Multi-Output Converter Control With Time-Multiplexed Secondary Switches
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional two-stage converter structures for providing multiple output voltages in GaN power amplifiers are inefficient, costly, and occupy large space, failing to meet the performance requirements of 5G and 6G communication systems.
Innovation Solution
A multi-output converter with a control circuit that utilizes a first and second feedback pin to control secondary switches in a time-multiplexed manner, allowing simultaneous energy transmission to multiple outputs through a transformer, optimizing power distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a two-stage converter structure is used to provide multiple output voltages, then different voltage requirements can be met, but the device occupies large space and has high cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate converter stages into a single integrated converter that can simultaneously provide multiple output voltages. The single converter includes a primary switch, transformer, and multiple secondary switches that work together to generate both low voltage (for communication blocks) and high voltage (for GaN PA) outputs from a single input voltage, thereby reducing the overall device area while maintaining adaptability to different voltage requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The single converter is designed with multi-functionality to replace two specialized converters. By incorporating multiple secondary windings on the transformer and multiple secondary switches, the converter can simultaneously perform multiple voltage conversion functions - generating both low voltage for communication blocks and high voltage for power amplifiers - making it a universal power supply solution that reduces space occupation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a two-stage converter structure is used, then multiple voltage outputs can be achieved, but the conversion efficiency is poor
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the two-stage conversion process into a single-stage conversion, the patent eliminates the intermediate conversion step that causes energy loss. The single converter directly transforms input voltage to both low voltage and high voltage outputs simultaneously through the transformer's multiple secondary windings, removing the inefficiency of sequential conversion and improving overall energy efficiency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a two-stage converter structure is used, then multiple voltage outputs can be provided, but the system cost is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separate converter systems into one integrated unit, reducing the total component count including transformers, switches, control circuits, and housing. This consolidation lowers manufacturing costs by reducing material requirements, assembly complexity, and quality control steps while maintaining the capability to provide multiple voltage outputs for different functional blocks.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enhances efficiency and reduces space and cost by enabling simultaneous power delivery to multiple loads with precise voltage regulation, suitable for 5G and 6G communication systems.
Implementation Method 1
The transformer has a primary winding, a first secondary winding and a second secondary winding
Data Source
AI summary
A control circuit for a multi-output converter. The control circuit includes a first feedback pin and a second feedback pin. The first feedback pin is coupled to a first output terminal of the multi-output converter and receives a first feedback signal indicative of a first output signal. The second feedback pin is coupled to a second output terminal of the multi-output converter and receives a second feedback signal indicative of a second output signal. The control circuit controls a first secondary switch coupled to the first output terminal and a second secondary switch coupled to the second output terminal based on the first feedback signal and the second feedback signal. Where during a first switching cycle of multiple switching cycles, the control circuit is configured to turn on the first secondary switch and the second secondary switch in a time-multiplexed manner.