Self-Biasing Power Converter Circuit Using Parasitic Charge Recovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power converters face inefficiencies due to power loss in charging and discharging parasitic capacitances, necessitating additional power from the source to supply bias signals to control circuits, which increases overall power consumption and system footprint.
Innovation Solution
A bias generation circuit that diverts charge from parasitic capacitances of the power converter to an integrated capacitor, reducing the need for additional power and minimizing the system's footprint by integrating components on a semiconductor die.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional power is drawn from the source to supply bias signals to control circuits, then the control circuits can operate reliably, but the overall power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful effect of parasitic capacitance charging/discharging into a beneficial source of bias power. The control circuit captures and stores the energy that would otherwise be wasted during switching transitions, using it to generate bias signals for control circuit operation, thereby eliminating the need for additional power from the source.
Solution Approach 2:
The power converter system generates its own bias power internally by harvesting energy from its own parasitic capacitances during normal operation. The control circuit uses the converter's switching energy to power itself, creating a self-sufficient system that does not require external bias power supply.
2Reliability
If separate bias power supply components are added to the power converter, then reliable bias signals can be generated, but the system footprint increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the bias power generation function with the existing power converter circuitry. The control circuit integrates energy capture from parasitic capacitances and bias signal generation within the same system, eliminating the need for separate bias power supply components and reducing overall system footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuit performs multiple functions: it controls the power converter switching while simultaneously harvesting energy from parasitic capacitances and generating bias signals. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated bias power supply components, reducing system complexity and footprint.
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
Improves efficiency by reducing power loss and minimizing the physical size of the power conversion system while maintaining robust control over bias signals.
Implementation Method 1
A bias generation circuit that diverts charge from parasitic capacitances of the power converter to an integrated capacitor
Data Source
AI summary
A self-biasing circuit for power converters is disclosed. In an example, an apparatus includes a first transistor coupled between an inductor terminal and a ground terminal, and a second transistor coupled between the inductor terminal and a bias terminal. The first transistor has a first control terminal, and the second transistor has a second control terminal. In an example, the first and second transistors are configured to split a current at the inductor terminal. The apparatus further includes a controller having first and second control outputs, where the first control output is coupled to the first control terminal, the second control output is coupled to the second control terminal.