Power management integrated circuit and electronic device

Abstract

The invention discloses a power management integrated circuit and electronic equipment, and belongs to the technical field of electronics. The power management integrated circuit comprises a first power supply module used for outputting a first power supply signal; the N second power supply modules are connected with the first power supply module and the load device and are used for receiving the first power supply signal, outputting a second power supply signal to the load device, monitoring power supply load information corresponding to the second power supply signal and outputting a monitoring result signal of a first state under the condition that the power supply load information meets a first condition; under the condition that the power load information does not meet the first condition, a monitoring result signal of a second state is output, and N is a positive integer larger than or equal to 1; and the control decision circuit is connected with the first power supply module and the second power supply modules and is used for receiving the N monitoring result signals output by the N second power supply modules and sending mode control signals to the first power supply module according to the signal states of the N monitoring result signals.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of electronic technology, specifically relating to a power management integrated circuit and an electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] In electronic systems, power management integrated circuits (PMICs) play a crucial role in regulating and distributing power to ensure the normal operation of electronic devices. Specifically, as a highly integrated multi-rail power supply core, the PMIC is responsible for providing efficient and stable power to load devices such as processors and memory. The PMIC integrates multiple power modules, each with significantly different operating modes. With the increasing demands for battery life, performance, and miniaturization from smart terminals and IoT devices, the PMIC needs to dynamically coordinate the operating modes of its internal power modules across multiple loads and application scenarios to comprehensively optimize the efficiency, noise level, and response speed of the electronic system.

[0003] Currently, power management integrated circuits typically employ a combination architecture of a buck converter and a low dropout regulator (LDO). The mode switching strategies of the buck converter and the LDO operate independently and rely on fixed rules, such as load thresholds and time-triggered mechanisms.

[0004] However, the above-mentioned mode switching strategy is prone to the problem of mismatch between power supply operating mode and load demand. The mismatch between power supply operating mode and load demand can not only easily cause the power management integrated circuit to trigger the overcurrent protection (OCP) function, but also may cause defects such as mode control uncertainty, mode switching lag, energy efficiency and noise conflict, and insufficient cross-module coordination, thereby reducing the working performance of the power management integrated circuit. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this application is to provide a power management integrated circuit and electronic device that can dynamically optimize the working mode and collaborative adjustment strategy of each power module in the power management integrated circuit, improve the problem of mismatch between power working mode and load demand, and enhance the working performance of the power management integrated circuit.

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a power management integrated circuit, comprising: a first power module for outputting a first power signal; N second power modules, each connected to the first power module and a load device, the second power modules being used to receive the first power signal, output a second power signal to the load device, and monitor power load information corresponding to the second power signal, outputting a monitoring result signal of a first state when the power load information meets a first condition, and outputting a monitoring result signal of a second state when the power load information does not meet the first condition, wherein N is a positive integer greater than or equal to 1; and a control decision circuit connected to the first and second power modules, the control decision circuit being used to receive N monitoring result signals output by the N second power modules, and sending a mode control signal to the first power module according to the signal state of the N monitoring result signals, the mode control signal being used to adjust the operating mode of the first power module so that the power load information of the N second power modules does not meet the first condition.

[0007] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide an electronic device, including: a power management integrated circuit as described in the first aspect; and a load device connected to the power management integrated circuit.

[0008] The power management integrated circuit provided in this application includes a first power module, N second power modules, and a control decision circuit, where N is a positive integer greater than or equal to 1. The second power modules are connected to both the first power module and a load device, and the control decision circuit is connected to both the first and second power modules. The first power module outputs a first power signal. The second power modules receive the first power signal, output a second power signal to the load device, and monitor the power load information corresponding to the second power signal. If the power load information meets a first condition, the second power module outputs a monitoring result signal of a first state; if the power load information does not meet the first condition, it outputs a monitoring result signal of a second state. The control decision circuit receives N monitoring result signals output by the N second power modules and, based on the signal states of the N monitoring result signals, sends a mode control signal to the first power module. The mode control signal adjusts the operating mode of the first power module so that the power load information of the N second power modules does not meet the first condition. Through this power management integrated circuit, based on the power load information output by the second power modules, a monitoring result signal is output. Then, based on the monitoring result signal, the mode control signal controls and adjusts the operating mode of the first power module, thereby achieving adjustment of the power load information output by the second power modules. In this way, by sensing the power load information output by the second power module in real time and adjusting the working mode of the first power module, the working mode and collaborative adjustment strategy of each power module in the power management integrated circuit can be dynamically optimized, the problem of mismatch between power working mode and load demand can be improved, and the working performance of the power management integrated circuit can be enhanced. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a power management integrated circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0010] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a power management integrated circuit provided in related technologies;

[0011] Figure 3 This is one of the working principle diagrams of the power management integrated circuit provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0012] Figure 4 This is the second schematic diagram of the working principle of the power management integrated circuit provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0013] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of an addition digital circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0014] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating the operation of the power management integrated circuit provided in this application embodiment;

[0015] Figure 7A schematic diagram of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0016] Figure label:

[0017] 100 Power management integrated circuit, 102 First power module, 104 Second power module, 106 Control decision circuit, 108 Register module, 110 Parameter storage module, 112 Power conversion control module, 114 Adding digital circuit, 116 System chip module, 200 Electronic equipment, 202 Load device. Detailed Implementation

[0018] The embodiments of this application will now be described in detail. Examples of these embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0019] The terms "first" and "second" in the specification and claims of this application may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the features. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0020] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0021] The following is combined Figures 1-7 The power management integrated circuit and electronic device according to embodiments of this application will be described in detail.

