Burst-Mode Controller for DC-DC Converters with Fixed-Frequency Clock

The patent applies periodic action by organizing switching cycles into burst windows that repeat at a fixed fundamental frequency. The controller clusters multiple switching cycles within each burst window, creating a periodic pattern that maintains a constant fundamental frequency regardless of load conditions. This periodic structure ensures that spectral noise occurs at predictable, fixed frequencies rather than varying with load, thereby reducing interference with noise-sensitive loads while maintaining adaptability through adjustable burst parameters.

The patent applies dynamics by making the on-time adjustable within a target range rather than fixed or fully variable. The controller dynamically adapts the on-time based on load conditions but constrains it to remain within predetermined minimum and maximum values. This dynamic adjustment with bounds allows the converter to optimize efficiency at light loads by preventing excessive on-times while maintaining adequate voltage regulation across the full load range, thereby improving efficiency without sacrificing adaptability.

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the switching cycles into discrete burst windows that occur at a fixed fundamental frequency. Each burst window contains a specific number of switching cycles, and the controller adjusts this number to regulate output voltage while maintaining the fixed burst repetition rate. This segmentation approach allows the controller to modify the number of cycles within each burst to reduce voltage ripple while ensuring that the bursts themselves repeat at a constant frequency, thereby maintaining predictable spectral noise characteristics.