Switched Capacitor Regulator Mode Switching for Continuous Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional switched capacitor voltage regulators (SCVRs) face inefficiencies in current output due to a fixed number of charge redistribution phases and lack dynamic mode transitions, leading to inconsistent voltage regulation during mode changes.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a switched capacitor voltage converter with multiple cores and buses, allowing for dynamic configuration of switch states and phases through control logic, enabling seamless transitions between modes such as boost, buck, and turbo modes based on input and output voltage conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional SCVR uses fixed charge redistribution phases, then circuit simplicity is maintained, but current capability and adaptability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic mode transitions by allowing the SCVR to switch between different charge redistribution phases based on real-time voltage and current requirements. The control logic dynamically adjusts the number of phases (e.g., transitioning from 2-phase to 4-phase operation) without requiring system shutdown, enabling adaptive response to changing load conditions while maintaining continuous power delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The charge redistribution process is segmented into multiple independent phases that can be selectively activated. By dividing the voltage regulation function into discrete phase segments, the system can combine or omit specific phases based on operational requirements, achieving variable current capability and efficiency optimization without fundamentally redesigning the entire circuit architecture.
2Reliability
If SCVR transitions between modes statically with shutdown, then mode switching is simple, but output continuity and efficiency are degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent maintains continuous voltage output during mode transitions by implementing seamless phase transitions. The control logic ensures that charge redistribution continues uninterrupted by coordinating switch states across multiple phases, allowing the system to transition from buck mode to boost mode or adjust current capability without shutting down or interrupting power delivery to the load.
Solution Approach 2:
The control logic prepares for mode transitions in advance by pre-configuring switch states and phase sequences. Before a mode change is initiated, the system pre-positions the capacitor switches and adjusts the charging/discharging sequences to ensure smooth transition, preventing voltage spikes or drops that would occur with abrupt mode switching.
3Productivity
If SCVR uses fixed number of phases, then circuit operation is simple, but current capability varies with load requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically changes the number of charge redistribution phases based on load requirements. The control logic monitors output current demands and adjusts the phase count parameter (e.g., operating in 2-phase mode for light loads, switching to 4-phase mode for heavy loads). This parameter adjustment optimizes current capability and efficiency across different operating conditions without requiring hardware changes.
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
This solution enhances current capability and maintains continuous output voltage during mode transitions, improving efficiency and adaptability to changing power requirements.
Implementation Method 1
A switched capacitor voltage regulator (SCVR) - such as a continuous capacitive voltage regulator
Data Source
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AI summary
Techniques and mechanisms for determining a mode of operation of a switched capacitor voltage regulator (SCVR). In an embodiment, a controller supports multiple modes of operation of the SCVR, wherein the modes each correspond to a different respective sequence of switch states of a converter core of the SCVR. One of the modes is to provide boost voltage regulation with the SCVR. The controller transitions seamlessly and autonomously between two modes based on respective reference switch states of the two modes. In another embodiment, a mode transition is performed based on a signal which a control sensor generates based on a rate of switch events of the voltage regulator, and predetermined reference information indicating current characteristics of the voltage regulator.