Intelligent electronic switch, integrated circuit chip, chip product and automobile

Abstract

The utility model provides an intelligent electronic switch, an integrated circuit chip, a chip product and an automobile, the intelligent electronic switch comprises a power supply end, a power supply grounding end, a load output end, a power switch and a control circuit, the control circuit comprises a logic control unit, a first driving unit and a current-limiting driving unit, in a normal working mode, the logic control unit is connected with the first driving unit, and the current-limiting driving unit is connected with the integrated circuit chip. In the bypass mode, the logic control unit drives the power switch to be switched on and switched off through the first driving unit, in the bypass mode, the logic control unit drives the power switch to be switched on and switched off through the current-limiting driving unit, and in the bypass mode, the value of current flowing through the power switch is smaller than or equal to a first current-limiting value set by the current-limiting driving unit. The maximum current value flowing through the power switch in the normal working mode is larger than the first current limiting value, the self-consumption of the intelligent electronic switch in the bypass mode is smaller than the self-consumption of the intelligent electronic switch in the normal working mode, and the power switch is shared in the normal working mode and the bypass mode, so that the area of the intelligent electronic switch is saved, and the cost is low.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of intelligent semiconductor switches, and in particular to an intelligent electronic switch, an integrated circuit chip, a chip product, and an automobile. Background Art

[0002] Smart electronic switches are commonly used to couple loads to batteries. They are electronic components that control the on / off state of load circuits. They are widely used in automotive electronics, industrial automation, medical equipment, and other fields. Due to the diverse load types and harsh operating environments they connect to, applications require particularly high reliability from smart electronic switches. Therefore, smart electronic switches integrate a variety of protection features to enhance their reliability.

[0003] In the prior art, when a load current is output from the load output terminal of an intelligent electronic switch, the magnitude of the load current is determined by the severity of the load. When a large load is connected to the intelligent electronic switch, the load current is also large. To ensure the reliability of the intelligent electronic switch during use, the control logic and protection functions integrated therein must be in normal working order. This may result in relatively high power consumption of the intelligent electronic switch itself, and in turn, in relatively high power consumption of the equipment using the intelligent electronic switch, resulting in low product competitiveness. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present application provides an intelligent electronic switch, an integrated circuit chip, a chip product, and an automobile, which solve the problem of high power consumption of the intelligent electronic switch itself.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present application provides an intelligent electronic switch, comprising a power supply terminal, a power ground terminal, a load output terminal, a power switch, and a control circuit;

[0006] The power supply terminal and the power ground terminal are used to connect to a battery, the load output terminal is used to connect to a load and one end of the power switch, and the other end of the power switch is connected to the power supply terminal or the power ground terminal;

[0007] The control circuit includes a logic control unit, a first drive unit, and a current limiting drive unit, wherein the first drive unit and the current limiting drive unit are respectively connected to the control terminal of the power switch and are also respectively connected to the logic control unit;

[0008] When the intelligent electronic switch operates in a normal operating mode, the logic control unit drives the power switch to turn on via the first drive unit. When the intelligent electronic switch operates in a bypass mode, the logic control unit drives the power switch to turn on via the current limiting drive unit. In the bypass mode, a current value flowing through the power switch is less than or equal to a first current limit value set by the current limiting drive unit. In the normal operating mode, a maximum current value flowing through the power switch is greater than the first current limit value.

[0009] Optionally, the intelligent electronic switch includes an overcurrent protection unit, the overcurrent protection unit is connected to a preset overcurrent protection threshold and a current sampling value, and the current sampling value is used to represent the current value flowing through the power switch;

[0010] In normal working mode, when the current sampling value is greater than the overcurrent protection threshold, the current value flowing through the power switch is greater than the first current limiting value and the overcurrent protection unit outputs an overcurrent signal to the logic control unit, so that the logic control unit controls the power switch to be turned off via the first drive unit; in bypass mode, the overcurrent protection unit stops working.

[0011] Optionally, the intelligent electronic switch includes a current limiting protection unit, the current limiting protection unit is connected to a preset current limiting protection threshold, and the current limiting protection unit is further connected to a current sampling value, and the current sampling value is used to represent the current value flowing through the power switch;

[0012] In normal working mode, when the current sampling value is greater than the current limiting protection threshold, the current value flowing through the power switch is greater than the first current limiting value and the current limiting protection unit outputs a current limiting signal to the logic control unit. The logic control unit adjusts the size of the control signal output to the control end of the power switch via the first driving unit to reduce the current value flowing through the power switch so that the current sampling value is less than or equal to the current limiting protection threshold; in bypass mode, the current limiting protection unit stops working.

[0013] Optionally, the intelligent electronic switch includes an over-temperature protection unit, the over-temperature protection unit is connected to the logic control unit, the over-temperature protection unit is connected to a preset over-temperature protection threshold and a temperature sampling value, and the temperature sampling value is used to represent the temperature value of the power switch;

[0014] In normal working mode, when the temperature sampling value is greater than the over-temperature protection threshold, the over-temperature protection unit outputs an over-temperature signal, and the logic control unit controls the power switch to be turned off via the first driving unit according to the over-temperature signal; in bypass mode, the over-temperature protection unit stops working.

[0015] Optionally, the intelligent electronic switch includes a first over-temperature protection unit and a second over-temperature protection unit, both of which are connected to a logic control unit, the first over-temperature protection unit being connected to a preset first over-temperature protection threshold and a temperature sampling value of the power switch, and the second over-temperature protection unit being connected to a preset second over-temperature protection threshold and a temperature difference, where the temperature difference is a difference between the temperature sampling value of the power switch and the ambient temperature;

[0016] In normal working mode, when the temperature sampling value is greater than the first over-temperature protection threshold, the first over-temperature protection unit outputs a first over-temperature signal, and / or, when the temperature difference is greater than the second over-temperature protection threshold, the second over-temperature protection unit outputs a first over-temperature signal, and the logic control unit controls the power switch to be turned off via the first driving unit according to the first over-temperature signal; in bypass mode, the second over-temperature protection unit stops working.

[0017] Optionally, the current limiting driving unit includes a transistor and a constant current source, and the transistor and the power switch are of the same type;

[0018] The transistor and the constant current source are connected to form a current limiting drive branch, one end of the current limiting drive branch is connected to one end of the power switch, the other end is connected to the power supply end or the power ground end, the control end is connected to the logic control unit, the drain of the transistor is connected to the control end, and the control end is also connected to the control end of the power switch;

[0019] In the bypass mode, the logic control unit controls the current limiting drive branch to be turned on so that the current limiting drive unit works, and the first current limiting value is related to the current value provided by the constant current source and the current mirror ratio of the transistor and the power switch.

[0020] Optionally, the power switch includes a MOS transistor, and the ratio of the first current limiting value to the current value provided by the constant current source is equal to the ratio of the width-to-length ratio of the power switch to the width-to-length ratio of the transistor.

[0021] Optionally, the constant current source includes an enable terminal, and in bypass mode, the logic control unit controls the enable of the constant current source to turn on the current limiting drive branch, thereby enabling the current limiting drive unit to work; or, the constant current drive unit also includes a switch unit, and in bypass mode, the logic control unit controls the switch unit to turn on and conduct, so that the constant current drive unit works.

[0022] Optionally, in a normal operating mode, the first driving unit drives the power switch to operate in a linear resistance region; in a bypass mode, the current limiting driving unit drives the power switch to operate in a saturation region.

[0023] Optionally, when the power switch is an N-type switch tube and the power switch is connected between the power supply end and the load output end, the first driving unit includes a boost module and a driving module, the boost module is connected to the power supply end of the driving module, and the boost module is used to make its output voltage greater than the voltage of the power supply end, so that the driving module drives the N-type switch tube to turn on and conduct in normal working mode.

[0024] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides an integrated circuit chip, comprising the intelligent electronic switch described in the first aspect, wherein the power supply end is a power supply pin, the power ground end is a power ground pin, and the load output end is a load output pin.

[0025] In a third aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a chip product, comprising the intelligent electronic switch according to the first aspect, wherein components of the intelligent electronic switch other than the power switch are located on a first integrated circuit chip, and the power switch is located on a second integrated circuit chip;

[0026] Among them, the power supply end is a power supply pin, the power ground end is a power ground pin, and the load output end is a load output pin. The power supply pin and the power ground pin are located on a first integrated circuit chip, and the load output pin is located on a second integrated circuit chip.

