Electronic device comprising converter, operation method thereof, and recording medium

Abstract

This electronic device comprises: a converter including first to fourth switches, a first capacitor, and a first inductor; at least one processor including a processing circuit; and a memory including instructions. The instructions, when executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, may instruct the electronic device to control the converter to operate in a first mode. In addition, the instructions may instruct the electronic device to verify a low-power state of the electronic device on the basis of a first operation, a second operation, and a third operation, and to control the converter to operate in a second mode such that the first capacitor is not charged or discharged. The first operation includes an operation of verifying that an output terminal current of the converter is less than a reference value, the second operation includes an operation of verifying that a switching frequency of the converter is less than a reference frequency, and the third operation includes an operation of providing, to the converter, a control signal indicating a low-power state of the electronic device.

Description

Electronic device including converter, method of operation thereof and recording medium

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a two-phase three-level buck converter, an electronic device including the converter, an operating method thereof, and a recording medium.

[0002] Electronic devices can convert power using a converter. The converted power can be used to charge a battery and / or operate a system. Compared to a typical two-level buck converter, a three-level buck converter can have smaller inductor current ripple even when using the same inductor. Therefore, a three-level buck converter can maintain the same current ripple as a two-level converter using a large inductor even with a relatively small inductor capacity, and has the advantage of achieving high power conversion efficiency by reducing the inductor resistance through reducing the inductor capacity. In addition, since the voltage stress on each switching element in a three-level buck converter is half that of a two-level buck converter, the loss in the switching element can be reduced by using elements with a lower withstand voltage, thereby achieving high efficiency.

[0003] According to one embodiment, an electronic device may include a converter including a first switch, a second switch, a third switch, a fourth switch, a first capacitor, and a first inductor, at least one processor including a processing circuit, and a memory including instructions. A first terminal of the first switch may be connected to an input terminal of the converter. A second terminal of the first switch may be connected to a first terminal of the second switch and a first terminal of the first capacitor. A second terminal of the second switch may be connected to a first terminal of the third switch and a first terminal of the first inductor. A second terminal of the third switch may be connected to a first terminal of the fourth switch and a second terminal of the first capacitor. A second terminal of the fourth switch may be connected to ground. A second terminal of the first inductor may be connected to an output terminal of the converter. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to control the converter to operate in a first mode. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to determine a low power state of the electronic device based on a first operation, a second operation, and / or a third operation. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to control the converter to operate in a second mode instead of the first mode, such that the first capacitor is charged or the first capacitor is not discharged, based on the determination of the low power state. The first operation may include an operation of determining that a current at the output terminal of the converter is less than a reference value. The second operation may include an operation of determining that a switching frequency of the converter is less than a reference frequency.The third operation may include an operation of providing a control signal indicating the low power state of the electronic device to the converter. The first mode may include a first switching operation of controlling the first switch and the third switch to be on and controlling the second switch and the fourth switch to be off, a second switching operation of controlling the third switch and the fourth switch to be on and controlling the first switch and the second switch to be off, a third switching operation of controlling the second switch and the fourth switch to be on and controlling the first switch and the third switch to be off, and a fourth switching operation of controlling the third switch and the fourth switch to be on and controlling the first switch and the second switch to be off. The second mode may include a fifth switching operation that controls the first switch and the second switch to be on and the third switch and the fourth switch to be off, and a sixth switching operation that controls the third switch and the fourth switch to be on and the first switch and the second switch to be off.

[0004] According to one embodiment, a method of operating an electronic device may include controlling a converter of the electronic device to operate in a first mode. The converter may include a first switch, a second switch, a third switch, a fourth switch, a first capacitor, and a first inductor. The method may include determining a low power state of the electronic device based on the first operation, the second operation, and / or the third operation. The method may include controlling the converter to operate in a second mode instead of the first mode so that the first capacitor is charged or not discharged based on the determination of the low power state. The first operation may include determining that a current at an output terminal of the converter is less than a reference value. The second operation may include determining that a switching frequency of the converter is less than a reference frequency. The third operation may include providing a control signal indicating the low power state of the electronic device to the converter. The first mode may include a first switching operation that controls the first switch and the third switch to be on and the second switch and the fourth switch to be off, a second switching operation that controls the third switch and the fourth switch to be on and the first switch and the second switch to be off, a third switching operation that controls the second switch and the fourth switch to be on and the first switch and the third switch to be off, and a fourth switching operation that controls the third switch and the fourth switch to be on and the first switch and the second switch to be off.The second mode may include a fifth switching operation that controls the first switch and the second switch to be on and the third switch and the fourth switch to be off, and a sixth switching operation that controls the third switch and the fourth switch to be on and the first switch and the second switch to be off.

[0005] According to one embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium storing instructions may cause the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by at least one processor of an electronic device, to cause the electronic device to perform at least one operation. The at least one operation may include controlling a converter of the electronic device to operate in a first mode. The converter may include a first switch, a second switch, a third switch, a fourth switch, a first capacitor, and a first inductor. The at least one operation may include determining a low power state of the electronic device based on the first operation, the second operation, and / or the third operation. The at least one operation may include controlling the converter to operate in a second mode instead of the first mode so that the first capacitor is charged or not discharged based on the determination of the low power state. The first operation may include determining that a current at an output terminal of the converter is less than a reference value. The second operation may include an operation of confirming that the switching frequency of the converter is less than a reference frequency. The third operation may include an operation of providing a control signal indicating the low power state of the electronic device to the converter.The first mode may include a first switching operation that controls the first switch and the third switch to be on and the second switch and the fourth switch to be off, a second switching operation that controls the third switch and the fourth switch to be on and the first switch and the second switch to be off, a third switching operation that controls the second switch and the fourth switch to be on and the first switch and the third switch to be off, and a fourth switching operation that controls the third switch and the fourth switch to be on and the first switch and the second switch to be off. The second mode may include a fifth switching operation that controls the first switch and the second switch to be on and the third switch and the fourth switch to be off, and a sixth switching operation that controls the third switch and the fourth switch to be on and the first switch and the second switch to be off.

