ADC Calibration Iterative Loop for Switch-Mode Power Supplies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switch-mode power supplies face inefficiencies in calibrating analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) due to excessive processing power required for solving quadratic equations and memory constraints in low-cost digital signal processors, particularly when using look-up tables to avoid square root calculations.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an iterative loop process in the control circuit of the power supply to determine the raw digital value corresponding to a user-configurable current setting, which reduces processing time and memory requirements by using non-complex math functions and is suitable for fixed-point digital signal processors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If square root calculations are used to solve quadratic equations for ADC calibration, then calibration accuracy is improved, but processing time increases and excessive processing power is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive, computationally intensive square root calculations with a simpler iterative loop approach using basic arithmetic operations. This 'cheaper' computational method achieves sufficient calibration accuracy without requiring high-performance processors, making it suitable for low-cost fixed-point DSPs while reducing processing time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the mathematical approach from direct quadratic equation solving with square roots to an iterative parameter adjustment method. The iterative loop gradually refines the ADC calibration parameters through repeated simple calculations, achieving accurate results without the computational burden of direct mathematical solutions
2Loss of time
If look up table method is used to avoid square root calculations, then processing time is reduced, but memory space occupation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the calibration calculation logic from pre-computed look-up tables and implements it as an iterative algorithm that computes values on-demand. This eliminates the need to store large tables in memory while maintaining fast processing, as the iterative loop computes calibration values quickly using simple arithmetic operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the memory-intensive look-up table approach with a computational approach using iterative arithmetic. Instead of storing pre-computed values in memory (mechanical storage), the system uses algorithmic computation (virtual storage) to generate calibration values as needed, reducing memory requirements while maintaining processing speed
3Adaptability or versatility
If look up table with many data points is used for ADC calibration, then calibration coverage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic iterative calibration approach that adapts to different operating conditions in real-time. Rather than relying on static pre-computed tables with fixed data points, the iterative loop dynamically adjusts calibration parameters based on current ADC readings and operating conditions, providing comprehensive coverage without requiring extensive pre-stored data
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration system performs self-adjustment through the iterative loop, which automatically refines calibration parameters based on actual ADC performance. This self-service capability eliminates the need for complex external calibration tables and procedures, reducing device complexity while maintaining comprehensive calibration coverage across all operating ranges
Data Source
AI summary
A switch-mode power supply includes a pair of input terminals, a pair of output terminals, and at least one switch coupled between the input terminals and the output terminals. The power supply further includes an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) for converting a sensed analog current value at the output terminals to an output digital value, an interface for receiving a user configurable current setting, and a control circuit coupled with the interface, the ADC and the at least one switch. The control circuit is configured to determine a raw digital value of the ADC that corresponds to the received current setting by processing an iterative loop, and turn on and turn off the at least one switch according to the determined raw digital value and the output digital value of the ADC, to supply an output current at the pair of output terminals that corresponds to the received current setting.