[0027] In a fourth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides an automobile, comprising the intelligent electronic switch as described in the first aspect, or the integrated circuit chip as described in the second aspect, or the chip product as described in the third aspect;

[0028] It also includes a battery, a load and a microcontroller; wherein the positive pole of the battery is connected to the power supply terminal, the negative pole of the battery is connected to the power ground terminal, one end of the load is connected to the load output terminal, the other end of the load is connected to the power ground terminal or the power supply terminal, and the microcontroller is connected to the intelligent electronic switch.

[0029] The present application provides an intelligent electronic switch, integrated circuit chip, chip product, and automobile. The intelligent electronic switch includes a power supply terminal, a power ground terminal, a load output terminal, a power switch, and a control circuit. Furthermore, the control circuit includes a logic control unit, a first drive unit, and a current-limiting drive unit. In normal operating mode, the logic control unit drives the power switch to turn on via the first drive unit. In bypass mode, the logic control unit drives the power switch to turn on via the current-limiting drive unit. In bypass mode, the current flowing through the power switch is less than or equal to a first current limit set by the current-limiting drive unit. In normal operating mode, the maximum current flowing through the power switch is greater than the first current limit. Therefore, the power consumption of the current-limiting drive unit during operation is less than the power consumption of the first drive unit during operation. This results in the self-consumption of the intelligent electronic switch in bypass mode being less than that in normal operating mode. Furthermore, in this solution, the power switch is shared in both normal operating and bypass modes, saving area and reducing cost for the intelligent electronic switch. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with the present application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present application.

[0031] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit module of an electronic device provided in the first embodiment of the present application;

[0032] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit module of an electronic device provided in the second embodiment of the present application;

[0033] Figure 3A and Figure 3B 2 is a schematic diagram of two circuit modules of an electronic device provided in a third embodiment of the present application;

[0034] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit module of an electronic device provided in a fourth embodiment of the present application;

[0035] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit module of an electronic device provided in a fifth embodiment of the present application;

[0036] Figure 6 This is a circuit structure diagram of an electronic device provided in the sixth embodiment of the present application.

[0037] The above drawings illustrate specific embodiments of the present application, which will be described in more detail below. These drawings and the textual description are not intended to limit the scope of the present application in any way, but rather to illustrate the concepts of the present application to those skilled in the art by reference to specific embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] To make the purpose, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application more clear, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of this application. Obviously, the described embodiments are part of the embodiments of this application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0039] The terms "including" and "having" and any variations thereof as used in the specification, claims, and drawings of this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions. For example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus comprising a series of steps or modules is not limited to the listed steps or modules, but may optionally include steps or modules not listed, or may optionally include other steps or modules that are inherent to the process, method, product, or apparatus.

[0040] In addition, the terms "first", "second" and "third" are used to distinguish different objects, rather than to describe a specific order. The electrical connection in this application includes direct electrical connection and indirect electrical connection. Indirect electrical connection means that other electronic components, pins, etc. may exist between the two electrically connected components. The XX end mentioned in this application may be an actual terminal or may not be an actual terminal, for example, it is only one end of a component or one end of a wire. The "and / or" mentioned in this application includes three cases. For example, A and / or B includes three cases: A, B, and A and B.

[0041] With the development of semiconductor technology, relays used to connect or disconnect load paths are gradually being replaced by intelligent electronic switches. These intelligent electronic switches can couple the load to the battery and have one or more diagnostic capabilities and protection features. For example, if the intelligent electronic switch experiences overheating, overload, or short circuit, the power switch inside the intelligent electronic switch will be shut off, disconnecting the path between the battery and the load, thereby improving the reliability of the intelligent electronic switch.

[0042] Understandably, in practical applications, smart electronic switches operate with diverse load types (e.g., inductors, capacitors, resistors, or a combination of these) and in demanding operating environments. Consequently, applications often place high demands on their reliability. Consequently, when outputting load current, the smart electronic switch typically operates in normal operating mode, with the driver unit responsible for turning the power switch on and off also functioning normally. This poses a significant problem for the smart electronic switch's high power consumption. In particular, when a large number of similar smart electronic switches are present in an electronic device, such as a car, the vehicle's overall power consumption increases, accelerating battery drain and significantly shortening battery life.

[0043] In response to the above problems, the inventors of the present application have discovered after long-term research that in the field of automotive electronics, when a vehicle is in parking mode, some loads of the vehicle will stop working. At this time, the load current flowing through the intelligent electronic switch will be significantly reduced. At this time, in order to reduce the internal power consumption of the intelligent electronic switch, the intelligent electronic switch can operate in different working modes and limit the driving units used in different working modes. For example, the control circuit in the intelligent electronic switch may include a logic control unit, a first driving unit and a current limiting driving unit, wherein the logic control unit can use different driving units to drive the power switch to turn on according to its working mode. For example, in the normal working mode, The logic control unit drives the power switch to turn on and conduct via the first drive unit. In the bypass mode, the logic control unit drives the power switch to turn on and conduct via the current limiting drive unit. In the bypass mode, the current value flowing through the power switch is less than or equal to the first current limiting value set by the current limiting drive unit. In the normal operating mode, the maximum current value flowing through the power switch is greater than the first current limiting value. Therefore, the power consumption of the current limiting drive unit when it is operating is less than the power consumption of the first drive unit when it is operating, so that the self-consumption of the intelligent electronic switch in the bypass mode is less than its self-consumption in the normal operating mode. Moreover, in this embodiment, the normal operating mode and the bypass mode share the power switch, which saves the area of ​​the intelligent electronic switch and reduces the cost.

[0044] Optionally, the self-consumption of the smart electronic switch in normal working mode is usually at the milliampere level, while in the bypass mode, the self-consumption can be reduced to the microampere level, thereby reducing the power consumption of the smart electronic switch and improving the standby time.

[0045] The following specific embodiments describe in detail the technical solution of the present application and how the technical solution of the present application solves the above-mentioned technical problems. The following specific embodiments can be combined with each other, and the same or similar concepts or processes may not be repeated in some embodiments. The embodiments of the present application will be described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0046] First embodiment

[0047] The present application embodiment provides an electronic device, which is, for example, a car. Figure 1 , Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of a circuit module of an electronic device provided in the first embodiment of the present application. The electronic device includes a battery 10, a load 30, a microcontroller 40, and an intelligent electronic switch 20. The battery 10 is generally a storage battery that provides a voltage of 12V, 24V, 48V, 60V, or other voltages. Of course, the battery 10 can also be other types of batteries, such as lithium batteries or sodium batteries. The load 30 includes at least one of a resistive load, an inductive load, and a capacitive load. Resistive loads include, for example, seat adjustment devices, auxiliary heating devices, window heating devices, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), rear lighting, or other resistive loads. Inductive loads include, for example, pumps, actuators, motors, anti-lock braking systems (ABS), electronic braking systems (EBS), fans, or other systems including inductive loads for one or more wiper systems. Capacitive loads include, for example, lighting elements, such as xenon arc lamps. The microcontroller 40 is connected to the intelligent electronic switch 20 for controlling the intelligent electronic switch 20.

[0048] For example, in practical applications, the intelligent electronic switch 20 includes a control circuit 21 and a power switch Q. The control circuit can control the switching state of the power switch based on external signals, thereby enabling the intelligent electronic switch 20 to operate in different modes. For example, the control circuit can control the power switch to turn on when it receives an on control signal, and to turn off when it receives a off control signal. Furthermore, based on the switching state of the power switch and the operating state of the internal functional circuits, the operating modes of the intelligent electronic switch 20 can be divided into normal operating mode, bypass mode, standby mode, and sleep mode.

