With Soft Start Patents (Class 323/238)
  • Patent number: 11722105
    Abstract: A device includes a first amplifier and a second amplifier. The first amplifier includes an inverting input configured to be coupled to a feedback node of an output of a power converter, a first non-inverting input configured to couple to a first voltage node, a second non-inverting input, and an output. The second amplifier includes an inverting input coupled to the output of the first amplifier, a non-inverting input coupled to a second voltage node, and an output. The device also includes a first transistor coupled to the output of the first amplifier and having a control terminal coupled to the output of the second amplifier, a capacitor coupled to a ground node and to the second non-inverting input of the first amplifier, and a current node coupled to the capacitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2023
    Assignee: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Tawen Mei, Jiun Heng Goh, Robert Blattner
  • Patent number: 11489333
    Abstract: A method includes energizing a transformer from a deenergized state by turning on a solid-state transfer switch to conductively couple a power source on a first side of the solid-state transfer switch and a transformer on a second side of the solid-state transfer switch, and evaluating an inrush current to the transformer from the power source. The method includes turning off the solid-state transfer switch to conductively decouple the power source and the transformer in response to the inrush current meeting a first criterion, determining a recoupling timing for the solid-state transfer switch, and turning on the solid-state transfer switch in response to the recoupling timing effective to complete energization of the transformer with the inrush current to the transformer being limited by the first criterion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Assignee: ABB SCHWEIZ AG
    Inventors: Xiaoqing Song, Yu Du, Yuzhi Zhang
  • Patent number: 10630169
    Abstract: Embodiments of a method and a device are disclosed. In an embodiment, a method for power factor correction (PFC) at a switched mode power supply (SMPS) is disclosed. The method involves receiving an input voltage, generating a reference waveform that is in phase with the input voltage, determining a time value for phase-shifting a PFC current signal, scaling the time value with a phase factor to generate a scaled time value, phase-shifting the reference waveform according to the scaled time value to generate a phase-shifted reference waveform, and generating the PFC current signal based on the phase-shifted reference waveform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2020
    Assignee: NXP B.V.
    Inventor: Joan Wichard Strijker
  • Patent number: 10594202
    Abstract: Circuits and methods for limiting excessive current in circuits (such as step-up DC-to-DC converter circuits) in which very low ohmic FETs (VLOFETs) are used in circuit pathways that are subjected to startup in-rush current. Embodiments include a current mirror driver circuit that can be coupled to the gates of a VLOFET to form a current mirror that limits current flow through the VLOFET. The current mirror driver circuit provides for pulsed operation so that a coupled VLOFET still toggles between an OFF state and a current limited mode, particularly during a startup period. By using the current mirror driver circuit in conjunction with VLOFETs in circuit pathways that are subjected to startup in-rush current, in-rush current can be regulated to an acceptable level. Notably, no additional impedances are required in circuit pathways that are subjected to startup in-rush current to limit in-rush current, thus avoiding loss of efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2020
    Assignee: pSemi Corporation
    Inventor: Antony Christopher Routledge
  • Patent number: 10379152
    Abstract: A method for characterizing an integrated circuit that includes ramping the supply voltage to an integrated circuit as a function of time for each of the transistors in the integrated circuit, and measuring a power supply current for the integrated circuit during the ramping of the power supply voltage. The measured peaks in the power supply current are a current pulse that identifies an operation state in which each of the transistors are in an on state. The peaks in the power supply current are compared to the reference peaks for the power supply current for a reference circuit having a same functionality as the integrated circuit to determine the integrated circuit's fitness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Raphael P. Robertazzi, Peilin Song, Franco Stellari
