DC-DC Converter Transistor Mode Switching for Voltage Supply

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing integrated circuit systems face challenges in efficiently providing voltage to external modules while adapting to various battery types and configurations, often requiring external switches that increase system costs.

Innovation Solution

The integration of a DC-DC converter circuit with a transistor element within the integrated circuit, which can switch between voltage conversion and voltage supply modes based on detected battery types, eliminating the need for an external transistor by using the same transistor element for both functions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If an external switch (transistor element) is used to control voltage to external modules, then voltage control capability is improved, but system cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevoltage control capabilityVSAvoidsystem cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The transistor element within the DC-DC converter circuit is made multi-functional by enabling it to operate in different modes: functioning as part of the voltage conversion circuitry during normal operation, and switching to control voltage supply to external modules during reset conditions. This eliminates the need for a separate external switch, reducing system cost while maintaining voltage control capability.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If the integrated circuit adapts to various battery types with different input voltage levels, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebattery type adaptationVSAvoidcircuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The DC-DC converter circuit is designed with dynamic adaptability to detect and respond to different battery types and voltage levels. The circuit automatically adjusts its operation mode based on the detected battery configuration, enabling the integrated circuit to work with various portable device battery types without requiring separate dedicated circuits for each battery type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution allows for cost-effective voltage adaptation and control to external modules, reducing system expenses and enhancing flexibility across different battery types, while providing efficient voltage conversion and supply without the need for additional external components.

Implementation Method 1

DC-DC converter circuit that is coupled to the input/output pin and including a transistor element. The DC-DC converter circuit has a first mode of operation and a second mode of operation. In the first mode of operation, the DC-DC converter circuit performs voltage conversion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS7378829B2Method and system for providing voltage
Publication Date: 2008.05.27 SONY GROUP CORP
  • US7378829B2 patent drawing
  • US7378829B2 patent drawing
  • US7378829B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system and method to provide voltage to a device from the operating mode of an integrated circuit is disclosed. In a particular embodiment, the disclosed system includes an integrated circuit having an input/output pin and a DC-DC converter circuit that is coupled to the input/output pin and including a transistor element. The DC-DC converter circuit has a first mode of operation and a second mode of operation. In the first mode of operation, the DC-DC converter circuit performs voltage conversion and in the second mode of operation, the transistor element of the DC-DC converter circuit is used to selectively apply a voltage supply to an external module coupled to the input/output pin.