[0049] When the power switch is on and all functional circuits, such as protection and diagnostics, within the intelligent electronic switch 20 are operating normally, the intelligent electronic switch 20 is said to be operating in normal working mode or active mode. Typically, in normal working mode, the intelligent electronic switch 20 can provide a relatively high load current based on load demand. When the power switch is on but the functional circuits integrated within the intelligent electronic switch 20 are not operating, or some modules within the functional circuits are not operating, the intelligent electronic switch 20 is said to be operating in bypass mode. Because the power consumption within the intelligent electronic switch 20 in bypass mode is relatively low, this bypass mode can also be referred to as a low-power mode. In bypass mode, the load current provided by the intelligent electronic switch 20 is less than the load current provided in normal working mode. When the power switch is off but all functional circuits within the intelligent electronic switch 20 are operating normally, the intelligent electronic switch 20 is said to be operating in standby mode. This means that although the intelligent electronic switch 20 is not outputting any load current, it is in a standby state, ready to switch directly to normal operation upon receiving a start control signal. When the power switch is off and all functional circuits within the intelligent electronic switch 20 are not operating, the intelligent electronic switch 20 is said to be operating in dormant mode or sleep mode. In this state, the intelligent electronic switch 20 consumes minimal power.

[0050] It will be appreciated that the embodiments of this application are primarily explained using the application scenario in which the power switch is in the on state. Therefore, the intelligent electronic switch 20 operates in either a normal operating mode or a bypass mode. The difference between the intelligent electronic switch 20 operating in bypass mode and normal operating mode is primarily reflected in the different self-power consumption of the intelligent electronic switch 20 in the two modes. For example, this can be reflected in the different operating states of the functional circuits within the intelligent electronic switch 20 or the different active operating modules, resulting in different power consumption of the functional circuits within the intelligent electronic switch 20, thereby achieving different self-power consumption of the intelligent electronic switch 20.

[0051] Optionally, this embodiment provides an intelligent electronic switch 20 that can operate in bypass mode and normal operating mode. Figure 1 As shown, the intelligent electronic switch 20 may include a power supply terminal VBAT, a power ground terminal GND, a load output terminal OUT, a power switch Q and a control circuit 21 .

[0052] The power supply terminal VBAT and the power ground terminal GND are used to connect to the battery 10. Specifically, the power supply terminal VBAT is connected to the positive electrode of the battery 10, and the power ground terminal GND is connected to the negative electrode of the battery 10. The load output terminal OUT is used to connect to the load 30 and one end of the power switch Q. The other end of the power switch Q is connected to the power supply terminal VBAT or the power ground terminal GND. In a possible design, Figure 1 As shown, one end of the power switch Q is connected to the load output terminal OUT, and the other end thereof is connected to the power supply terminal VBAT. In this case, the power switch Q is connected as a high-side switch, that is, a switch connected between the power supply terminal VBAT and the load 30. In other possible designs of the present application, one end of the power switch Q is connected to the load output terminal OUT, and the other end thereof is connected to the power ground terminal GND. In this case, the power switch Q is connected as a low-side switch, that is, a switch connected between the power ground terminal GND and the load 30.

[0053] Optionally, in this embodiment, continue to refer to Figure 1 As shown, the control circuit 21 includes a logic control unit 211, a first drive unit 212, and a current-limiting drive unit 213. The first drive unit 212 and the current-limiting drive unit 213 are respectively connected to the control terminal of the power switch Q, and are also respectively connected to the logic control unit 211. The logic control unit 211 is used to control the power switch Q to turn on or off through the first drive unit 212 or the current-limiting drive unit 213.

[0054] As an example, when the intelligent electronic switch 20 operates in the normal operating mode, the logic control unit 211 drives the power switch Q to turn on via the first drive unit 212. As another example, when the intelligent electronic switch 20 operates in the bypass mode, the logic control unit 211 drives the power switch Q to turn on via the current limiting drive unit 213. In the bypass mode, the current flowing through the power switch Q is less than or equal to a first current limit value set by the current limiting drive unit 213, and in the normal operating mode, the maximum current flowing through the power switch Q is greater than the first current limit value.

[0055] Optionally, in the present application, the value range of the first current limiting value may be 1uA to 100uA. For example, the first current limiting value may be 10uA. It is understandable that the first value range may also be other values, which is not limited in this embodiment.

[0056] For example, in practical applications, the intelligent electronic switch 20 may further include an input terminal Input. The control circuit 21 may be externally connected to the microcontroller 40 via the input terminal Input, and control the switching state of the power switch Q based on a switch control signal (Input signal) received from the microcontroller 40. For example, when the received switch control signal is an on control signal "on", the control circuit 21 controls the power switch Q to be turned on via the first drive unit 212 or the current-limiting drive unit 213. When the received switch control signal is an off control signal "off", the control circuit 21 controls the power switch Q to be turned off via the first drive unit 212 or the current-limiting drive unit 213.

[0057] Optionally, the first driving unit 212 or the current limiting driving unit 213 may provide a driving signal based on the received power supply signal and control signal, so as to turn on or off the power switch Q.

[0058] Optionally, in actual applications, in order to meet the working requirements and low power consumption requirements of the load, the working mode of the intelligent electronic switch 20 can be set, and the correspondence between the first drive unit 212, the current limiting drive unit 213 and the working mode can be set. In this way, the logic control unit 211 can control the working states of the first drive unit 212 and the current limiting drive unit 213 according to the working mode of the intelligent electronic switch 20. For example, in the normal working mode, the logic control unit 211 drives the power switch Q to turn on via the first drive unit 212; in the bypass mode, the logic control unit 211 drives the power switch Q to turn on via the current limiting drive unit 213.

[0059] It is understood that the first drive unit 212 and the current-limiting drive unit 213 have different driving capabilities. Therefore, when the first drive unit 212 and the current-limiting drive unit 213 drive the power switch Q to turn on, the current flowing through the power switch Q differs. The current-limiting drive unit 213 can provide driving capability for the power switch Q to turn on, and can also set a maximum current value, i.e., a first current limit value, for the current flowing through the power switch Q when driving the power switch Q. Therefore, in bypass mode, when the logic control unit 211 drives the power switch Q to turn on via the current-limiting drive unit 213, the current flowing through the power switch Q will be less than or equal to the first current limit value set by the current-limiting drive unit 213. In the embodiment of the present application, because the driving capability of the first drive unit 212 is greater than that of the current-limiting drive unit 213, in normal operating mode, when the logic control unit 211 drives the power switch Q to turn on via the first drive unit 212, the maximum current flowing through the power switch Q will be greater than the first current limit value.

[0060] Optionally, in the intelligent electronic switch 20, the driving capability of the first driving unit 212 is greater than the driving capability of the current-limiting driving unit 213, so the power consumption of the first driving unit 212 when working is greater than the power consumption of the current-limiting driving unit 213 when working. Therefore, the self-consumption of the intelligent electronic switch 20 in the bypass mode is less than the self-consumption of the intelligent electronic switch 20 in the normal working mode.

[0061] In one possible design of this embodiment, the power switch Q may be an N-type metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (NMOS FET), a PMOS transistor, a junction field effect transistor (JFET), or an insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT). In another possible design of this embodiment, the power switch Q may also be implemented as a silicon device, or may be implemented using other semiconductor materials, such as silicon carbide (SiC), gallium arsenide (GaAs), or gallium nitride (GaN). The embodiments of the present application do not limit the specific implementation form of the power switch, and the embodiment may be selected according to actual needs.

[0062] Optionally, in practical applications, a fuse (not shown) may be connected in series between the battery 10 and the power supply terminal VBAT to prevent malfunctions caused by excessive current in the line. Other components, such as a parallel-connected anti-reverse polarity diode and a current-limiting resistor, may be provided between the power ground terminal GND and the negative terminal of the battery 10 to improve the stability of the intelligent electronic switch 20.

[0063] Optional, in Figure 1The schematic diagram does not show the connection relationship between the logic control unit 211, the first drive unit 212, the current-limiting drive unit 213, etc. and the power supply unit. However, in actual applications, a power supply unit can be provided inside the intelligent electronic switch 20. The internal power supply unit is connected to the power supply terminal VBAT to step down the voltage of the power supply terminal VBAT. For example, the power supply unit is used to reduce the voltage of the power supply terminal VBAT from 12V to 5V. The voltage output by the power supply unit is used to provide the logic control unit 211, the first drive unit 212, the current-limiting drive unit 213, and other circuits. Optionally, one implementation of the power supply unit is a low dropout regulator (LDO). In other embodiments, the power supply unit may not be provided inside the intelligent electronic switch 20. In this case, the positive electrode of the battery 10 is further connected to the step-down unit, which outputs the stepped-down voltage to the intelligent electronic switch 20. For example, the voltage range of the step-down unit output to the power supply terminal VBAT is 3.3V-5V, which can directly power the logic control unit 211, the first drive unit 212, the current limiting drive unit 213, and other circuits inside the intelligent electronic switch 20.