[0006] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment, according to one embodiment.

[0007] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0008] Figure 3 is a circuit diagram of a converter according to one embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 4A is a diagram illustrating a first switching operation of a first switching sequence of a converter according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 4b is a diagram illustrating a second switching operation of a first switching sequence of a converter according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 4c is a diagram illustrating a third switching operation of a first switching sequence of a converter according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 4d is a diagram illustrating a fourth switching operation of a first switching sequence of a converter according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 5A is a diagram illustrating a fifth switching operation of a second switching sequence of a converter according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 5b is a diagram illustrating a sixth switching operation of a second switching sequence of a converter according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a method of operating an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 7A is a flowchart of a method of operating an electronic device based on an output current of a converter, according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 7b is a diagram illustrating the operation of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a method of operating an electronic device based on a switching frequency of a converter, according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 9A is a flowchart of a method of operating an electronic device based on a control signal provided to a converter, according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 9b is a diagram illustrating the operation of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100), according to one embodiment.

[0022] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0023] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together with the main processor (121). For example, when the electronic device (101) includes the main processor (121) and the auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0024] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0025] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0026] The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0027] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0028] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker. The display module (160) can visually provide information to the outside of the electronic device (101) (e.g., to a user). The display module (160) can include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. In one embodiment, the display module (160) can include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0029] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150), output sound through the sound output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0030] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0031] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0032] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0033] The haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0034] The camera module (180) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0035] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0036] A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0037] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0038] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

[0039] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device via the at least one selected antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0040] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0041] At least some of the above components can be interconnected and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., a bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)).

[0042] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0043] An electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a processor (120) including a processing circuit. An electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a memory (130) including a storage circuit.

[0044] In this document, the electronic device (101) performing a specific operation may mean that various hardware included in the electronic device (101), for example, at least one processor (120) such as an MCU (micro controlling unit), an FPGA (field programmable gate array), an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), a microprocessor, or an AP (application processor), performs the specific operation. The electronic device (101) performing the specific operation may also mean that at least one processor (120) controls other hardware to perform the specific operation. The electronic device (101) performing the specific operation may also mean that at least one instruction for performing the specific operation stored in a storage circuit of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the memory (130) of FIG. 1) is executed, thereby causing the processor (120) or other hardware to perform the specific operation. At least one instruction stored in the memory (130) of the electronic device (101), when executed by at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to perform at least one operation. Even when a plurality of processors (120) are implemented, for convenience of explanation, the instructions may be described as “operations of the electronic device (101),” “operations of the processor (120),” or “operations of at least one processor (120).”

[0045] Fig. 2 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment. Fig. 3 is a circuit diagram of a converter (210) according to one embodiment.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include at least some of the components disclosed in FIG. 2. According to one embodiment, the converter (210) of the electronic device (101) may be implemented with a circuit (e.g., a 3-level converter) disclosed in FIG. 3. The converter (210) may be a buck converter having an output voltage lower than an input voltage, but this is merely an example, and there is no limitation on the type of the converter (210).

[0047] Referring to FIG. 2, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a converter (210), a control circuit (220), a battery (230), and / or a load (240).

[0048] According to one embodiment, the converter (210) may be configured to convert power (e.g., input power) provided through an input terminal of the converter (210) and output the converted power (e.g., output power) through an output terminal of the converter (210). The electronic device (101) may convert power through the converter (210). The electronic device (101) may provide output power to a battery (230) and / or a load (240) through the converter (210). The converter (210) may include a plurality of switches (e.g., metal-oxide-semiconductor field effect transistors (MOSFETs)). A circuit diagram of the converter (210) will be described below with reference to FIG. 3.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the control circuit (220) may be configured to control the converter (210). For example, the electronic device (101) may control a plurality of switches (e.g., 301, 302, 303, 304 of FIG. 3) of the converter (210) through the control circuit (220). The electronic device (101) may control the converter (210) using the control circuit (220).

[0050] In one embodiment, the battery (230) may be configured to be charged based on the output power provided through the converter (210). The electronic device (101) may charge the battery (230) based on the output power provided through the converter (210).

[0051] In one embodiment, the load (240) may be configured to operate based on the output power provided through the converter (210). A component of the electronic device (101) including the processor (120), camera, audio, and display may be referred to as the load (240). The electronic device (101) may operate the load (240) based on the output power provided through the converter (210).

[0052] FIG. 3 is a circuit diagram of a converter (210) according to one embodiment.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the converter (210) may include a first switch (301), a second switch (302), a third switch (303), a fourth switch (304), a first capacitor (310), and a first inductor (321). Referring to FIG. 3, a first terminal of the first switch (301) may be connected to an input terminal of the converter (210). A second terminal of the first switch (301) may be connected to a first terminal of the second switch (302) and a first terminal of the first capacitor (310). A second terminal of the second switch (302) may be connected to a first terminal of the third switch (303) and a first terminal of the first inductor (321). A second terminal of the third switch (303) may be connected to a second terminal of the first capacitor (310) and a first terminal of the fourth switch (304). The second terminal of the fourth switch (304) may be connected to ground. The second terminal of the first inductor (321) may be connected to the output terminal of the converter (210). The converter (210) may be configured to convert power provided through the input terminal and output the converted power through the output terminal. The electronic device (101) may convert an input voltage (e.g., VIN) into an output voltage (e.g., Vo) through the converter (210).

