Closed-Loop Switch Impedance Control for Fast Response

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing switch control systems struggle to maintain consistent impedance across different operating conditions and manufacturing variations, leading to variability in switch performance due to factors like temperature changes and fabrication process inconsistencies.

Innovation Solution

A closed-loop switch control system with a control unit that includes a differential opamp, a replica switch, and a reference unit, configured to regulate the switch's impedance to a reference impedance, featuring a frequency response with multiple dominant poles and at least one zero, enabling robust and fast impedance control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a transistor switch is used with rated on-impedance calibration, then the switch can be selected for different applications, but the actual impedance value varies due to manufacturing process variations and drift during operation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitch selection for different applicationsVSAvoidimpedance consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the actual impedance of the transistor switch is continuously monitored and compared against the rated impedance value. The system dynamically adjusts operating parameters to compensate for deviations caused by manufacturing variations and thermal drift, ensuring the actual impedance matches the rated value throughout operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes operating parameters such as gate-source voltage, drain current, or bias conditions to actively control and adjust the transistor's on-impedance. By dynamically modifying these parameters in response to measured impedance deviations, the system compensates for manufacturing variations and maintains consistent performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Stability of the object's composition

If the switch impedance is regulated to maintain consistency across operating conditions, then impedance stability is improved, but the response time of the switch may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimpedance stabilityVSAvoidswitch response time
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs dynamic control mechanisms that adapt the impedance regulation strength based on operating conditions. During transient switching events, the system prioritizes fast response by reducing regulation activity, while during steady-state operation, full impedance regulation is applied to maintain stability. This dynamic adjustment of control aggressiveness resolves the trade-off between speed and stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements periodic impedance measurement and adjustment cycles rather than continuous control. By sampling impedance at optimized intervals and applying corrections only when necessary, the system maintains impedance stability while minimizing the impact on switching speed. The periodic action allows the switch to operate freely during critical transition periods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS11431334B2Closed loop switch control system and method
Publication Date: 2022.08.30 ANALOG DEVICES INT UNLTD CO
  • US11431334B2 patent drawing
  • US11431334B2 patent drawing
  • US11431334B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A closed loop switch control system and a corresponding method is provided for controlling an impedance of a switch. The switch, which usually comprises a transistor switch, may be part of an external circuit. The system comprises the switch and a control unit coupled to the switch. The control unit is configured to regulate an impedance of the switch to a reference impedance while also enabling a fast switch response time. This is achieved by configuring the control unit to have a frequency response comprising a plurality of dominant poles and at least one zero.