[0064] It can be understood that in actual applications, when the power switch Q is connected as a high-side switch and is an N-type switch tube, the first driving unit 212 may also be connected to a boosting unit such as a charge pump, and the charge pump is used to boost the output voltage of the first driving unit 212 and then output it to the power switch Q, thereby driving the power switch Q to turn on.

[0065] In an embodiment of the present application, the control circuit of an intelligent electronic switch includes a logic control unit, a first drive unit, and a current-limiting drive unit. Thus, when the intelligent electronic switch operates in normal operating mode, the logic control unit drives the power switch to turn on via the first drive unit, while when the intelligent electronic switch operates in bypass mode, the logic control unit drives the power switch to turn on via the current-limiting drive unit. Furthermore, in bypass mode, the current flowing through the power switch is less than or equal to a first current limit value set by the current-limiting drive unit, while in normal operating mode, the maximum current flowing through the power switch is greater than the first current limit value. In this technical solution, the driving capability of the first drive unit is greater than that of the current-limiting drive unit. Accordingly, the power consumption of the first drive unit during operation is greater than the power consumption of the current-limiting drive unit during operation. This results in the intelligent electronic switch's self-consumption in bypass mode being less than its self-consumption in normal operating mode, thereby extending the battery life of the connected battery and improving the user experience.

[0066] Optionally, the first embodiment provides a general introduction to the intelligent electronic switch 20. The following uses different embodiments to explain the principle of how the self-consumption of the intelligent electronic switch 20 in bypass mode is less than that in normal working mode. Figure 1 The principle is described based on the embodiment shown (the power switch Q is connected as a high-side switch). The implementation principle of the power switch Q being connected as a low-side switch is similar and will not be described in detail in this embodiment.

[0067] Second embodiment

[0068] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit module of an electronic device provided in the second embodiment of the present application. Figure 2 As shown, in this embodiment, the intelligent electronic switch 20 includes a current protection unit 241 , which is connected to the logic control unit 211 .

[0069] In practical applications, the current protection unit 241 is configured to output a current protection signal when detecting that the output current of the power switch Q is abnormal, so as to trigger current protection of the power switch Q.

[0070] As an example, continue to refer to Figure 2 As shown, the current protection unit 241 may include a current sampling module 241A and a current processing module 241B. The current sampling module 241A is connected to the current processing module 241B, and the current processing module 241B is also used to connect to the current protection threshold. In this example, the current sampling module 241A is used to sample the current flowing through the power switch Q and output the current sampling value to the current processing module 241B. The current processing module 241B compares the current sampling value with the current protection threshold. If the current sampling value is abnormal, that is, the output current of the power switch Q is abnormal, it outputs a current protection signal to the logic control unit 211 to trigger the action of the power switch Q, thereby implementing current protection for the power switch Q.

[0071] In one possible design, continue to refer to Figure 2As shown, the current sampling module 241A may include a sensing transistor Qx, a first operational amplifier unit Y1, and a switch transistor P11. When the power switch Q and the sensing transistor Qx are both turned off, the switch transistor P11 is also turned off. When the logic control unit 211 drives the power switch Q and the sensing transistor Qx to turn on through the first drive unit, the voltage at the positive terminal of the first operational amplifier unit Y1 is less than the voltage at the negative terminal. The first operational amplifier unit Y1 then outputs a low level, the switch transistor P11 turns on, and the sensing transistor Qx outputs the sensed current through the switch transistor P11. Optionally, the current processing module 241B may be a second operational amplifier unit Y2, which may compare the received sensed current with a preset current protection threshold Iref to determine whether the current of the power switch Q is abnormal.

[0072] In another possible design, the current sampling module 241A may specifically include a sampling resistor, which is connected in series with the branch where the power switch Q is located. In this case, the current flowing through the sampling resistor is the same as the current flowing through the power switch Q. Therefore, the current flowing through the power switch Q can be obtained by detecting the current flowing through the sampling resistor.

[0073] In practical applications, the current sampling module 241A may also be implemented through other structures. For example, based on the principle that current generates a magnetic field, the current flowing through the power switch Q may be measured through a magnetic field sensor.

[0074] As an example, the current protection unit 241 includes an overcurrent protection unit, and the above-mentioned current protection threshold is the overcurrent protection threshold. Accordingly, in this example, the overcurrent protection unit is connected to a preset overcurrent protection threshold and a current sampling value, and the current sampling value is used to represent the current value flowing through the power switch Q. Optionally, in normal operation mode, when the current sampling value is greater than the overcurrent protection threshold, the current value flowing through the power switch Q is greater than the first current limit value, and the overcurrent protection unit outputs an overcurrent signal to the logic control unit 211, so that the logic control unit 211 controls the power switch Q to be turned off via the first drive unit 212; in bypass mode, the overcurrent protection unit stops operating.

[0075] In this embodiment, the overcurrent protection threshold is set based on the current sampling value, while the first current limit value is explained based on the current flowing through the power switch Q. Therefore, in normal operating mode, the logic control unit 211 controls the power switch Q to turn on via the first drive unit 212, and current flows through the power switch Q. When the current flowing through the power switch Q is greater than the first current limit value, the current sampling value is greater than the overcurrent protection threshold. Accordingly, the overcurrent protection unit outputs an overcurrent signal to the logic control unit 211, thereby prompting the logic control unit 211 to control the power switch Q to turn off via the first drive unit 212, thereby preventing the power switch Q from being burned due to excessive current.

[0076] In this embodiment, in the bypass mode, since the current value flowing through the power switch Q is less than or equal to the first current limit value, the current sampling value corresponding to the current value flowing through the power switch Q does not exceed the overcurrent protection threshold. Therefore, even if the overcurrent protection unit operates normally, it will not trigger the logic control unit 211 to perform overcurrent protection on the power switch Q. Therefore, in the bypass mode, the logic control unit 211 can control the overcurrent protection unit to stop operating, thereby reducing the self-consumption of the intelligent electronic switch.

[0077] As another example, the current protection unit 241 includes a current limiting protection unit, wherein the current protection threshold is the current limiting protection threshold. The current limiting protection unit is connected to a preset current limiting protection threshold and a current sampling value. In normal operating mode, the current limiting protection unit operates normally. When the current sampling value is greater than the current limiting protection threshold, the current flowing through the power switch Q is greater than the first current limiting value, and the current limiting protection unit outputs a current limiting signal to the logic control unit 211, causing the logic control unit 211 to adjust the magnitude of the control signal output to the control terminal of the power switch Q via the first drive unit 212 to reduce the current flowing through the power switch Q so that the current sampling value is less than or equal to the current limiting protection threshold. In bypass mode, the current limiting protection unit stops operating.

[0078] In normal working mode, the logic control unit 211 controls the power switch Q to turn on via the first driving unit 212. When the current flowing through the power switch Q is greater than the first current limiting value, the current sampling value is greater than the current limiting protection threshold. Accordingly, the current limiting protection unit outputs a current limiting signal to the logic control unit 211, thereby prompting the logic control unit 211 to adjust the control signal for the power switch Q via the first driving unit 212, thereby reducing the current flowing through the power switch.

[0079] In the bypass mode, since the current flowing through the power switch Q is less than or equal to the first current limit value, the current sampling value corresponding to the current flowing through the power switch Q does not exceed the current limit protection threshold. Therefore, even if the current limiting protection unit operates normally, it does not provide current limiting protection. Therefore, in the bypass mode, the logic control unit 211 can control the current limiting protection unit to stop operating, thereby reducing the self-consumption of the intelligent electronic switch 20.

[0080] Third embodiment

[0081] Figure 3A and Figure 3B Schematic diagram of two circuit modules of the electronic device provided in the third embodiment of the present application. Figure 3AAs shown, in this embodiment, the intelligent electronic switch includes an over-temperature protection unit 242, which is connected to the logic control unit 211. The over-temperature protection unit 242 is connected to a preset over-temperature protection threshold and a temperature sampling value, and the temperature sampling value is used to characterize the temperature value of the power switch Q.

