Switched-Capacitor DC-DC Conversion for Dual Outputs With Fewer Components
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dual function DC-DC conversion systems with two separate voltage outputs have high component counts, which is incompatible with advanced battery technology used in cellular handsets, requiring a reduction in component count to maintain efficiency and compatibility.
Innovation Solution
A direct current-to-direct current conversion system with a switch network and controller that selectively couples capacitors in series and parallel configurations to generate multiple output voltages with reduced component count, reusing flying capacitors across phases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If traditional DC-DC conversion technology is used with two separate voltage outputs, then voltage regulation efficiency is improved, but component count increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate DC-DC conversion functions into a single integrated switched-capacitor circuit. The same capacitor and switch network are used to generate both voltage outputs simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate conversion circuits and reducing overall component count while maintaining high efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The switched-capacitor circuit is designed to perform multiple functions: it can simultaneously provide two different voltage outputs from a single input voltage source. The circuit topology allows the same components to serve dual purposes in voltage conversion, making the system more efficient and compact.
2Duration of action of moving object
If advanced battery technology is used to increase capacity, then operation time is improved, but operating voltage decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses switched-capacitor voltage conversion to dynamically change the voltage parameter. The circuit converts the low operating voltage from advanced batteries to higher voltages required by power amplifiers and other circuitry, enabling the use of high-capacity batteries without compromising system compatibility.
3Volume of moving object
If component count is reduced in dual function DC-DC conversion systems, then volumetric size is decreased, but conversion efficiency may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the two voltage output functions into a single switched-capacitor circuit, the patent reduces the number of components needed while maintaining high conversion efficiency. The integrated design eliminates redundant components that would increase volume, and the switched-capacitor topology itself provides efficient voltage conversion.
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 system achieves a smaller volumetric size and reduced component count, maintaining efficiency and compatibility with existing power amplifier technology, while extending handset operation time or enabling smaller form factors.
Implementation Method 1
a first capacitor and a second capacitor between an input, a first output, and a second output
Data Source
AI summary
A direct current-to-direct current conversion system is disclosed having a switch network configured to respond to control signals to selectably couple a first capacitor and a second capacitor between an input, a first output, and a second output. Also included is a switch controller configured to signal the switch network to couple the first capacitor and the second capacitor in series between the first output and a fixed voltage node and signal the switch network to couple the first capacitor and the second capacitor in series between the first output and the input. The switch controller is further configured to signal the switch network to couple the first capacitor and the second capacitor in parallel between the first output and the second output and signal the switch network to couple the first capacitor and the second capacitor between the second output and the fixed voltage node.