Dynamic Regulator-to-Load Switching for Variable Current Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices with multiple regulators face inefficiencies due to fixed connections between regulators and loads, leading to suboptimal performance when current magnitudes vary, as regulators fail to operate at maximum efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A power management circuit with a switching circuit that selectively connects regulators to loads based on current requirements, allowing for reconfiguration to optimize efficiency by selecting the appropriate regulator for each load's operation conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If fixed connections are used between regulators and loads, then device complexity is reduced, but power efficiency deteriorates when current demands vary
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration of connections between regulators and loads based on real-time current demand detection. The system continuously monitors load current requirements and automatically switches regulator connections to match optimal efficiency ranges, transforming the static fixed-connection architecture into a dynamic adaptive system that responds to changing operational conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the connection parameters (which regulator is connected to which load) based on detected current magnitudes. When current demands fall outside optimal efficiency ranges, the system reconfigures the regulator-load mappings to ensure regulators operate within their efficient current ranges, thereby optimizing power efficiency without requiring complete system redesign.
2Adaptability or versatility
If regulators operate outside optimal current ranges, then adaptability to varying load demands is improved, but power efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where current sensors continuously monitor the actual current drawn by each load. This feedback information is used by the control logic to determine whether regulators are operating within their optimal efficiency ranges. Based on this feedback, the system automatically reconfigures regulator connections to maintain optimal operation, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to varying load conditions while preserving efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamic system that continuously adapts regulator connections based on real-time current measurements. Rather than being statically configured, the regulator-load mappings are dynamically adjusted to ensure that as loads vary in their current demands, regulators are always connected to appropriate loads that keep them operating within their efficient current ranges.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple regulators are used for different voltages, then versatility in powering various loads is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the regulator network universal and reconfigurable, where any regulator can potentially serve any load depending on current demands. Rather than having dedicated fixed connections, the system allows multiple regulators to be dynamically assigned to different loads based on operational conditions. This multi-functional approach enables the same set of regulators to adaptively serve various voltage and current requirements throughout the device lifecycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transforms the static regulator assignment into a dynamic configuration where regulator-load connections are continuously optimized. The control system monitors current demands and automatically reassigns regulators to loads as needed, enabling the multi-voltage regulator system to adapt to changing operational requirements without manual intervention or complex hardwired configurations.
Data Source
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AI summary
An electronic device includes a plurality of loads, at least one processor, a plurality of regulators configured to adjust a voltage of power received from a power source and output the adjusted power, and a switching circuit configured to connect at least one of the plurality of regulators to at least one of the plurality of loads. The at least one processor is configured to identify a load to which power is to be supplied among the plurality of loads, select at least one regulator among the plurality of regulators connectable to the identified load, and control the switching circuit to connect the at least one selected regulator to the identified load.