Voltage Regulator Dynamic Reference Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrated circuits face challenges in maintaining a stable output voltage due to increased leakage current and current transients, which can lead to voltage fluctuations outside the supply range, especially with smaller feature sizes and higher temperatures, requiring effective voltage regulation to manage these issues.
Innovation Solution
A voltage regulator system with a controller that compares the output voltage to multiple reference voltages, using a differential amplifier and counter-based selection circuitry to adjust the reference voltage, ensuring the output voltage remains within the desired range by compensating for offset and transient currents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a voltage regulator is used to maintain stable output voltage, then voltage fluctuations are reduced, but the device complexity increases due to multiple reference voltages and selection circuitry
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reference voltage selection where the regulator dynamically switches between multiple reference voltages based on operating conditions. The controller monitors output voltage and selectively connects appropriate reference voltages to the error amplifier, enabling adaptive regulation that maintains stability across varying load and temperature conditions without requiring a completely redesign of the regulator architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the voltage regulation function by dividing the reference voltage source into multiple discrete reference voltage levels. Each reference voltage serves a specific operating range or condition, and the controller selectively activates the appropriate segment (reference voltage) based on real-time monitoring, thereby managing complexity through functional segmentation rather than a single monolithic reference source.
2Measurement precision
If multiple reference voltages are used to accommodate leakage current and transients, then voltage regulation accuracy is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback control where the controller continuously monitors the output voltage and uses this information to select the appropriate reference voltage. The error amplifier compares the feedback voltage with the selected reference voltage and adjusts the pass element accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism compensates for variations in reference voltage values caused by manufacturing tolerances, thereby maintaining high regulation accuracy without requiring extremely precise manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the reference voltage parameter dynamically by selecting from multiple discrete reference voltage levels rather than relying on a single fixed reference voltage. This allows the system to adapt to different operating conditions (leakage current levels, transient states, temperature variations) by switching reference voltage values, thereby maintaining accuracy across varying conditions without demanding high manufacturing precision for each individual reference voltage source.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a controller with comparison circuitry is added to select reference voltages, then adaptability to different operating conditions is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller circuit is designed to autonomously monitor the output voltage and automatically select the appropriate reference voltage without external intervention. The comparison circuitry continuously evaluates operating conditions and self-adjusts the reference voltage selection, enabling the regulator to adapt to different operating conditions (light load, heavy load, transient states) automatically. This self-service capability provides high adaptability while keeping the control logic integrated and relatively simple.
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 effectively maintains the output voltage within the supply range, reducing the need for large external capacitors and minimizing voltage fluctuations, thereby enhancing system stability and accommodating current transients while reducing capacitor costs.
Implementation Method 1
the voltage regulator may include a differential amplifier configured to receive said selected reference voltage and said output voltage, said differential amplifier configured to provide an output which is used to control the output voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A voltage regulator provides an output voltage, the voltage regulator configured to receive one of a plurality of different regulator reference voltages and a controller configured to provide a selection signal, the selection signal being used to control which of the regulator reference voltages the voltage regulator receives.