Voltage Converter with DC Switch Bypass for Low Input Voltage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional regulating elements, such as linear regulators and DC-to-DC switching converters, experience significant voltage drops when the input voltage is low, degrading their operation performance and output quality.
Innovation Solution
A voltage converter system comprising a DC switch element, a voltage regulator, and a controller that detects input voltage and selectively opens or closes the DC switch element to minimize voltage drop, utilizing a DC switch element with a low resistance bypass path to eliminate non-ideal voltage drops.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional regulating element (linear regulator or DC-to-DC switching converter) is used with low input voltage, then the regulating element can still perform voltage regulation, but the voltage drop between input and output voltage remains greater than 0.1V, degrading operation performance and output quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching between two operating modes: a first operating mode using a DC switch element for low input voltages to minimize voltage drop, and a second operating mode using a voltage regulator for higher input voltages. The controller dynamically selects the appropriate mode based on the detected input voltage level, optimizing both efficiency and regulation performance across different operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a DC switch element as an intermediary component with very low on-resistance that provides an alternative current path when the input voltage is low. This intermediary element bypasses the voltage regulator's inherent voltage drop, allowing direct voltage transfer from input to output while maintaining regulation through the controller's monitoring and switching logic.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the input voltage is low, then the system can still operate, but the voltage difference between output and input voltage degrades, reducing output quality
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts its operating mode based on input voltage levels. When input voltage is low, it switches to the DC switch element mode which preserves voltage levels better. The controller continuously monitors input voltage and dynamically transitions between operating modes to maintain optimal output voltage quality across the full range of input conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the voltage conversion system by switching between two distinct configurations: one optimized for low input voltages (DC switch element with very low on-resistance) and another for higher input voltages (voltage regulator). This parameter change allows the system to maintain high output voltage quality regardless of the input voltage level.
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 effectively reduces the voltage difference between input and output voltages, enhancing the operation performance and reliability of the system by minimizing voltage drop, especially at low input voltages, and maintaining output quality across varying input conditions.
Implementation Method 1
DC switch element with a low resistance bypass path to eliminate non-ideal voltage drops
Implementation Method 2
voltage regulator coupled between the input node and the output node
Implementation Method 3
The Zener diode has an anode coupled to a ground voltage, and a cathode coupled to a third node
Data Source
AI summary
A communication system includes an STB (Set-Top Box), an LNB (Low Noise Block Down Converter), and a voltage converter. The voltage converter is coupled between the STB and the LNB. The voltage converter includes a DC (Direct Current) switch element, a voltage regulator, and a controller. The DC switch element is coupled between an input node and an output node. The voltage regulator is coupled between the input node and the output node. The controller detects an input voltage at the input node. If the input voltage is higher than or equal to a threshold voltage, the controller will open the DC switch element. If the input voltage is lower than the threshold voltage, the controller will close the DC switch element.