Multi-Input Power Regulator IC with Dynamic Controller
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power architectures in electronic devices are inefficient in providing regulated power from multiple sources, leading to excessive current overhead and reduced efficiency across various modes of operation due to the lack of optimization for different output current requirements.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an integrated circuit (IC) with a regulator that includes multiple voltage regulators and a controller to manage input voltages, allowing for the selection and regulation of the appropriate output voltage and current based on the mode of operation, using power multiplexing and cascode configurations to protect transistors and optimize power delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single regulator is used to provide power from a single input voltage, then the device structure is simple, but the efficiency is reduced due to excessive current overhead in various modes of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The single regulator is segmented into multiple voltage regulators (first voltage regulator, second voltage regulator, etc.), each optimized for specific modes of operation. This segmentation allows each regulator to operate at optimal efficiency for its designated mode, reducing overall current overhead and energy loss across different operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects which voltage regulator to use based on the current mode of operation. The controller adjusts the power architecture in real-time, switching between different regulators depending on whether the device is in high-current mode, low-current mode, or other operational states, thereby optimizing efficiency dynamically.
2Device complexity
If a single regulator is used to provide power from a single input voltage, then the device design is straightforward, but the adaptability to various modes of operation is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The power architecture is designed with multiple voltage regulators that can serve different modes of operation. Each regulator is configured to handle specific operational requirements (e.g., high current, low current, different voltage levels), making the overall system universal and adaptable to various modes while maintaining a cohesive design structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by selecting different voltage regulators based on the required output current and voltage levels for each mode of operation. This parameter adjustment allows the power architecture to adapt efficiently to different operational demands without requiring a complete redesign for each mode.
3Loss of energy
If multiple voltage regulators are used to provide power from multiple input voltages, then the efficiency in various modes of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple voltage regulators are merged into a unified power architecture with a common controller that manages all regulators. This merging approach allows the system to benefit from multiple optimized regulators while presenting a simplified interface and control mechanism, effectively managing the complexity through integration rather than separate independent systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller automatically manages the selection and operation of different voltage regulators based on the current mode of operation, eliminating the need for manual intervention or complex external control circuitry. The system self-adjusts to optimize efficiency in each mode, reducing the burden on the overall device complexity while maintaining high performance.
4Duration of action of moving object
If multiple voltage regulators are used to provide power from multiple input voltages, then the operational time and energy efficiency are extended, but the circuit protection requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates protective circuitry and control logic that anticipates potential harmful conditions (such as voltage spikes, current overload, or improper connections) before they can damage the transistors. By implementing preventive protection measures in advance, the system extends operational time while safeguarding against harmful factors that could otherwise limit device lifespan.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes an integrated circuit (IC). The IC includes a regulator to receive a plurality of input voltages and to provide a regulated output voltage to a load. The regulator includes a plurality of voltage regulators that receive the plurality of input voltages and provide the regulated output voltage as an output of the regulator. The IC further includes a controller that controls the regulator by using a voltage regulator in the plurality of voltage regulators to generate the regulated output voltage from the plurality of input voltages.