Programmable Multiphase Power Converter for Variable Load Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multiphase converters struggle to efficiently adapt to varied load requirements due to fixed configurations, necessitating different combinations of power stages for optimal efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable power converter with programmable components and configurable circuits that allow dynamic reconfiguration of controller-phase connections, enabling flexible power stage combinations to match varying load demands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed configuration power stages are used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to varied load requirements deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration of power stage connections through programmable components that can change the coupling between controller circuits and converter phases based on load conditions. This allows the system to adapt its configuration dynamically rather than being fixed, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity by introducing controlled programmability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal power converter platform where the same hardware can serve multiple configurations and applications through programmable interconnects. The converter can be reconfigured to support different power delivery scenarios, making a single device perform multiple functions that would otherwise require separate dedicated designs.
2Power
If multiple power stages are combined in parallel to increase power output, then power delivery capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power converter into multiple independent but interoperable phases that can be individually controlled and configured. Each phase can be independently programmed and coupled to controllers, allowing the system to scale power output by activating appropriate numbers and combinations of phases without requiring complete redesign for each power level.
3Adaptability or versatility
If programmable components are added to enable reconfiguration, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the programmable control components directly into the power converter circuitry, integrating the reconfiguration capability within the existing manufacturing process rather than adding separate external programming hardware. This consolidation reduces the number of discrete components and simplifies the manufacturing workflow.
Data Source
AI summary
A power conversion device includes: a semiconductor substrate; a plurality of controllers formed on the semiconductor substrate; two or more converter phases formed on the semiconductor substrate; two or more programmable components formed on the semiconductor substrate, each of the programmable components connected to a respective one of the two or more converter phases; and an interconnect circuit formed on the semiconductor substrate. The two or more programmable components are programmable to selectively couple the two or more converter phases to the plurality of controllers via the interconnect circuit.