Voltage Regulator Dynamic Parameter Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Voltage regulators in electronic devices often operate below their highest possible efficiency due to static design parameters, leading to inefficiencies across varying load conditions, particularly at lower power states, as they are over-designed for maximum power states.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a voltage regulator with adjustable operating parameters, such as switching frequency and gate drive voltages, which can be dynamically set and reset based on the determined state of the electronic device, optimizing power usage across different load conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If voltage regulator parameters are designed for maximum power state, then highest efficiency is achieved at maximum power, but efficiency deteriorates significantly at lower power states
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the voltage regulator parameters adjustable and changeable during operation. The controller dynamically modifies switching frequency, gate drive voltages, and other parameters based on real-time load conditions, transitioning the system from a static design to a dynamic adaptive system that optimizes efficiency across all power states
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by systematically varying multiple voltage regulator parameters including switching frequency, gate drive voltages, and current limits based on the determined state. Different parameter sets are applied for different operational states (e.g., light load, heavy load, transient conditions) to maintain optimal efficiency throughout the full load range
2Loss of energy
If voltage regulator parameters are made adjustable during operation, then efficiency is improved across full load range, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by implementing state determination and parameter selection logic within the voltage regulator controller itself. The system automatically monitors its own operating conditions, determines the appropriate state, and selects corresponding parameter sets without requiring external intervention, thereby managing complexity internally while maintaining efficiency benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a controller that performs multiple functions: it determines the operational state, selects appropriate parameter sets, adjusts multiple parameters simultaneously, and adapts to various load conditions. This multi-functional approach consolidates complexity into a single controller rather than requiring separate mechanisms for each function
Data Source
AI summary
Within an electronic device, a voltage regulator powers a load. The voltage regulator has adjustable operating parameters that can be set during operation of the electronic device. The adjustable operating parameters are set or reset in accordance with a state of the electronic device, or a portion thereof having the load, in order to optimize power usage. The state is selectable from at least three predetermined states. Values for the operating parameters are selectable from a plurality of sets of values. Each set of values corresponds to at least one of the predetermined states.