Multi-source time-division multiplexing energy harvesting battery-less power regulator

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an energy harvesting power management unit (EHPMU) that utilizes at least one ambient energy source and injects a DC input into the system using a multi-input shared-inductor multi-output (MISIMO) topology combined with a time-division multiplexing (TDM) technique. The EHPMU comprises at least one energy source, a rectifier for AC ambient sources, a converter circuit coupled to the energy source and an output load, a startup block connected to the converter circuit and an energy storage element, a level shifter and gate driver circuit interfacing between the converter circuit and a digital controller to facilitate switching, at least one maximum power point tracking (MPPT) circuit, a series of protection circuits, a voltage monitor, and a load power monitor. All components are connected to the digital controller to form a feedback system for controlling the switching of the converter circuit. The disclosure addresses the lack of internal start-up mechanisms and the reliance on pre-charged batteries in existing topologies. Additionally, techniques such as switch size modulation, energy recycling, and multi-phase startups are introduced to reduce the power consumption of energy-hungry circuit blocks. The invention also incorporates protection circuits, which have not been implemented in existing energy harvesting technologies, adding complexity to the design implementation of the internal startup mechanism.