[0054] According to one embodiment, the control circuit (220) may provide drive signals (e.g., QA1, QA2, QA3, QA4) for controlling a plurality of switches (e.g., 301, 302, 303, 304) of the converter (210). There is no limitation on the implementation method of the control circuit (220).

[0055] Referring to FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, and 4D, a first switching sequence of the converter (210) can be described. For example, the first switching sequence can be referred to as a three-level operation. For example, based on the first switching sequence, a three-level operation of the three-level converter (210) can be performed.

[0056] FIG. 4A is a diagram illustrating a first switching operation of a first switching sequence of a converter (210) according to one embodiment. FIG. 4B is a diagram illustrating a second switching operation of a first switching sequence of a converter (210) according to one embodiment. FIG. 4C is a diagram illustrating a third switching operation of a first switching sequence of a converter (210) according to one embodiment. FIG. 4D is a diagram illustrating a fourth switching operation of a first switching sequence of a converter (210) according to one embodiment.

[0057] Referring to FIG. 4A, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may control the converter (210) to perform a first switching operation of a first switching sequence using the control circuit (220). The first switching operation may include an operation of turning on the first switch (301) and the third switch (303), and turning off the second switch (302) and the fourth switch (304). During a period corresponding to the first switching operation of FIG. 4A, a first capacitor (310) (e.g., a flying capacitor) may be connected between the input terminal of the converter (210) and the first inductor (321). During a first period during which the first switching operation of the first switching sequence is performed, the first capacitor (310) (e.g., the flying capacitor) may be charged using a current (e.g., IL) of the first inductor (321). During a first period in which a first switching operation of a first switching sequence is performed, a voltage (e.g., VLX1) (e.g., a switching voltage) of a first end of a first inductor (321) may have a first value (e.g., VIN / 2). The first value (e.g., VIN / 2) may be a value corresponding to half of an input voltage (e.g., VIN) of an input end of a converter (210). During a first period in which a first switching operation of a first switching sequence is performed, an inductor current (e.g., IL1) of the first inductor (321) may increase. For example, the electronic device (101) may increase the inductor current of the first inductor (321) while charging the first capacitor (310) by the first switching operation of the first switching sequence.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 4B, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may control the converter (210) to perform a second switching operation of the first switching sequence using the control circuit (220). The second switching operation may include an operation of controlling the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be turned on, and controlling the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be turned off. During a second period in which the second switching operation of the first switching sequence is performed, a voltage (e.g., VLX1) (e.g., a switching voltage) of a first terminal of the first inductor (321) may have a ground voltage. The ground voltage may be a voltage corresponding to ground. During the second period in which the second switching operation of the first switching sequence is performed, an inductor current (e.g., IL1) of the first inductor (321) may decrease. For example, the electronic device (101) can reduce the inductor current of the first inductor (321) by the second switching operation of the first switching sequence.

[0059] Referring to FIG. 4C, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may control the converter (210) to perform a third switching operation of the first switching sequence using the control circuit (220). The third switching operation may include an operation of controlling the second switch (302) and the fourth switch (304) to be turned on, and controlling the first switch (301) and the third switch (303) to be turned off. For example, during a period corresponding to the third switching operation of FIG. 4C, the first capacitor (310) (e.g., a flying capacitor) may be connected to the first inductor (321). During this period, the first capacitor (310) (e.g., a flying capacitor) may be discharged using a current (e.g., IL) of the first inductor (321). During a third period in which the third switching operation of the first switching sequence is performed, the voltage (e.g., VLX1) (e.g., switching voltage) of the first end of the first inductor (321) may have a first value (e.g., VIN / 2). During a third period in which the third switching operation of the first switching sequence is performed, the inductor current (e.g., IL1) of the first inductor (321) may increase. For example, the electronic device (101) may increase the inductor current of the first inductor (321) while discharging the first capacitor (310) by the third switching operation of the first switching sequence.

[0060] Referring to FIG. 4D, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may control the converter (210) to perform a fourth switching operation of the first switching sequence using the control circuit (220). The fourth switching operation may include an operation of controlling the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be turned on, and controlling the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be turned off. During a fourth period in which the fourth switching operation of the first switching sequence is performed, the voltage (e.g., VLX1) (e.g., the switching voltage) of the first terminal of the first inductor (321) may have a ground voltage. During the fourth period in which the fourth switching operation of the first switching sequence is performed, the inductor current (e.g., IL1) of the first inductor (321) may decrease. For example, the electronic device (101) can reduce the inductor current of the first inductor (321) by the fourth switching operation of the first switching sequence.

[0061] Referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the second switching sequence of the converter (210) can be described. For example, the second switching sequence can be referred to as a two-level operation. For example, based on the second switching sequence, the two-level operation of the three-level converter (210) can be performed.

[0062] FIG. 5A is a diagram illustrating a fifth switching operation of a second switching sequence of a converter (210) according to one embodiment. FIG. 5B is a diagram illustrating a sixth switching operation of a second switching sequence of a converter (210) according to one embodiment.

