Adaptive Threshold Control Circuit for Power Converter Burst Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Switching mode power converters face challenges in achieving lower power consumption while minimizing output ripple, as prior art methods result in higher output ripple due to the use of fixed thresholds.

Innovation Solution

A control circuit for burst switching power converters is introduced, featuring an adaptive threshold generated by a power management circuit and current source, which adjusts based on feedback signals to optimize output regulation, reducing power consumption and output ripple.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If a fixed threshold is used for burst switching control, then the power converter can achieve lower power consumption, but the output ripple increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidoutput ripple
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a fixed threshold to a dynamic adaptive threshold that changes based on operating conditions. The control circuit continuously adjusts the threshold voltage according to the feedback signal and load conditions, enabling optimal performance across different operating points while maintaining low power consumption and minimizing output ripple.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the threshold voltage parameter based on operating conditions. The adaptive threshold circuit changes the threshold parameter dynamically according to feedback signals, allowing the system to optimize both power consumption and output ripple performance under varying load conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Use of energy by moving object

If an adaptive threshold is used to optimize efficiency at light load conditions, then power consumption decreases, but the control circuit complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidcontrol circuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing an adaptive threshold circuit that acts as a mediator between the fixed threshold control and the variable operating conditions. This intermediary circuit processes feedback signals and generates appropriate threshold adjustments, achieving optimal efficiency without requiring complete redesign of the control architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback by using the output feedback signal to continuously adjust the adaptive threshold. The control circuit monitors the output conditions and feeds this information back to the threshold adjustment mechanism, enabling automatic optimization of power consumption based on actual operating conditions without manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS9306459B2Control circuit for burst switching of power converter and method thereof
Publication Date: 2016.04.05 SEMICON COMPONENTS IND LLC
  • US9306459B2 patent drawing
  • US9306459B2 patent drawing
  • US9306459B2 patent drawing

AI summary

This invention provides a control circuit for burst switching of a power converter comprising: an adaptive circuit generating an adaptive threshold in response to a feedback signal correlated to an output load of the power converter; and a switching circuit generating a switching signal to switch a transformer of the power converter in accordance with the adaptive threshold and the feedback signal for regulating an output of the power converter.