  • Patent number: 9922214
    Abstract: A receiver unit for a radio frequency (RF) tag is provided, including a first input terminal and a second input terminal each being connected to an antenna; a communication stage configured to demodulate and/or to modulate an incoming signal in the communication stage; and a power stage including a voltage converter circuit being configured to supply power to the receiver unit, and a regulation circuit being configured to limit an output voltage of the voltage converter circuit, wherein the regulation circuit includes a regulator circuit being configured to determine a first current value and a second current value, the second current value being a current value provided in addition to the first current value, and, if the second current value exceeds a predetermined threshold value, to supply a control signal to a limiter circuit configured to limit an input voltage of the voltage converter circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: EM Microelectronic-Marin SA
    Inventors: Christian Lamothe, Thomas Coulot, Goran Stojanovic
  • Patent number: 9819182
    Abstract: A photovoltaic system may include a first photovoltaic component having local power optimization functionality to process power at a first level, a second photovoltaic component to process power at a second level, and optimization logic to command the first photovoltaic component to accommodate system-level power optimization. The first component may be reconfigurable to accommodate the system-level optimization. The entire system may be dynamically reconfigured to continuously operate at the highest overall level of system efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2017
    Assignee: SunPower Corporation
    Inventors: Robert Batten, Ravindranath Naiknaware
  • Patent number: 9651285
    Abstract: A refrigerating cycle apparatus is provided. The refrigerating cycle apparatus may include a refrigerant switching valve, which may be moved to a predetermined position through a simple circuit structure, during a blackout (power outage). Further, in a case in which input power is cut off due to a blackout, while the refrigerating cycle apparatus operates, oil may be collected. Even if input power is cut off due to a power outage, in a state in which the refrigerant switching valve is open while a refrigerating cycle apparatus having two compressors of two stages (2tage-2comp) is operating, the refrigerant switching valve may be converted to a closed state. This may reduce a pressure difference between the two compressors, and prevent damage to the compressors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Sangoh Kim, Hoyoun Lee
  • Patent number: 9651964
    Abstract: A voltage regulator includes two input pairs of opposite type transistors, p-type and n-type, to provide a soft-start functionality for gradually increasing the voltage regulator's output voltage from zero, or a voltage below the thresholds of the n-type transistors, to an operational voltage. The voltage regulator operates in a soft-start mode during which a variable input voltage signal is ramped up to allow the output voltage to reach the operational voltage, and a normal-operation mode during which the operational voltage is maintained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Assignee: STMICROELECTRONICS (CHINA) INVESTMENT CO. LTD
    Inventors: Zhenghao Cui, Fei Wang, Ming Jiang
  • Patent number: 9608508
    Abstract: An integrated limiter and active filter constituted of: an input node; an output node; a transistor coupled between the input node and the output node; a first control circuit coupled to the control terminal of the transistor and arranged to limit the amount of current flowing through the output node to a predetermined value which is responsive to a signal received at a first reference input; a second control circuit coupled to the control terminal of the transistor and arranged to limit the voltage appearing at the output node to a predetermined value which is responsive to a signal received at a second reference input; and a third control circuit coupled to input node and arranged to provide the second reference input, the third control circuit arranged to set the second reference input responsive to the input voltage and to a predetermined maximum allowed output voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Microsemi P.O.E Ltd.