[0063] Referring to FIG. 5A, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may control the converter (210) to perform a sixth switching operation of the second switching sequence using the control circuit (220). The sixth switching operation may include an operation of controlling the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be turned on, and controlling the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be turned off. During a fifth period during which the fifth switching operation of the second switching sequence is performed, the voltage (e.g., VLX1) (e.g., the switching voltage) of the first terminal of the first inductor (321) may have a second value (e.g., VIN). The second value (e.g., VIN) may be a value corresponding to an input voltage (e.g., VIN) of an input terminal of the converter (210). During the fifth period during which the fifth switching operation of the second switching sequence is performed, the inductor current (e.g., IL1) of the first inductor (321) may increase. For example, the electronic device (101) may increase the inductor current of the first inductor (321) without charging or discharging the first capacitor (310) by the fifth switching operation of the second switching sequence.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 5B, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may control the converter (210) to perform a sixth switching operation of the second switching sequence using the control circuit (220). The sixth switching operation may include an operation of controlling the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be turned on, and controlling the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be turned off. During a sixth period in which the sixth switching operation of the second switching sequence is performed, the voltage (e.g., VLX1) (e.g., the switching voltage) of the first terminal of the first inductor (321) may have a ground voltage. During the sixth period in which the sixth switching operation of the second switching sequence is performed, the inductor current (e.g., IL1) of the first inductor (321) may decrease. For example, the electronic device (101) can reduce the inductor current of the first inductor (321) without charging or discharging the first capacitor (310) by the sixth switching operation of the second switching sequence.

[0065] The operations of the electronic device (101) can be described in detail with reference to the embodiments described above (e.g., the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 5B) and the embodiments described below (e.g., the embodiments of FIGS. 6 to 9A and 9B). Although each embodiment is disclosed in a separate drawing and a separate paragraph, this is only for convenience of explanation, and at least some of the embodiments described above and at least some of the embodiments described below can be applied together. At least some of the embodiments described above and at least some of the embodiments described below may be omitted.

[0066] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of an operating method of an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment.

[0067] At least some of the operations of FIG. 6 may be omitted. The order of the operations of FIG. 6 may be changed. Operations other than those of FIG. 6 may be performed before, during, or after the operations of FIG. 6.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 6, in operation 601, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may control the converter (210) to operate in a first mode. The first mode may be a mode in which the converter (210) operates in a first switching sequence. The first switching sequence may include the first switching operation of FIG. 4A, the second switching operation of FIG. 4B, the third switching operation of FIG. 4C, and the fourth switching operation of FIG. 4D. The electronic device (101) may perform the first switching operation during a first period, the second switching operation during a second period, the third switching operation during a third period, and the fourth switching operation during a fourth period so that the converter (210) operates in the first mode. The electronic device (101) can repeatedly perform the first switching operation of FIG. 4a, the second switching operation of FIG. 4b, the third switching operation of FIG. 4c, and the fourth switching operation of FIG. 4d for the first mode (e.g., for the first switching sequence).

[0069] In operation 603, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may check a low power state. The low power state may be a state in which the power consumed by the electronic device (101) is relatively low. The low power state may be a state in which the power required by the electronic device (101) is relatively low. The low power state may be a state in which the power output from the converter (210) is relatively low. For example, the electronic device (101) may check the low power state of the electronic device (101) based on a first operation, a second operation, and / or a third operation. The first operation may include an operation of checking that the current of the output terminal of the converter (210) is less than a reference value. The first operation will be described with reference to FIG. 7A. The second operation may include an operation of checking that the switching frequency of the converter (210) is less than a reference frequency. The second operation will be described with reference to FIG. 8. The third operation may include providing a control signal indicating a low power state of the electronic device (101) to the converter (210). The third operation will be described with reference to FIG. 9A.

[0070] In operation 605, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may control the converter (210) to operate in a second mode based on the confirmation of the low power state. The electronic device (101) may control the converter (210) to operate in a second mode instead of the first mode so that the first capacitor (310) is charged or not discharged based on the confirmation of the low power state. The second mode may be a mode in which the converter (210) operates in a second switching sequence. The second switching sequence may include the fifth switching operation of FIG. 5A and the sixth switching operation of FIG. 5B. The electronic device (101) may perform the fifth switching operation during a fifth period and the sixth switching operation during a sixth period so that the converter (210) operates in the second mode. The electronic device (101) can repeatedly perform the fifth switching operation of FIG. 5A and the sixth switching operation of FIG. 5B for the second mode (e.g., for the second switching sequence).

[0071] Referring to FIGS. 7a, 8, and 9a, the first operation, the second operation, and the third operation will be described.

[0072] FIG. 7A is a flowchart of a method of operating an electronic device (101) based on an output current of a converter (210), according to one embodiment. FIG. 7B is a diagram explaining the operation of an electronic device, according to one embodiment.

[0073] At least some of the operations of FIG. 7a may be omitted. The order of the operations of FIG. 7a may be changed. Operations other than those of FIG. 7a may be performed before, during, or after the operations of FIG. 7a.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 7A, in operation 701, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may control the converter (210) to operate in a first mode. Operation 701 may be understood with reference to the description of operation 601 of FIG. 6.

[0075] In operation 703, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may compare the current of the output terminal of the converter (210) with a reference value. For example, the electronic device (101) may check the current (e.g., output current) of the output terminal of the converter (e.g., the second terminal of the first inductor (321)). For example, the electronic device (101) may check the voltage across the resistor (e.g., 710 of FIG. 7B) electrically connected to the output terminal of the converter (e.g., the second terminal of the first inductor (321)). The electronic device (101) may check the output current based on the voltage across the resistor (e.g., 710 of FIG. 7B) and the resistance value of the resistor (e.g., 710 of FIG. 7B). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can determine a low power state of the electronic device (101) based on a current (e.g., output current) of an output terminal of the converter (210) (e.g., a second terminal of the first inductor (321)) being less than a reference value.

[0076] In operation 705, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may control the converter (210) to operate in the second mode based on the current (e.g., output current) of the output terminal (e.g., the second terminal of the first inductor (321)) of the converter (210) being less than a reference value. Operation 705 may be understood with reference to the description of operation 605 of FIG. 6. For example, the electronic device (101) may control the converter (210) to operate in the second mode instead of the first mode so that the first capacitor (310) is charged or the first capacitor (310) is not discharged based on the current (e.g., output current) of the output terminal (e.g., the second terminal of the first inductor (321)) of the converter (210) being less than a reference value.