[0082] In normal working mode, when the temperature sampling value is greater than the over-temperature protection threshold, the over-temperature protection unit 242 outputs an over-temperature signal, and the logic control unit 211 controls the power switch Q to be turned off via the first driving unit 212 according to the over-temperature signal; in bypass mode, the over-temperature protection unit 242 stops working.

[0083] As an example, continue to refer to Figure 3AAs shown, the over-temperature protection unit 242 may include a temperature detection module and a temperature processing module 2420. The temperature detection module may include a first element 2421 and a temperature detection element 2422. The temperature detection element 2422 is connected in series with the first element 2421. The point where the temperature detection element 2422 and the first element 2421 are connected is a temperature detection point TP. The temperature detection point TP is connected to the temperature processing module 2420. The temperature detection element 2422 is disposed adjacent to the power switch Q or embedded in the power switch Q for more accurate detection of the temperature of the power switch Q. In this embodiment, one end of the temperature detection element 2422 is connected to the power ground terminal GND, and the other end of the temperature detection element 2422 is connected to one end of the first element 2421. The other end of the first element 2421 may be connected to the power supply terminal VBAT via the internal power supply unit 2423, but the present application is not limited thereto. In other embodiments of the present application, one end of the temperature sensing element 2422 is connected to the power supply terminal VBAT via an internal power supply unit, and the other end of the temperature sensing element 2422 is connected to one end of the first element 2421, and the other end of the first element 2421 is connected to the power ground terminal GND. In this embodiment, the temperature sensing element 2422 is a temperature sensing element with a negative temperature coefficient. In this case, the higher the temperature of the power switch Q, the higher the temperature on the temperature sensing element 2422, and the lower the voltage at the corresponding temperature sensing point TP. Conversely, the lower the temperature of the power switch Q, the lower the temperature on the temperature sensing element 2422, and the higher the voltage at the corresponding temperature sensing point TP. However, the present application is not limited to this. In other embodiments of the present application, the temperature sensing element 2422 can also be a temperature sensing element with a positive temperature coefficient. In this case, the higher the temperature of the power switch Q, the higher the temperature on the temperature sensing element 2422, and the higher the voltage at the temperature sensing point TP. Furthermore, the lower the temperature of the power switch Q, the lower the temperature on the temperature sensing element 2422, and the lower the voltage at the temperature sensing point TP. In this embodiment, the temperature detection element 2422 is illustrated as one or more diodes connected in series. In other embodiments of the present application, the temperature detection element 2422 is one or more thermistors connected in series. In this embodiment, the first element 2421 can be a current source or a voltage divider resistor, etc. In this embodiment, the first element 2421 is illustrated as a current source.

[0084] In an embodiment of the present application, the temperature processing module 2420 can be an operational amplifier unit, which can compare the voltage of the acquired temperature monitoring point TP with the temperature threshold voltage. When the temperature of the power switch Q is abnormal, that is, the temperature sampling value is greater than the over-temperature protection threshold Tref, that is, the voltage of the temperature detection point TP is less than the temperature threshold voltage Tref (the temperature detection element 2422 is a temperature detection element with a negative temperature coefficient), the temperature processing module 2420 outputs an over-temperature signal to the logic control unit 211 to trigger the logic control unit 211 to turn off the power switch Q through the first driving unit 212, thereby achieving temperature protection for the power switch Q.

[0085] Optionally, when the intelligent electronic switch 20 operates in normal operating mode, the current flowing through the power switch Q has a wide range, and the maximum current flowing through the power switch Q may be greater than the first current limit. This may cause severe heat generation in the power switch Q. Therefore, to prevent damage to the power switch Q due to excessive temperature, the overtemperature protection unit 242 operates normally in normal operating mode. When the intelligent electronic switch 20 operates in bypass mode, the current flowing through the power switch Q is less than the first current limit. At this time, the heat generation in the power switch Q is relatively low, and the likelihood of damage to the power switch Q due to abnormal temperature is relatively low. Therefore, the overtemperature protection unit 242 can cease operation. Therefore, the power consumption of the overtemperature protection unit 242 in bypass mode is lower than that in normal operating mode.

[0086] For example, in other embodiments of the present application, Figure 3B As shown, the intelligent electronic switch 20 may include a first over-temperature protection unit 24A and a second over-temperature protection unit 24B. The first over-temperature protection unit 24A and the second over-temperature protection unit 24B are both connected to the logic control unit 211. The first over-temperature protection unit 24A is connected to a preset first over-temperature protection threshold Tref1 and a temperature sampling value T1 of the power switch Q. The second over-temperature protection unit 24B is connected to a preset second over-temperature protection threshold Tref2 and a temperature difference TD. The temperature difference TD is the difference between the temperature sampling value T1 of the power switch Q and the ambient temperature T2.

[0087] In normal working mode, when the temperature sampling value T1 is greater than the first over-temperature protection threshold, the first over-temperature protection unit outputs the first over-temperature signal Toc1, and / or, when the temperature difference TD is greater than the second over-temperature protection threshold Tref2, the second over-temperature protection unit 24B outputs the first over-temperature signal Toc1, and the logic control unit 211 controls the power switch to be turned off via the first driving unit 212 according to the first over-temperature signal Toc1; in bypass mode, the second over-temperature protection unit 24B stops working.

[0088] For example, refer to Figure 3B As shown, the structure and implementation principle of the first over-temperature protection unit 24A are similar to those of Figure 3A In this embodiment, the second over-temperature protection unit 24B includes a second element 24B1, a temperature detection element 24B2, an operational amplifier unit 24B3, and an operational amplifier unit 24B4. Among them, the temperature detection element 24B2 is away from the temperature detection element 2422 in the first over-temperature protection unit 24A, one end of the second element 24B1 is connected to the power supply terminal VBAT through the internal power supply unit 2423, the other end of the second element 24B1 is connected to the temperature detection element 24B2 and the connection point between the two is TP2, the TP2 is connected to the first input terminal of the operational amplifier unit 24B3, the other end of the temperature detection element 24B2 is connected to the power ground terminal GND, the second input terminal of the operational amplifier unit 24B3 is connected to the temperature detection point TP of the first over-temperature protection unit 24A, and its output terminal is connected to an input terminal of the operational amplifier unit 24B4, the other input terminal of the operational amplifier unit 24B4 is used to access the second over-temperature protection threshold Tref2, and its output terminal is connected to the logic control unit 211.

[0089] In this embodiment, the temperature detection element 24B2 is used to obtain the ambient temperature of the power switch Q, the operational amplifier unit 24B3 is used to determine the difference between the temperature sampling value of the power switch and the ambient temperature and output the temperature difference, and the operational amplifier unit 24B4 is used to output the first over-temperature signal Toc1 when the temperature difference is greater than the second over-temperature protection threshold Tref2.

[0090] Optionally, in order to accurately control the power consumption of the intelligent electronic switch 20, two over-temperature protection units are used for protection in normal working mode and bypass mode. When the power switch Q has a temperature abnormality, the logic control unit 211 can promptly sense the temperature abnormality of the power switch Q and perform protection in time, thereby reducing the risk of the power switch Q being damaged by high temperature.

[0091] However, in the bypass mode, since the heat generated by the power switch Q is usually low, the second temperature protection unit is not sensitive to abnormalities of the power switch Q and its effect is not prominent. Therefore, in the bypass mode, the second temperature protection unit can be controlled to stop working to reduce the power consumption of the intelligent electronic switch 20.

[0092] Fourth embodiment

[0093] For example, Figure 4 Schematic diagram of a circuit module of an electronic device provided in the fourth embodiment of the present application. Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the power switch Q is an N-type switch tube and the power switch Q is connected as a high-side switch, that is, the two ends of the power switch Q are respectively connected to the power supply terminal VBAT and the load output terminal OUT for explanation.

[0094] In this embodiment, the first driving unit 212 may include at least a boost module (e.g., a charge pump) and a first driving module. The boost module is connected to the power supply terminal VBAT and the first driving module. The boost module is configured to make its output voltage greater than the voltage of the power supply terminal VBAT. The first driving module is further connected to the logic control unit 211 and the control terminal of the N-type switch tube, respectively. The first driving module is configured to connect to the output voltage of the boost module when the intelligent electronic switch 20 operates in a normal operating mode, so that the gate-source voltage signal of the N-type MOS tube is greater than the turn-on threshold of the N-type MOS tube, thereby driving the N-type MOS tube to turn on.

