Linear Power Regulator Driver for Internal and External Pass Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power regulator systems require additional detection circuitry to determine the presence of an external pass device, which adds complexity and cost, and may not efficiently manage thermal dissipation or area usage.
Innovation Solution
A linear power regulator device that automatically detects the presence of an external pass device by analyzing differences in power passing through the internal pass device, eliminating the need for additional detection time and circuitry by using a driver device with differential inputs and a current limiting mechanism to control both internal and external pass devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If an external pass device is used to reduce power dissipation on the IC, then thermal management is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for additional detection circuitry
Solution Approach 1:
The driver device is designed to universally drive both internal and external pass devices through a single interface. The driver output can connect to either the internal pass device control terminal or an external pass device control terminal, eliminating the need for separate detection circuitry. This multi-functionality allows the same driver circuitry to adaptively control different pass device configurations based on system requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If detection circuitry is added to detect external pass devices, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves automatic configuration detection without dedicated detection circuitry. The driver device inherently detects whether an external pass device is present by attempting to drive it and monitoring the resulting conditions. This self-service approach allows the regulator to adaptively configure itself for either internal or external pass device operation, maintaining versatility while avoiding additional complexity.
3Area of stationary object
If internal pass device is used to avoid external components, then device area and cost are reduced, but power dissipation on the IC increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts its power dissipation management based on thermal conditions and configuration. When operating with an internal pass device, the driver and current limiter work together to manage the higher power dissipation on the IC. The system can switch between internal and external pass device configurations dynamically, allowing it to optimize between area efficiency and thermal management depending on operating conditions.
4Measurement precision
If a series regulator topology with error amplifier is used, then regulation precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The error amplifier and driver device are merged into a single integrated control block. The error amplifier compares the output voltage (via feedback divider) with the reference voltage and generates an error signal that directly drives the driver device. This driver then controls the pass device through its control terminal. This merging of functions maintains precise voltage regulation while reducing the number of separate components and simplifying the overall regulator topology.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention pertains to a linear power regulator device, comprising an internal pass device, a driver device having a driver output arranged to drive the internal pass device via the driver output, wherein the linear power regulator device comprises an external connection connectable or connected to an external pass device; and wherein the driver device is arranged to drive an external pass device via the driver output and the external connection. The invention also pertains to a corresponding electronic device.