Asymmetric Power Regulation for Light-Load PDN Efficiency
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Two-step power delivery networks (PDN) with integrated voltage regulators suffer from low light-load efficiency due to their low L/C values, leading to increased power loss and reduced responsiveness.
Innovation Solution
A power delivery system comprising a first power delivery channel with a one-step PDN and a second power delivery channel with a two-step PDN, where the second channel is disabled during light-load states to conserve power, using a control circuit to determine the load state and adjust voltage regulation accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a two-step power delivery network with integrated voltage regulator is used, then response speed is improved and power loss is reduced, but light-load efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between two power delivery channels based on load conditions. A control circuit determines whether the processor is in light-load or normal-load state and activates the appropriate channel accordingly, making the system adaptable to varying operational requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The power delivery network is divided into two separate channels: a first channel with high L/C values optimized for light-load efficiency, and a second channel with low L/C values optimized for normal-load performance. This segmentation allows each channel to be independently optimized for its specific operational regime
2Loss of energy
If a two-step power delivery network with integrated voltage regulator is used, then power loss is reduced, but light-load efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuit dynamically selects which power delivery channel to activate based on real-time load conditions, ensuring the system operates in the most efficient mode for the current demand level
Solution Approach 2:
By separating the power delivery network into two distinct channels with different L/C characteristics, the system can minimize energy losses in each operating regime by using the channel specifically designed for that condition
3Use of energy by moving object
If the second power delivery channel is disabled during light-load states, then light-load efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuit serves multiple functions: it monitors load conditions, determines the operational state of the processor, and controls the switching between power delivery channels. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated circuits for each function
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a device including a first power delivery channel and a second power delivery channel. The first power delivery channel includes a first voltage regulator, wherein the first voltage regulator is configured to receive a first input voltage to generate a first output signal. The second power delivery channel includes a second voltage regulator and a third voltage regulator, wherein the second voltage regulator receives a second input voltage to generate a second output signal, and the third voltage regulator receives the second output signal to generate a converted second output signal, wherein the first output signal and the converted second output signal are coupled together to a core circuit.