Linear Regulator Current Inversion Control for Accurate Voltage Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing low-dropout regulators (LDOs) face challenges in accurately adjusting output voltage while maintaining linearity and minimizing circuit area, particularly in applications requiring precise voltage conversion at specific points.
Innovation Solution
The linear regulator device controls current inversion points by adjusting the fixed current value in the digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and selecting the reference voltage of the operational amplifier, allowing accurate linear voltage conversion at designated points without extensive circuit expansion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the output voltage is adjusted by adjusting current in transimpedance LDO, then the output voltage resolution is improved, but the linearity and output offset are deteriorated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the current adjustment function into two independent parts: a coarse adjustment part using a current mirror circuit with multiple current sources, and a fine adjustment part using a DAC circuit. This segmentation allows the coarse part to handle large current ranges while the fine part provides precise resolution, thereby maintaining both high resolution and good linearity without the trade-off present in conventional single-stage current adjustment circuits.
2Measurement precision
If multiple relationship points are added for accurate linear voltage conversion, then the voltage conversion accuracy is improved, but the circuit area is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional current adjustment mechanism where the same DAC circuit and operational amplifier can serve multiple current inversion points through software-controlled selection of reference voltages. Instead of implementing separate hardware circuits for each voltage conversion point, the system uses a universal DAC-OPAMP combination that can be configured via control signals to achieve accurate linear voltage conversion at multiple predetermined points, thereby maintaining high accuracy while minimizing circuit area.
3Device complexity
If the circuit area is simplified, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to accurately adjust output voltage may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex hardware circuitry with a software-controlled digital system. The DAC circuit converts digital control signals into precise analog current values, and the microcontroller manages the selection of current inversion points and reference voltages through firmware. This substitution of digital control for analog circuit complexity enables accurate output voltage adjustment while maintaining a simplified physical circuit layout, as the precision is achieved through digital algorithms rather than complex analog component arrangements.
Data Source
AI summary
A linear regulator device and a configuration method thereof are provided. The linear regulator device includes a digital-to-analog converter (DAC), an operational amplifier (OPAMP), a switch, and a resistor. The DAC provides a controlled current according to a control signal. An inverting input node of the OPAMP is coupled to the DAC. An output node of the OPAMP is an output node of the linear regulator device. Input nodes of the switch are received multiple reference voltages respectively. The control signal is received by a control node of the switch. The output node of the switch is coupled to a non-inverting input node of the OPAMP. The resistor is coupled between the output node and the inverting input terminal of the OPAMP. A current inversion point of the linear regulator device is determined by one of the multiple reference voltages corresponding to the control signal and the controlled current.