Asynchronous Low Dropout Regulator Control for Rapid Load Response
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Solution Overview
Problem
Typical integrated low dropout (ILDO) regulators require advanced notice of changes in load circuit impedance and are synchronized to a clock cycle, leading to delays and insufficient control when rapid adjustments are needed, especially due to parasitic effects and varying load impedance.
Innovation Solution
An asynchronous control system for ILDO regulators, utilizing a comparison circuit, loop controller, and timer check circuit to rapidly adjust output stages based on real-time feedback and reference signals, mitigating parasitic effects and impedance variations without clock synchronization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ILDO regulators are synchronized to a clock cycle, then the control system is stable and predictable, but the response delay increases and rapid adjustments become insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic clock cycles to enable controlled adjustments of the ILDO regulator output. The clock signal periodicity allows the system to make regulated changes at defined intervals, balancing stability with the ability to respond to load variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts the number of active output stages based on load conditions. The system transitions from static clock-synchronized control to dynamic adjustment where the output stages can be enabled or disabled in response to real-time load impedance changes, reducing response delay while maintaining controllability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If ILDO regulators require advanced notice of load impedance changes, then the control is predictable, but the adaptability to rapid changes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by monitoring load conditions and preparing control signals in advance of actual load changes. The system detects impedance variations and pre-configures the output stage adjustments, allowing rapid response when changes occur without requiring full advance notice.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback mechanisms to continuously monitor the output voltage and load conditions. This real-time feedback allows the system to detect load impedance changes immediately and adjust the number of active output stages accordingly, eliminating the need for advance notice while maintaining controlled adaptation.
3Power
If the number of output stages is increased, then the power delivery capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the output circuit into multiple independent output stages that can be individually enabled or disabled. Each stage consists of separate transistors and control logic, allowing the system to achieve high power delivery capability by activating multiple stages while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements partial action by activating only the necessary number of output stages based on current load requirements. Rather than maintaining all stages active at all times, the system dynamically enables or disables stages, achieving adequate power delivery capability while reducing the effective complexity and power consumption when full power is not needed.
Data Source
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AI summary
A low dropout regulator that produces an output includes a comparison circuit, configured to compare a signal representative of the output and a reference signal to produce a comparison result. The low dropout regulator also includes a loop controller, coupled to the comparison circuit, configured to generate an output circuit control signal based at least in part on the comparison result. The low dropout regulator also includes an output circuit, comprising two or more output stages, configured to adjust a number of active output stages of the two or more output stages based on the output circuit control signal.