Power Supply Circuit With Inductor Detection for Auto Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-mode power supply circuits struggle to automatically determine whether to operate in switch mode or linear mode based on the presence of an inductor, leading to potential inefficiencies and increased hardware costs.
Innovation Solution
A power supply circuit with an inductor detection unit that automatically determines the presence of an inductor by comparing voltage levels at the output nodes, using a comparator and resistor ladder, and controls the operating mode accordingly through a finite state machine.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the power supply circuit operates in switch mode with an inductor, then power efficiency is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply circuit automatically detects the presence of an inductor and self-configures its operating mode without external intervention. The detection unit monitors the output node characteristics, and the control unit autonomously switches between LDO and DC-DC modes based on detected conditions, eliminating the need for manual programming or complex external control circuitry.
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit dynamically changes its operating parameters by switching between two distinct modes: linear regulation mode (LDO) when no inductor is present, and switching mode (DC-DC converter) when an inductor is detected. This parameter change allows the same hardware to optimize for either simplicity or efficiency depending on the actual configuration.
2Device complexity
If the power supply circuit operates in linear mode without an inductor, then device complexity and cost are reduced, but power efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply circuit automatically detects the presence of an inductor and self-configures its operating mode without external intervention. The detection unit monitors the output node characteristics, and the control unit autonomously switches between LDO and DC-DC modes based on detected conditions, eliminating the need for manual programming or complex external control circuitry.
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit dynamically changes its operating parameters by switching between two distinct modes: linear regulation mode (LDO) when no inductor is present, and switching mode (DC-DC converter) when an inductor is detected. This parameter change allows the same hardware to optimize for either simplicity or efficiency depending on the actual configuration.
3Extent of automation
If manual configuration is used to determine operating mode, then automation is reduced, but manufacturing precision and control are improved
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply circuit automatically detects the presence of an inductor and self-configures its operating mode without external intervention. The detection unit monitors the output node characteristics, and the control unit autonomously switches between LDO and DC-DC modes based on detected conditions, eliminating the need for manual programming or complex external control circuitry.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual configuration mechanisms (mechanical/system-level intervention) with an electronic detection and control system. The automatic detection unit and control unit use electrical signal monitoring and processing to determine the operating mode, substituting electronic automation for manual or mechanical configuration methods.
4Ease of operation
If automatic mode determination is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply circuit automatically detects the presence of an inductor and self-configures its operating mode without external intervention. The detection unit monitors the output node characteristics, and the control unit autonomously switches between LDO and DC-DC modes based on detected conditions, eliminating the need for manual programming or complex external control circuitry.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply circuit is designed with multi-functionality, capable of operating in both LDO and DC-DC converter modes using the same basic hardware structure. The detection unit and control unit add minimal complexity while enabling the circuit to adapt to different configurations, making the system universally applicable to both inductor-present and inductor-absent scenarios.
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 automatic configuration of the power supply circuit in high-efficiency switch mode or low-cost linear mode, reducing the need for manual programming and preventing component overstress, while addressing customer-specific requirements for power efficiency and cost.
Implementation Method 1
comparing a voltage level of the first output node with said reference voltage
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with a first aspect of the present disclosure, a power supply circuit is provided, comprising: a first output node and a second output node; an inductor detection unit configured to detect whether an inductor is present at the first output node and to output a corresponding detection signal; a mode control unit configured to control an operating mode of the power supply circuit in dependence on said detection signal; wherein the inductor detection unit is configured to detect whether said inductor is present by pulling down the first output node, deriving a reference voltage from the second output node, and comparing a voltage level of the first output node with said reference voltage. In accordance with a second aspect of the present disclosure, a corresponding method of operating a power supply circuit is conceived.