[0077] According to one embodiment, while the converter (210) is operating in the second mode, the electronic device (101) may perform operation 703. For example, the electronic device (101) may control the converter (210) to operate in the first mode based on a current (e.g., output current) of an output terminal of the converter (210) (e.g., a second terminal of the first inductor (321)) being greater than or equal to a reference value.

[0078] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of an operating method of an electronic device (101) based on a switching frequency of a converter (210), according to one embodiment.

[0079] At least some of the operations of FIG. 8 may be omitted. The order of the operations of FIG. 8 may be changed. Operations other than those of FIG. 8 may be performed before, during, or after the operations of FIG. 8.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 8, in operation 801, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may control the converter (210) to operate in a first mode. Operation 801 may be understood with reference to the description of operation 601 of FIG. 6.

[0081] In operation 803, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may compare the switching frequency of the converter (210) with a reference frequency. The switching frequency of the converter (210) may be an operating frequency of a switching sequence (e.g., a first switching sequence or a second switching sequence) of the converter (210). The reference frequency may be an audible frequency at which noise is generated according to charging and discharging of the first capacitor (310). The reference frequency (e.g., an audible frequency) may be 20 Hz. For example, when the switching frequency of the converter (210) is less than 20 Hz, noise may be generated according to charging and discharging of the first capacitor (310) of the converter (210). However, 20 Hz is exemplary, and the reference frequency is a frequency set for comparison with the switching frequency, and there is no limitation on the value of the reference frequency. The electronic device (101) can determine the low power state of the electronic device (101) based on the switching frequency of the converter (210) being less than the reference frequency.

[0082] In operation 805, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may control the converter (210) to operate in the second mode based on the switching frequency of the converter (210) being less than the reference frequency. Operation 805 may be understood with reference to the description of operation 605 of FIG. 6. For example, the electronic device (101) may control the converter (210) to operate in the second mode instead of the first mode so as to prevent the first capacitor (310) from being charged or discharged based on the switching frequency of the converter (210) being less than the reference frequency.

[0083] According to one embodiment, while the converter (210) is operating in the second mode, the electronic device (101) may perform operation 803. For example, the electronic device (101) may control the converter (210) to operate in the first mode based on the switching frequency of the converter (210) being greater than or equal to the reference frequency.

[0084] FIG. 9A is a flowchart of a method of operating an electronic device (101) based on a control signal provided to a converter (210), according to one embodiment. FIG. 9B is a diagram explaining the operation of an electronic device, according to one embodiment.

[0085] At least some of the operations of FIG. 9A may be omitted. The order of the operations of FIG. 9A may be changed. Operations other than those of FIG. 9A may be performed before, during, or after the operations of FIG. 9A.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 9A, in operation 901, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may control the converter (210) to operate in a first mode. Operation 901 may be understood with reference to the description of operation 601 of FIG. 6.

[0087] In operation 903, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may perform operation 905 based on the control signal indicating the low power state of the electronic device (101) being provided to the converter (210). The electronic device (101) may perform operation 901 based on the control signal indicating the low power state of the electronic device (101) not being provided to the converter (210). The electronic device (101) may perform operation 901 based on the control signal indicating the normal state of the electronic device (e.g., not the low power state) being provided to the converter (210). The control signal being provided to the converter (210) may mean that the control signal is provided to a controller (e.g., ctrl of FIG. 9B) that controls the converter (210). For example, the control circuit (220) may include a controller (e.g., MCU) that controls the converter (210). At this time, the control signal being provided to the converter (210) may mean that the control signal is provided to the control circuit (220). For example, the converter (210) may include its own controller (e.g., MCU). At this time, the control signal being provided to the converter (210) may mean that the control signal is provided to its own controller (e.g., MCU) of the converter (210). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may check the low power state of the electronic device (101) and provide a control signal indicating the low power state to the converter (210) (e.g., a controller controlling the converter (210). For example, the electronic device (101) may provide a control signal indicating the low power state to the converter (210) (e.g., a controller controlling the converter (210)) based on a general-purpose input / output (GPIO) method. However, there is no limitation on the method by which the control signal is provided.According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may determine a low power state based on a power saving mode or standby mode of at least some of the components of the electronic device (101), and provide a control signal indicating the low power state to the converter (210) (e.g., a controller controlling the converter (210). The electronic device (101) may determine the low power state based on the control signal indicating the low power state being provided to the converter (210) (e.g., a controller controlling the converter (210).

[0088] In operation 905, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may control the converter (210) to operate in the second mode based on a control signal indicating a low power state being provided to the converter (210) (e.g., a controller controlling the converter (210). Operation 905 may be understood with reference to the description of operation 605 of FIG. 6. For example, the electronic device (101) may control the converter (210) to operate in the second mode instead of the first mode so that the first capacitor (310) is charged or the first capacitor (310) is not discharged based on a control signal indicating a low power state being provided to the converter (210) (e.g., a controller controlling the converter (210).

[0089] According to one embodiment, while the converter (210) is operating in the second mode, the electronic device (101) may perform operation 903. For example, the electronic device (101) may control the converter (210) to operate in the first mode based on the fact that a control signal indicating a low power state of the electronic device (101) is not provided to the converter (210). The electronic device (101) may control the converter (210) to operate in the first mode based on the fact that a control signal indicating a normal state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., not in the low power state) is provided to the converter (210).

[0090] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the embodiments described herein may be applied interchangeably, within the scope of their applicability. For example, those skilled in the art will appreciate that at least some operations of one embodiment described herein may be omitted and applied, or at least some operations of one embodiment may be applied in conjunction.

[0091] The present disclosure is not limited to the foregoing, and other variations not mentioned will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the present disclosure.

