Synchronous Sampled Power Supply Frequency Tuning for Stable DC Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
Complex processors in computing devices require a power supply voltage that must be accurately regulated while minimizing die area on integrated circuits, and existing power supplies often introduce unwanted frequencies that can interfere with device operations.
Innovation Solution
A synchronously sampled single bit switch mode power supply using a synchronous sampled comparator, power field effect transistors, and an inductor to generate a DC power supply voltage, with a programmable delay line and frame length counter to adjust the switching frequency and reduce interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a regulated power supply voltage is provided, then the power supply voltage is stable and accurate, but unwanted frequencies are introduced into the power supply voltage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic sampling of the power supply voltage at specific intervals synchronized with the switching frequency. By sampling at discrete periodic moments rather than continuously, the system maintains accurate voltage regulation while avoiding the generation of unwanted frequency components that would result from continuous regulation circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional analog voltage regulation mechanisms with a digital sampling and control approach. Instead of using continuous analog circuits that generate harmonics and unwanted frequencies, the system uses periodic digital sampling of the voltage followed by controlled adjustment, thereby eliminating the harmful frequency generation while maintaining regulation accuracy.
2Area of stationary object
If the die area on the integrated circuit is minimized, then the power supply compactness is improved, but the accuracy of power supply voltage regulation may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power supply voltage regulation function into discrete periodic sampling operations rather than requiring a continuous complex analog regulation circuit. This segmentation allows the use of simpler, smaller circuit elements that can be implemented with minimal die area while maintaining regulation accuracy through the periodic measurement and control approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes complex analog voltage regulation circuits with a digital sampling and control methodology. This replacement dramatically reduces the required die area since digital sampling circuits require far less space than continuous analog regulation circuits, while the accuracy is maintained through precise timing and controlled adjustment mechanisms.
3Speed
If the switching frequency is increased, then the power supply response speed is improved, but frequency interference with other device operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic sampling at an optimized frequency that balances response speed with interference avoidance. By sampling the voltage at specific periodic intervals rather than using continuous high-frequency switching, the system achieves adequate response speed while the periodic nature of the sampling prevents the generation of continuous high-frequency interference that would affect other device operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the sampled voltage information is used to control subsequent switching operations. This feedback approach allows the system to respond to voltage changes effectively while operating at lower switching frequencies, because the feedback loop efficiently utilizes each sampling event to make precise control decisions, thereby reducing the need for high-frequency switching and the associated interference.
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 provides a stable and efficient power supply voltage that minimizes die area and reduces frequency interference, ensuring reliable operation of complex processors by tuning the switching frequency to avoid collisions with other frequencies used by the computing device.
Implementation Method 1
The synchronous sampled comparator may compare the reference voltage and the feedback signal at a sampling frequency
Implementation Method 2
The power FETs generate a power supply voltage using the inductor. The power supply voltage is a direct current (DC) power supply voltage
Implementation Method 3
The power supply may also include a programmable delay line that introduces a delay into the serial data stream that reduces the frequency of the serial data stream
Data Source
AI summary
A power supply is described. The power supply includes a synchronous sampled comparator. The synchronous sampled comparator includes a first input that receives a reference voltage. The synchronous sampled comparator also includes a second input that receives a feedback signal. The power supply also includes power field effect transistors (FETs). The power supply further includes an inductor coupled to the power FETs and coupled to the second input. The power FETs generate a power supply voltage using the inductor. The power supply voltage is a direct current (DC) power supply voltage.