Single-Inductor Multi-Output Converter With Energy-Saving Bypass

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Solution Overview

Problem

Single inductor multiple output converters suffer from low conversion efficiency due to power consumption and energy loss caused by switching elements during operation.

Innovation Solution

A single inductor multiple output converter with an energy-saving operation mode that includes an energy-saving switch, which directly outputs the input voltage as the output positive voltage when it is greater than or equal to the output positive voltage, reducing the number of switching times of inductor control switches.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If the inductor control switch is repeatedly switched on and off to convert input voltage into output voltage, then the output voltage can be regulated and controlled, but power consumption increases and conversion efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconversion efficiencyVSAvoidpower loss
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic operation mode switching between PWM mode and PFM mode based on real-time voltage conditions. When the voltage difference between input and output exceeds a threshold, the system switches to PFM mode with reduced switching frequency, thereby dynamically adapting the switching behavior to minimize power loss while maintaining conversion efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the switching frequency parameter dynamically by introducing a frequency adjustment module. This module detects the voltage difference and adjusts the switching frequency accordingly - reducing frequency when voltage difference is large to minimize switching losses, and maintaining high frequency when voltage difference is small to ensure adequate power conversion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Speed

If the switching frequency is increased to improve voltage conversion speed, then the response time decreases, but the power loss from switching increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevoltage conversion speedVSAvoidswitching loss
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts switching frequency based on real-time voltage conditions. When voltage difference is large, frequency is reduced to minimize switching losses. When voltage difference is small, frequency is increased to maintain fast conversion speed, thus dynamically optimizing the trade-off between speed and energy loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs periodic voltage detection and frequency adjustment cycles. The control module periodically samples the voltage difference and adjusts the switching frequency in a periodic manner, creating a rhythm of high-frequency operation during small voltage differences and low-frequency operation during large voltage differences.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 energy-saving mode significantly improves conversion efficiency by minimizing switch switching times, thereby reducing power loss and enhancing overall performance.

Implementation Method 1

The inductor control switch is controlled to be turned on or off to repeatedly charge and discharge the inductor, thereby converting the input voltage into an output positive voltage and at least one additional output voltage

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The energy-saving switch is electrically connected to the voltage input source and the positive voltage output source, and is used to directly output the input voltage as the output positive voltage to the positive voltage output source when it is turned on

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS20260025057A1Single inductor multiple output converter with an energy-saving mode
Publication Date: 2026.01.22 ADVANCED ANALOG TECH INC
  • US20260025057A1 patent drawing
  • US20260025057A1 patent drawing
  • US20260025057A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A single inductor multi output converter with an energy-saving mode is used to convert an input voltage into an output positive voltage and at least one additional output voltage. It includes a single inductor conversion circuit, an energy-saving switch, a voltage detector, and a conversion control circuit. The voltage detector causes the conversion control circuit to enter normal mode when the input voltage is lower than the output positive voltage, and energy-saving mode when the input voltage is higher or equal. In normal mode, the energy-saving switch is off, and the single inductor conversion circuit outputs the positive and additional voltages. In energy-saving mode, the energy-saving switch is on to directly output the input voltage as the positive output, while the single inductor conversion circuit outputs the additional voltages.