Boost Converter Routing Circuit for Low Battery 2G Bias

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing voltage supply systems for portable electronic devices face challenges in supporting multiple output voltages from a single input voltage source, particularly at end-of-life battery conditions, which requires additional components increasing cost and footprint.

Innovation Solution

A voltage supply system incorporating a boost converter, a low-voltage supply circuit, and a routing circuit that dynamically routes the output voltage to support both 3G/4G and 2G operations by using a boost converter and a buck-boost converter, with a controller managing the routing process, including switches and a PFET device to optimize voltage supply.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If additional components are used to provide multiple output voltages from a single input voltage source, then voltage supply flexibility is improved, but device complexity and component footprint increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevoltage supply flexibilityVSAvoidcomponent footprint
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The boost converter is designed to perform multiple functions: it operates as a standard boost converter for 3G/4G high-voltage output, and simultaneously functions as a voltage source for 2G low-voltage bias supply through the routing circuit. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate voltage supply circuits for different communication modes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The routing circuit acts as an intermediary component that dynamically connects the boost converter output to either the 3G/4G high-voltage output node or the 2G low-voltage bias input node based on operational mode. This mediator enables flexible voltage distribution without requiring multiple independent power supply circuits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If additional components are used to support multiple voltage outputs, then voltage supply capability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevoltage supply capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the 3G/4G high-voltage supply function and the 2G low-voltage bias supply function into a single integrated voltage supply system. By combining these functions and sharing common components (boost converter, routing circuit), the total component count is reduced, thereby lowering manufacturing costs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The unified voltage supply system provides universal support for multiple communication standards (3G, 4G, and 2G) through a single circuit architecture, eliminating the need for separate power supply circuits for each standard and reducing overall system cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If legacy 2G products are supported at lower battery levels, then device compatibility is improved, but power management complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice compatibilityVSAvoidpower management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The routing circuit dynamically switches between different output configurations based on the operational mode (3G/4G or 2G) and battery voltage conditions. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to automatically adjust voltage distribution without manual intervention, maintaining compatibility across different communication standards while managing power efficiently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters (voltage levels, routing configuration) based on the selected communication mode and battery state. For 2G operation at lower battery voltages, the routing circuit directs the boost converter output to provide appropriate bias voltage, enabling legacy device support without requiring separate power management circuits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter 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

Enables efficient voltage supply management across varying battery conditions without additional passive devices, supporting legacy 2G products at lower battery levels, reducing redesign costs and maintaining performance.

Implementation Method 1

a boost converter configured to receive an input voltage and generate a first output voltage at a first output node

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a low-voltage supply circuit configured to receive the input voltage and generate a second output voltage at a second output node

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10840810B2Devices and methods related to boost supply for low battery 2G bias support
Publication Date: 2020.11.17 SKYWORKS SOLUTIONS INC
  • US10840810B2 patent drawing
  • US10840810B2 patent drawing
  • US10840810B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A voltage supply system is disclosed, comprising a boost converter configured to receive an input voltage and generate a first output voltage at a first output node, a low-voltage supply circuit configured to receive the input voltage and generate a second output voltage at a second output node, and a routing circuit configured to route the first output voltage of the boost converter to the second output node during a selected condition of the input voltage.