    Inventor: Yair Darshan
  • Patent number: 9030855
    Abstract: A semiconductor device, a start-up circuit, and an operating method for the same are provided. The start-up circuit comprises a semiconductor unit, a first circuit, a second circuit, a voltage input terminal and a voltage output terminal. The first circuit is constituted by one diode or a plurality of diodes electrically connected to each other in series. The second circuit is constituted by one diode or a plurality of diodes electrically connected to each other in series. The semiconductor unit is coupled to a first node between the first circuit and the second circuit. The voltage input terminal is coupled to the semiconductor unit. The voltage output terminal is coupled to a second node between the semiconductor unit and the first circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Macronix International Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Wing-Chor Chan, Chih-Min Hu, Li-Fan Chen
  • Patent number: 9018923
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods operate to disable a dynamically biased apparatus and a dynamic bias current source providing dynamic bias current to the apparatus at the beginning of a static bias startup period shortly after power-on. The dynamically biased apparatus is then gradually enabled in a static bias mode of operation during the static bias startup period. Following the end of the static bias startup period, operation of the dynamically biased apparatus in a dynamic transconductance mode is gradually enabled during a dynamic bias startup period. Such startup sequence operates to prevent damaging in-rush currents in a system employing the dynamically biased apparatus in a feedback control loop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventors: Charles Parkhurst, Mark Hamlyn
  • Patent number: 9007791
    Abstract: Representative implementations of devices and techniques minimize switching losses in a switched capacitor dc-dc converter. The slope of the charging and/or discharging phase may be modified, smoothing the transitions from charge to discharge and/or discharge to charge of the switched capacitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventors: Stefano Marsili, Werner Hoellinger, Gerhard Maderbacher
  • Patent number: 9000739
    Abstract: A soft-start circuit composed of active components and passive components and a soft-start voltage regulator based on this soft-start circuit are disclosed. The soft-start voltage regulator is coupled to a generator, a battery and a starter. When the starter is started, the soft-start voltage regulator receives the voltage of the battery to generate a soft-start signal, enabling the generator to establish a voltage. Further, after the generator established the voltage, the soft-start voltage regulator is shut off and the soft-start signal is outputted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignees: Universal Scientific Industrial (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Universal Global Scientific Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Chen, Sam Huang, Dean Wu, Louis Huang
  • Patent number: 8896277
    Abstract: Provided is a voltage regulator including a soft-start circuit having a small area and capable of suppressing an inrush current by causing a reference voltage circuit to rise gently with time. In the soft-start circuit, a capacitor is connected to an output of a reference voltage circuit driven by a constant current of a constant current circuit, and hence the soft-start circuit can raise a reference voltage gently to prevent an inrush current with a small area. After the end of a soft-start period, the constant current circuit is disconnected, and the reference voltage circuit is driven by a power source. Thus, the operation becomes stable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Seiko Instruments Inc.
    Inventors: Akihito Yahagi, Takashi Imura
  • Patent number: 8879281
    Abstract: A switching power source device IS capable of guaranteeing a normal switching operation even when the input of a coil voltage used for adjusting a dead time is eliminated. The switching power source device includes a dead time adjustment circuit that generates an ON trigger signal that regulates an ON timing of one of the first and second switching elements after elapse of a predetermined dead time from an OFF timing of the other switching element and that adjusts the dead time according to a temporal change of a terminal voltage detected from an auxiliary coil of an inductor; and a disable control circuit that detects a temporal change of the coil voltage during activation and disables a function of the dead time adjustment circuit adjusting the dead time when the coil voltage does not temporally change.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Fuji Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Koji Sonobe
  • Patent number: 8767418
    Abstract: A power converter employing a control system configured to make multiple functional use of a circuit node therein and method of operating the same. In one embodiment, the power converter includes a power train including at least one power switch. The power converter also includes a control system including an opto-isolator circuit, including a resistor, configured to receive an output signal from the power converter and provide a feedback signal to a feedback node for the control system to provide a switch control signal for the at least one power switch. The control system also includes a current source configured to produce multiple voltage levels at the feedback node in accordance with the resistor, thereby enabling multiple functional uses of the feedback node.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Power Systems Technologies Ltd.