[0022] like Figure 1 As shown in the figure, this application embodiment provides a power management integrated circuit 100. The power management integrated circuit 100 includes a first power module 102, N second power modules 104, and a control decision circuit 106.

[0023] Where N is a positive integer greater than or equal to 1, that is, the number of second power modules 104 is at least one.

[0024] Optionally, the first power module 102 is connected to the second power module 104, and the first power module 102 is used to output a first power signal to the second power module 104.

[0025] In practical applications, the first power module 102 is specifically a buck converter, i.e., a Buck converter.

[0026] Optionally, the second power module 104 is connected between the first power module 102 and the corresponding load device 202.

[0027] Optionally, the second power module 104 is used to receive the first power signal and convert it into a second power signal to output to the corresponding load device 202. The second power module 104 is also used to monitor the power load information corresponding to the second power signal it outputs to the load device 202, and output a monitoring result signal of a first state when the monitored power load information meets the set first condition, and output a monitoring result signal of a second state when the power load information does not meet the first condition.

[0028] The first condition indicates that the current power supply status of the second power module 104 is close to the maximum power supply capacity of the second power module 104 in the current working mode.

[0029] Optionally, if the monitoring result signal of the first state indicates that the current power supply capacity of the second power module 104 does not match the power supply requirements of the corresponding load device 202, and the second power module 104 outputs the monitoring result signal of the first state, it means that the second power module 104 needs to adjust the power supply state to the load device 202. If the monitoring result signal of the second state indicates that the current power supply capacity of the second power module 104 matches the power supply requirements of the corresponding load device 202, and the second power module 104 outputs the monitoring result signal of the second state, it means that the second power module 104 does not need to adjust the power supply state to the load device 202.

[0030] In practical applications, the second power module 104 is specifically a low dropout linear regulator, i.e., LDO, and the load device 202 includes, but is not limited to, devices such as processors and memory, without specific restrictions.

[0031] Optionally, the control decision circuit 106 is connected to the first power module 102 and the second power module 104, respectively.

[0032] Optionally, the control decision circuit 106 is used to decide whether to send a mode control request to the first power module 102, which is the pre-amplifier of the second power module 104.

[0033] Specifically, the control decision circuit 106 is used to receive N monitoring result signals sent by N second power modules 104, and according to the signal status of the received N monitoring result signals, send a mode control signal to the first power module 102, so as to control the first power module 102 to adjust its working mode through the mode control signal, thereby adjusting the first power signal output by the first power module 102, and indirectly adjusting the second power signal output by the second power module 104, that is, adjusting the power supply status of the second power module 104 to the load device 202, thereby realizing the adjustment of the power load information output by the second power module 104, so that the power load information output by the N second power modules 104 no longer meets the above-mentioned first condition.

[0034] Specifically, the control decision circuit 106 will only send a mode control signal to the first power module 102 if the signal states of the N monitoring result signals received by the control decision circuit 106 meet the second condition. The second condition indicates that at least one second power module 104 has requested the first power module 102 to adjust its operating mode.

[0035] In practical applications, the control decision circuit 106 can be composed of digital logic circuits, such as logic OR circuits, adder circuits, etc., without specific restrictions.

[0036] Understandably, PMIC integrates various power modules, such as Buck converters, LDOs, and boost converters. The operating characteristics of each power module differ significantly: Buck converters support Pulse Width Modulation (PWM), Pulse Frequency Modulation (PFM), and Burst Mode (BM). The efficiency and noise characteristics of Buck converters fluctuate considerably depending on load changes. For example, PWM mode operates efficiently under high loads but experiences increased losses under light loads, while PFM mode remains efficient under light loads but is sensitive to noise. LDOs rely on low dropout voltages to achieve low-noise output, typically reducing quiescent current through Low Power Mode (LPM), but this often comes at the cost of sacrificing load responsiveness. Boost converters and other topology modules require optimized mode switching strategies for boost scenarios.

[0037] In related technologies, such as Figure 2As shown, the Buck converter and LDO within the PMIC independently monitor the current power load information of the power system, such as load current and load voltage. Based on this, software control is implemented through a System on a Chip (SOC). The SOC monitors the power load information monitored by the Buck converter and LDO via load monitoring sensors. Internally, the SOC utilizes its power controller and PMIC arbitrator for comprehensive analysis to determine the optimal power operating mode. Then, through the power control interface and power control bus, the determined power operating mode is written to the Buck converter by updating the register parameter values ​​in the Buck converter's mode register. Based on this, the Buck converter looks up the corresponding power parameter truth table according to the updated register parameter values ​​to obtain the power control parameters. Then, based on the power control parameters, it adjusts the power conversion control module, enabling the power system to dynamically adapt and better meet actual load requirements, achieving efficient power management and energy consumption optimization.

