Switched Capacitor Power Supply for Compact IC Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current power supply technologies face challenges in achieving compactness, efficiency, wider bandwidth, and integration friendliness due to the limitations of magnetic-based converters and switched capacitor converters, which often result in increased size, efficiency losses, and the need for additional components.
Innovation Solution
A power supply system that utilizes a switched capacitor array with reduced switching voltage, allowing for faster output voltage changes, smaller inductors and capacitors, and lower voltage-rated devices, enabling co-packaging with ICs and reducing efficiency losses, while avoiding cascaded two-stage conversions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If magnetic-based converters are used, then conversion efficiency is improved, but device size increases and integration becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power conversion function into multiple capacitor stages (first capacitor, second capacitor, third capacitor) that work in sequence. Each capacitor handles a portion of the voltage conversion, eliminating the need for a single large magnetic inductor while maintaining high efficiency through distributed energy storage and transfer.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the magnetic field-based energy storage mechanism (inductor) with an electric field-based mechanism (capacitors). This substitution eliminates bulky magnetic components while achieving the same power conversion function through electrical charge and discharge cycles of the capacitors.
2Volume of moving object
If switched capacitor converters are used, then device size is reduced, but output voltage regulation becomes poor and additional components are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a control mechanism that monitors the output voltage and adjusts the switching timing of the capacitors accordingly. This feedback control ensures that the output voltage remains regulated at the desired level despite variations in input voltage or load conditions, eliminating the need for additional post-regulation components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses dynamic switching control where the timing and duration of capacitor charging and discharging are continuously adjusted based on real-time conditions. This dynamic operation allows the switched capacitor converter to maintain good voltage regulation across varying operating conditions without requiring extra regulation stages.
3Loss of energy
If magnetic components are used, then power conversion efficiency is improved, but loop bandwidth is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental operating parameters by using capacitor-based energy storage instead of inductor-based storage. Capacitors can charge and discharge much faster than inductors can build up and collapse magnetic fields, enabling the system to achieve wider loop bandwidth while maintaining high efficiency through optimized switching frequencies and capacitor selection.
4Adaptability or versatility
If cascaded two-stage conversions are used, then voltage conversion flexibility is improved, but device complexity and component count increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal switched capacitor converter that can achieve multiple voltage conversion ratios (step-up, step-down, and intermediate voltages) using a single integrated circuit with three capacitors and associated switching elements. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate converter stages while providing the same voltage conversion flexibility, thereby reducing overall device complexity and component count.
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 solution provides a more efficient, compact, and fast power supply with reduced passive component size, improved response time, and lower electromagnetic interference, enabling integration with low voltage digital systems without increasing switching frequency or using additional components.
Implementation Method 1
A power supply system that utilizes a switched capacitor array with reduced switching voltage
Implementation Method 2
A power supply system that utilizes a switched capacitor array with reduced switching voltage, allowing for faster output voltage changes, smaller inductors and capacitors
Data Source
AI summary
Method and Apparatus for a switch mode power supply are disclosed. The switch mode power supply is efficient and generates a very small inductor current ripple and output voltage ripple. The switch mode power supply has a wider bandwidth and the filter components including magnetic storage element and the output capacitor can be made extremely smaller.