[0092] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a converter (210) including a first switch (301), a second switch (302), a third switch (303), a fourth switch (304), a first capacitor (310), and a first inductor (321), at least one processor (120) including a processing circuit, and a memory (130) including instructions. A first terminal of the first switch (301) may be connected to an input terminal of the converter (210). A second terminal of the first switch (301) may be connected to a first terminal of the second switch (302) and a first terminal of the first capacitor (310). A second terminal of the second switch (302) may be connected to a first terminal of the third switch (303) and a first terminal of the first inductor (321). The second terminal of the third switch (303) may be connected to the first terminal of the fourth switch (304) and the second terminal of the first capacitor (310). The second terminal of the fourth switch (304) may be connected to ground. The second terminal of the first inductor (321) may be connected to the output terminal of the converter (210). The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to control the converter (210) to operate in a first mode. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to check a low power state of the electronic device (101) based on the first operation, the second operation, and / or the third operation.The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to control the converter (210) to operate in a second mode instead of the first mode, based on the determination of the low power state, such that the first capacitor (310) is charged or the first capacitor (310) is not discharged. The first operation may include determining that a current of the output terminal of the converter (210) is less than a reference value. The second operation may include determining that a switching frequency of the converter (210) is less than a reference frequency. The third operation may include providing a control signal indicating the low power state of the electronic device (101) to the converter (210). The first mode may include a first switching operation that controls the first switch (301) and the third switch (303) to be on and the second switch (302) and the fourth switch (304) to be off, a second switching operation that controls the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be on and the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be off, a third switching operation that controls the second switch (302) and the fourth switch (304) to be on and the first switch (301) and the third switch (303) to be off, and a fourth switching operation that controls the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be on and the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be off.The second mode may include a fifth switching operation that controls the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be on and the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be off, and a sixth switching operation that controls the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be on and the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be off.

[0094] In one embodiment, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to, in the second mode, increase the inductor current of the first inductor (321) without charging or discharging the first capacitor (310) by the fifth switching operation. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to, in the second mode, decrease the inductor current of the first capacitor (310) by the sixth switching operation.

[0095] In one embodiment, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to increase an inductor current of the first inductor (321) while charging the first capacitor (310) in the first mode by the first switching operation. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to decrease the inductor current in the first mode by the second switching operation. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to increase the inductor current in the first mode by the third switching operation while discharging the first capacitor (310). The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to reduce the inductor current by the fourth switching operation in the first mode.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to control the converter (210) to operate in the first mode instead of the second mode based on confirmation of release of the low power state.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the reference frequency may be an audible frequency at which noise is generated according to charging and discharging of the first capacitor (310).

[0098] According to one embodiment, in the first mode, during the first switching operation, the switching voltage of the first end of the first inductor (321) may be half of the input voltage of the input end of the converter (210). During the second switching operation, the switching voltage may be a ground voltage. During the third switching operation, the switching voltage may be half of the input voltage. During the fourth switching operation, the switching voltage may be the ground voltage.

[0099] According to one embodiment, in the second mode, during the fifth switching operation, the switching voltage of the first stage of the first inductor (321) may be an input voltage of the input stage of the converter (210). During the sixth switching operation, the switching voltage may be a ground voltage.

[0100] According to one embodiment, a method of operating an electronic device (101) may include an operation of controlling a converter (210) of the electronic device (101) to operate in a first mode. The converter (210) may include a first switch (301), a second switch (302), a third switch (303), a fourth switch (304), a first capacitor (310), and a first inductor (321). The method may include an operation of identifying a low power state of the electronic device (101) based on the first operation, the second operation, and / or the third operation. The method may include an operation of controlling the converter (210) to operate in a second mode instead of the first mode so that the first capacitor (310) is charged or not discharged based on the identification of the low power state. The first operation may include an operation of identifying that a current at an output terminal of the converter (210) is less than a reference value. The second operation may include an operation of confirming that the switching frequency of the converter (210) is less than a reference frequency. The third operation may include an operation of providing a control signal indicating the low power state of the electronic device (101) to the converter (210).The first mode may include a first switching operation that controls the first switch (301) and the third switch (303) to be on and the second switch (302) and the fourth switch (304) to be off, a second switching operation that controls the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be on and the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be off, a third switching operation that controls the second switch (302) and the fourth switch (304) to be on and the first switch (301) and the third switch (303) to be off, and a fourth switching operation that controls the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be on and the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be off. The second mode may include a fifth switching operation that controls the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be on and the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be off, and a sixth switching operation that controls the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be on and the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be off.

[0101] In one embodiment, in the method, the second mode may include an operation of increasing the inductor current of the first inductor (321) without charging or discharging the first capacitor (310) by the fifth switching operation. The second mode may include an operation of decreasing the inductor current without charging or discharging the first capacitor (310) by the sixth switching operation.

[0102] In one embodiment, in the method, the first mode may include an operation of increasing an inductor current of the first inductor (321) while charging the first capacitor (310) by the first switching operation. The first mode may include an operation of decreasing the inductor current by the second switching operation. The first mode may include an operation of increasing the inductor current while discharging the first capacitor (310) by the third switching operation. The first mode may include an operation of decreasing the inductor current by the fourth switching operation.

[0103] In one embodiment, the method may include controlling the converter (210) to operate in the first mode instead of the second mode based on confirmation of release of the low power state.

[0104] According to one embodiment, in the method, the reference frequency may be an audible frequency at which noise is generated according to charging and discharging of the first capacitor (310).

[0105] According to one embodiment, in the method, in the first mode, during the first switching operation, the switching voltage of the first end of the first inductor (321) may be half of the input voltage of the input end of the converter (210). During the second switching operation, the switching voltage may be a ground voltage. During the third switching operation, the switching voltage may be half of the input voltage. During the fourth switching operation, the switching voltage may be the ground voltage.