    Inventors: Aaron Jungreis, Antony Brinlee, Paul Garrity
  • Patent number: 8749211
    Abstract: A high voltage power supply is provided. The high voltage power supply includes a soft-start circuit unit which outputs a natural voltage that decreases exponentially as time elapses and converts the natural voltage into a forced voltage having a predetermined scale if an enable signal is applied, a controller which compares the natural voltage output from the soft-start circuit unit with a reference voltage and outputs a control signal, and a converting unit which delays outputting a final voltage during a first predetermined time period and outputs the final voltage, which gradually increases as time elapses according to the control signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Pankaj Agarwal, Joon-hyun Yang, Sung-jin Choi
  • Patent number: 8699253
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a control method for a soft switch circuit in a switch power source, which generates an alternating primary power filter current by controlling first and second primary power switching devices to be closed and opened, and generates an intermittent alternating resonant current in the same direction as the primary power filter current in a resonant branch by controlling forward and backward auxiliary switching devices to be closed and opened to thereby achieve closing of the first and second primary power switching devices at a zero voltage, and which generates a balance current with the same magnitude as and in the opposite direction to the resonant current in the resonant branch in at least a period of time during the resting of the resonant current by further controlling the forward and backward auxiliary switching devices to be closed and opened to thereby achieve an average current of zero across the resonant branch in a switching cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Liebert Corporation
    Inventors: Chuntao Zhang, Xiaofei Zhang, Xueli Xiao
  • Patent number: 8636885
    Abstract: An analytical device including a sensor, an analytical circuit, and a power source. The power source includes an optical coupler formed of a light source and a photovoltaic cell for producing an electromotive force in response to light from the light source. The optical coupler is configured to provide the electromotive force to the analytical circuit. The power source may be configured for separation between the power supply and the resulting electromotive force supplied to the analytical circuit. Various aspects of the invention are directed to providing a power source for one or more components of an electrochemical detector. A method of providing power to an analytical instrument is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Dionex Corporation
    Inventors: Martin Vana, William Dale Case
  • Patent number: 8598800
    Abstract: A soft-start circuit generates a soft-start voltage Vss having a voltage level that rises over time. A pulse width modulator generates a PWM signal having a duty ratio adjusted such that a feedback voltage Vout? that corresponds to the output voltage Vout of the switching power supply matches the soft-start voltage Vss. A driver circuit controls a switching element according to the PWM signal. A capacitor is arranged such that one terminal thereof is set to a fixed electric potential. A current source generates a charge current that flows intermittently in synchronization with the PWM signal so as to charge the capacitor. The soft-start circuit outputs, as the soft-start voltage Vss, a voltage that occurs at the capacitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Rohm Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Daisuke Uchimoto, Hiroki Kikuchi, Naoki Inoue
  • Patent number: 8581565
    Abstract: A DC/DC converter for use in power supply applications employing multiple parallel-connected converters employs a digital controller referenced to the secondary or output side of an isolation boundary and having non-isolated direct connections to secondary side components. The controller directly monitors output voltage and output current and uses feedback control techniques to precisely control these values in a desired manner. The DC/DC converter can implement so-called “droop” current sharing with increased accuracy arising from the secondary-side digital control, so that a desired balanced sharing of current across multiple converters can be achieved. The converter uses calibration establish accurate set points, and any of a variety of additional functions/features to attain operational goals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Bel Fuse (Macao Commercial Offshore) Limited
    Inventors: Zhao Tang, Jia Deng, Yuanping Zhou, Hongliang Lu, Mark Jutras
  • Patent number: 8519686
    Abstract: A solid state power controller (SSPC) for soft start of a direct current (DC) link capacitor of a DC power distribution system includes a power input connected to a DC power source of the DC power distribution system; a plurality of power switches arranged in parallel, the plurality of power switches being connected to a power output of the SSPC, the power output being connected to the DC link capacitor; and an SSPC controller configured to: pulse width modulate the plurality of power switches with a phase-shifted sequence in a current limiting mode; determine whether soft start is complete; and in response to determining that the soft start is complete, turn on the plurality of switches at a maximum gate-source voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventors: Gregory I. Rozman, Joshua C. Swenson, Vietson M. Nguyen
  • Patent number: 8508196
    Abstract: Provided is a switching regulator capable of performing stable start-up with a soft-start operation without causing excessive extension of a soft-start time period. In a start-up period, a voltage approximating a feedback voltage (FB) is provided as an initial value of a soft-start reference voltage. The feedback voltage (FB) and the soft-start reference voltage become substantially equal to each other at a moment when the start-up is completed, to thereby realize a smooth transition of an operating state from the start-up to normal control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Seiko Instruments Inc.
