Pass Switch Gate Control Using Intermediate-Node Charging Current
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power electronics systems face challenges in efficiently controlling pass switches due to the need for complex and power-consuming charge pumps, which can be replaced by a current source that draws charging current from an intermediate node, providing a more stable and higher voltage supply.
Innovation Solution
A controller with a current source configured to drive a charging current from an intermediate node between a transformer winding and a power switch to the control terminal of a pass switch, eliminating the need for charge pumps and reducing complexity and power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If charge pumps are used to control pass switches, then the pass switch can be turned on, but the system becomes complex and power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the charging current directly from the intermediate node between the transformer winding and power switch, eliminating the charge pump circuit entirely. This removes the complex circuitry while maintaining the ability to charge the pass switch gate capacitor, resolving the contradiction between reliability and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate node naturally provides the charging current without requiring an external charge pump. The system uses its own internal voltage fluctuations at the intermediate node to charge the pass switch, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating additional power-consuming components.
2Reliability
If charge pumps are used to control pass switches, then the pass switch can be turned on, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the intermediate node's own voltage fluctuations to provide charging current, eliminating the need for external power-consuming charge pump circuits. This self-service approach reduces overall power consumption while maintaining pass switch control reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate node serves multiple functions: it provides voltage for power switch operation and simultaneously provides charging current for the pass switch. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated charge pump power consumption.
3Reliability
If charge pumps are used to control pass switches, then the pass switch can be turned on, but the voltage supply becomes less stable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts charging current directly from the intermediate node which naturally has higher and more stable voltage characteristics, eliminating the voltage instability issues associated with charge pump circuits that generate voltage through switching operations.
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
This solution enables efficient control of pass switches with reduced power loss and increased stability, allowing for precise timing and higher frequency operations in power electronics systems.
Implementation Method 1
A controller may include a current source configured to drive a charging current to a control terminal of the pass switch. The current source may be configured to draw the charging current from an intermediate node between a transformer winding and a power switch.
Data Source
AI summary
In some examples, a controller is configured to control a power switch electrically connected in series with a winding. In some examples, the controller is also configured to control a pass switch electrically connected between an output node of the winding and a bus out node. In some examples, the controller includes a current source configured to selectively drive a charging current from an intermediate node between the power switch and the winding to a control terminal of the pass switch to turn on the pass switch.