[0095] For example, refer to Figure 4 As shown, the boost module is implemented in the form of a charge pump. For example, the charge pump includes an oscillator, a P-type MOS transistor CP_P1, an N-type MOS transistor CP_N1, capacitors C1 and C2, and diodes D1 and D2. The control terminals of the P-type MOS transistor CP_P1 and the N-type MOS transistor CP_N1 are connected to the oscillator, the drain of the P-type MOS transistor CP_P1 is connected to the power supply terminal VBAT, and its source is connected to the source of the N-type MOS transistor CP_N1 at a connection point A1. The drain of the N-type MOS transistor CP_N1 is connected to the first power supply terminal Vs. Based on the voltage withstand capability of the P-type MOS transistor CP_P1 and the N-type MOS transistor CP_N1, for example, 5V, the first power supply terminal Vs is generally 5V lower than the voltage of the power supply terminal VBAT. One end of the capacitor C1 is connected to the connection point A1, and the other end is connected to the cathode of the diode D1 and the anode of the diode D2. The anode of the diode D1 and one end of the capacitor C2 are both connected to the power supply terminal VBAT, and the cathode of the diode D2 is connected to the other end of the capacitor C2. The oscillator is used to generate an oscillation frequency to turn on or off the P-type MOS transistor CP_P1 and the N-type MOS transistor CP_N1. Capacitor C1 is used to increase the voltage output by the charge pump so that the driver module can drive the power switch Q to turn on. Capacitor C2 is used to store energy. Diodes D1 and D2 are used to limit the current direction.

[0096] Optional, continue to refer to Figure 4As shown, the driving module may include a switch tube D_P1 and a switch tube D_N1. The control end of the main power switch Q1 is connected to the drains of the switch tube D_P1 and the switch tube D_N1. The control ends of the switch tube D_P1 and the switch tube D_N1 are both connected to the logic control unit 211. The source of the switch tube DP1 is connected to the output end of the boost module, the source of the switch tube D_N1 is connected to the load output end OUT, and the control ends of the switch tube D_P1 and the switch tube D_N1 are both connected to the logic control unit 211. In this way, the logic control unit 211 can turn on the power switch Q (N-type MOS tube) by controlling the switch tube D_P1 to turn on and the switch tube D_N1 to turn off, and turn off the power switch Q when the switch tube D_P1 is turned off and the switch tube D_N1 is turned on.

[0097] For example, Figure 5 Schematic diagram of a circuit module of an electronic device provided in the fifth embodiment of the present application. Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the power switch Q is an N-type switch tube and the power switch Q is connected as a high-side switch, that is, the two ends of the power switch Q are respectively connected to the power supply terminal VBAT and the load output terminal OUT for explanation.

[0098] For example, continue to refer to Figure 5 As shown, the current limiting drive unit 213 includes a transistor M1 and a constant current source I1. Transistor M1 and power switch Q are of the same type and are both N-type switches. Transistor M1 and constant current source I1 are connected to form a current limiting drive branch. One end of the current limiting drive branch is connected to one end of the power switch Q, the other end is connected to the load output terminal OUT, and its control terminal is connected to the logic control unit 211. The drain of transistor M1 is connected to its control terminal, which is also connected to the control terminal of the power switch Q. In bypass mode, the logic control unit 211 controls the operation of the current limiting drive unit 213 to control the power switch Q to turn on via the current limiting drive unit 213. The current flowing through the power switch Q is less than or equal to a first current limit value set by the current limiting drive unit 213. This first current limit value is related to the current value provided by the constant current source I1 and the current mirror ratio between the transistor M1 and the power switch Q.

[0099] In an embodiment of the present application, the power switch Q comprises a MOS transistor, and the ratio of the first current limit value to the current value provided by the constant current source I1 is equal to the ratio of the width-to-length ratio of the power switch Q to the width-to-length ratio of the transistor M1. The current value provided by the constant current source is equal to the current value flowing through the transistor M1, and the ratio of the current value flowing through the power switch Q to the output current value of the transistor M1 is equal to the ratio of the width-to-length ratio of the power switch Q to the width-to-length ratio of the transistor M1. Furthermore, when the transistor M1 and the power switch Q operate in a saturation region, the current value flowing through the power switch Q is equal to the first current limit value set by the current limit driving unit 213. Therefore, in this embodiment, the ratio of the first current limit value to the current value provided by the constant current source I1 is equal to the ratio of the width-to-length ratio of the power switch Q to the width-to-length ratio of the transistor M1.

[0100] Optionally, the embodiments of the present application do not limit the method for controlling the enabling of the current limiting drive unit 213. For example, as an example, the constant current source I1 includes an enable terminal. In the bypass mode, the logic control unit 211 can control the constant current source O1 to be enabled to turn on the current limiting drive branch, thereby enabling the current limiting drive unit 213 to work; as another example, the current limiting drive branch can also include a switch unit. In the bypass mode, the logic control unit 211 can control the switch unit to turn on and enable the constant current drive unit 213 to work.

[0101] Optionally, in this embodiment, in the normal operating mode, the first driving unit 212 drives the power switch Q to operate in the linear resistance region; in the bypass mode, the current limiting driving unit 213 drives the power switch Q to operate in the saturation region.

[0102] As an example, in normal operating mode, after the first driving unit 212 drives the power switch Q to turn on, the current flowing through the power switch Q can vary with the load within the output current range that the power switch Q can provide. According to the output characteristic curve of the power switch Q, the power switch Q is now operating in the linear resistance region. In bypass mode, after the current limiting driving unit 213 drives the power switch Q to turn on, when the current flowing through the power switch Q is less than the first current limit value set by the current limiting driving unit 213, the current flowing through the power switch Q can vary with the load. At this time, the power switch Q operates in the linear resistance region. When the current flowing through the power switch Q reaches the first current limit value set by the current limiting driving unit 213, the current flowing through the power switch Q substantially remains constant as the load increases. According to the output characteristic curve of the power switch Q, the power switch Q is now operating in the saturation region. That is, when the intelligent electronic switch 20 is stably operating in bypass mode, the power switch Q operates in the saturation region.

[0103] It is understandable that in a specific implementation, the current limiting drive unit 213 can also be implemented through other structures. For example, the current limiting drive unit 213 can also include one or more mirror units, or the constant current source is replaced with a constant current source of other specifications and one or more mirror units, etc. Correspondingly, the connection relationship of the internal circuit elements of the current limiting drive unit 213 can also be adjusted according to actual needs, etc. This embodiment does not limit the specific structure of the current limiting drive unit 213.

[0104] Optional, in Figure 5 In the embodiment, the first driving unit 212 is connected to the control end of the power switch Q through the first switch k21, and the current limiting driving unit 213 is connected to the control end of the power switch Q through the second switch k22. By controlling the opening and closing states of the first switch k21 and the second switch k22, the driving state of the power switch Q by the first driving unit 212 or the current limiting driving unit 213 can be controlled.

[0105] In this embodiment, the current limiting drive unit can set the maximum current value flowing through the power switch through a current source and a transistor. Its structure is simple and easy to implement. Moreover, compared with the first drive unit, its power consumption is lower, saving power consumption while meeting the load current requirements.

[0106] It can be understood that in each embodiment of the present application, the specific structural composition of the first drive unit and the current limiting drive unit 213 is not limited. Different components can be added according to actual circuit requirements. For example, the first drive unit can also include elements such as a level shifter. The level shifter is connected between the logic control unit 211 and the first drive unit 212. It can convert the low-voltage control signal into a high-voltage control signal, realize the control of the high-voltage output stage by the low-voltage logic, and then realize the driving of the power switch to turn on.

[0107] Optionally, based on the above embodiment, Figure 6 This is a circuit structure diagram of an electronic device provided in the sixth embodiment of the present application. Figure 6 As shown, the intelligent electronic switch 20 may further include a diagnostic circuit 23 and a diagnostic output terminal CS. The diagnostic circuit 23 is connected to the logic control unit 211 and the diagnostic output terminal CS. The diagnostic circuit 23 is configured to collect parameter information of the intelligent electronic switch 20 and output it to the microcontroller 40 via the diagnostic output terminal CS, so that the microcontroller 40 can diagnose the status of the intelligent electronic switch 20.

