Dual-Function Gate Driver Pin Reduces IC Package Size
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional power converters and electronic ballasts require multiple separate input connections for sensing and programming, leading to large IC package sizes and increased costs due to the need for numerous pins.
Innovation Solution
A control integrated circuit that utilizes a gate driver circuit output pin as both a control signal for power switches and an input for external data, allowing the circuit to function as both an output and input depending on conditions, thereby reducing the total pin count and package size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate input connections are provided for each sensing and programming circuit, then each input connection can be independently connected to external signals, but the number of pins on the IC package increases resulting in larger package size and increased cost
Solution Approach 1:
The gate driver output pin is designed to serve dual functions: acting as an output pin during normal operation to drive the power switch, and as an input pin during specific conditions (such as startup or fault reset) to receive external sensing signals. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated input pins, thereby reducing the total pin count and package size while maintaining full sensing capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the input and output pin functions into a single physical pin. The pin can switch between input and output modes based on operational conditions, merging what would traditionally require separate pins into one unified interface, thus reducing package complexity and cost
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate input pins are used for sensing circuits, then all sensing functions can be implemented, but the IC package requires more pins leading to increased cost
Solution Approach 1:
The gate driver pin is configured to perform multiple roles including power switch control output and external sensing input. By making this pin universal, the IC achieves full sensing functionality without requiring additional dedicated pins, thereby reducing device complexity and pin count
Solution Approach 2:
The pin's functional mode (input or output) is dynamically changed based on operational conditions. During normal operation, it functions as an output driving the power switch; during startup or fault conditions, it switches to input mode to receive external sensing signals, optimizing pin utilization
Data Source
AI summary
A control circuit for a voltage converter including a power switch for providing power to a load in accordance with an embodiment of the present application includes a driver circuit operable to provide a first control signal to the power switch to turn the power switch on and off such that a desired voltage is provided to the load, an output terminal connected to the driver circuit and operable to connect the driver circuit to the power switch; and a controller operable to control the driver circuit. The output terminal operates as an input terminal to receive external data under predetermined conditions, and the controller controls the driver circuit based on the external data.