Voltage Regulator Trimming Circuit with Segmented Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Voltage regulators face challenges in accurately trimming multiple output voltage values due to the complexity of feedback resistor configurations, leading to deviations from desired values and increased power loss and chip size when trying to achieve multiple regulated output voltages.
Innovation Solution
A voltage regulator design featuring a feedback and trimming module with multiple voltage dividing devices and trimming units that allow for independent trimming of output values by adjusting the resistances at different positions, enabling precise regulation of multiple output voltages while minimizing power loss and chip size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple feedback resistors are used to provide multiple feedback points for different output voltage values, then the voltage regulator can provide multiple regulated output voltages, but the complexity of the feedback module increases and trimming becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback module is segmented into multiple independent voltage dividing devices, each corresponding to a specific output voltage value. Each voltage dividing device contains its own feedback resistors that can be independently trimmed, allowing complex multi-output functionality while maintaining manageable complexity through modular organization
Solution Approach 2:
The feedback module is designed to dynamically select which voltage dividing device is active based on the desired output voltage. The controller can switch between different feedback points, enabling the system to adapt to different output requirements while keeping only the necessary components active at any given time
2Measurement precision
If feedback resistors are trimmed to correct output voltage deviations, then the output voltage accuracy is improved, but the trimming process becomes increasingly difficult when multiple feedback resistors are involved
Solution Approach 1:
Each voltage dividing device is treated as an independent trimming unit with dedicated trimming circuitry. This segmentation allows each feedback resistor to be trimmed independently without affecting other output voltages, significantly simplifying the manufacturing trimming process compared to interconnected resistor networks
Solution Approach 2:
The trimming circuitry is integrated into each voltage dividing device, allowing the system to self-trim its own feedback resistors. The controller can automatically adjust the feedback resistor values to achieve precise output voltages without requiring complex external trimming equipment or procedures
3Measurement precision
If separate voltage dividing devices are used for each output voltage value, then independent trimming of each output value becomes possible, but the chip area and power loss increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple voltage dividing devices share common components such as the output voltage node and ground reference. By merging these common elements while maintaining independent feedback paths, the chip area required for multiple outputs is reduced compared to completely separate circuits for each output voltage
4Adaptability or versatility
If more feedback points are added to accommodate multiple output voltages, then the versatility of the voltage regulator is improved, but the power loss in the feedback module increases
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback module dynamically activates only the voltage dividing device corresponding to the currently selected output voltage. By switching between different feedback paths rather than maintaining all paths simultaneously active, power consumption in the feedback module is minimized while still supporting multiple output voltage options
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 allows for independent trimming of multiple output voltage values, ensuring accurate regulation and reducing power loss and chip size, particularly beneficial for applications requiring multiple output voltages.
Implementation Method 1
a feedback and trimming module (402) comprising a plurality of voltage dividing devices coupled in series between the output voltage and ground
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure discloses a voltage regulator including a trimming circuit. The present disclosure also discloses a method for trimming an output voltage of a voltage regulator. In one embodiment the voltage regulator may include a power conversion module, a feedback and trimming module and a control module. The voltage regulator may be able to provide an output voltage that could be regulated to a plurality of output values, the feedback and trimming module may be able to trim the plurality of output values to their desired values successively and independently.