Voltage Converter Controller Parameter Setting via Sensing Pin
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing voltage converter controllers can only set circuit parameters during the start-up stage and not during normal operation, limiting flexibility and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A voltage converter controller with a sensing pin and parameter sampling and setting unit that generates a default current or voltage to sample and set parameters during both start-up and normal operation, eliminating the need for extra pins and allowing parameter adjustment at any time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If parameter setting is only allowed during start-up stage, then the circuit can be initialized with default parameters, but the system lacks flexibility to adjust parameters during normal operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the parameter sampling and setting unit dynamically controllable through a control signal that enables or disables parameter setting based on operational stage. The unit can operate in two modes: sampling mode during start-up and holding mode during normal operation, allowing flexible parameter adjustment timing without compromising system stability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational state of the parameter sampling and setting unit based on the control signal. When enabled, the unit samples and sets parameters; when disabled, it maintains held values. This parameter change in the unit's operational state resolves the contradiction between initialization needs and operational flexibility
2Adaptability or versatility
If a separate pin is added for parameter setting, then parameter configuration becomes independent, but the device complexity and pin count increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the sensing pin multi-functional by enabling it to perform both its original sensing function and parameter setting function. The parameter sampling and setting unit couples to the sensing pin and can operate in different modes based on a control signal, eliminating the need for a dedicated parameter setting pin while maintaining full parameter configuration capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the parameter setting function with the existing sensing pin infrastructure. By coupling the parameter sampling and setting unit to the sensing pin and using the same physical connection for both sensing and parameter configuration, the patent reduces pin count while maintaining adaptability
3Ease of manufacture
If parameter setting is restricted to start-up stage, then the circuit initialization is simplified, but the system cannot adapt to changing operational requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic control through a control signal that determines whether the parameter sampling and setting unit is enabled or disabled. During start-up, the unit is enabled for parameter initialization; during normal operation, it can be enabled again for adaptive parameter adjustment, providing both initialization simplicity and operational adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary parameter sampling and holding during the start-up stage to initialize the circuit with appropriate parameters. The parameter sampling and setting unit captures and holds these parameters in advance, ensuring proper circuit initialization while preserving the ability to update parameters later if needed
Data Source
AI summary
A voltage converter circuit includes a voltage converter controller which generates a PWM signal to operate a power switch for voltage conversion. The voltage converter controller includes a sensing pin for sensing a current and the voltage converter controller receives a power supply. A parameter setting method for the voltage converter circuit includes: during a start-up stage, when the power supply increases above a predetermined reference level, the voltage converter controller outputting a current through the sensing pin; and setting at least one parameter of the voltage converter controller according to a voltage at the sensing pin.