Power Converter Inductance Detection Using Emulated Current Feedback
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Power converter circuits often require prior knowledge of output inductance for optimal operation, which is not always readily available, especially in dynamic or variable inductance scenarios.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an adaptive inductance detection circuit that includes an emulated current generator, a comparator, an inductor code counter, and variable slope and valley resistors, allowing for self-regulated detection of output inductance without the need for additional pins on an integrated circuit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If prior knowledge of output inductance is used to configure the power converter, then operational efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional hardware requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The power converter performs self-diagnosis by automatically detecting its output inductance through an emulated current generator and comparator circuit. The system generates an emulated current signal, compares it with the actual inductor current, and uses the comparison result to determine the inductance value without requiring external configuration or additional pins, thereby maintaining operational efficiency while avoiding increased hardware complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the comparator continuously compares the emulated current signal with the sensed inductor current. The comparison output feeds back to the inductor code counter, which adjusts the emulated current slope until convergence is achieved. This closed-loop feedback enables automatic inductance detection and adaptation, resolving the contradiction between operational efficiency and hardware complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If adaptive inductance detection circuitry is added to detect output inductance, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional circuit components
Solution Approach 1:
The emulated current generator serves multiple functions: it generates the emulated current signal for inductance detection, acts as a current source for the comparator, and enables the power converter to adapt to different inductor values. By making this core component multi-functional, the patent achieves adaptability without proportionally increasing overall circuit complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The inductance detection functionality is merged with the existing power converter circuitry. The comparator used for current sensing is also utilized for inductance detection by comparing the emulated current with the actual inductor current. The inductor code counter integrates with the control logic to automatically adjust operation based on detected inductance, combining multiple functions into existing components rather than adding separate dedicated circuits
Data Source
AI summary
In an example, a circuit includes an emulated current generator configured to provide an emulated current signal responsive to a charge current and a discharge current. The emulated current signal can be representative of an emulated current through an output inductor. A comparator is configured to provide a comparator signal responsive to the emulated current signal and sensed current signal representative of a measure of current through the output inductor. An inductor code counter is configured to adjust an inductor code count value responsive to the comparator signal. A slope of the emulated current signal can be adjusted responsive to the inductor code count value.