[0038] However, based on the aforementioned mode adjustment strategy in related technologies, when load changes necessitate adjustments to the LDO's power operating mode, the power load information must be fed back to the SOC via a load monitoring sensor. The SOC then performs internal arbitration before updating the LDO's power operating mode via the power control bus. Simultaneously, the SOC also adjusts the power operating mode of the Buck converter preceding the LDO via the power control bus. This adjustment process is time-consuming, and during rapid load changes, delays may occur where the Buck converter and LDO fail to respond promptly. This delay could lead to a mismatch between the Buck converter's or LDO's power operating mode and the load requirements, and it could adversely affect the stability and energy efficiency of the power system.

[0039] Among the reasons for PMIC triggering OCP, besides the damage to electronic components causing abnormal power supply short circuits, environmental temperature affecting PMIC abnormalities, and transient load fluctuations exceeding the OCP threshold, the mismatch between the power supply operating mode and load demand is one of the main reasons.

[0040] A mismatch between the power supply's operating mode and load demand can also lead to the following defects: Mode control uncertainty: The operating mode of a multi-load power supply is often controlled by multiple loads. If the software control is inadequate, it can easily lead to a mismatch between the power supply's operating mode and the actual load demand; Mode switching lag: When the load changes abruptly, the SOC (System-on-Chip) is required to arbitrate the load, making it impossible to use the optimal operating mode immediately. This lag in adjustment time leads to efficiency loss or performance degradation; Energy efficiency and noise conflict: The light-load high-efficiency mode of the Buck step-down converter, such as PFM mode, is difficult to simultaneously meet low-noise requirements; Insufficient cross-module coordination: When the operating mode of the LDO (Low Power Module) supplying the load switches from LPM mode to Normal Power Mode (NPM), the Buck step-down converter supplying the LDO may still be operating in LPM mode. In this case, the Buck step-down converter's dynamic response and power supply capacity are poor, failing to meet the load's rapid power withdrawal requirements and easily triggering OCP (Optical Load Protection).

[0041] Based on this, this application proposes an innovative optimization scheme for power overcurrent protection to optimize the power architecture of Buck-LDO-load. Specifically, in the power management integrated circuit 100 provided in this application, a control decision circuit 106 is added to the traditional PMIC Buck-LDO-load direct connection architecture. The LDO monitors the changes in power load information in real time. When the power load information is detected to be close to the critical threshold for mode switching, a mode control signal is immediately sent to request the upstream Buck buck converter to switch its operating mode, so that the Buck buck converter adjusts the power parameters according to the adjusted operating mode.

[0042] In this way, on the one hand, a hardware module is introduced to monitor power load information. The monitoring result signal mechanism requests the Buck converter to switch its operating mode, and the power operating mode is directly modified using the hardware monitoring result signal, replacing the traditional software control process. This results in a fast response speed and is beneficial to system stability. In other words, a hardware solution for power operating mode adjustment is introduced, bypassing the signal exchange between the PMIC and SOC and the arbitration process within the SOC. It can instantly adjust the operating mode of the Buck converter before the LDO at the moment of load change, thereby adjusting the power parameters of the Buck converter and changing the output current or voltage of the Buck converter. This avoids power overcurrent caused by untimely adjustment of the operating mode of the Buck converter before it, improves the speed of power operating mode adjustment, optimizes overcurrent protection, and improves the overall stability and reliability of the power system. It can more effectively cope with rapidly changing load demands and ensure the reliable operation of the power system under various load conditions. On the other hand, a comprehensive power management system combining a front-end Buck converter and an LDO is introduced. This system focuses on dynamically adjusting the operating mode of the front-end Buck converter by monitoring the LDO output through hardware modules. It involves the entire power chain, not just the LDOs, and can sense multi-dimensional information such as load, voltage, and temperature of the power system in real time. It dynamically optimizes the operating modes and collaborative adjustment strategies of each power module, thereby addressing the mismatch between the operating mode of the front-end Buck converter and the current demands of the subsequent multiple LDOs, achieving the optimal balance between energy efficiency and performance under all operating conditions. Furthermore, the circuit structure is simple and clear, and the implementation principle is easy to understand, making design and application more efficient and convenient. This simplifies hardware implementation and gives it wider applicability and integration possibilities.

[0043] In practical applications, the aforementioned control decision circuit 106 can be embedded within the PMIC as an integrated module, or it can be flexibly configured as an independent circuit; no specific restrictions are imposed here.

