Multiphase Power Supply Self-Test Using Reverse Currents
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing testing mechanisms for multiphase power supply regulators require external equipment, increasing cost and complexity, and are often impractical due to the size and quantity of these regulators in electronic devices and systems.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that utilize reverse currents to self-test multiphase power supply circuits, eliminating the need for external testing equipment by using a circuit self-testing tool to adjust voltages and induce reverse currents within the circuit phases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external testing equipment is used to test multiphase power supply circuits, then testing capability is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The multiphase power supply circuit tests itself by using its own phases to generate reverse currents and perform diagnostics without requiring external testing equipment. The circuit leverages its inherent multi-phase structure to conduct self-diagnosis, eliminating the need for separate testing mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply circuit performs dual functions: normal power delivery and self-testing. By enabling the circuit to serve both as a power source and a test subject using the same hardware components, the invention eliminates the need for dedicated external testing equipment, thereby reducing device complexity and cost.
2Reliability
If external testing equipment is used to test multiphase power supply circuits, then testing capability is achieved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit performs self-testing using its own phases and components, eliminating the need to purchase and integrate expensive external testing equipment. This self-service approach reduces manufacturing costs while maintaining testing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The self-testing mechanism uses virtual models or simulated load conditions created within the circuit itself to test various operating scenarios without requiring physical test equipment. By creating virtual test environments through software control of the power supply phases, the system achieves comprehensive testing without additional hardware costs.
3Reliability
If traditional testing methods are used, then testing can be performed, but testing becomes impractical due to size and quantity of regulators
Solution Approach 1:
Each multiphase power supply circuit performs its own testing autonomously, making it practical to test numerous circuits simultaneously without requiring proportional increases in external testing equipment. This self-service capability is particularly advantageous when dealing with multiple regulators in compact electronic devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The testing function is segmented and distributed to each individual power supply circuit rather than requiring centralized external testing. This allows each circuit to independently perform self-diagnosis, making it scalable and practical for systems with multiple regulators of varying sizes.
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
Enables efficient, cost-effective, and reliable self-testing of multiphase power supply circuits, reducing the need for external testing equipment and facilitating testing in scenarios where traditional methods are impractical.
Implementation Method 1
The circuit self-testing tool is configured to adjust a voltage on one or more first phases of the plurality of circuit phases to a plurality of voltages, and induce a reverse current from one or more second phases of the plurality of circuit phases to the one or more first phases
Data Source
AI summary
A computer system, computer program product, and computer-implemented method for using reverse currents to self-test multiphase power supply circuits. The method includes executing one or more operations on at least two circuit phases of one or more multiphase power supply circuits. The multiphase power supply circuits include a plurality of circuit phases, and each multiphase power supply circuit is electrically coupled to a plurality of electric power phases. Each circuit phase is coupled to an electric power phase. Executing the operations includes adjusting the voltage on one or more first phases of the plurality of circuit phases to a plurality of voltages, and inducing a reverse current from one or more second phases of the plurality of circuit phases to the one or more first phases.