[0108] In normal operating mode, the logic control unit 211 controls the diagnostic circuit 23 to operate in a first diagnostic state. In bypass mode, the logic control unit 211 controls the diagnostic circuit 23 to operate in a second diagnostic state, and the power consumption of the diagnostic circuit 23 operating in the second diagnostic state is less than the power consumption of the diagnostic circuit 23 operating in the first diagnostic state. For example, in normal operating mode, the diagnostic circuit 23 operates normally, while in bypass mode, the diagnostic circuit 23 stops operating, or some modules of the diagnostic circuit 23 stop operating, or the diagnostic circuit operates in a power-saving state, or some modules of the diagnostic circuit 23 operate in a power-saving state. The power-saving state may be a periodic operating state.

[0109] In this embodiment, the diagnostic circuit 23 can monitor certain operating indicators of the intelligent electronic switch 20 and obtain parameter information of the intelligent electronic switch 20 when the power switch Q is in the on state, and output the information to the microcontroller 40 through the diagnostic output terminal CS. In this way, the microcontroller 40 can diagnose the status of the intelligent electronic switch 20 based on the received parameter information.

[0110] For example, in the intelligent electronic switch 20, the diagnostic circuit 23 can obtain at least one of current information flowing through the power switch Q, temperature information of the power switch Q, power supply voltage information of the intelligent electronic switch 20, and abnormal indication information indicating that the power switch Q is abnormally shut down. Based on the function selection of the microcontroller 40, the diagnostic circuit 23 can output the corresponding parameter information to the microcontroller 40 through the diagnostic output terminal, so that the microcontroller 40 can diagnose the status of the intelligent electronic switch 20, thereby more accurately controlling the operating status of the intelligent electronic switch 20.

[0111] In this technical solution, when the intelligent electronic switch controls the power switch to be in the on state, it can also control the working state of the diagnostic circuit according to the working mode of the intelligent electronic switch. On the basis of ensuring the normal operation of the load, the self-consumption of the intelligent electronic switch is effectively reduced, the battery life of the battery connected to the intelligent electronic switch is extended, and the application experience is improved.

[0112] Optionally, in an embodiment of the present application, the intelligent electronic switch 20 may further include a protection circuit 24, which is connected to the logic control unit 211 and is configured to protect the intelligent electronic switch 20. When the intelligent electronic switch 20 operates in a normal operating mode, the logic control unit 211 controls the power switch Q to be turned on via the first drive unit 212, and may also control the protection circuit 24 to operate in a first protection state. When the intelligent electronic switch 20 operates in a bypass mode, the logic control unit 211 controls the power switch Q to be turned on via the current limiting drive unit 213, and may also control the protection circuit 24 to operate in a second protection state. The power consumption of the protection circuit 24 in the second protection state is less than that in the first protection state, thereby reducing the power consumption of the protection circuit 24 in the bypass mode.

[0113] For example, the protection circuit 24 may include the above Figure 2 The current protection unit 241 shown in Figure 3A or Figure 3B At least one of the over-temperature protection unit 242, the voltage protection unit (not shown), etc. shown in FIG.

[0114] The voltage protection unit is used to trigger voltage protection for the intelligent electronic switch 20 when it detects that the voltage of the power supply terminal VBAT is abnormal and outputs a voltage abnormality signal. The power consumption of the voltage protection unit in bypass mode is less than that in normal working mode. Optionally, the voltage protection unit may include an overvoltage protection unit and / or an undervoltage protection unit. The overvoltage protection unit is used to trigger overvoltage protection for the intelligent electronic switch 20 when it detects that the voltage of the power supply terminal VBAT is higher than a first voltage threshold. For example, when the voltage VBAT of the power supply terminal VBAT is greater than the first voltage threshold, the power switch Q can be turned off by the logic control unit 211 or the voltage of the power supply terminal VBAT can be pulled down by means of a voltage clamping circuit to reduce the voltage of the power supply terminal VBAT, thereby protecting the intelligent electronic switch 20 from being damaged by high voltage. The undervoltage protection unit is configured to trigger undervoltage protection for the intelligent electronic switch 20 when detecting that the voltage of the power supply terminal VBAT is lower than a second voltage threshold. For example, when the voltage of the power supply terminal VBAT is lower than the second voltage threshold, the intelligent electronic switch 20 may be disabled from use by shutting down the power switch Q via the logic control unit 211, thereby improving the reliability of the intelligent electronic switch 20 when in use.

[0115] In practical applications, the intelligent electronic switch 20 may be designed with multiple protection units or one or more of the multiple protection units. For example, the intelligent electronic switch 20 may include a current protection unit, an over-temperature protection unit, a voltage protection unit, etc., or may include only one or more of the protection units. When the intelligent electronic switch 20 is designed with at least two protection units, in the bypass mode, at least one protection unit in the protection circuit 24 stops operating or operates in an energy-saving state to reduce the power consumption of the protection circuit, thereby reducing the self-consumption of the intelligent electronic switch 20.

[0116] Optionally, in other embodiments of the present application, continue to refer to Figure 6 As shown, the intelligent electronic switch 20 further includes a first functional terminal FU1 and a second functional terminal FU2, both of which are connected to a logic control unit 211. When the first functional terminal FU1 receives a first signal and the second functional terminal FU2 receives a second signal, the logic control unit 211 controls the intelligent electronic switch 20 to enter a bypass mode. The self-consumption of the intelligent electronic switch 20 in the bypass mode is less than the self-consumption of the intelligent electronic switch 20 in the normal working mode. In both the bypass mode and the normal working mode, the power switch Q is in an on state.

[0117] For example, in order to be fully compatible with the original functions of the intelligent electronic switch 20, the first function terminal FU1 and the second function terminal FU2 can reuse any two of the input terminal Input, the diagnostic enable terminal SEN, the first function selection terminal SEL1, the second function selection terminal SEL0, the diagnostic release terminal Fault, and other terminals of the intelligent electronic switch 20.

[0118] As an example, the first functional terminal FU1 can reuse the diagnostic enable terminal SEN, and the second functional terminal FU2 can reuse the input terminal. In other examples, the first functional terminal FU1 and the second functional terminal FU2 can also reuse other terminals, which are not limited in the embodiments of the present application. It is understood that in other embodiments of the present application, the first functional terminal FU1 and / or the second functional terminal FU2 can also be newly added terminals of the intelligent electronic switch 20, or a combination of newly added terminals and existing terminals, which are not limited in the embodiments of the present application.

[0119] Optional, see Figure 6As shown, the intelligent electronic switch 20 is connected to the microcontroller 40 via the first functional terminal FU1 and the second functional terminal FU2, so that the logic control unit 211 can receive the first signal from the microcontroller 40 via the first functional terminal FU1 and the second signal from the microcontroller 40 via the second functional terminal FU2. In other embodiments, the logic control unit 211 can also receive the first signal and the second signal from other devices or circuits via the first functional terminal FU1 and the second functional terminal FU2, which are not limited in this embodiment of the present application.

[0120] Optionally, when the intelligent electronic switch 20 operates in the normal operating mode, if the first functional terminal FU1 receives a first signal and the second functional terminal FU2 receives a second signal, the logic control unit 211 can control the intelligent electronic switch 20 to enter the bypass mode to reduce the self-power consumption of the intelligent electronic switch 20.

[0121] It is understandable that other parts not detailed in one embodiment of the present application can be referred to the records in other embodiments of the present application and will not be repeated here.

[0122] Optionally, based on the above embodiments, an embodiment of the present application further provides an integrated circuit chip, comprising the intelligent electronic switch 20 described in the above embodiments. That is, the intelligent electronic switch 20 described above can be fabricated on the same semiconductor substrate. The power supply terminal VBAT is a power supply pin, the power ground terminal GND is a power ground pin, and the load output terminal OUT is a load output pin.

[0123] Optionally, other embodiments of the present application further provide a chip product, which may include the above-mentioned intelligent electronic switch 20, wherein the components of the intelligent electronic switch 20 except the power switch Q are located on a first integrated circuit chip, and the power switch Q is located on a second integrated circuit chip. That is, the first integrated circuit chip is fabricated on one semiconductor substrate, and the second integrated circuit chip is fabricated on another semiconductor substrate.

