Multi-phase Switching Converter Overlap Mode Current Balance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-phase switching converters experience phase current imbalances when entering an overlap mode to increase load current, as the initial switching circuit's phase current continues to rise after the overlap mode, leading to inefficient energy distribution.
Innovation Solution
The controller configures the multi-phase switching converter to turn on at least two switching circuits simultaneously during the overlap mode, and after exiting this mode, it resumes operation by successively turning on the switching circuits from the subsequent ones, ensuring balanced phase currents by adjusting the number of simultaneously turned-on circuits based on load conditions and threshold voltages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the switching circuits are turned on simultaneously in overlap mode to increase load current, then the load current capability is improved, but the phase current balance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by detecting the phase current status before entering overlap mode and recording which switching circuit has the maximum current. This preliminary detection allows the system to prepare the correct start sequence for subsequent interleave mode operation, preventing current imbalance before it occurs. The controller stores this information and uses it to determine the next switching circuit to activate after overlap mode exits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by dynamically adjusting the operating mode between interleave mode and overlap mode based on load current conditions. The controller detects when load current exceeds a threshold and transitions from sequential interleave activation to simultaneous overlap activation. After overlap mode, the system dynamically determines the next start circuit based on previously detected current distribution, making the system adaptable to changing load conditions while maintaining current balance.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the switching circuits are turned on successively in interleave mode, then the phase current balance is maintained, but the load current capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two operating modes (interleave mode and overlap mode) into a unified control system. The interleave mode provides sequential activation for current balance, while overlap mode provides simultaneous activation for enhanced load current capability. The controller intelligently switches between these modes based on load conditions, combining the advantages of both approaches. The merging also includes combining the control strategies of fixed sequential activation with dynamic start circuit selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies periodic action through cyclic switching between interleave mode and overlap mode based on load current thresholds. When load current is below the threshold, the system operates in interleave mode with sequential activation. When the threshold is exceeded, it transitions to overlap mode with simultaneous activation. After overlap mode, the system periodically returns to interleave mode with dynamically adjusted start circuit selection, creating a periodic pattern of operation that adapts to load variations.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-phase switching converter and control method thereof. The multi-phase switching converter includes a plurality of switching circuits and a controller. The output terminals of the plurality of switching circuits are coupled together to provide an output voltage to a load. The controller is configured to generate a plurality of control signals to turn on the plurality of switching circuits successively. When a load current increase is detected, the controller operates in an overlap mode and at least two switching circuits subsequent to the current switching circuit are turned on simultaneously. After the overlap mode, the controller resumes to the interleave mode and turns on the plurality of switching circuits successively from the switching circuit subsequent to the at least two switching circuits.