Single-Inductor Multi-Output Regulator for Compact Buck-Boost Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Miniaturized switching regulator circuits for mobile devices face challenges in reducing size while maintaining efficiency, low ripple, and fast response speed, with buck-boost voltage conversion circuits occupying significant space due to the need for multiple inductors.
Innovation Solution
A single inductor multi-output (SIMO) converter circuit that uses a single inductor to generate multiple outputs, incorporating an input circuit with flying capacitors and error detection mechanisms to dynamically adjust output voltages and control switches for efficient power management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If multiple inductors are used in buck-boost voltage conversion circuit, then voltage conversion efficiency is improved, but circuit area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple inductor functions into a single inductor by implementing a SIMO (Single Inductor Multiple Outputs) converter architecture. The single inductor serves multiple output voltages simultaneously through shared inductance, eliminating the need for separate inductors for each output while maintaining the voltage conversion efficiency benefits of multiple inductors.
Solution Approach 2:
The single inductor is designed to perform multiple functions by supporting multiple output voltages and operating modes (buck, boost, buck-boost). The inductor serves as a universal energy storage element that can supply power to different output rails with different voltage levels, replacing what would traditionally require multiple dedicated inductors.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple inductors are used in voltage conversion circuit, then power management capability is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple power management functions into a single integrated converter unit. The SIMO architecture allows one inductor to support multiple output voltages required by different power management modes (low power mode, high power mode, intermediate mode), thereby maintaining versatile power management capability while reducing the overall device volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The voltage conversion circuit is designed as a universal platform that can operate in multiple modes (buck, boost, buck-boost) and provide multiple output voltages through a single inductor. This multi-functional design enables the circuit to adapt to different power management requirements without requiring separate dedicated circuits for each mode, thus reducing device size.
3Area of stationary object
If single inductor is used in SIMO converter, then circuit area is reduced, but output voltage accuracy becomes more difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control mechanisms to monitor and regulate output voltages from the single inductor. By using feedback loops that detect output voltage levels and adjust the switching duty cycles accordingly, the circuit maintains accurate output voltage control despite sharing a common inductor, preventing voltage droop and ensuring precise voltage regulation for each output.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic control strategies that adjust switching parameters in real-time based on load conditions and output voltage requirements. The controller dynamically modifies duty cycles and switching frequencies for each output channel to compensate for the shared inductor's effects, thereby maintaining voltage accuracy across varying operating conditions.
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 SIMO converter circuit achieves high efficiency, low ripple, and fast response speed, reducing the need for multiple inductors and minimizing space while maintaining accurate output voltage levels across multiple outputs.
Implementation Method 1
An inductor has a first end that receives an applied voltage
Implementation Method 2
The first circuit part may include a first flying capacitor and the second circuit part may include a second flying capacitor
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of a switching regulator include a single inductor or two inductors connecting an input circuit and a multi-output end circuit that may drive different loads at different respective voltage levels. The input circuit may include a plurality of input switches, and may boost an input voltage or a ground voltage via operation in one of a plurality of selected modes such as a buck mode, a boost mode and a boost-buck mode, to thereby provide an applied voltage to the one or more inductors. Each selected mode may be based on a target voltage for one of a plurality of unit output ends (output load driving sections) in the multi-output end circuit. Output voltages may be monitored and on-times of switches controlled in the multi-output end circuit to maintain the output voltages in respective target ranges.