Adaptive Power Supply Transient Response Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional voltage regulator circuits face challenges in providing high transient current to dynamic loads without generating substantial 'ringing' on the power supply output voltage, often requiring numerous bulk capacitors that increase size and cost, and struggle to maintain a fixed output impedance, especially under transient conditions.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a power supply system with a monitor circuit that adjusts an adaptive output voltage reference value and current reference value in response to output voltage and current conditions, using a controller to manage switching operations and maintain output voltage within a range, incorporating a voltage control loop and current control loop, and switching between linear and non-linear control modes to ensure stable output impedance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional voltage regulator circuits use many bulk capacitors to meet transient requirements, then the transient current capability is improved, but the size and cost of the power supply circuit increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the power converter by dynamically adjusting the switching frequency and duty cycle based on load conditions. During transient conditions, the controller increases the switching frequency to enable faster energy transfer from the inductor to the load, eliminating the need for additional bulk capacitors. This parameter adaptation allows the same hardware to deliver higher transient current capability without increasing component quantity.
2Productivity
If conventional voltage regulator circuits use many bulk capacitors to meet transient requirements, then the transient current capability is improved, but the complexity of the power supply circuit increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control mechanism where the controller continuously monitors the output voltage and load current conditions. Based on this feedback, the controller dynamically adjusts the switching frequency and duty cycle to maintain stable output voltage during transient conditions. This closed-loop feedback system enables the circuit to respond automatically to load changes without requiring complex additional hardware components, thereby improving transient current capability while keeping circuit complexity manageable.
3Stability of the object's composition
If conventional voltage regulator circuits attempt to maintain fixed output impedance, then the voltage stability is improved, but the responsiveness to transient load changes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a static impedance approach to a dynamic impedance approach. The controller continuously adapts the output impedance characteristics by adjusting switching frequency and duty cycle in real-time based on load conditions. During transient events, the system dynamically modifies its parameters to provide both voltage stability and fast responsiveness, eliminating the traditional trade-off between these two requirements. The inductor's energy storage capability combined with dynamic control enables the system to maintain stability while responding quickly to load changes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables the power supply to provide high transient current to dynamic loads without output voltage ringing, reduces the need for bulk capacitors, and maintains a substantially fixed output impedance, enhancing responsiveness and stability under varying load conditions.
Implementation Method 1
Energy stored in the inductor increases during a time when the high side switch is ON and decreases during a time when the low side switch is ON. During switching operation, the inductor transfers energy from the input to the output of the converter to keep the output voltage relatively constant.
Data Source
AI summary
A power supply configuration includes a monitor circuit to monitor an output voltage and output current of a power supply. The output voltage can be used to supply power to a dynamic load. The power supply varies a rate of changing an adaptive output voltage reference value that tracks the output voltage. Based on a comparison of the output voltage with respect to the adaptive output voltage reference voltage value, a controller associated with the power supply controls switching operation of the power supply to maintain the output voltage within a voltage range. For example, modifying the rate of changing the adaptive output voltage reference value over time depending on current operating conditions of the power supply changes a responsiveness and ability of the power supply to provide current to the dynamic load.