Fast Response Current Source Using Segmented Feedback Capacitors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional voltage regulators face challenges in maintaining stability and response speed due to the need for large regulation capacitors or complex current detecting circuits to adjust output current in response to load demand variations, leading to increased costs and potential overshoot issues.
Innovation Solution
A fast response current source is designed with a constant current generating block, feedback capacitors, and current buffers to dynamically adjust output current by coupling voltage variations to feedback terminals, allowing for quick changes in buffering and output currents to match load demands without the need for large capacitors or complex detecting circuits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a large size regulation capacitor is used to ensure the voltage regulator endures large variation of demand current, then the stability is improved, but the response speed decreases and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the current regulation function into two independent paths: a fast response path using a small capacitor coupled to a feedback terminal, and a stable regulation path using a large capacitor. The current buffer divides the feedback current into these two paths, allowing each capacitor to be optimized for its specific function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The feedback terminal acts as an intermediary element that couples the output voltage variations to the current buffer. This intermediary enables the small capacitor to influence the fast response path while the large capacitor maintains overall stability, resolving the contradiction between speed and stability.
2Speed
If a complicated current detecting circuit is used to detect dynamic variation of demand current, then the response speed is improved, but the circuit cost increases and additional current consumption is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the output terminal is coupled to a feedback terminal through a capacitor. This feedback path allows the system to automatically detect and respond to voltage variations caused by demand current changes without requiring complex external detection circuits. The current buffer then amplifies this feedback signal for rapid response.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own output voltage variations as the detection signal through the feedback capacitor. Instead of requiring an external current detecting circuit to measure demand current, the system self-generates the detection signal from its own output, eliminating the need for additional complex detection hardware and current consumption.
3Reliability
If a large size regulation capacitor is used to maintain stability, then the cost increases, but the reliability is improved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the capacitor functions into two separate capacitors with different sizes and functions. The large capacitor handles the primary stability and reliability requirements, while the small capacitor provides fast transient response. This segmentation allows each capacitor to be appropriately sized for its specific role, avoiding the need for one oversized capacitor to handle all functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic response capability through the small capacitor and current buffer combination, which actively responds to transient variations. This dynamic element complements the static stability provided by the large capacitor, achieving both reliability and fast response without requiring the large capacitor to be excessively oversized.
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 fast response current source to quickly increase or decrease output current to meet load demands, preventing overshoot and maintaining stability while reducing costs and complexity compared to traditional designs.
Implementation Method 1
The first feedback capacitor is coupled between an output terminal and the first feedback terminal for coupling a voltage variation of the output terminal to the first feedback terminal
Data Source
AI summary
A fast response current source capable of providing an output current is disclosed. The fast response current source includes a constant current generating block, a first feedback capacitor, a first current buffer and a first output current generating block. The constant current generating block provides a first constant current. The first current buffer generates a first buffering current to flow through the first feedback terminal, and changes a current value of the first buffering current in response to the current variation at the first feedback terminal when the voltage at the output terminal is varied. The first output current generating block generates a first output current to flow through the output terminal, and changes a current value of the first output current in response to the variation of the first buffering current when the voltage at the output terminal is varied.