[0106] According to one embodiment, in the method, in the second mode, during the fifth switching operation, the switching voltage of the first stage of the first inductor (321) may be an input voltage of the input stage of the converter (210). In the second mode, during the sixth switching operation, the switching voltage may be a ground voltage.

[0107] According to one embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium storing instructions may cause the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by at least one processor (120) of an electronic device (101), to perform at least one operation. The at least one operation may include controlling a converter (210) of the electronic device (101) to operate in a first mode. The converter (210) may include a first switch (301), a second switch (302), a third switch (303), a fourth switch (304), a first capacitor (310), and a first inductor (321). The at least one operation may include determining a low power state of the electronic device (101) based on the first operation, the second operation, and / or the third operation. The at least one operation may include an operation of controlling the converter (210) to operate in a second mode instead of the first mode, based on the confirmation of the low power state, so that the first capacitor (310) is charged or the first capacitor (310) is not discharged. The first operation may include an operation of confirming that a current of an output terminal of the converter (210) is less than a reference value. The second operation may include an operation of confirming that a switching frequency of the converter (210) is less than a reference frequency. The third operation may include an operation of providing a control signal indicating the low power state of the electronic device (101) to the converter (210).The first mode may include a first switching operation that controls the first switch (301) and the third switch (303) to be on and the second switch (302) and the fourth switch (304) to be off, a second switching operation that controls the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be on and the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be off, a third switching operation that controls the second switch (302) and the fourth switch (304) to be on and the first switch (301) and the third switch (303) to be off, and a fourth switching operation that controls the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be on and the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be off. The second mode may include a fifth switching operation that controls the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be on and the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be off, and a sixth switching operation that controls the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be on and the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be off.

[0108] According to one embodiment, in the recording medium, the second mode may include an operation of increasing the inductor current of the first inductor (321) without charging or discharging the first capacitor (310) by the fifth switching operation. The second mode may include an operation of decreasing the inductor current without charging or discharging the first capacitor (310) by the sixth switching operation.

[0109] According to one embodiment, in the recording medium, the first mode may include an operation of increasing an inductor current of the first inductor (321) while charging the first capacitor (310) by the first switching operation. The first mode may include an operation of decreasing the inductor current by the second switching operation. The first mode may include an operation of increasing the inductor current while discharging the first capacitor (310) by the third switching operation. The first mode may include an operation of decreasing the inductor current by the fourth switching operation.

[0110] In one embodiment, in the recording medium, the at least one operation may include controlling the converter (210) to operate in the first mode instead of the second mode based on confirmation of release of the low power state.

[0111] According to one embodiment, in the recording medium, the reference frequency may be an audible frequency at which noise is generated according to charging and discharging of the first capacitor (310).

[0112] According to one embodiment, in the recording medium, in the first mode, during the first switching operation, the switching voltage of the first end of the first inductor (321) may be half of the input voltage of the input end of the converter (210). During the second switching operation, the switching voltage may be a ground voltage. During the third switching operation, the switching voltage may be half of the input voltage. During the fourth switching operation, the switching voltage may be the ground voltage.

[0113] According to one embodiment, in the recording medium, in the second mode, during the fifth switching operation, the switching voltage of the first end of the first inductor (321) may be an input voltage of the input end of the converter (210). In the second mode, during the sixth switching operation, the switching voltage may be a ground voltage.

[0114] Devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. The devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0115] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0116] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0117] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program) including one or more instructions stored on a storage medium that can be read by a machine (e.g., an electronic device). For example, a processor (e.g., a controller) of the machine may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one instruction called. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code that can be executed by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' only means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and this term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily in the storage medium.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0119] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Claims

1. In an electronic device (101), A converter (210) including a first switch (301), a second switch (302), a third switch (303), a fourth switch (304), a first capacitor (310), and a first inductor (321); At least one processor (120) comprising a processing circuit; and Contains a memory (130) containing instructions, The first terminal of the first switch (301) is connected to the input terminal of the converter (210), The second terminal of the first switch (301) is connected to the first terminal of the second switch (302) and the first terminal of the first capacitor (310), The second terminal of the second switch (302) is connected to the first terminal of the third switch (303) and the first terminal of the first inductor (321). The second terminal of the third switch (303) is connected to the first terminal of the fourth switch (304) and the second terminal of the first capacitor (310). The second terminal of the above fourth switch (304) is connected to ground, The second terminal of the above first inductor (321) is connected to the output terminal of the converter (210), The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), cause the electronic device (101) to: Control the converter (210) to operate in the first mode, Based on the first action, the second action, and / or the third action, the low power state of the electronic device (101) is determined, Based on the confirmation of the low power state, the converter (210) is controlled to operate in a second mode instead of the first mode so that the first capacitor (310) is charged or the first capacitor (310) is not discharged, The above first operation includes an operation of confirming that the current of the output terminal of the converter (210) is less than a reference value, The second operation includes an operation of confirming that the switching frequency of the converter (210) is less than the reference frequency, The third operation includes providing a control signal indicating the low power state of the electronic device (101) to the converter (210), The first mode includes a first switching operation that controls the first switch (301) and the third switch (303) to be on and the second switch (302) and the fourth switch (304) to be off, a second switching operation that controls the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be on and the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be off, a third switching operation that controls the second switch (302) and the fourth switch (304) to be on and the first switch (301) and the third switch (303) to be off, and a fourth switching operation that controls the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be on and the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be off. The second mode includes a fifth switching operation that controls the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be on and the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be off, and a sixth switching operation that controls the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be on and the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be off. Electronic device (101).

