Voltage Regulator Output Gating via Op-Amp State Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional voltage regulators have a long start-up time and increased semiconductor device size due to the need for a power source voltage-monitoring circuit, which delays operation when the power supply voltage is lower than the operating range.
Innovation Solution
A voltage regulator design that includes a detecting circuit to monitor the operational amplifier's state, preventing the output transistor from conducting when the operational amplifier is not within its operating voltage range, thus avoiding unintended high voltages and eliminating the need for direct power source voltage monitoring, allowing for quicker start-up.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a power source voltage-monitoring circuit is included to protect the load circuit, then the load circuit is protected from high voltages, but the start-up time increases and the semiconductor device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the voltage monitoring function from a separate power source voltage-monitoring circuit and integrates it into the existing operational amplifier circuit. The operational amplifier's existing voltage comparison capability is utilized to detect both reference voltage and power source voltage, eliminating the need for a dedicated monitoring circuit while maintaining protection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The operational amplifier is designed to perform multiple functions: voltage comparison for regulation and power source voltage monitoring. By making the operational amplifier multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for separate monitoring circuits, reducing device size and start-up time while maintaining protection capabilities.
2Reliability
If a power source voltage-monitoring circuit is included to protect the load circuit, then the load circuit is protected from high voltages, but the semiconductor device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the voltage monitoring function from a separate power source voltage-monitoring circuit and integrates it into the existing operational amplifier circuit. The operational amplifier's existing voltage comparison capability is utilized to detect both reference voltage and power source voltage, eliminating the need for a dedicated monitoring circuit while maintaining protection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The operational amplifier is designed to perform multiple functions: voltage comparison for regulation and power source voltage monitoring. By making the operational amplifier multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for separate monitoring circuits, reducing device size and start-up time while maintaining protection capabilities.
3Reliability
If the voltage regulator waits for sufficient power source voltage before operation, then the operational amplifier operates within its voltage range, but the start-up time becomes long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary monitoring of the power source voltage during the start-up phase. The operational amplifier continuously monitors the power source voltage and prepares the output transistor for conduction in advance, as soon as the voltage reaches a safe level, rather than waiting for a predetermined time delay or complex sequencing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the operational amplifier continuously monitors the power source voltage and adjusts its output accordingly. This real-time feedback allows the system to transition to normal operation as soon as voltage conditions are suitable, minimizing start-up time while ensuring safe operation throughout.
Data Source
AI summary
A voltage regulator includes an operational amplifier that compares a feedback voltage that is proportional to an output voltage and a predetermined reference voltage that corresponds to a desired output voltage. The operational amplifier controls the conduction state of an output transistor according to the comparison. A detecting circuit monitors the operating state of the operational amplifier, and in the case that the operational amplifier is not operating, outputs a signal which causes the output transistor to be placed in a non-conductive state.