Power Supply Controller Selectable PWM and RPM Modes
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power supply controllers face accuracy and stability issues due to tracking errors during dynamic loading, particularly in systems with high CPU current transients, and require multiple DC-DC converters which increase complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A ramp control circuit that transitions between synchronous and non-synchronous operation modes based on error signals and timer triggers, reducing input filter ripple current without causing voltage disturbances, using a ramp control circuit with an RPM trigger amplifier and a timer to manage modulation modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional PWM control with fixed ramp signal is used, then switching noise immunity is improved, but responsiveness to dynamic load changes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the ramp signal adjustable rather than fixed. The ramp generator modifies the ramp signal characteristics based on operating conditions, allowing the system to adapt between PWM mode (for noise immunity) and RPM mode (for fast transient response). This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between reliable switching control and rapid response to load changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameters of the control system by switching between different modulation modes (PWM and RPM) and adjusting the ramp signal parameters dynamically. This allows optimization of both noise immunity and responsiveness by selecting appropriate parameter sets for different operating conditions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple DC-DC converters are used to handle light and heavy loads, then load handling capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling a single DC-DC converter to handle both light and heavy loads through dual modulation modes (PWM and RPM). The converter can operate in PWM mode for steady-state efficiency and switch to RPM mode for fast transient response, eliminating the need for separate converters for different load conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of multiple converters into a single converter by combining PWM and RPM control capabilities in one device. This consolidation maintains the ability to handle varying load conditions while reducing the total number of components and simplifying the system architecture.
3Stability of the object's composition
If error amplifier with impedance network is used for voltage regulation, then high frequency stability is improved, but tracking accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the modulation mode selectable rather than fixed. The system can dynamically switch between PWM mode (which provides good stability) and RPM mode (which provides fast tracking response). This dynamic selection allows the system to maintain both stability and tracking accuracy depending on operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameter by switching between different modulation schemes. This allows optimization of both stability and tracking accuracy by selecting the appropriate mode based on the specific operating requirements, rather than being constrained by a single fixed configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
At least one exemplary embodiment is directed to a method of switching between synchronous and nonsynchronous ramp control. An embodiment may include a power supply controller that has a trigger circuit configured to generate an RPM trigger, a timer circuit configured to generate a clock signal, and a switching circuit configured to switch a modulation mode responsively to the clock signal and the RPM signal.