switch is electrically connected between the second terminal of the first capacitor and the first terminal of the sixth switch; the second terminal of the first current output circuit, the second terminal of the sixth switch, and the first terminal of the second-stage energy storage branch are all grounded; the output terminal of the second-stage energy storage branch is used to output the output voltage of the charge pump. The control circuit is configured to control the first current output circuit to turn on the sixth switch transistor according to a first clock signal when the input voltage of the charge pump is less than a first threshold voltage, so as to charge the first capacitor using the input voltage of the charge pump. In addition, according to the second clock signal, the second-stage energy storage branch is controlled to charge using the output voltage of the first-stage energy storage branch; When the first clock signal is received, the third switch is turned on to charge the first capacitor; The second-stage energy storage branch is used to boost the output voltage of the first-stage energy storage branch to obtain the output voltage of the charge pump, wherein the output voltage of the charge pump is three times the input voltage of the charge pump; When the second clock signal is received, the fifth switch is turned on, so that the first stage energy storage branch boosts the input voltage of the charge pump to obtain the output voltage of the first stage energy storage branch. The output voltage of the first stage energy storage branch is twice the input voltage of the charge pump. The second-stage energy storage branch is used to charge the energy using the output voltage of the first-stage energy storage branch. The first clock signal and the second clock signal are two-phase clocks that do not overlap and have a duty cycle of 50%.

7. The charge pump according to claim 6, characterized in that, The charge pump also includes a third resistor, and the second end of the third switching transistor is connected to the top plate of the first capacitor through the third resistor.

8. The charge pump according to claim 7, characterized in that, The second-stage energy storage branch includes a fourth switching transistor and a second capacitor; the top plate of the second capacitor is connected to the top plate of the first capacitor through the fourth switching transistor. The driving circuit includes a second driving circuit, the output terminal of which is connected to the control terminal of the fourth switching transistor, and the power supply voltage of the second driving circuit comes from the top plate of the second capacitor.

9. The charge pump according to claim 8, characterized in that, The charge pump also includes a fourth resistor, and the second end of the fourth switching transistor is connected to the top plate of the second capacitor through the fourth resistor.

10. The charge pump according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second-stage energy storage branch also includes a fifth switching transistor; the bottom plate of the second capacitor is connected to the bottom plate of the first capacitor through the fifth switching transistor; The driving circuit includes a third driving circuit, the output terminal of which is connected to the control terminal of the fifth switching transistor, and the power supply voltage of the third driving circuit comes from the input voltage.

11. The charge pump according to claim 10, characterized in that, The charge pump also includes a fifth resistor, and the second end of the fifth switching transistor is connected to the bottom plate of the second capacitor through the fifth resistor.

12. A chip, characterized in that, It includes the drive circuit as described in any one of claims 1-3; or it includes the charge pump as described in any one of claims 4-11.

13. An electronic device, characterized in that, It includes the drive circuit as described in any one of claims 1-3; or it includes the charge pump as described in any one of claims 4-11.

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