PWM and Switched-Capacitor Power Saving for Communication Circuits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power supply circuits face challenges in designing low dropout regulators for communication circuits in power saving modes due to wide output voltage variations, leading to poor power conversion efficiency and increased complexity.
Innovation Solution
A control circuit incorporating a pulse width modulation (PWM) controller and a switched capacitor converter, with a power saving signal to adjust the output voltage and duty ratio, enabling efficient power delivery to communication circuits while reducing circuit size and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the output voltage is reduced to save power in communication circuits, then power consumption is reduced, but power conversion efficiency deteriorates due to wide voltage range requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching between two power supply modes (first power supply circuit for high voltage/full power mode, second power supply circuit for low voltage/power saving mode) based on system operating conditions. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize both power consumption and conversion efficiency by selecting the appropriate power supply mode for each operational state
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the output voltage parameter dynamically by switching between two distinct power supply circuits designed for different voltage ranges. The first circuit handles high voltage (3V-48V) while the second circuit handles low voltage specifically for power saving mode, thereby maintaining high conversion efficiency across different operating conditions
2Adaptability or versatility
If a low dropout regulator is designed to handle wide output voltage range (3V-48V), then voltage adaptability is improved, but device complexity and circuit size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is segmented into two separate power supply circuits, each optimized for specific voltage ranges. The first power supply circuit (PWM controller with transformer) handles high voltage operation, while the second power supply circuit (switched capacitor converter) handles low voltage operation. This segmentation eliminates the need for a single complex regulator designed to handle the entire 3V-48V range
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuit is designed with multi-functionality to manage both power supply circuits and switch between them based on operating mode. The controller can operate in full power mode (using first circuit) or power saving mode (using second circuit), providing universal adaptability across different voltage requirements without requiring separate dedicated circuits for each mode
3Loss of energy
If switching frequency is reduced to decrease switching losses, then power conversion efficiency is improved, but output voltage regulation capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts switching frequency based on operating mode. In full power mode, higher switching frequency maintains good voltage regulation. In power saving mode, the switched capacitor converter operates at reduced switching frequency to minimize switching losses, as the capacitor-based conversion inherently provides good regulation even at lower frequencies
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional inductor-based power conversion mechanism with a capacitor-based switched capacitor converter in power saving mode. This substitution allows for lower switching frequencies while maintaining voltage regulation capability, as capacitors can charge and discharge efficiently at lower frequencies compared to inductor-based systems that require higher frequencies for equivalent performance
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
The solution achieves reduced output voltage levels, increased power conversion efficiency, and decreased switching frequency, enhancing power saving capabilities and reducing switching losses in power supply circuits.
Implementation Method 1
a pulse width modulation (PWM) controller configured to operably switch a transformer of the power supply circuit to generate a first output voltage
Implementation Method 2
a switched capacitor converter configured to operably generate a second output voltage according to the first output voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A control circuit for controlling a power supply circuit to provide power to a system device which includes a communication circuit includes: a pulse width modulation (PWM) controller configured to switch a transformer of the power supply circuit to generate a first output voltage; and a switched capacitor converter configured to generate a second output voltage according to the first output voltage. The second output voltage provides power to the communication circuit, wherein the communication circuit generates a power saving signal to control the PWM controller and the switched capacitor converter. When the power saving signal is enabled, the first output voltage is decreased and a duty ratio of the switched capacitor converter is increased.