Multi-function Terminal Power Supply Controller Feedback and Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power converter control circuits lack an efficient mechanism for integrating feedback signals and over-temperature protection using a single multi-function terminal, leading to increased complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A control circuit with a multi-function terminal that includes a switching circuit, a sample-and-hold circuit, a detection circuit, and a comparator, which generates switching signals and over-temperature signals to enable/disable the switching circuit for output regulation and protection, utilizing a thermal device with negative temperature coefficient for parallel resistance adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate terminals are used for feedback signal input and over-temperature protection, then the reliability of each function is improved, but the device complexity and number of terminals increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-function terminal that can operate in two distinct modes: feedback signal input mode and over-temperature protection mode. Through a switching mechanism controlled by timing signals, the terminal selectively connects to different functional circuits (feedback circuit or thermal device circuit) based on the operating phase, thereby achieving multiple functions with a single terminal and reducing the overall terminal count of the control circuit
2Device complexity
If a multi-function terminal is used to reduce terminal quantity, then the device complexity is reduced, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring different signals increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic switching between different functional modes using timing signals (such as PH1 and PH2). The multi-function terminal alternates between receiving feedback signals and detecting over-temperature signals in different time periods. This periodic action, coordinated with the switching circuit, allows the system to clearly distinguish between different signal types temporally, thereby simplifying the detection and measurement process despite using a shared terminal
Solution Approach 2:
The switching circuit is controlled by timing signals that activate specific functions at predetermined times. Before signal detection begins, the system preliminarily configures the switching state based on the current phase, ensuring that the correct circuit path is established in advance. This preliminary action prevents signal interference and simplifies the detection process by ensuring proper circuit configuration before measurement
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a control circuit having a multi-function terminal. The control circuit comprises a switching circuit, a sample-and-hold circuit, a detection circuit, and a comparator. The sample-and-hold circuit is coupled to the multi-function terminal for generating a sample voltage by sampling the feedback signal during a first period. The detection circuit is coupled to the multi-function terminal during a second period for generating a detection voltage. The comparator compares the detection voltage and the sample voltage for generating an over-temperature signal, wherein the over-temperature signal is couple to disable the switching signal.