Adaptive Phase-Shifted Clock Generation Circuit for Ripple Reduction

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing clock synchronization methods for multiple switching circuit modules require manual setting of phase differences, which lacks flexibility and convenience, especially when the number of modules is unknown or variable.

Innovation Solution

An adaptive phase-shifted synchronization clock generation circuit that automatically determines phase differences using a current source, inverse-proportional voltage generator, ramp generator, comparator, and pulse generator, allowing for flexible connection of any number of circuit modules without external resistor settings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If a fixed phase difference (such as 90° or 180°) is provided between circuit modules, then the ripple effect at the input side can be alleviated, but the system lacks flexibility when the number of circuit modules varies

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveripple effectVSAvoidflexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the phase difference adjustable rather than fixed. The system dynamically adapts the phase difference based on the number of connected circuit modules through automatic detection circuits that sense the module count and adjust timing accordingly, allowing the system to maintain optimal ripple reduction across varying configurations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of phase difference from a fixed value to a variable that automatically adjusts based on the number of circuit modules. Detection circuits measure the actual number of modules connected and modify the phase shift parameter correspondingly, enabling the system to adapt to different operational configurations while maintaining effective ripple cancellation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If resistors are connected correspondingly whenever a circuit module is inserted to set the phase difference, then the phase difference can be configured, but the production process becomes complex and inflexible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of configurationVSAvoidcircuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service by enabling the system to automatically detect the number of connected circuit modules and self-configure the appropriate phase difference without requiring external manual intervention. The detection circuits and control logic work autonomously to sense the configuration and adjust timing parameters, eliminating the need for manual resistor connection during assembly

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical/manual process of connecting resistors to configure phase difference with an electronic detection and automatic control system. The system uses electrical signals to detect module count and electronically adjusts timing circuits, substituting physical assembly operations with automated electronic configuration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of manufacture

If the number of resistors is determined in advance on the circuit board, then the phase difference can be set, but it lacks flexibility for production when the number of circuit modules is unknown

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing convenienceVSAvoidproduction flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by replacing static pre-configured resistor networks with dynamic detection circuits that automatically sense the number of connected modules during operation. The system adapts its configuration in real-time based on actual usage, allowing manufacturers to produce boards for various module counts without rework

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Adaptability or versatility

If manual setting is required to determine the phase difference, then the configuration can be customized, but the process becomes inconvenient and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovecustomizabilityVSAvoidconfiguration time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service by automatically detecting the number of connected circuit modules and self-configuring the optimal phase difference without requiring manual intervention. The system performs detection and configuration autonomously, eliminating time-consuming manual setup while maintaining customized optimization for each specific configuration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8605845B2Adaptive phase-shifted synchronization clock generation circuit and method for generating phase-shifted synchronization clock
Publication Date: 2013.12.10 RICHTEK TECH
  • US8605845B2 patent drawing
  • US8605845B2 patent drawing
  • US8605845B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention discloses an adaptive phase-shifted synchronization clock generation circuit and a method for generating phase-shifted synchronization clock. The adaptive phase-shifted synchronization clock generation circuit includes: a current source generating a current which flows through a node to generate a node voltage on the node; a reverse-proportional voltage generator coupled to the node for generating a voltage which is reverse-proportional to the node voltage; a ramp generator receiving a synchronization input signal and generating a ramp signal; a comparator comparing the reverse-proportional voltage to the ramp signal; and a pulse generator for generating a clock signal according to an output from the comparator.