[0044] The power management integrated circuit 100 according to an embodiment of this application includes a first power module 102, N second power modules 104, and a control decision circuit 106, where N is a positive integer greater than or equal to 1. The second power modules 104 are connected to both the first power module 102 and the load device 202, and the control decision circuit 106 is connected to both the first power module 102 and the second power module 104. The first power module 102 outputs a first power signal. The second power modules 104 receive the first power signal, output a second power signal to the load device 202, and monitor the power load information corresponding to the second power signal. If the power load information meets a first condition, the second power module 104 outputs a monitoring result signal of a first state; if the power load information does not meet the first condition, the second power module 104 outputs a monitoring result signal of a second state. The control decision circuit 106 receives the N monitoring result signals output by the N second power modules 104 and, based on the signal states of the N monitoring result signals, sends a mode control signal to the first power module 102. The mode control signal adjusts the operating mode of the first power module 102 so that the power load information of the N second power modules 104 does not meet the first condition. The power management integrated circuit 100 monitors the power load information output by the second power module 104, outputs a monitoring result signal, and then, based on the monitoring result signal, controls and adjusts the operating mode of the first power module 102 through a mode control signal, thereby adjusting the power load information output by the second power module. In this way, by real-time sensing of the power load information output by the second power module 104 and adjusting the operating mode of the first power module 102, the operating modes and collaborative adjustment strategies of each power module in the power management integrated circuit 100 can be dynamically optimized, improving the mismatch between power operating modes and load requirements and enhancing the performance of the power management integrated circuit 100.

[0045] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, such as Figure 1 As shown, the first power module 102 includes a register module 108, a parameter storage module 110, and a power conversion control module 112.

[0046] The register module 108 is connected to the control decision circuit 106 and serves as the interface between the control decision circuit 106 and the first power supply module 102.

[0047] Optionally, the register module 108 is used to receive the mode control signal and update the register parameter values ​​according to the mode control signal.

[0048] Different register parameter values ​​are used to indicate different operating modes.

[0049] In practical applications, register parameter values ​​can be modified in two ways: software and hardware. In software control, the SOC modifies register parameter values ​​via software control instructions. After receiving the software control instructions, the register module 108 sets or resets different bits according to the instruction requirements, i.e., sets certain bits to high or low levels. This modification method is highly flexible, as register settings can be changed through software updates. In hardware control, the modification of register parameter values ​​is directly controlled by the control decision circuit 106. The control decision circuit 106 outputs corresponding digital signals, i.e., mode control signals. These digital signals can directly act on the register module 108 to set or reset specific bits. This modification method has a relatively direct signal path and fast response speed, making it suitable for applications requiring rapid response.

[0050] Optionally, the parameter storage module 110 is connected to the register module 108. The parameter storage module 110 includes a power parameter truth table, which stores power control parameters.

[0051] Optionally, the power conversion control module 112 is connected to the parameter storage module 110.

[0052] During the operation of the first power module 102, after updating the register parameter values, the register module 108 feeds back the updated register parameter values ​​to the parameter storage module 110. The parameter storage module 110 then looks up the corresponding power parameter truth table based on the updated register parameter values ​​to obtain the power control parameters. Based on this, the parameter storage module 110 feeds back the found power control parameters to the power conversion control module 112. The power conversion control module 112 then adjusts the power parameters according to the power control parameters to adjust the operating mode of the first power module 102 and adjust the output current or voltage of the first power module 102 to adapt to the power supply requirements of the load device 202, enabling the power system to dynamically adapt.

[0053] The power supply parameters mentioned above include, but are not limited to, operating frequency, switching mode, driving capability, and switching duty cycle, etc., and are not specifically limited here.

[0054] According to the power management integrated circuit 100 of this application embodiment, the first power module 102 includes: a register module 108 connected to the control decision circuit 106, used to receive mode control signals and update register parameter values ​​according to the mode control signals; a parameter storage module 110 connected to the register module 108, the parameter storage module 110 containing a power parameter truth table, the parameter storage module 110 used to look up the power parameter truth table according to the updated register parameter values ​​to obtain power control parameters; and a power conversion control module 112 connected to the parameter storage module 110, used to adjust the power parameters according to the power control parameters to adjust the operating mode of the first power module 102. In this way, the operating mode of the front-end Buck converter can be dynamically adjusted based on the output of the LDO, involving the entire power chain. This allows for dynamic optimization of the operating modes and collaborative adjustment strategies of each power module, thereby addressing the mismatch between the operating mode of the front-end Buck converter and the current demands of the subsequent multiple LDOs, achieving a balance between energy efficiency and performance.

[0055] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, the power load information includes load voltage and load current.

[0056] Based on this, the second power supply module 104 is specifically used to: output a monitoring result signal of the first state when the load voltage is less than or equal to the voltage threshold, or when the load current is greater than or equal to the current threshold.

[0057] The voltage threshold mentioned above is the voltage limit value that triggers the Under Voltage Lock Out (UVLO) mechanism.

[0058] Optionally, the aforementioned current threshold is slightly less than the maximum output current of the second power module 104 in the current operating mode.

[0059] Optionally, the second power module 104 is further configured to: output a monitoring result signal of the second state when the load voltage is greater than the voltage threshold and the load current is less than the current threshold.

