DCM-CCM Oscillation Control in Current-Controlled Boost Converters

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional constant-frequency current-mode-controlled switching mode power supply converter circuits are not stable in all output load conditions, often oscillating between discontinuous current mode (DCM) and continuous current mode (CCM), which is problematic for handset applications requiring stable power supply across light, medium, and heavy loads.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a current-controlled switching mode power supply converter circuit that includes driver circuitry for inductor charging and discharging, and current-sensing circuitry to dynamically adjust inductor current thresholds based on load conditions, enabling or disabling thresholds and adjusting discharge rates to prevent DCM-CCM oscillation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If conventional constant-frequency current-mode-controlled converter circuitry is used, then frequency spectrum interference is reduced, but the converter oscillates between DCM and CCM under varying load conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrequency spectrum interferenceVSAvoidconverter stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic adjustment of the inductor current threshold based on detected load conditions. The control circuitry automatically switches between different threshold values (first threshold for light loads, second threshold for heavy loads) to maintain stable operation across all load conditions while preventing DCM-CCM oscillation, thereby resolving the stability issue without sacrificing the constant-frequency benefit

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the operating parameter (inductor current threshold) dynamically based on load conditions. By adjusting the threshold parameter according to whether the load is light or heavy, the system maintains optimal performance and stability across the entire operating range, preventing oscillation between discontinuous and continuous conduction modes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Device complexity

If a fixed inductor current threshold is used, then the control circuit is simple, but the converter cannot maintain stability across light, medium, and heavy load conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol circuit complexityVSAvoidconverter stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates a detection circuit that continuously monitors load conditions and provides feedback to the control circuitry. Based on this feedback, the system automatically selects the appropriate inductor current threshold, enabling adaptive control that maintains stability across all load conditions while adding only moderate circuit complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from a static fixed threshold to a dynamic adaptive threshold that automatically adjusts based on real-time load detection. This dynamic approach enables the converter to maintain optimal performance and stability across light, medium, and heavy load conditions without requiring complex manual intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9024597B2System and method for controlling DCM-CCM oscillation in a current-controlled switching mode power supply converter
Publication Date: 2015.05.05 STMICROELECTRONICS (SHENZHEN) R&D CO LTD
  • US9024597B2 patent drawing
  • US9024597B2 patent drawing
  • US9024597B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A constant-frequency current-mode-controlled boost converter circuit provides slope compensation of an inductor current, reduces reverse inductor current in light output load conditions, and reduces oscillation between a discontinuous current mode and a continuous current mode by enabling or disabling an inductor current threshold. The constant-frequency current-mode-controlled boost converter circuit is efficient and stable in light, medium, and heavy output load conditions.