Hybrid Switching Converter With Circulation Current for Low Ripple
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional switching converter circuits face challenges in design complexity due to difficult compensation circuit implementation, high output ripple, and low power conversion efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid switching converter circuit with a feedback compensation circuit, modulation circuit, power stage circuit, current sensing circuit, and control and driver circuit, incorporating a circulation switch to manage inductor current circulation and switch modes for improved efficiency and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional switching converter circuit is used, then the circuit can convert input voltage to output voltage, but the compensation circuit is difficult to design
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the compensation function from a separate complex compensation circuit and integrates it into the control circuit that generates driving signals for power switches. This integration simplifies the overall circuit structure while maintaining the necessary compensation functionality for voltage regulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuit is designed to perform multiple functions: generating driving signals for power switches, regulating output voltage through feedback, and providing compensation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a separate dedicated compensation circuit, reducing overall circuit complexity.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional switching converter circuit is used, then the circuit can convert input voltage to output voltage, but the output ripple is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a circulation current path that allows continuous current flow through the inductor during specific phases of the switching cycle. This continuous action reduces current discontinuity and associated ripple, while the circulation switch controls when this path is active to maintain voltage stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters by introducing a circulation current mode that modifies the inductor current waveform. By controlling the circulation switch, the circuit transitions between different current modes (continuous and discontinuous), optimizing the current profile to reduce output ripple while maintaining stable voltage output.
3Loss of energy
If conventional switching converter circuit is used, then the circuit can convert input voltage to output voltage, but the power conversion efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the circulation current path as a separate controllable feature using a dedicated circulation switch. This allows the circuit to selectively activate a low-loss current path during specific phases, reducing energy dissipation in the main power conversion path while maintaining conversion functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the current flow parameters by introducing a circulation mode that reduces resistive losses. By controlling the circulation switch timing and duration, the circuit optimizes the current waveform to minimize I²R losses in the inductor and switches, thereby improving overall power conversion efficiency without sacrificing conversion rate.
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
Enhances stability and bandwidth, reduces output ripple, and improves power conversion efficiency while simplifying compensator design and reducing die size and manufacturing costs.
Implementation Method 1
The inductor L1 is coupled between a switching node LX and the output voltage VOUT. The plural power switches S1 ̃S3 and S6 ̃S7 switch an inductor L1 according to corresponding operation signals VS1 ̃VS3 and VS6 ̃VS7, respectively, thus converting an input voltage VIN to an output voltage VOUT.
Implementation Method 2
The high side switch S6 is coupled between an end Nc1 of a capacitor C1 and a switching node LX; the high side switch S3 is coupled between the end Nc1 of the capacitor C1 and the input voltage VIN; the ground switch S2 is coupled between another end Nc2 of the capacitor C1 and a ground potential;
Data Source
AI summary
A switching converter circuit includes: a power stage circuit and a current sensing circuit. The power stage circuit includes plural power switches, which include a circulation switch. The circulation switch is coupled in parallel to an inductor. When the circulation switch is turned ON, the inductor and the circulation switch constitute a circulation circuit. The current sensing circuit generates a current sensing signal. The power switches switch a switching node voltage at a switching node, thereby converting an input power to an output power. The circulation switch is controlled to be ON within a circulation period in each switching cycle, so that the switching node voltage is conducted to the output voltage. In a steady state, the inductor current circulates within the circulation circuit with a DC current level. The DC current level is lower than a peak of the inductor current.