Multiphase Switching Converter Fault Detection Across DCM and CCM

The patent divides the multiphase switching converter into multiple independent phase units, each with dedicated fault detection circuits. The controller separately monitors each phase's switching signals and current signals, enabling independent fault detection for each phase regardless of the overall working mode. This segmentation allows accurate fault detection in both DCM and CCM operations.

The patent employs multiple detection parameters including switching signal duration, current waveform characteristics, and timing relationships between different signals. By monitoring multiple parameters simultaneously and comparing them against expected values for different working modes, the system maintains fault detection accuracy across mode transitions while optimizing efficiency through auto-phase shedding.

The patent designs a universal fault detection framework that handles multiple working modes (DCM, CCM, and transitions between them) using the same basic detection circuits and control logic. The controller universally monitors switching signals and current signals across all phases and modes, applying consistent detection algorithms regardless of the specific operating condition, thereby managing complexity while maintaining efficiency optimization.

The system implements feedback mechanisms where the controller continuously monitors the actual working mode and adjusts detection thresholds and parameters accordingly. The fault detection circuit receives feedback about the current operating state and adapts its monitoring strategy, enabling efficient fault detection across varying load conditions without requiring separate complex detection circuits for each mode.

The patent implements preliminary monitoring of critical parameters such as switching signal timing and current waveform characteristics in all working modes. By continuously tracking these key indicators and establishing baseline expectations for each mode, the system prepares detection thresholds and criteria in advance, enabling rapid fault identification when anomalies occur without sacrificing comprehensive monitoring coverage.

The fault detection circuit prioritizes critical detection parameters and uses streamlined comparison logic to quickly determine fault conditions. When a potential fault is detected, the system rushes through the essential verification steps to confirm the fault status without performing exhaustive analysis, thereby maintaining high detection speed while ensuring reliable fault identification across all working modes.