Programmable Logic Device Threshold Comparator for High-Voltage Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Programmable logic devices (PLDs) face limitations in handling high-voltage and high-current power applications due to the constraints of their I/O pins, which require external discrete high-voltage power MOSFETs, increasing cost and board space.
Innovation Solution
A threshold comparator block is integrated into the PLD, comprising signal comparators, an analog output driver, a digital I/O driver, and I/O pins, which interfaces with the programmable fabric and adaptive blocks via a signal wrapper, enabling the PLD to manage high-voltage and high-power applications within a single chip.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If external discrete high-voltage power MOSFETs are added to expand PLD application to high-voltage/current power applications, then the PLD can handle higher voltage and current, but the cost and board space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates power MOSFETs directly into the PLD chip, merging the programmable logic device with high-voltage power switching capabilities into a single integrated component. This eliminates the need for external discrete MOSFETs and reduces board space while maintaining high-voltage and high-current handling capability
Solution Approach 2:
The PLD is designed with multi-functional capability, serving both as a programmable logic device and as a high-voltage power switch. The device can be configured to perform different power management functions through programming, providing universal applicability across various power applications without requiring additional external components
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 allows for efficient power management in high-voltage and high-power applications, reducing board size and cost by integrating dissimilar rails on a single chip, while providing flexible configurations for various power management functions and telemetry capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
one or more signal comparators configured to receive two analog input signals and provide a digital output signal indicating a comparison result of the two analog input signals
Data Source
AI summary
A threshold comparator block integrated in a programmable logic device (PLD) is disclosed. The threshold comparator block includes: one or more signal comparators configured to receive two analog input signals and provide a digital output signal indicating a comparison result of the two analog input signals; an analog output driver configured to interface with an analog fabric of a programmable fabric of the PLD; a digital input/output (I/O) driver configured to interface with a digital fabric of the programmable fabric of the PLD; and I/O pins configured to provide an interface with a signal wrapper to interface analog and digital signals between the analog output driver and the digital I/O driver and the programmable fabric. The threshold comparator block is configured to interface with one or more adaptive blocks integrated in the PLD via the programable fabric and the signal wrapper.