[0060] Specifically, in the power management integrated circuit 100 of this application embodiment, the second power module 104 monitors its own output load voltage or load current in real time and determines whether its power supply status to the load device 202 is close to its maximum power supply capacity in its current operating mode. Specifically, when the load current of the second power module 104 is greater than or equal to a current threshold, it indicates that the power supply status of the second power module 104 to the load device 202 is close to its maximum power supply capacity in its current operating mode. At this time, the second power module 104 outputs a monitoring result signal for the first state. Alternatively, when the load current of the second power module 104 is too large and exceeds the power supply limit, it will cause the load voltage output by the second power module 104 to drop. If the load voltage drops to or below the voltage threshold, an undervoltage lockout mechanism will be triggered. At this time, the second power module 104 will also output a monitoring result signal for the first state. If the load voltage output by the second power module 104 is greater than the voltage threshold and the load current is less than the current threshold, it indicates that the power supply state of the second power module 104 to the load device 202 is not close to its maximum power supply capacity in its current working mode. In other words, it indicates that the current power supply capacity of the second power module 104 matches the power supply requirements of the corresponding load device 202. At this time, the second power module 104 outputs the monitoring result signal of the second state.

[0061] According to the power management integrated circuit 100 of this application embodiment, the power load information includes load voltage and load current. The second power module 104 is specifically used to: output a monitoring result signal of a first state when the load voltage is less than or equal to a voltage threshold, or when the load current is greater than or equal to a current threshold; and output a monitoring result signal of a second state when the load voltage is greater than the voltage threshold and the load current is less than the current threshold. This achieves real-time monitoring and rapid response to the load state. Even if the current LDO operating mode cannot meet the changing load, the fast mode switching of the upstream Buck converter can ensure the load power supply requirements, reducing the risk of overcurrent and improving the reliability and safety of the power system.

[0062] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, the control decision circuit 106 is specifically used to: send a mode control signal to the first power module 102 when there is a monitoring result signal of the first state among the N received monitoring result signals.

[0063] Specifically, in the power management integrated circuit 100 of this application embodiment, when the monitoring result signal sent by any second power module 104 is in the first state, that is, when the current power supply capacity of any second power module 104 does not match the power supply demand of the corresponding load device 202, that is, when any second power module 104 needs to adjust the power supply state to the load device 202, the control decision circuit 106 determines that a mode control request needs to be sent to the upstream power supply. At this time, the control decision circuit 106 sends a mode control signal to the first power module 102 to request the upstream first power module 102 to modify its operating mode, so as to indirectly adjust the power supply state of the second power module 104 to the load device 202, that is, to indirectly adjust the current power supply capacity of the second power module 104, so that the power supply capacity of N second power modules 104 matches the power supply demand of the corresponding load device 202.

[0064] For example, such as Figure 3 As shown, the operation of the power management integrated circuit 100 is as follows: the first power module 102 in the front stage configures the initial power parameters; the first power module 102 outputs a first power signal to the multiple second power modules 104 in the back stage, namely LDO1, LDO2 and LDO3; LDO1, LDO2 and LDO3 output second power signals to the corresponding load devices 202 and detect their own output load current; when the load current of any second power module 104 is greater than or equal to the current threshold, the second power module 104 outputs a monitoring result signal of the first state; the control decision circuit 106 receives the monitoring result signals output by LDO1, LDO2 and LDO3, namely Ctrl1, Ctrl2 and Ctrl3, and when any one of Ctrl1, Ctrl2 and Ctrl3 is in the first state, it outputs a mode control signal to the first power module 102 to request the first power module 102 to modify the working mode; under the control of the mode control signal, the first power module 102 quickly modifies the working mode and adjusts the power parameters so that the load current of the multiple second power modules 104 is less than the current threshold.

[0065] According to the power management integrated circuit 100 of this application embodiment, the control decision circuit 106 is specifically used to: send a mode control signal to the first power module 102 when a monitoring result signal of a first state exists among the N received monitoring result signals. This simplifies the control decision logic and achieves fast and reliable power mode switching control.

[0066] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, there are multiple second power supply modules 104, where N is a positive integer greater than 1, and the control decision circuit 106 includes an additive digital circuit 114.

[0067] The addition digital circuit 114 is connected to each second power supply module 104 and register module 108, and each second power supply module 104 is connected to the corresponding load device 202.

[0068] Optionally, the addition digital circuit 114 is used to receive multiple monitoring result signals output by multiple second power supply modules 104, and determine the status flag of each monitoring result signal according to the signal status of each monitoring result signal, and then send a mode control signal including multiple status flags to the register module 108.

[0069] The status flags are binary numbers, and the mode control signals are binary strings. Different mode control signals correspond to different operating modes.

[0070] In practical applications, the specific forms of the above-mentioned digital addition circuit 114 include, but are not limited to, multi-input adders, logic gates, multiplexers, decoders / decoders, counters, and field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), etc., without specific limitations.

[0071] According to the power management integrated circuit 100 of this application embodiment, there are multiple second power modules 104. The control decision circuit 106 includes an adder digital circuit 114, which is connected to each second power module 104 and a register module 108. The adder digital circuit 114 receives multiple monitoring result signals output by the multiple second power modules 104, determines the status flag of each monitoring result signal according to the signal state of each monitoring result signal, and sends a mode control signal including multiple status flags to the register module 108. In this way, based on the signal state of multiple monitoring result signals, that is, based on the power load of multiple LDOs, the upstream Buck converter is directly controlled to adjust to the corresponding operating mode, ensuring the accuracy of operating mode switching.

