DC Linear Regulator Leakage Suppression via Switchable Bulk Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing DC linear voltage regulators with DMOS pass transistors suffer from significant reverse leakage current during reverse voltage operation conditions, leading to power wastage and potential component damage due to overheating.
Innovation Solution
A DC linear voltage regulator circuit with a switchable leakage prevention circuit that automatically detects and interrupts leakage current by connecting the bulk terminal of the DMOS pass transistor to either the regulator input or output, using controllable semiconductor switches, and optionally connecting the gate terminal to the regulator output, to manage voltage differences and prevent reverse current flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an external DC voltage source is applied to the regulator output during reverse voltage operation conditions, then the regulator can handle diverse operating scenarios, but a huge reverse leakage current flows from the regulator output into the DMOS pass transistor causing power wastage and potential component damage
Solution Approach 1:
The leakage prevention circuit is activated in advance before reverse leakage current can damage the device. The circuit monitors voltage conditions and proactively switches to prevent leakage current flow through the DMOS pass transistor bulk terminal, rather than reacting after damage occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The leakage prevention circuit acts as an intermediary between the regulator output and the DMOS pass transistor bulk terminal. It introduces control switches that mediate the connection, allowing the circuit to block harmful leakage current while maintaining the ability to handle reverse voltage operation conditions.
2Reliability
If the bulk terminal is permanently connected to the regulator input, then the DMOS pass transistor operates correctly during normal operation, but leakage current flows through the bulk during reverse voltage operation conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the bulk terminal and regulator input is made dynamic rather than static. Control switches are introduced that can change the connection state based on operating conditions - maintaining the reliable bulk-to-input connection during normal operation, and disconnecting or rerouting during reverse voltage conditions to prevent leakage current.
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit detects changes in voltage parameters (when output voltage exceeds input voltage indicating reverse operation) and responds by changing the connection configuration. The control switches modify the electrical parameters of the bulk terminal connection based on the detected voltage condition difference.
3Reliability
If the gate terminal is grounded through a Zener protection diode, then the gate is protected during normal operation, but a channel is formed supporting substantial reverse current flow during reverse voltage operation
Solution Approach 1:
The gate terminal connection is made dynamic with control switches that can alter the grounding configuration. During normal operation, the Zener diode provides reliable gate protection through grounding. During reverse voltage conditions, the control switches dynamically change the gate connection to prevent channel formation and reverse current flow.
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
The solution effectively suppresses reverse leakage current, preventing power wastage and component damage by dynamically adjusting the connection of the bulk and gate terminals based on voltage differences, ensuring the regulator operates safely under reverse voltage conditions.
Implementation Method 1
configured to automatically detect and interrupt a flow of leakage current from the regulator output to the bulk terminal
Implementation Method 2
using controllable semiconductor switches, and optionally connecting the gate terminal to the regulator output, to manage voltage differences and prevent reverse current flow
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates in one aspect to a DC linear voltage regulator circuit for generating a regulated DC output voltage based on a DC input voltage. The DC linear voltage regulator circuit comprises a DMOS pass transistor comprising drain, gate, source and bulk terminals wherein the drain terminal is connected to a regulator output which is configured to supply the regulated DC output voltage and the source terminal is connected to a regulator input for receipt of the DC input voltage. The DC linear voltage regulator circuit comprises a switchable leakage prevention circuit, connected to the bulk terminal of the DMOS pass transistor, and configured to automatically detect and interrupt a flow of leakage current from the regulator output to the bulk terminal.