Integrated Current Regulator with Transistor Load Path Resistor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current regulators face challenges in integration within single integrated circuits due to the need for nonreactive resistors, which require significant space and increase costs when using discrete components.
Innovation Solution
A current regulator design that integrates a transistor with a current measuring resistor formed by a section of its load path, along with an evaluation and drive circuit, allowing for a space-saving and cost-effective implementation within a semiconductor body, enabling the regulator to be accommodated in a single chip housing with minimal external connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a nonreactive measuring resistor is used in the current regulator, then precise current measurement is achieved, but the space required and manufacturing cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the function of the measuring resistor with the load path of the transistor by forming the measuring resistor directly from semiconductor material in the same integration plane as the transistor. This eliminates the need for separate discrete resistor components and reduces chip area while maintaining measurement precision through integrated fabrication processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The load path of the transistor serves dual purposes: it functions as both the current conduction path and the measuring resistor. By making the load path itself resistive and measurable, the structure performs multiple functions (current transport and current measurement) simultaneously, eliminating the need for dedicated separate components.
2Manufacturing precision
If a discrete component is used for the resistance element, then precise resistance value is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring resistor is merged with the transistor structure and fabricated using the same semiconductor processing steps, eliminating the need for separate discrete resistor components. This integration reduces assembly complexity and manufacturing costs while maintaining precise resistance control through doping and geometric design.
Solution Approach 2:
The resistance value is precisely controlled by changing physical parameters of the integrated structure, such as the doping concentration, width, and length of the load path region. These parameters can be precisely controlled during semiconductor fabrication to achieve the desired resistance value without requiring separate discrete components.
3Measurement precision
If multiple terminal contacts are added to the semiconductor body for tapping measurement voltage, then accurate voltage measurement is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement voltage tapping is merged with existing terminal contacts of the transistor structure. The load path is configured so that voltage measurement can be performed using the same terminal contacts that are already required for transistor operation, eliminating the need for additional dedicated measurement terminals.
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 design allows for a compact and cost-effective current regulation solution, suitable for applications like LED constant current supply, with precise current regulation achieved through the comparison of measurement voltage with a reference voltage, reducing the need for additional terminal contacts and bonding wires.
Implementation Method 1
the drive circuit is connected to the current measuring resistor and which is designed to drive the transistor depending on a voltage across the current measuring resistor
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a current regulator having the following features:a first semiconductor body (1; 1′) having a first and second terminal contact (11, 12),a transistor (T) having a control terminal and a load path, which is integrated in the semiconductor body (1; 1′) and the load path of which runs between the terminal contacts (11, 12) of the semiconductor body,a current measuring resistor (22), which is at least partly formed by a section of the load path of the transistor,an evaluation and drive circuit (3), which is connected to the current measuring resistor (22) and which is designed to drive the transistor depending on a voltage across the measuring resistor (22).