[0072] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, when the monitoring result signal is in a first state, the status flag of the monitoring result signal is a first value, and when the monitoring result signal is in a second state, the status flag of the monitoring result signal is a second value.

[0073] In this case, both the first and second values ​​are binary characters. For example, the first value is 1 and the second value is 0, or the first value is 0 and the second value is 1.

[0074] Based on this, the mode control signal is a binary string.

[0075] Optionally, register module 108 is specifically used to: convert the mode control signal from a binary string into a third value in decimal form, and update the register parameter value to the third value.

[0076] Different third values ​​correspond to different working modes.

[0077] For example, when the register parameter value of the Buck converter is equal to 7, the corresponding operating mode is NPM, which is a high-output mode. When the register parameter value of the Buck converter is equal to 3, the corresponding operating mode is LPM, which is a low-output mode. When the current required by the three LDOs is relatively large, all three LDOs send the first state monitoring result signal. The adder digital circuit 114 outputs the binary string "111" to the register module 108 of the Buck converter. "111" corresponds to the decimal number 7. The register module 108 updates the register parameter value to 7 to configure the Buck converter's operating mode to NPM mode, thereby improving the Buck converter's output capability.

[0078] According to the power management integrated circuit 100 of this application embodiment, when the monitoring result signal is in a first state, the status flag of the monitoring result signal is a first value; when the monitoring result signal is in a second state, the status flag of the monitoring result signal is a second value. Both the first and second values ​​are binary characters. The register module 108 is specifically used to convert the mode control signal from a binary string to a third value in decimal form, and update the register parameter value to the third value. In this way, based on the signal states of multiple monitoring result signals, i.e., based on the power load conditions of multiple LDOs, the upstream Buck converter is directly controlled to adjust to the corresponding operating mode, ensuring the accuracy of operating mode switching.

[0079] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, the addition digital circuit 114 is further configured to: calculate the number of monitoring result signals with a first state among multiple monitoring result signals, and send a mode control signal containing the number of signals to the register module 108.

[0080] Different signal quantities correspond to different operating modes.

[0081] Specifically, in the power management integrated circuit 100 of this application embodiment, after receiving multiple monitoring result signals sent by multiple second power modules 104, the adder digital circuit 114 can calculate the number of monitoring result signals with the signal state of the first state among the multiple monitoring result signals, and then send a mode control signal containing the number of signals to the register module 108, so as to directly control the first power module 102 of the front stage to modify the mode based on the number of monitoring result signals in the first state.

[0082] Among them, the addition digital circuit 114 is a multi-input circuit used to calculate the number of requests, i.e. the number of monitoring result signals in the first state: when one monitoring result signal is in the first state, the number of requests generated is 1; when two monitoring result signals are in the first state, the number of requests generated is 2; when three monitoring result signals are in the first state, the number of requests generated is 3.

[0083] Optionally, the output of the adder digital circuit 114 is a digital signal in binary form.

[0084] For example, such as Figure 5 As shown, taking the three-input adder circuit 114 as an example, when the three monitoring result signals Ctrl1, Ctrl2, and Ctrl3 are all in the first state, the A and B terminals of the first half-adder are both input to 1, the C terminal of the first half-adder outputs 1, and the S terminal outputs 0. The A terminal of the second half-adder is input to 0, the B terminal is input to 1, the C terminal of the second half-adder outputs 0, and the S terminal outputs 1. At this time, the two input terminals of the OR logic gate are input to 1 and 0 respectively, and the output of the three-input adder circuit is the binary string "11". "11" corresponds to the decimal number 3, that is, the number of monitoring result signals in the first state is 3.

[0085] Optionally, different numbers of requests, i.e., the number of monitoring result signals in the first state, correspond to different working modes.

[0086] For example, when the number of requests is 1, the first power module 102 is adjusted to the first operating mode, which provides the weakest output current capability; when the number of requests is 2, the first power module 102 is adjusted to the second operating mode, which provides a medium level of output current capability; when the number of requests is 3, the first power module 102 is adjusted to the third operating mode, which achieves the strongest output current capability.

[0087] In this way, by statistically analyzing the number of signals from the first state of multiple LDO outputs, the number of LDOs requiring mode modification can be accurately calculated. This allows for multi-mode switching of the front-end Buck converter based on different request quantities. By classifying the Buck converter's mode adjustment levels, it ensures that the output current capability of the front-end Buck converter meets the back-end load requirements while avoiding ineffective energy consumption caused by applying high-performance mode to low-load scenarios. This significantly reduces the Buck converter's power consumption, improving the adaptability and energy utilization efficiency of the power system. It also enhances the stability and response speed of the power system under dynamic load environments, improving the overall energy efficiency and responsiveness of the power system.

[0088] According to the power management integrated circuit 100 of this application embodiment, the adder digital circuit 114 is further configured to: calculate the number of monitoring result signals with a first state among multiple monitoring result signals, and send a mode control signal containing the number of signals to the register module 108; wherein different signal numbers correspond to different operating modes. This achieves the division of mode adjustment levels for the Buck converter, which can significantly reduce the power consumption of the Buck converter while ensuring that the output current capability of the front-end Buck converter meets the requirements of the back-end load, thereby improving the overall energy efficiency and response flexibility of the power system.