[0124] Among them, the power supply terminal VBAT is the power supply pin, the power ground terminal GND is the power ground pin, and the load output terminal OUT is the load output pin. The power supply pin and the power ground pin are located on the first integrated circuit chip, and the load output pin is located on the second integrated circuit chip. In addition, the first integrated circuit chip also includes other pins, such as input pins, diagnostic enable pins, diagnostic output pins, first drive pins, etc., and the second integrated circuit chip also includes other pins, such as second drive pins, wherein the first drive pin is respectively connected to the drive circuit and the second drive pin, and the second drive pin is connected to the control end of the power switch Q. It can be understood that the first integrated circuit chip and the second integrated circuit chip can also add other pins, omit related pins, or merge related pins as needed. Here, the first integrated circuit chip and the second integrated circuit chip are packaged into one product.

[0125] In addition, in other embodiments of the present application, a car is also provided. The car can be an electric car, such as an electric passenger car or an electric commercial vehicle, or a hybrid car or a fuel car. Figures 1 to 6 As shown, the automobile includes a battery 10 , a load 30 , a microcontroller 40 and an intelligent electronic switch 20 .

[0126] The microcontroller 40 is connected to the intelligent electronic switch 20 and is used to control the intelligent electronic switch 20 . Meanwhile, the intelligent electronic switch 20 feeds back its status and related parameter information to the microcontroller 40 for processing by the microcontroller.

[0127] It is understandable that the intelligent electronic switch and integrated circuit chip of this embodiment are not limited to use in automotive electronics, but can also be used in industrial automation, aerospace and other fields, which will not be described in detail here.

[0128] Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate other embodiments of the present application after considering the specification and practicing the application disclosed herein. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the present application that follow the general principles of this application and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The description and examples are to be considered as exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of the present application are indicated by the following claims.

[0129] It should be understood that the present application is not limited to the exact structure described above and shown in the drawings, and that various modifications and changes may be made without departing from the scope thereof. The scope of the present application is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An intelligent electronic switch, characterized in that: It includes a power supply terminal, a power ground terminal, a load output terminal, a power switch and a control circuit; The power supply terminal and the power ground terminal are used to connect to a battery, the load output terminal is used to connect to a load and one end of the power switch, and the other end of the power switch is connected to the power supply terminal or the power ground terminal; The control circuit includes a logic control unit, a first drive unit, and a current limiting drive unit, wherein the first drive unit and the current limiting drive unit are respectively connected to the control terminal of the power switch and are also respectively connected to the logic control unit; When the intelligent electronic switch operates in a normal operating mode, the logic control unit drives the power switch to turn on via the first drive unit. When the intelligent electronic switch operates in a bypass mode, the logic control unit drives the power switch to turn on via the current limiting drive unit. In the bypass mode, a current value flowing through the power switch is less than or equal to a first current limit value set by the current limiting drive unit. In the normal operating mode, a maximum current value flowing through the power switch is greater than the first current limit value.

2. The intelligent electronic switch according to claim 1, characterized in that: The intelligent electronic switch includes an overcurrent protection unit, the overcurrent protection unit is connected to a preset overcurrent protection threshold and a current sampling value, and the current sampling value is used to represent the current value flowing through the power switch; In normal working mode, when the current sampling value is greater than the overcurrent protection threshold, the current value flowing through the power switch is greater than the first current limiting value and the overcurrent protection unit outputs an overcurrent signal to the logic control unit, so that the logic control unit controls the power switch to be turned off via the first drive unit; in bypass mode, the overcurrent protection unit stops working.

3. The intelligent electronic switch according to claim 1, characterized in that: The intelligent electronic switch includes a current limiting protection unit, the current limiting protection unit is connected to a preset current limiting protection threshold, and the current limiting protection unit is also connected to a current sampling value, the current sampling value is used to represent the current value flowing through the power switch; In normal working mode, when the current sampling value is greater than the current limiting protection threshold, the current value flowing through the power switch is greater than the first current limiting value and the current limiting protection unit outputs a current limiting signal to the logic control unit. The logic control unit adjusts the size of the control signal output to the control end of the power switch via the first driving unit to reduce the current value flowing through the power switch so that the current sampling value is less than or equal to the current limiting protection threshold; in bypass mode, the current limiting protection unit stops working.

4. The intelligent electronic switch according to claim 1, characterized in that: The intelligent electronic switch includes an over-temperature protection unit, which is connected to the logic control unit and is connected to a preset over-temperature protection threshold and a temperature sampling value, wherein the temperature sampling value is used to represent the temperature value of the power switch; In normal working mode, when the temperature sampling value is greater than the over-temperature protection threshold, the over-temperature protection unit outputs an over-temperature signal, and the logic control unit controls the power switch to be turned off via the first driving unit according to the over-temperature signal; in bypass mode, the over-temperature protection unit stops working.

5. The intelligent electronic switch according to claim 1, characterized in that: The intelligent electronic switch includes a first over-temperature protection unit and a second over-temperature protection unit, both of which are connected to a logic control unit. The first over-temperature protection unit is connected to a preset first over-temperature protection threshold and a temperature sampling value of the power switch. The second over-temperature protection unit is connected to a preset second over-temperature protection threshold and a temperature difference value, where the temperature difference value is the difference between the temperature sampling value of the power switch and the ambient temperature. In normal working mode, when the temperature sampling value is greater than the first over-temperature protection threshold, the first over-temperature protection unit outputs a first over-temperature signal, and / or, when the temperature difference is greater than the second over-temperature protection threshold, the second over-temperature protection unit outputs a first over-temperature signal, and the logic control unit controls the power switch to be turned off via the first driving unit according to the first over-temperature signal; in bypass mode, the second over-temperature protection unit stops working.

6. The intelligent electronic switch according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: The current limiting driving unit includes a transistor and a constant current source, and the transistor and the power switch are of the same type; The transistor and the constant current source are connected to form a current limiting drive branch, one end of the current limiting drive branch is connected to one end of the power switch, the other end is connected to the power supply end or the power ground end, the control end is connected to the logic control unit, the drain of the transistor is connected to the control end, and the control end is also connected to the control end of the power switch; In the bypass mode, the logic control unit controls the current limiting drive branch to be turned on so that the current limiting drive unit works, and the first current limiting value is related to the current value provided by the constant current source and the current mirror ratio of the transistor and the power switch.

7. The intelligent electronic switch according to claim 6, characterized in that: The power switch includes a MOS transistor, and the ratio of the first current limit value to the current value provided by the constant current source is equal to the ratio of the width-to-length ratio of the power switch to the width-to-length ratio of the transistor.

8. The intelligent electronic switch according to claim 6, characterized in that: In the normal operating mode, the first driving unit drives the power switch to operate in the linear resistance region; in the bypass mode, the current limiting driving unit drives the power switch to operate in the saturation region.

9. The intelligent electronic switch according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: The power switch is an N-type switch tube, and when the power switch is connected between the power supply end and the load output end, the first driving unit includes a boost module and a driving module, the boost module is connected to the power supply end of the driving module, and the boost module is used to make its output voltage greater than the voltage of the power supply end, so that the driving module drives the N-type switch tube to turn on and conduct in the normal working mode.

10. An integrated circuit chip, characterized in that: The intelligent electronic switch according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the power supply terminal is a power supply pin, the power ground terminal is a power ground pin, and the load output terminal is a load output pin.

11. A chip product, characterized in that: The intelligent electronic switch according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein components of the intelligent electronic switch other than the power switch are located on a first integrated circuit chip, and the power switch is located on a second integrated circuit chip; Among them, the power supply end is a power supply pin, the power ground end is a power ground pin, and the load output end is a load output pin. The power supply pin and the power ground pin are located on a first integrated circuit chip, and the load output pin is located on a second integrated circuit chip.

12. An automobile, characterized in that: The intelligent electronic switch according to any one of claims 1 to 9, or the integrated circuit chip according to claim 10, or the chip product according to claim 11; It also includes a battery, a load and a microcontroller; wherein the positive pole of the battery is connected to the power supply terminal, the negative pole of the battery is connected to the power ground terminal, one end of the load is connected to the load output terminal, the other end of the load is connected to the power ground terminal or the power supply terminal, and the microcontroller is connected to the intelligent electronic switch.

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