Boost DC-DC Converter Digital PWM Control for Transient Response

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Solution Overview

Problem

DC-DC switching converters face challenges in properly controlling output power due to sudden changes in power requirements, especially in semiconductor devices with varying power needs and limited battery capacity, making it difficult to maintain regulated power supply.

Innovation Solution

A digitally controlled boost DC-DC converter that uses pulse width modulation (PWM) signals generated by first and second PWM generators, with the selection based on output voltage levels, and adjusts reference voltages to manage duty cycles and power delivery, incorporating a comparator and logic block to control high and low side switches effectively.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single PWM generator is used to control the DC-DC converter, then the device complexity is reduced, but the converter cannot properly respond to sudden changes in power requirements and varying load conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresponse to varying power requirementsVSAvoidnumber of PWM generators
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is segmented into multiple PWM generators (first PWM generator for normal operation, second PWM generator for transient conditions) that can be selectively activated based on operating conditions. This segmentation allows each generator to be optimized for specific scenarios while maintaining overall system adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically switches between different PWM generators based on real-time operating conditions. The controller monitors power requirements and load conditions, then selects the appropriate PWM generator to ensure optimal performance across varying scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Power

If the duty cycle is increased to meet sudden power demands, then the power delivery capability is improved, but the output voltage regulation becomes unstable and inductor current reversals occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower delivery capabilityVSAvoidoutput voltage regulation
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs feedback mechanisms where the controller continuously monitors output voltage and power delivery conditions. Based on this feedback, the controller adjusts the duty cycle and selects appropriate PWM generators to maintain stable voltage regulation while meeting power demands.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operating parameters (duty cycle, PWM generator selection) based on detected conditions. When sudden power demands are detected, the system transitions to a different operational mode with adjusted parameters that prevent current reversals while meeting power requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Use of energy by moving object

If the converter operates in PFM mode to extend battery life, then the energy efficiency is improved, but the response time to sudden power requirements increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebattery energy efficiencyVSAvoidresponse time to power changes
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically switches between PWM and PFM operating modes based on real-time power requirements. During normal operation, PFM mode extends battery life, but when sudden power demands are detected, the system transitions to PWM mode for faster response, then returns to PFM mode when conditions stabilize.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP3384588B1Boost DC-DC converter having digital control and reference PWM generators
Publication Date: 2020.02.05 CHAOYANG SEMICON JIANGYIN TECH CO LTD
  • EP3384588B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3384588B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3384588B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A boost DC-DC converter operating in pulse frequency modulation (PFM) and pulse width modulation (PWM) modes includes a plurality of PWM signal generators. The PWM signal generators generate PWM signals with different duty cycles. PWM signals with larger duty cycles may be selected for use in undervoltage situations.