TLVR Control Circuit Dynamic On-Time Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multi-phase voltage regulators face challenges in managing load transient conditions efficiently, leading to increased output voltage ripple and slower response times due to fixed inductance in compensation inductors.
Innovation Solution
A trans-inductor voltage regulator (TLVR) circuit with nonlinear compensation inductors and a control circuit that adjusts the on-time period of switching circuits based on load conditions, using PWM signals to minimize output voltage ripple and enhance transient response by varying inductance with current flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed inductance compensation inductor is used in conventional multi-phase voltage regulators, then the circuit structure is simple, but the output voltage ripple increases and transient response slows down during load transient conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing the fixed inductance compensation inductor with a variable inductance inductor whose inductance value changes dynamically based on operating conditions. Specifically, the inductance is adjusted according to the load current magnitude and transient state, allowing the system to optimize its performance adaptively. This dynamic adjustment reduces output voltage ripple during steady-state operation while improving transient response during load changes, thereby resolving the contradiction between output voltage stability and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by modifying the inductance parameter of the compensation inductor based on operating conditions. The inductance value is varied according to the load current and transient state, enabling the system to achieve optimal performance across different operating points. This parameter adjustment allows the system to maintain low output voltage ripple during steady-state while responding quickly to transient conditions, effectively resolving the technical contradiction without requiring fundamentally complex circuit architecture.
2Speed
If the on-time period of switching circuits is kept constant, then the control circuit is simple, but the transient response is slow during load changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle to the control circuit by implementing dynamic adjustment of the on-time period of switching circuits based on detected transient conditions. When a transient condition is detected, the control circuit automatically adjusts the on-time period to optimize the transient response. This dynamic control mechanism enables the system to respond quickly to load changes while maintaining simplicity in normal operating conditions, thereby resolving the contradiction between transient response speed and control circuit complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback by implementing a transient condition detection mechanism that monitors the operating state and provides feedback to the control circuit. Based on this feedback, the control circuit adjusts the on-time period of switching circuits appropriately. The feedback loop enables the system to detect transient conditions and respond by modifying control parameters, achieving fast transient response without requiring overly complex control logic, thus resolving the technical contradiction.
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 TLVR circuit effectively reduces output voltage ripple during steady-state conditions and rapidly responds to load transients by dynamically adjusting the inductance of the compensation inductor, improving the overall performance and stability of the voltage regulator.
Implementation Method 1
a nonlinear compensation inductor that is connected in series with the second windings of the plurality of transformers, an inductance of the nonlinear compensation inductor varies with a current flowing through the nonlinear compensation inductor
Data Source
AI summary
A trans-inductor voltage regulator (TLVR) circuit has multiple phases and a switching circuit for each phase. Each switching circuit has a winding of a transformer as an output inductor. The other windings of the transformers are connected in series with a nonlinear compensation inductor. An on-time period of each switching circuit is reduced when a load transient condition occurs or when a load current starts to be stable after the load transient condition.