DC-DC Converter Pulse-Skipping Mode Controller

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing DC-DC converters face inefficiencies due to detection/response delays and imperfections, leading to suboptimal efficiency control and increased electromagnetic interference, particularly in managing transitions between continuous conduction mode, discontinuous conduction mode, and pulse-skipping mode.

Innovation Solution

A DC-DC converter system with a mode controller that switches between continuous conduction mode, discontinuous conduction mode, and pulse-skipping mode, utilizing a voltage loop circuit, ramp loop circuit, and PWM circuit to provide true fixed frequency operation with internal compensation, minimizing external components and achieving smooth transitions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If conventional DC-DC converter control schemes are used, then the converter can operate in different conduction modes, but detection/response delays and imperfections cause suboptimal efficiency control and increased losses

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveswitching losses and conduction lossesVSAvoiddetection/response delays

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements preliminary action by using a mode controller that proactively manages transitions between CCM, DCM, and PSM based on predicted load conditions rather than reacting to delays. The controller pre-adjusts switching parameters and current conveyance before ideal efficiency points are missed, eliminating the negative impact of detection/response delays inherent in conventional schemes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies dynamics by enabling the converter to dynamically switch between three conduction modes (CCM, DCM, PSM) based on real-time load conditions. This dynamic mode switching allows the system to adapt switching parameters and current conveyance continuously, optimizing efficiency across varying operating conditions rather than being constrained by fixed control parameters.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If conventional mode switching is implemented, then the converter can adapt to different load conditions, but transitions between modes cause electromagnetic interference and instability

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveload condition adaptationVSAvoidelectromagnetic interference

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback by using a loop comparator that continuously monitors the relationship between the ramp voltage and feedback voltage, and an inductor current comparator that tracks current conditions. This feedback mechanism enables smooth, controlled transitions between CCM, DCM, and PSM by detecting when transition thresholds are approached and adjusting switching parameters accordingly, preventing abrupt mode changes that would generate EMI.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying switching parameters (duty cycle, switching frequency, current conveyance) as the converter transitions between modes. The mode controller adjusts these parameters continuously during transitions rather than making abrupt changes, reducing electromagnetic interference while maintaining adaptability to different load conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If ideal efficiency control is attempted, then switching parameters can be adjusted optimally, but detection/response delays and imperfections make this impossible

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveefficiency controlVSAvoiddetection precision

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements preliminary action by using a mode controller that proactively manages transitions between CCM, DCM, and PSM based on predicted load conditions rather than reacting to delays. The controller pre-adjusts switching parameters and current conveyance before ideal efficiency points are missed, eliminating the negative impact of detection/response delays inherent in conventional schemes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback by using a loop comparator that continuously monitors the relationship between the ramp voltage and feedback voltage, and an inductor current comparator that tracks current conditions. This feedback mechanism enables smooth, controlled transitions between CCM, DCM, and PSM by detecting when transition thresholds are approached and adjusting switching parameters accordingly, preventing abrupt mode changes that would generate EMI.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS10734899B2DC-DC converter with a pulse-skipping mode (PSM) transitions controller

Publication Date: 2020.08.04 TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INC

AI summary

A system includes an input voltage supply and advanced current mode (ACM) converter device coupled to the input voltage supply. The ACM converter device (102) includes a pulse-skipping mode (PSM) transitions controller configured to switch between PSM and discontinuous conduction mode (DCM). The system also includes an output inductor coupled to a switch node of the ACM converter device. The system also includes an output capacitor with a first terminal coupled to the output inductor and a second terminal coupled to a ground node. The system also includes a voltage divider in parallel with the output capacitor, where the voltage divider is configured to provide a feedback voltage to the ACM converter device.