2. In paragraph 1, The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), cause the electronic device (101) to, in the second mode: By the fifth switching operation, the inductor current of the first inductor (321) is increased without charging or discharging the first capacitor (310), By the above sixth switching operation, the inductor current is caused to decrease without charging or discharging the first capacitor (310). Electronic device (101).

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), cause the electronic device (101) in the first mode to: By the first switching operation, while charging the first capacitor (310), the inductor current of the first inductor (321) is increased, By the second switching operation, the inductor current is reduced, By the third switching operation, while discharging the first capacitor (310), the inductor current is increased, By the above fourth switching operation, causing the inductor current to decrease, Electronic device (101).

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), cause the electronic device (101) to: Based on the confirmation of the release of the above low power state, causing the converter (210) to be controlled to operate in the first mode instead of the second mode. Electronic device (101).

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, The above reference frequency is an audible frequency at which noise is generated according to the charging and discharging of the first capacitor (310). Electronic device (101).

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, In the above first mode: During the first switching operation, the switching voltage of the first stage of the first inductor (321) is half of the input voltage of the input stage of the converter (210), During the second switching operation, the switching voltage is a ground voltage, During the third switching operation, the switching voltage is half of the input voltage, During the fourth switching operation, the switching voltage is the ground voltage. Electronic device (101).

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, In the second mode above: During the fifth switching operation, the switching voltage of the first stage of the first inductor (321) is the input voltage of the input stage of the converter (210), During the sixth switching operation, the switching voltage is a ground voltage. Electronic device (101).

8. In the operating method of the electronic device (101), An operation of controlling a converter (210) of the electronic device (101) to operate in a first mode, wherein the converter (210) includes a first switch (301), a second switch (302), a third switch (303), a fourth switch (304), a first capacitor (310), and a first inductor (321), An operation of checking a low power state of the electronic device (101) based on the first operation, the second operation, and / or the third operation, Based on the confirmation of the low power state, an operation of controlling the converter (210) to operate in a second mode instead of the first mode so that the first capacitor (310) is charged or the first capacitor (310) is not discharged, The above first operation includes an operation of confirming that the current of the output terminal of the converter (210) is less than a reference value, The second operation includes an operation of confirming that the switching frequency of the converter (210) is less than the reference frequency, The third operation includes providing a control signal indicating the low power state of the electronic device (101) to the converter (210), The first mode includes a first switching operation that controls the first switch (301) and the third switch (303) to be on and the second switch (302) and the fourth switch (304) to be off, a second switching operation that controls the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be on and the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be off, a third switching operation that controls the second switch (302) and the fourth switch (304) to be on and the first switch (301) and the third switch (303) to be off, and a fourth switching operation that controls the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be on and the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be off. The second mode includes a fifth switching operation that controls the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be on and the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be off, and a sixth switching operation that controls the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be on and the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be off. method.

9. In paragraph 8, The second mode is, An operation of increasing the inductor current of the first inductor (321) without charging or discharging the first capacitor (310) by the fifth switching operation, By the sixth switching operation, including an operation of reducing the inductor current without charging or discharging the first capacitor (310), method.

10. In paragraph 8 or 9, The above first mode is, By the above first switching operation, while charging the first capacitor (310), an operation of increasing the inductor current of the first inductor (321), By the above second switching operation, the operation of reducing the inductor current, By the third switching operation, an operation of increasing the inductor current while discharging the first capacitor (310), By the fourth switching operation, including an operation of reducing the inductor current, method.

11. In any one of paragraphs 8 to 10, An operation including controlling the converter (210) to operate in the first mode instead of the second mode based on confirmation of the release of the low power state. method.

12. In any one of paragraphs 8 to 11, The above reference frequency is an audible frequency at which noise is generated according to the charging and discharging of the first capacitor (310). method.

13. In any one of paragraphs 8 to 12, In the above first mode: During the first switching operation, the switching voltage of the first stage of the first inductor (321) is half of the input voltage of the input stage of the converter (210), During the second switching operation, the switching voltage is a ground voltage, During the third switching operation, the switching voltage is half of the input voltage, During the fourth switching operation, the switching voltage is the ground voltage. method.

14. In any one of paragraphs 8 to 13, In the second mode above: During the fifth switching operation, the switching voltage of the first stage of the first inductor (321) is the input voltage of the input stage of the converter (210), During the sixth switching operation, the switching voltage is a ground voltage. method.

15. In a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium storing instructions, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by at least one processor (120) of an electronic device (101), cause the electronic device (101) to perform at least one operation, At least one of the above actions: An operation of controlling a converter (210) of the electronic device (101) to operate in a first mode, wherein the converter (210) includes a first switch (301), a second switch (302), a third switch (303), a fourth switch (304), a first capacitor (310), and a first inductor (321), An operation of checking a low power state of the electronic device (101) based on the first operation, the second operation, and / or the third operation, Based on the confirmation of the low power state, an operation of controlling the converter (210) to operate in a second mode instead of the first mode so that the first capacitor (310) is charged or the first capacitor (310) is not discharged, The above first operation includes an operation of confirming that the current of the output terminal of the converter (210) is less than a reference value, The second operation includes an operation of confirming that the switching frequency of the converter (210) is less than the reference frequency, The third operation includes providing a control signal indicating the low power state of the electronic device (101) to the converter (210), The first mode includes a first switching operation that controls the first switch (301) and the third switch (303) to be on and the second switch (302) and the fourth switch (304) to be off, a second switching operation that controls the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be on and the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be off, a third switching operation that controls the second switch (302) and the fourth switch (304) to be on and the first switch (301) and the third switch (303) to be off, and a fourth switching operation that controls the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be on and the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be off. The second mode includes a fifth switching operation that controls the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be on and the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be off, and a sixth switching operation that controls the third switch (303) and the fourth switch (304) to be on and the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) to be off. Recording medium.

Images