Buck-Boost Circuit Topology for Faster Voltage Mode Transitions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing buck-boost circuits take too long to switch between bucking and boosting modes, resulting in prolonged voltage stabilization time, which is inadequate for meeting the requirements of 5G communication systems, leading to reduced signal sensitivity and potential communication failures.

Innovation Solution

A buck-boost circuit design incorporating multiple switches and capacitors, controlled by a module that adjusts switch states based on target and input voltages to quickly regulate output voltage, allowing for efficient bucking and boosting operations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If a conventional buck-boost structure is used, then the circuit can regulate output voltage, but the voltage stabilization time is too long when switching between bucking and boosting modes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevoltage regulation speedVSAvoidvoltage stabilization time
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The circuit is divided into two independent H-bridge circuits (first H-bridge circuit and second H-bridge circuit) that can operate independently. This segmentation allows the circuit to switch between bucking and boosting modes by simply changing which H-bridge is active, eliminating the intermediate switching process and reducing voltage stabilization time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic mode switching by enabling both second switches of the first and second H-bridge circuits to work simultaneously in an intermediate state, then transitioning to single H-bridge operation. This dynamic control allows rapid adaptation between bucking and boosting modes without prolonged stabilization periods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Use of energy by moving object

If a conventional buck-boost structure is used, then the circuit can reduce system power consumption, but the intermediate switching process is time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem power consumptionVSAvoidswitching time
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The circuit prepares for mode switching by enabling both second switches to work simultaneously as an intermediate state before transitioning to the target mode. This preliminary action ensures smooth transitions and prevents prolonged stabilization periods during mode changes while maintaining energy efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent maintains continuous useful action by ensuring that at least one H-bridge circuit is always active during mode transitions. The intermediate state with both second switches enabled provides continuous voltage regulation throughout the switching process, eliminating idle periods and reducing overall switching time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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

The circuit reduces voltage stabilization time and enables quick, stable voltage regulation, enhancing signal sensitivity and ensuring reliable communication by leveraging the volt-second principle to achieve rapid voltage adjustments.

Implementation Method 1

a first inductor, a first capacitor, and a second capacitor... A second terminal of the first inductor is connected to an anode of an output power supply

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

A first terminal of the third switch and a first terminal of the first capacitor are connected to a second terminal of the first switch... The second capacitor is connected in parallel between the anode and a cathode of the output power supply

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitance: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentUS11894773B2Buck-boost circuit and control method therefor
Publication Date: 2024.02.06 SPREADTRUM COMMUNICATION (SHANGHAI) CO LTD
  • US11894773B2 patent drawing
  • US11894773B2 patent drawing
  • US11894773B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A buck-boost circuit is provided. First terminals of a first switch and a second switch are connected to an anode of the input power supply, first terminals of a third switch and a first capacitor are connected to a second terminal of the first switch, a second terminal of the third switch is connected to a cathode of the input power supply, a first terminal of a fourth switch, a second terminal of the first capacitor, and a first terminal of a first inductor are connected to a second terminal of the second switch, a second terminal of the fourth switch is connected to the cathode of the input power supply, a second terminal of the first inductor is connected to a anode of an output power supply, and a second capacitor is connected in parallel between the anode and a cathode of the output power supply.