Switching Converter Sleep Mode Current Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Battery-powered devices in IoT often consume significant power during sleep mode due to high average current consumption, which is not efficiently managed by existing DC-DC converters.
Innovation Solution
A DC-DC switching converter with a clocked comparator for run mode and a voltage comparator for sleep mode, which generates different output voltage levels to reduce current consumption, including a current limiter to prevent overcurrent and switch to linear regulation when necessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a conventional DC-DC converter is used in sleep mode, then the device can maintain basic functionality, but the current consumption remains high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic operation mode switching between run mode and sleep mode. The converter adapts its operating characteristics based on the active sleep mode signal, dynamically adjusting the output voltage level and current consumption to match the actual operational requirements of the electronic device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes key operating parameters based on mode: in run mode, the converter maintains a first output voltage level suitable for full operation, while in sleep mode, it transitions to a second output voltage level that reduces current consumption. This parameter adaptation resolves the contradiction between maintaining functionality and reducing power usage.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the output voltage level is reduced in sleep mode, then current consumption decreases, but the voltage level must be carefully controlled to maintain functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback control through comparators that monitor the output voltage and compare it against reference levels. This feedback mechanism ensures precise control of the output voltage during mode transitions, maintaining the appropriate voltage level for each operating mode while enabling current consumption reduction in sleep mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a clocked comparator that operates on a clock signal to preliminarily determine when mode switching should occur. This preliminary action allows the system to proactively adjust the output voltage level before actual load changes occur, ensuring smooth transitions and precise voltage control during sleep mode operation.
3Use of energy by moving object
If mode switching between run and sleep is implemented, then power savings improve, but the device complexity increases due to multiple comparators and control circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the converter with multi-functional components that serve different purposes in different modes. The same converter circuit handles both run mode and sleep mode operations, with the comparators and control logic adapting their function based on the active mode signal, thereby reducing the need for completely separate circuits for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the control function into distinct components: a clocked comparator for run mode detection, a voltage comparator for sleep mode detection, and a mode switching controller. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to achieve overall power savings without excessive complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
According to an aspect, an electronic device includes a switching converter configured to generate an output voltage with a first voltage level from a battery voltage in a run mode of the electronic device. The switching converter is configured to generate the output voltage with a second voltage level from the battery voltage in a sleep mode of the electronic device. The second voltage level is less than the first voltage level. The switching converter includes a clocked comparator, and a voltage comparator. The switching converter is configured to generate the output voltage with the first voltage level in the run mode using the clocked comparator. The switching converter is configured to generate the output voltage with the second voltage level in the sleep mode using the voltage comparator.