DC-DC Power Controller with Fast Transient Detection Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing DC-DC converters face a design trade-off between low standby current (Iq) and fast transient output voltage regulation, where improving one parameter often worsens the other, limiting the efficiency and battery life of battery-powered devices.
Innovation Solution
A low power DC-DC converter architecture that incorporates a fast transient detector in an asynchronous control loop, allowing the converter to rapidly respond to load changes while maintaining low standby power consumption, by using a fast transient detect circuit and an adjustable oscillator that is always active, even in sleep mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the converter operates in sleep mode with reduced control activity to lower standby current, then power consumption is reduced, but transient response capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into two independent paths: a low-power sampled control path active during steady state, and a fast transient detection path always active. This segmentation allows each path to be optimized for its specific function without compromising the other, resolving the contradiction between low standby current and fast transient response.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between control modes based on operating conditions. The fast transient detector continuously monitors and can immediately activate the converter during transients, while the sampled controller operates at reduced frequency during steady state. This dynamic behavior enables the system to achieve both low average power consumption and fast response when needed.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the sampled control interval is extended to reduce power consumption during sleep mode, then standby current is reduced, but output voltage regulation quality deteriorates during transients
Solution Approach 1:
The fast transient detector acts as an intermediary monitoring system that continuously watches for voltage dips without consuming significant power. When a transient is detected, it immediately triggers the converter activation, bridging the gap between the extended control interval and the need for rapid response, thus maintaining voltage regulation reliability while reducing power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The fast transient detector performs preliminary monitoring of the output voltage continuously, preparing the system to respond immediately to transients. This preliminary detection capability ensures that when a transient occurs, the system can react instantly without waiting for the next sampled control interval, maintaining regulation quality while allowing extended intervals between controlled updates.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for DC-DC power controller with low standby current and fast transient response. In an example arrangement, an apparatus includes a voltage converter outputting a direct current output voltage, configured to increase the output voltage responsive to an enable control signal; at least one feedback comparator configured to output a first control signal, the feedback comparator being active responsive to an edge at a clock signal input; an adjustable frequency oscillator for outputting a first clock signal; and a fast transient detect circuit configured to output a second signal asynchronously upon detecting a rapid change greater than a voltage threshold in the output voltage; the voltage converter receiving the enable control signal when either the first clock signal is active, or the second signal is active and the output voltage is less than a reference voltage. Additional apparatus and methods are disclosed.