Dual-Reference Regulator Control for Dropout Avoidance and Lower Power Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power management integrated circuits (PMICs) face high power loss due to always providing a higher output voltage to avoid regulator dropout, even when the loading is low, as the higher step-up loading is temporary and occurs for only a short duration.
Innovation Solution
A regulator with a control circuit that automatically selects between two reference voltages based on the output signal to adjust the output voltage level, using comparators and switches to generate control signals that control the duty cycle of switches, allowing the regulator to maintain a suitable voltage level and reduce power loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the regulator always provides a higher output voltage to avoid dropout, then the reliability is improved, but the power loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the regulator's output voltage adjustable rather than fixed. The control circuit dynamically switches between a first reference voltage (higher) and a second reference voltage (lower) based on real-time detection of output current levels. This allows the system to adapt the voltage level to actual loading conditions, maintaining reliability during high-current scenarios while reducing power loss during low-current operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by varying the reference voltage parameter based on operating conditions. The control circuit monitors the output current and switches the reference voltage between two discrete values. This parameter switching enables the regulator to maintain sufficient voltage headroom for reliability during high-current modes while operating at lower voltage for efficiency during low-current modes, directly resolving the contradiction between reliability and power loss.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the regulator provides high output voltage during low-power mode, then the stability is improved, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the output voltage level based on actual loading conditions rather than maintaining a fixed high voltage. The control circuit detects output current and switches between reference voltages accordingly, enabling the regulator to provide stable voltage when needed (high current conditions) while consuming less energy during low-power mode (low current conditions).
Solution Approach 2:
The reference voltage parameter is changed based on operating mode. During low-power mode with light loading, the control circuit selects the lower second reference voltage, reducing energy consumption while maintaining adequate stability. When loading increases, the system switches to the higher first reference voltage to ensure stability, thus optimizing the trade-off between stability and energy usage.
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 the regulator to generate an output voltage with a suitable level, reducing power loss by maintaining a low voltage level during light loads and adjusting as needed during short periods of higher loading, thus decreasing overall power consumption and eliminating the need for additional indication signals.
Implementation Method 1
The regulator is configured to receive an input signal to generate an output voltage. The control circuit is configured to select one of a first reference voltage and a second reference voltage to serve as an output reference voltage according to an output signal of the regulator, and generate a control signal according to the output reference voltage to control a voltage level of the output voltage of the regulator.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a circuitry including a regulator and a control circuit is disclosed. The regulator is configured to receive an input signal to generate an output voltage. The control circuit is configured to select one of a first reference voltage and a second reference voltage to serve as an output reference voltage according to an output signal of the regulator, and generate a control signal according to the output reference voltage to control a voltage level of the output voltage of the regulator.