Adaptive Amplitude Control for Frequency Response Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing frequency response measurement methods for power supply circuits are prone to errors due to fixed amplitude signal injections, which can disrupt the system and introduce measurement noise, especially when variations in open loop gain across the frequency spectrum are not accounted for.
Innovation Solution
Adaptive amplitude control of the injected signal based on prior frequency sweep data to minimize output disturbances and measurement noise, allowing for more accurate frequency response analysis of digitally controlled power converters without external analyzers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed amplitude signal injection is used for frequency response measurement, then the measurement process is simple, but the output disturbance increases and measurement noise is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a fixed amplitude injection signal to a variable amplitude injection signal. The injection amplitude is dynamically adjusted based on the frequency being measured, allowing the system to adapt to variations in open loop gain across the frequency spectrum. This resolves the contradiction by making the injection signal flexible rather than static, reducing output disturbance while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of injection amplitude from a constant value to a variable value that depends on frequency. By modifying this key parameter based on measured frequency response characteristics, the system optimizes the injection level for each frequency point, thereby reducing measurement noise and output disturbance while maintaining operational simplicity through automated control.
2Device complexity
If a fixed amplitude injection signal is used across the frequency spectrum, then the injection control is simple, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to variations in open loop gain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by using the measured frequency response data to adjust the injection amplitude for subsequent measurements. The system continuously monitors the open loop gain variations across frequency and uses this information to optimize the injection signal amplitude, thereby maintaining high measurement precision while managing complexity through closed-loop control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing an initial frequency sweep to characterize the open loop gain variations before conducting the actual precision measurements. This preliminary characterization data is then used to pre-calculate optimal injection amplitudes for each frequency point, improving measurement precision without requiring complex real-time adjustments during the main measurement process.
3Ease of operation
If a constant injection amplitude is applied, then the system operation is simple, but the reliability of frequency response measurement decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the measurement system to automatically adjust its own injection amplitude based on measured frequency response characteristics. The system uses its own measurement data to optimize its operation, improving reliability without requiring external intervention or complex manual control, thereby maintaining ease of operation while enhancing measurement reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, apparatus, systems and articles of manufacture to control injection for frequency response measurement. An example method includes calculating a gain of a circuit. The gain is calculated based on a measured response of the circuit to a first disturbance injected at a first frequency. A second frequency at which a second disturbance is to be injected into the circuit is identified. An amplitude at which the second disturbance is to be injected into the circuit at the second frequency is calculated. The amplitude calculated based on a measurement noise and the gain of the circuit at the first frequency. The second disturbance is injected into the circuit using the second frequency and the amplitude.