Non-inverting Buck Boost Converter Mode Transition Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Non-inverting buck boost converters face challenges in transitioning between buck and boost modes of operation, particularly with line transients and output ripple when the output voltage is close to the input voltage, due to dynamic response and steady-state performance issues.

Innovation Solution

A control scheme using a single integrated current sensor, peak current mode control in buck mode, and valley current control mode in boost mode, with cycle-by-cycle detection and maximum duty cycle monitoring to facilitate smooth transitions and minimize ripple, allowing the converter to automatically switch between modes based on the duty cycle condition.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a non-inverting buck boost converter operates near the transition point between buck and boost modes (when output voltage is close to input voltage), then the converter can maintain voltage regulation, but line transients and output ripple increase due to dynamic response issues

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevoltage regulationVSAvoidoutput ripple
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic mode selection that automatically transitions between buck and boost modes based on the duty cycle and operating conditions. The controller dynamically adjusts the switching topology to optimize performance across different operating regions, preventing the converter from operating in the unstable transition region where ripple increases, thereby maintaining voltage regulation while minimizing harmful output ripple.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs feedback control mechanisms that monitor the output voltage and duty cycle to detect when the converter approaches the unstable transition region. The control system uses this feedback information to proactively adjust operating parameters or switch modes before significant ripple and transient issues occur, ensuring stable voltage regulation while avoiding the harmful effects of operating near the buck-boost transition point.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Measurement precision

If multiple current sensors are used to improve control precision during mode transitions, then measurement accuracy improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecurrent sensing accuracyVSAvoidsensor quantity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a single current sensor that serves multiple functions: it measures inductor current for both buck and boost mode control, provides overcurrent protection, and enables mode transition detection. By making the current sensor multi-functional rather than using separate sensors for each mode, the patent achieves the measurement precision needed for accurate control during mode transitions while avoiding the increased complexity of multiple sensors.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the current sensing function into a single integrated measurement point that serves both buck and boost operating modes. Rather than having separate current sensors for each mode, the system merges the sensing capability into one universal sensor that captures the necessary current information for both modes, thereby reducing component count and complexity while maintaining the measurement precision required for smooth mode transitions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS8305055B2Non-inverting buck boost voltage converter
Publication Date: 2012.11.06 INTERSIL AMERICAS INC
  • US8305055B2 patent drawing
  • US8305055B2 patent drawing
  • US8305055B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A non-inverting buck boost voltage converter includes a buck boost voltage regulation circuitry for generating a regulated output voltage responsive to an input voltage. A current sensor monitors an input current to the buck boost voltage regulation circuitry. Buck boost mode control circuitry controls the buck boost voltage regulation circuitry using peak current mode control in a buck mode of operation and valley current mode control in boost mode of operation responsive to the monitored input current.