Multi-Regulator Standby Current Reduction via Dynamic Segmentation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Modern devices, especially microprocessor circuits, face inefficiencies in power supply regulators due to high standby current consumption, which is exacerbated by the need for large current capability during high load conditions and low current consumption during idle modes, leading to significant power wastage in standby modes.
Innovation Solution
A power regulator circuit with a power management control unit (PMCU) that dynamically adjusts the number and type of voltage regulators online based on current demand, utilizing a combination of main, low-power, and ultra-low power regulators to match current capacity with load requirements, ensuring peak efficiency across varying operational states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a single voltage regulator with large current capability is used to meet maximum load demands, then the regulator can provide sufficient power during high load conditions, but the standby current consumption increases significantly during idle modes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single regulator function into multiple specialized regulators: a first voltage regulator optimized for high current delivery and a second voltage regulator optimized for low standby current. These segmented regulators work in parallel, with a control circuit dynamically selecting which regulator supplies power based on load conditions. This segmentation allows each regulator to be optimized for its specific function, resolving the contradiction between high current capability and low standby consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic switching between regulators based on real-time load monitoring. The control circuit continuously monitors load current and dynamically adjusts which regulator is active - using the first regulator during high load conditions and the second regulator during low load/standby conditions. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize power delivery characteristics according to actual operating conditions, eliminating the need for a single oversized regulator that consumes high standby power.
2Productivity
If the regulator is designed for high current delivery, then it can meet microprocessor demands at maximum speed, but the regulator consumes excessive current during standby modes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the regulator functionality into two distinct units: the first voltage regulator designed with high current delivery capability to support maximum microprocessor operating speeds, and the second voltage regulator designed with ultra-low standby current characteristics. The control circuit segments the operational timeline into high-activity periods (using first regulator) and low-activity periods (using second regulator), allowing the system to achieve high productivity when needed while minimizing energy consumption during standby.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the power supply system by switching between regulators with different electrical characteristics. The first regulator operates with parameters optimized for high current (large pass device, high bias current), while the second regulator operates with parameters optimized for low current (small pass device, minimal bias current). The control circuit monitors load parameters and switches between regulator configurations, changing the system's electrical parameters to match operational requirements and thereby reducing standby current while maintaining maximum speed capability.
3Power
If a large pass device is used in the regulator to meet maximum load current requirements, then the regulator can deliver sufficient current, but the parasitic capacitance increases leading to larger charging and discharging currents
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power delivery function so that the large pass device (with high parasitic capacitance) is only activated when needed for high current delivery. The first voltage regulator incorporates the large pass device to handle maximum load current requirements, while the second voltage regulator uses a small pass device with minimal parasitic capacitance for standby operation. The control circuit segments the operational periods, connecting the large pass device only during high-load intervals, thereby limiting the time during which high parasitic capacitance is present and reducing overall energy waste associated with charging and discharging this capacitance.
Data Source
AI summary
Consistent with an example embodiment, there is a power regulator arrangement with variable current capacity providing power from a power supply to a load having variable demand. As a load, a high-performance microprocessor has several modes of operation. At the highest speed setting, it demands a lot of current. At slower clock speeds and during state retention, the processor has a very low current consumption. Using a single regulator, the current efficiency may be very low during long standby periods. To increase the efficiency even at lower load currents, a scheme is based on parallel operation of multiple regulators having different load ranges, for example, a “low, “medium,” and “high” range regulators. Having knowledge of the load current profile, the regulators can be adjusted such that the peak of the efficiency curve matches the load profile of the regulator. The efficiency of the power regulator arrangement is enhanced throughout the range of power demanded by the load.