Time-Sharing Voltage Regulator for Multi-Voltage PCB Space Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge is to efficiently provide multiple output voltages for different chips in a computer device while optimizing the use of space on a Printed Circuit Board (PCB), as existing voltage regulators occupy different signal paths and consume varying amounts of current, leading to increased chip area requirements.
Innovation Solution
A voltage regulator comprising energy storage modules, a voltage converter, and a time-sharing controller, with a de-multiplexer that sequentially connects each energy storage module to the voltage converter to generate multiple output voltages, allowing for efficient use of PCB space by charging each module with a charging voltage and providing stable output voltages after charging is complete.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple voltage regulators are used to provide different voltages, then the required voltage sources are provided, but the chip area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple voltage regulator functions into a single integrated regulator that can sequentially provide multiple different output voltages. The regulator includes a single switching element, control circuit, and output capacitor that can generate different voltages by adjusting switching parameters, eliminating the need for multiple separate regulator circuits and reducing chip area.
Solution Approach 2:
The voltage regulator is designed as a universal device capable of providing multiple different output voltages (first voltage and second voltage) through a single circuit implementation. The regulator can switch between different voltage output modes based on control signals, making one regulator perform the function of multiple regulators.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple voltage regulators are set at different positions on PCB, then different voltages are supplied, but the PCB area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple voltage regulator functions into a single integrated circuit that can be placed at one location on the PCB. This single regulator sequentially generates multiple different voltages, reducing the number of regulator components and their associated signal paths, thereby minimizing PCB area occupation.
Solution Approach 2:
The regulator employs time-sequential operation where different voltage output functions are segmented into different time periods. During a first time period, the regulator provides a first voltage; during a second time period, it provides a second voltage. This temporal segmentation allows one physical regulator to serve multiple voltage supply functions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If different voltage regulators are used, then different driving voltages are provided, but the circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple voltage regulation functions into a single regulator circuit with shared components including one switching element, one control circuit, and one output capacitor. The control circuit generates different switching control signals to achieve different voltage outputs, reducing the total component count and circuit complexity compared to using multiple separate regulators.
Solution Approach 2:
The regulator is designed as a multi-functional device where a single circuit implementation can provide multiple different output voltages by adjusting switching parameters and control signals. This universal design eliminates the need for multiple specialized regulator circuits, simplifying the overall circuit architecture.
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 solution enables the simultaneous provision of multiple output voltages, reducing the need for multiple voltage regulators on the PCB, thereby improving space efficiency and providing stable power sources for computer devices.
Implementation Method 1
a voltage converter, for converting an input voltage into a charging voltage
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of energy storage modules; sequentially outputting the charging voltage to each energy storage module of the plurality of energy storage modules, to charge each energy storage module
Data Source
AI summary
A voltage regulator is disclosed. The voltage regulator includes a plurality of energy storage modules, a voltage converter for converting an input voltage into a charging voltage, a time-sharing controller for generating a select signal, and a de-mux coupled to the plurality of energy storage modules, the voltage converter and the time-sharing controller, to sequentially conduct the connections between the voltage converter and each energy storage module of the plurality of energy storage modules according to the select signal, to charge each energy storage module of the plurality of energy storage modules with the charging voltage, and each energy storage module of the plurality of energy storage modules generate a plurality of output voltages after finishing charging.