Intelligent Voltage Regulator with Programmable Internal Reference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional linear and switching voltage regulators are inflexible and require multiple versions for different output voltage specifications, leading to inventory issues and increased power consumption when external components are used to adjust their characteristics.
Innovation Solution
An intelligent voltage regulator circuit with a variable voltage generator and processing element that allows for dynamic programming of output voltage and other characteristics, eliminating the need for multiple versions by enabling programmability within a single integrated circuit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If external circuit components are utilized to change the rated output voltage of a conventional linear voltage regulator, then the output voltage can be adjusted, but the quiescent current increases and power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single voltage regulator device that can output multiple different voltages (e.g., 3.3V, 2.5V, 1.8V, 1.2V) through internal switching between different reference voltages and feedback dividers, eliminating the need for external components and reducing quiescent current while providing voltage adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the output voltage parameter by switching between different internal reference voltages (Vref1, Vref2, etc.) and different feedback divider configurations, allowing dynamic adjustment of output voltage without adding external components that would increase power consumption
2Reliability
If multiple versions of linear voltage regulators are maintained for different rated output voltages, then each regulator can be optimized for its specific voltage, but inventory complexity increases and supply chain risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal voltage regulator that can replace multiple specialized regulators by providing multiple selectable output voltages through internal switching mechanisms, thereby reducing inventory complexity while maintaining voltage regulation precision for each specific voltage level
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic selection of output voltage levels through control signals that switch between different internal reference voltages and feedback configurations, allowing a single device to adapt to different voltage requirements without requiring multiple static regulator versions
3Ease of operation
If a conventional linear voltage regulator operates below its threshold input voltage, then the device can still operate, but the output voltage falls below the constant rated voltage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms that monitor the output voltage and adjust the internal switching and divider configurations to maintain precise output voltage even when input voltage varies, ensuring output voltage precision is maintained across a wider operating range
Data Source
AI summary
A voltage regulator includes a programming interface via which programming instructions may be applied to a processor of the voltage regulator. The voltage regulator operates the processor according to the programming instructions to select one of multiple active internally-generated analog voltage levels to determine an output voltage level of the voltage regulator.