Buck-Boost Converter Hysteresis Control Efficiency

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional DC-DC converters, such as buck-boost converters, have relatively low conversion efficiency when the input voltage is close to the output voltage, limiting the extension of battery life in mobile devices without increasing their size.

Innovation Solution

A buck-boost converter with a hysteresis-based control system that includes a converting circuit, a ripple injector, and a hysteresis comparator to generate switching control signals, allowing for efficient voltage stepping down, stepping up, or maintaining a voltage level close to the input voltage, thereby achieving improved conversion efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If conventional DC-DC converters are used, then voltage conversion is achieved, but conversion efficiency deteriorates when input voltage is close to output voltage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconversion efficiencyVSAvoidvoltage conversion range
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The converter dynamically switches between buck mode, boost mode, and buck-boost mode based on the relationship between input and output voltages. When Vin < Vout, it operates in boost mode; when Vin > Vout, it operates in buck mode; when Vin ≈ Vout, it operates in buck-boost mode. This dynamic operation ensures high conversion efficiency across the entire voltage conversion range.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The converter changes its operating parameters (switching states of transistors, configuration of switches) based on the voltage relationship. By adjusting the switching patterns and operational modes according to the input-output voltage differential, the converter maintains optimal efficiency regardless of whether the input voltage is lower than, higher than, or close to the output voltage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Duration of action of moving object

If battery capacity is increased to extend usage time, then hours of use increase, but device size increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehours of useVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent converts the previously harmful low-efficiency operation mode (when Vin ≈ Vout) into a beneficial buck-boost mode that achieves high efficiency. By introducing the ripple injection mechanism and hysteresis-based control, the converter transforms what was once a wasteful operating condition into an efficient power conversion scenario, thereby extending battery life without increasing device size.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Solution Approach 2:

The converter uses feedback mechanisms including hysteresis comparison and ripple injection to continuously monitor and adjust its operation. The hysteresis comparator detects voltage differences and triggers appropriate mode switching, while the ripple injection ensures proper operation during buck-boost mode. This feedback control optimizes power conversion efficiency, allowing smaller batteries to provide longer usage time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Loss of energy

If hysteresis-based control with ripple injection is implemented, then conversion efficiency improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconversion efficiencyVSAvoidcontrol circuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The converter uses its own output ripple voltage as the injection signal, eliminating the need for external oscillation circuits or additional signal generation components. The hysteresis comparator uses the natural voltage ripple to trigger mode switching, and the control circuit automatically adjusts switching patterns based on real-time voltage conditions. This self-service approach achieves high efficiency while minimizing additional circuit complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS9705401B2Buck-boost converters and power management integrated circuits including the same
Publication Date: 2017.07.11 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US9705401B2 patent drawing
  • US9705401B2 patent drawing
  • US9705401B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A buck-boost converter includes: a converting circuit; a ripple injector; a hysteresis comparator; and a switching controller. The converting circuit is configured to generate an output voltage by adjusting an input voltage in a buck mode, a boost mode, and a buck-boost mode. The ripple injector is configured to generate a ripple based on switching signals corresponding to switching operations of the converting circuit. The hysteresis comparator outputs at least one switching control signal by comparing an output control voltage with a feedback voltage generated by adding the ripple to a divided voltage generated by performing a voltage division on the output voltage. The switching controller is configured to change a current flow path of the converting circuit based on the at least one switching control signal.