[0089] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, such as Figure 1 As shown, the power management integrated circuit 100 also includes a system chip module 116.

[0090] The system chip module 116 is connected to the first power module 102 and the second power module 104 respectively.

[0091] Optionally, the second power module 104 is also used to send power load information to the system chip module 116.

[0092] Optionally, the system chip module 116 is used to adjust the operating mode of the first power module 102 according to the received power load information, in accordance with the target processing flow.

[0093] The target processing flow is a software control flow.

[0094] Specifically, the system-on-a-chip can monitor the power load information of the second power module 104 through a load monitoring sensor, and perform comprehensive analysis using a power controller and PMIC arbitrator to determine the optimal power operating mode. Then, through the power control interface and power control bus, the determined power operating mode is written to the first power module 102 by updating the register parameter values ​​of the register module 108 of the first power module 102.

[0095] That is, such as Figure 6 As shown, the workflow of the power management integrated circuit 100 in this embodiment of the application may specifically include the following S202 to S224:

[0096] S202: The register module sets or resets bits and updates register parameter values.

[0097] S204: The parameter storage module looks up the power supply parameter truth table based on the register parameter values ​​to obtain the power supply control parameters.

[0098] S206: The power conversion control module adjusts the power parameters according to the power control parameters.

[0099] S208: The first power module outputs the first power signal.

[0100] S210: The second power module outputs a second power signal to the load device and monitors the power load information corresponding to the second power signal.

[0101] S212: Determine if the load voltage is less than or equal to the voltage threshold or the load current is greater than or equal to the current threshold. If yes, proceed to S214; otherwise, proceed to S210.

[0102] S214: The second power module outputs the monitoring result signal of the first state.

[0103] S216: The control decision circuit outputs a mode control signal.

[0104] S218: The system chip module monitors the power load information of the second power module through a load monitoring sensor.

[0105] S220: The system chip module determines the required mode through the power controller.

[0106] S222: The system chip module uses the PMIC arbitrator to make a comprehensive judgment to obtain the latest power operating mode.

[0107] S224: The system chip module outputs software control instructions to the register module through the power control interface.

[0108] According to the power management integrated circuit 100 of this application embodiment, the power management integrated circuit 100 further includes a system chip module 116, which is connected to the first power module 102 and the second power module 104 respectively; wherein, the second power module 104 is further used to send power load information to the system chip module 116, and the system chip module 116 is used to adjust the operating mode of the first power module 102 according to the power load information. In this way, a two-level control architecture is realized, which retains the advantages of fast hardware response while realizing intelligent and evolvable power management.

[0109] According to some embodiments of this application, the power management integrated circuit 100 may optionally be applied to an electronic device.

[0110] Based on this, when the electronic device switches from the off state to the on state, that is, when the electronic device is started for the first time, the system chip module 116 adjusts the working mode of the first power module 102 so as to load initialization information and perform basic configuration through software control, so as to flexibly set the register parameter values ​​through programming to meet the initial conditions required during the startup process of the electronic device, and ensure that the electronic device can start and run normally.

[0111] When the electronic device is in sleep mode, due to minimal load changes, the power supply system only needs to employ a software control scheme. In this case, the operating mode of the first power module 102 is adjusted solely through the system chip module 116, minimizing unnecessary hardware intervention and effectively saving power. Upon the electronic device being woken up, i.e., while the electronic device is in an awakened state, the control decision circuit 106 resumes operation to adjust the operating mode of the first power module 102.

[0112] When electronic devices operate under rapidly changing loads, specifically when the load change rate exceeds a preset threshold, a hardware mode switching scheme is employed. This scheme uses a control decision circuit 106 to adjust the operating mode of the first power module 102. During rapid load changes, the hardware mode switching scheme can quickly respond and adjust the operating mode to adapt to the current load requirements.

[0113] The specific value of the aforementioned preset threshold can be set by those skilled in the art according to the actual situation, and no specific restrictions are imposed here.

[0114] It is understandable that software control schemes may contain errors, such as arbitration errors or logic problems, which could lead to a mismatch between the operating mode corresponding to the register parameter values ​​and the actual load requirements, thus triggering overcurrent protection issues. Therefore, when the power management integrated circuit 100 triggers the overcurrent protection mechanism, i.e., when adjustments via the software control scheme fail, the system switches to the control decision circuit 106 to adjust the operating mode of the first power module 102. The hardware control scheme can quickly intervene to correct these errors. By switching hardware modes according to the actual load requirements, errors in software modifications can be corrected promptly, ensuring stable system operation. This dual-protection mechanism improves the overall system robustness and reduces the risks that may be caused by software errors. The combination of hardware and software solutions enhances system stability.

