Single-Inductor Multi-Output Converter Design
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional switched-mode converters require multiple inductors or transformers to output multiple voltages, leading to bulkiness and high costs due to the large volume and unit price of these components.
Innovation Solution
A single-inductor multi-output converter design that includes a charge pump unit, current supply unit, and output units with capacitors to store and transfer electric charges, allowing for the generation of multiple voltages using a single inductor, with one output unit producing a negative voltage and the other a positive voltage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple inductors or transformers are used to output multiple voltages, then the converter can provide multiple voltage outputs, but the volume and cost of the converter increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple inductor functions into a single inductor by using capacitors to store and transfer energy at different time periods. The first capacitor stores energy when the switch is on and transfers it when the switch is off, while the second capacitor stores energy when the switch is off and transfers it when the switch is on. This combining of functions reduces the number of inductors needed from multiple to just one, thereby reducing converter volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The single inductor in the patent performs multiple functions that would traditionally require separate components. By controlling the switch and capacitor connections, the same inductor supports both voltage outputs through different operational modes (first time period and second time period), making the inductor a multi-functional component that serves multiple voltage generation purposes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple inductors or transformers are used to output multiple voltages, then the converter can provide multiple voltage outputs, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple expensive inductor/transformer components into a single inductor configuration with capacitors and switch control. This merging reduces the bill of materials cost by eliminating the need to manufacture and purchase multiple separate inductors or transformers, directly lowering the manufacturing cost while maintaining multi-output functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The single inductor is designed to perform multiple voltage generation functions through different operational periods and capacitor connections. This multi-functionality reduces the total component count and manufacturing complexity, making the converter more cost-effective to produce while still providing multiple voltage outputs.
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 design reduces the volume and cost of the converter while enabling the output of multiple voltages using a single inductor, achieving a compact and cost-effective solution.
Implementation Method 1
the current supply unit may: include an inductor positioned between an input node and the first node; build up current in the inductor in the first time period; and transfer the current of the inductor to the charge pump unit in the second time period
Implementation Method 2
the charge pump unit may be positioned between a first node and a second node, and may store electric charges flowing into the first node and the second node through a first capacitor
Data Source
AI summary
A single-inductor multi-output converter that includes a charge pump unit, a current supply unit, a first output unit, and a second output unit. The charge pump unit may be positioned between a first node and a second node, and may store electric charges flowing into the first node and the second node through a first capacitor, or may supply electric charges to the second node. In addition, the current supply unit may: include an inductor positioned between an input node and the first node; build up current in the inductor in the first time period; and transfer the current of the inductor to the charge pump unit in the second time period.