Adaptive LDO and Buck-Boost Charge Controller for Heat Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Switching power converters used in portable electronic devices generate excessive heat and electrical noise, affecting device operation and requiring improved power converter operations.
Innovation Solution
A configurable power regulator system comprising an adaptive low-dropout regulator and a buck/boost converter, controlled by a controller, which adjusts output voltage based on input voltage to minimize heat and noise, using a field effect transistor and headroom detection circuit to optimize power supply adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If switching power converters are used to charge batteries and provide power, then power conversion efficiency is improved, but heat generation and electrical noise increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power conversion system is divided into two separate converters: a switching power converter for efficient power conversion and a linear power converter for noise-free voltage regulation. Each converter operates in its optimal range, with the switching converter handling bulk power conversion and the linear converter providing clean output voltage, thereby reducing overall heat and noise while maintaining efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines two different power conversion topologies (switching and linear) into a single integrated system. The switching power converter and linear power converter are merged to work together, where the switching converter provides efficient power conversion and the linear converter suppresses noise and regulates voltage, achieving both high efficiency and low noise output.
2Power
If switching power converters are used, then power delivery capability is improved, but electrical noise affecting device operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power delivery function is segmented between two converters: the switching power converter handles the high-power delivery task while the linear power converter handles the noise-sensitive voltage regulation task. This segmentation allows each component to optimize for its specific function, delivering high power while maintaining electrical cleanliness.
Solution Approach 2:
The linear power converter acts as an intermediary between the switching power converter and the load. It receives the switched voltage from the first converter and conditions it to produce a clean, regulated output voltage, thereby mediating the harmful electrical noise before it reaches sensitive device components.
3Device complexity
If a single power converter topology is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different power conditions decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The power conversion system is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating both switching and linear converter topologies. This universal design allows the system to adapt to different power conditions, load requirements, and voltage levels, providing both high efficiency for power delivery and clean regulation for noise-sensitive applications within a single integrated device.
Data Source
AI summary
A configurable charge converter may include an adaptive low-dropout regulator. The adaptive low-dropout regulator may include a headroom detection circuit and a power supply controller. The headroom detection circuit may monitor a voltage drop across a field effect transistor (FET) and cause a programmable power supply to increase or decrease an output voltage accordingly. In some aspects, the configurable charge converter may include an adaptive low-dropout regulator and a buck/boost converter. The output power of the configurable charge controller may be provided by the adaptive low-dropout regulator, the buck/boost converter, or by both the adaptive low-dropout regulator and the buck/boost converter operating in combination.