[0115] The power management integrated circuit 100 according to an embodiment of this application is applied to an electronic device. When the electronic device switches from a power-off state to a power-on state, or when the electronic device is in a sleep state, the system chip module 116 adjusts the operating mode of the first power module 102. When the electronic device is in a wake-up state, the load change rate of the electronic device is greater than a preset threshold, or the power management integrated circuit 100 triggers an overcurrent protection mechanism, the control decision circuit 106 adjusts the operating mode of the first power module 102. In this way, through intelligent scene recognition and automatic switching mechanisms, the optimal control strategy of the power management system under different operating conditions is realized.

[0116] According to some embodiments of this application, optionally, such as Figure 7As shown in the figure, this application embodiment also provides an electronic device 200. The electronic device 200 includes a load device 202 and a power management integrated circuit 100 from any of the above embodiments. The electronic device 200 provided in this application embodiment includes the power management integrated circuit 100 from any of the above embodiments and can achieve the same technical effect; therefore, to avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0117] It should be noted that the electronic device 200 in the embodiments of this application includes mobile electronic devices and non-mobile electronic devices.

[0118] In practical applications, the electronic device 200 can be a terminal or other devices besides a terminal. For example, the electronic device 200 can be a mobile phone, tablet computer, laptop computer, handheld computer, in-vehicle electronic device, mobile internet device (MID), augmented reality (AR) / virtual reality (VR) device, robot, wearable device, ultra-mobile personal computer (UMPC), netbook, or personal digital assistant (PDA), etc. It can also be a server, network attached storage (NAS), personal computer (PC), television (TV), ATM, or self-service machine, etc. The embodiments of this application do not specifically limit it.

[0119] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0120] Although embodiments of this application have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of this application, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A power management integrated circuit, characterized in that, include: The first power supply module is used to output the first power supply signal; N second power modules are connected to the first power module and the load device respectively. The second power module is used to receive the first power signal, output the second power signal to the load device, and monitor the power load information corresponding to the second power signal. When the power load information meets the first condition, it outputs the monitoring result signal of the first state. When the power load information does not meet the first condition, it outputs the monitoring result signal of the second state. N is a positive integer greater than or equal to 1. A control decision circuit is connected to the first power module and the second power module respectively. The control decision circuit is used to receive N monitoring result signals output by N second power modules, and send a mode control signal to the first power module according to the signal status of the N monitoring result signals. The mode control signal is used to adjust the working mode of the first power module so that the power load information of the N second power modules does not meet the first condition.

2. The power management integrated circuit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first power module includes: A register module, connected to the control decision circuit, is used to receive the mode control signal and update the register parameter values ​​according to the mode control signal. A parameter storage module is connected to the register module. The parameter storage module contains a power parameter truth table. The parameter storage module is used to look up the power parameter truth table according to the updated register parameter values ​​to obtain power control parameters. A power conversion control module, connected to the parameter storage module, is used to adjust the power parameters according to the power control parameters, so as to adjust the working mode of the first power module.

3. The power management integrated circuit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power load information includes load voltage and load current; the second power module is specifically used for: When the load voltage is less than or equal to the voltage threshold, or when the load current is greater than or equal to the current threshold, the monitoring result signal of the first state is output; When the load voltage is greater than the voltage threshold and the load current is less than the current threshold, the monitoring result signal of the second state is output.

4. The power management integrated circuit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control decision circuit is specifically used for: If the monitoring result signal of the first state is present among the N received monitoring result signals, the mode control signal is sent to the first power module.

5. The power management integrated circuit according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second power supply module has multiple components, and the control decision circuit includes: An additive digital circuit is connected to each of the second power modules and the register module. The additive digital circuit is used to receive multiple monitoring result signals output by multiple second power modules, determine the status flag of each monitoring result signal according to the signal status of each monitoring result signal, and send the mode control signal including multiple status flags to the register module.

6. The power management integrated circuit according to claim 5, characterized in that, When the monitoring result signal is in a first state, the status flag of the monitoring result signal is a first value; when the monitoring result signal is in a second state, the status flag of the monitoring result signal is a second value. Both the first value and the second value are binary characters. The register module is specifically used for: The mode control signal is converted from a binary string to a third value in decimal form, and the register parameter value is updated to the third value.

7. The power management integrated circuit according to claim 5, characterized in that, The digital addition circuit is also used for: Calculate the number of monitoring result signals whose signal state is the first state among the multiple monitoring result signals, and send the mode control signal containing the number of signals to the register module; wherein, different signal numbers correspond to different working modes.

8. The power management integrated circuit according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, Also includes: The system chip module is connected to the first power module and the second power module respectively; The second power module is further configured to send the power load information to the system chip module, and the system chip module is configured to adjust the operating mode of the first power module according to the power load information.

9. The power management integrated circuit according to claim 8, characterized in that, Applied to electronic devices, when the electronic device switches from a powered-off state to a powered-on state, or when the electronic device is in a sleep state, the operating mode of the first power module is adjusted through the system chip module; When the electronic device is in a wake-up state, the load change rate of the electronic device is greater than a preset threshold, or the power management integrated circuit triggers an overcurrent protection mechanism, the operating mode of the first power module is adjusted by the control decision circuit.

10. An electronic device, characterized in that, include: Power management integrated circuit as described in any one of claims 1 to 9; The load device is connected to the power management integrated circuit.

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