Voltage Regulator Negative Current Sensing Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Voltage regulator modules in computer systems face inefficiencies and delayed response times due to the generation of negative currents when load changes from heavy to light, leading to additional losses and prolonged reaction times.
Innovation Solution
A voltage regulator device comprising an output unit with transistors and an energy storage element, a current sensing unit, a control unit, and a pulse width modulation unit that senses negative currents and controls the transistors to prevent negative current flow, thereby eliminating additional losses and reducing reaction time delays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the voltage regulator module operates in continuous current mode (CCM) to handle heavy loads, then the output current waveform remains continuous, but when the load changes from heavy to light, negative current is generated causing additional losses and reduced efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent detects negative current using a current sensing unit and converts this harmful effect into a useful control signal. When negative current is detected, the control unit activates to suppress the negative current flow, thereby eliminating the additional losses while maintaining stable operation during load transitions from heavy to light conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the current sensing unit continuously monitors the output current and provides feedback to the control unit. This feedback loop enables real-time detection of negative current conditions and triggers appropriate control actions to prevent energy losses, thereby improving overall efficiency
2Speed
If the voltage regulator module allows negative current to flow during load transitions, then the energy storage element continues to discharge, but this creates time delay for the negative current to return to 0 amps, slowing down the response speed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs preliminary action by detecting the onset of negative current flow and immediately activating the control unit to suppress it. This proactive approach prevents the negative current from reaching its maximum negative value and then returning to zero, thereby eliminating the time delay and improving the response speed of the voltage regulator module during load transitions
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 prevents additional losses and reduces reaction time delays, enhancing the overall efficiency and responsiveness of the voltage regulator device by preventing negative current generation.
Implementation Method 1
The current sensing unit is electronically connected to a first end and a second end of the energy storage element... the current sensing unit senses a current flowing through the energy storage element of the output unit
Data Source
AI summary
A voltage regulator device includes at least one output unit, a current sensing unit, a control unit, at least one transistor driving unit and a pulse width modulation unit. The output unit outputs an output signal. The output unit includes a first transistor, a second transistor and an energy storage element. The second transistor is electronically connected to the first transistor and the energy storage element, respectively. The current sensing unit is electronically connected to a first end and a second end of the energy storage element. The control unit is electronically connected to the current sensing unit and the output unit, respectively. The transistor driving unit is disposed corresponding to the output unit and is electronically connected to the control unit and the output unit. The pulse width modulation unit is electronically connected to the control unit and the transistor driving unit, respectively.