Power Converter Mode Detection Pin Capacitor Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power converters face inefficiencies in mode conversion between disable and enable modes due to slow response times and stress on power switches, primarily because of large capacitance in bypass capacitors, which affects operational frequency and power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A power converter design incorporating a mode detecting pin connected to a small storage capacitor (1 nF to 100 nF) for faster mode conversion, along with a switching controller to manage power routing, reducing the need for additional switching operations and minimizing power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a large capacitance bypass capacitor (1 μF to 100 μF) is used in the power converter, then the power supply stability is improved, but the response time lengthens and stress is applied to the power switch
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the bypass capacitor function into two separate capacitors: a large capacitance capacitor (1 μF to 100 μF) for power supply stability and a small capacitance capacitor (1 nF to 100 nF) for fast mode conversion response. This segmentation allows each capacitor to optimize its function without compromise - the large capacitor maintains stable power supply while the small capacitor enables rapid response to mode changes, eliminating the trade-off between stability and response time.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a large capacitance bypass capacitor is used, then the power supply stability is improved, but stress is applied to the power switch
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the capacitor functions, the large capacitance capacitor handles only the stable power supply function while the small capacitance capacitor handles the fast switching function. This reduces the switching stress on the power switch because the small capacitor can charge and discharge rapidly without requiring the power switch to handle large current surges, thus maintaining stability while reducing stress.
Solution Approach 2:
The small capacitance capacitor acts as an intermediary element between the power switch and the large capacitance bypass capacitor. It provides a low-impedance path for high-frequency switching currents, protecting the power switch from stress while allowing the large capacitor to maintain power supply stability without being directly involved in the fast switching transitions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the voltage level of feedback block is switched, then the operational frequency of counter is switched, but the mode converting time into disable mode changes
Solution Approach 1:
The small capacitance capacitor is pre-charged to the appropriate voltage level before mode conversion is needed. When mode conversion is required, the capacitor is already prepared and can immediately discharge to facilitate the transition, eliminating delays that would otherwise occur during the conversion process. This preliminary preparation ensures that operational frequency switching does not cause unpredictable mode converting time variations.
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 design enables faster mode conversion, reduces power loss, and stabilizes power supply to the main IC, while minimizing stress on switches and power consumption, allowing for efficient operation in both disable and enable modes.
Implementation Method 1
the first capacitor may have a capacitance of about 1 nF to 100 nF
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a power consumption reduction type power converter. For example, such a power converter includes a regulator configured to convert a power voltage into an operation power of a main integrated circuit (IC), a mode detecting pin configured to detect a voltage level of the operation power, wherein the detected voltage level indicates a disable mode or an enable mode, a mode signal output circuit connected to the mode detecting pin, configured to output a mode converting signal, and a switching controller configured to block or connect a power route according to the mode converting signal to supply or block the operation power from being provided to the main IC, wherein the mode detecting pin is connected to a first switch and a first capacitor to perform a charging or a discharging operation of the first capacitor according to a switching operation of the first switch.