Digital Power Manager for Distributed DC-DC Converters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current distributed power supply systems face challenges in efficiently managing and monitoring non-isolated DC-DC converters, particularly due to limitations in analog control systems and the high cost and complexity of digital control systems with multiple controllers.
Innovation Solution
A digital power manager is introduced to control and monitor power converters, utilizing signal sampling and conversion circuits, pulse width modulation, and analog-to-digital converters for direct communication and closed-loop control, eliminating the need for separate analog/digital controllers and reducing system cost and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If analog control methods are used for POL regulators, then cost is low and technology is mature, but on-line control and monitoring capability is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges analog control functions with digital management capabilities into a single integrated controller. The controller includes an analog-to-digital converter to receive analog feedback signals from POL regulators and a digital signal processor to generate control signals, combining both analog and digital functionalities in one device to enable on-line control while maintaining cost-effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated controller serves multiple functions: it acts as both an analog controller for POL regulators and a digital manager for on-line monitoring and control. The controller can manage multiple POL regulators simultaneously and provide comprehensive system monitoring, making it a universal device that replaces separate analog controllers and digital management systems
2Extent of automation
If digital power system sequencer is used, then on-line management is implemented, but closed-loop voltage control flexibility is limited due to analog control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines digital signal processing capabilities with analog control loop functions in a single integrated controller. The digital signal processor can implement flexible control algorithms while the analog-to-digital converter and feedback circuits maintain precise closed-loop voltage control, achieving both on-line management and control flexibility
3Reliability
If multiple digital controllers are used for each POL regulator, then individual closed-loop control is achieved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple individual digital controllers into a single integrated controller that can manage multiple POL regulators. The controller includes multiple analog-to-digital converter channels and a digital signal processor that can independently control each POL regulator while consolidating hardware resources, reducing overall system complexity and cost
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated controller is designed as a universal device capable of controlling multiple different types of POL regulators simultaneously. It provides individual closed-loop control for each regulator while serving as a single centralized management unit, eliminating the need for separate controllers for each regulator
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 enables precise control and monitoring of power converters, improves system flexibility, reduces costs, and enhances reliability by integrating closed-loop voltage control and protection functions within the digital power manager, while minimizing communication errors and increasing control bandwidth.
Implementation Method 1
the monitoring data including analog voltage signals representing the output voltages and being received via an analog-to-digital converter channel
Implementation Method 2
generate the PWM control signals received at the driving circuits of the respective power blocks in response to said monitoring data so as to implement closed-loop control of the power conveyed by each of said plurality of power blocks
Data Source
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AI summary
A power supply system includes a digital power manager and multiple power blocks each conveying regulated power to a respective load. The power blocks include the power part of non-isolated DC/DC converters, signal sampling and conversion circuits to provide analog voltage signal representing output voltage, output current, temperature, etc., and driving circuits to receive pulse width modulation (PWM) signals and drive switching devices. Closed-loop voltage control and protection functions for the power blocks are integrated into the digital power. The digital power manager includes a non-volatile memory containing registers, including a digital power manager configuration register, a power block set-up register, and a power block monitor register, as well as a user-definable space. The digital power manager programs and monitors operation of each power block, and may also include a user interface, such as an I2C interface, for receiving programming data from a host user system and send monitoring data thereto.