Inductive Load Current Regulator Using Phase-Shifted Clock Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing current regulation methods for inductive loads, such as electric motors and solenoid valves, face challenges in accurately controlling current flow due to dependencies on hysteresis values and signal levels, leading to inefficiencies and electromagnetic interference.
Innovation Solution
A current regulator system that utilizes a reference clock signal, reference current signal, and phase difference signal to generate a pulse-width-modulated supply voltage, adjusting the voltage levels based on current measurement and phase differences to optimize current flow and reduce electromagnetic interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If pulse-width-modulated voltage is generated using hysteresis regulating method, then current through the load can be regulated, but the frequency of the pulse-width-modulated voltage becomes dependent on hysteresis values and signal levels, leading to electromagnetic interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by using a reference clock signal to generate equally spaced triggering edges, which periodicize the switching moments of the pulse-width-modulated voltage. This ensures that switching occurs at regular intervals determined by the clock signal rather than by variable hysteresis thresholds, thereby reducing electromagnetic interference while maintaining current regulation precision through phase and frequency control of the modulated voltage
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter controlling switching frequency from hysteresis values to a reference clock signal frequency. By using a stable clock signal with fixed frequency and phase characteristics, the system achieves consistent switching intervals that reduce electromagnetic interference, while current regulation is maintained through phase difference control between the clock signal and the pulse-width-modulated output
2Productivity
If multiple current regulators are used to control inductive loads, then current control capability is improved, but electromagnetic interference radiation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the control of multiple current regulators into phase-shifted segments. Each regulator receives the same reference clock signal but operates at different phases, segmenting the overall switching activity in time. This distribution of switching events across different time segments reduces peak electromagnetic interference radiation while maintaining the current control capability of multiple regulators
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses periodic action with phase-shifted reference clock signals to stagger the switching operations of multiple regulators. By introducing phase differences between the clock signals supplied to different regulators, the switching moments are distributed periodically over time, reducing electromagnetic interference radiation while preserving the enhanced current control capability provided by multiple regulators
Data Source
AI summary
A current regulator and a method for regulating current are described.