    Inventor: Michiyasu Deguchi
  • Patent number: 8502492
    Abstract: A device for improving efficiency of an induction motor soft-starts the motor by applying a power to the motor that is substantially less than the rated power of the motor then gradually increasing the power while monitoring changes in current drawn by the motor, thereby detecting when maximum efficiency is found. Once maximum efficiency is found, the nominal motor current is found and operating ranges are set. Now, the phase angle between the voltage and the current to the motor is measured and power to the motor is increasing when the phase angle is less than a minimum phase angle (determined during soft-start) and power to the motor is decreased when the phase angle is greater than or equal to the minimum phase angle as long as the voltage does not fall below a minimum voltage determined during soft-start.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Protective Energy Economizer Technology
    Inventor: Mario Marcelo Marcoccia
  • Patent number: 8497665
    Abstract: A capacitor drop power supply circuit for supplying power to a load has a switch configured to alter a configuration of the power supply circuit to reduce input current of the power supply circuit. The switch is operable by the load to alter the configuration when the load enters a power save mode. The switch is operable to alter the configuration of the power supply circuit between a first configuration having a first current path through the power supply circuit in a first current direction, and a second configuration having a second current path through the power supply circuit in the first current direction. The switch changes the power supply circuit between the first configuration and the second configuration when the load enters a power save mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Simatelex Manufactory Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Zhong Mei Wang
  • Patent number: 8497666
    Abstract: A multi-phase power source device capable of easily changing the number of phases is realized. For example, a plurality of drive units POL[1]-POL[4] corresponding to the number of phases are provided, wherein each POL[n] receives a phase input signal PHI[n] serving as a pulse signal, and generates a phase output signal PHO[n] by delaying PHI[n] by a predetermined cycles of a clock signal CLK. PHI[n] and PHO[n] of each POL[n] are coupled in a ring, wherein each POL[n] performs a switching operation with PHI[n] or PHO[n] as a starting point. In this case, each POL[n] charges and discharges a capacitor Cct commonly coupled to each POL[n] with an equal current, and a frequency of CLK is determined based on this charge and discharge rate. That is, if the number of phases increases n times, the frequency of CLK will be automatically controlled to n times.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Renesas Electronics Corporation
    Inventor: Toshio Nagasawa
  • Patent number: 8446744
    Abstract: A method and a control device control a switching device for providing a resonant circuit with a switching voltage for generating a resonant current in order to provide a required output power at an output of a resonant power converter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Thomas Scheel, Christian Hattrup, Peter Luerkens
  • Patent number: 8350541
    Abstract: There is provided a control circuit including a sampling controller configured to sample an output voltage of a power converter at an appropriate time slot by opening a control loop. A soft-start circuit configured to enable soft-starting of an internal soft-start reference voltage to start from the sampled output voltage and to control the internal soft-start reference voltage to a predetermined target value in order to pre-charge the output voltage close to an input voltage level, or to continue charging the output voltage to a predetermined output voltage value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Nokia Corporation
    Inventors: Martti Ojanen, Janne Tiisanoja
  • Patent number: 8207715
    Abstract: A soft-start circuit to generate and output a soft-start voltage having a specified gradient. The soft-start circuit includes a slope voltage generator circuit to generate and output multiple slope voltages having different specified gradients, including a steepest slope voltage whose gradient is steepest among the gradients of the multiple slope voltages and a mildest slope voltage whose gradient is mildest thereamong, at least one voltage conversion circuit to receive the slope voltages and output a voltage whose gradient is milder than the gradient of the steepest slope voltage, and a selection circuit to receive at least one specified reference voltage and the voltage generated by the voltage conversion circuit, compare the voltage by the voltage conversion circuit with the specified reference voltage, and output either the voltage or the specified reference voltage as the soft-start voltage in accordance with a comparison result generated by the selection circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Ricoh Company, Ltd.
    Inventor: Takashi Gotoh
  • Patent number: 8203304
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices are disclosed, including an induction-motor controller having a phase path; a solid-state switch interposed on the phase path; and a controller coupled to the solid-state switch. In certain embodiments, the controller is configured to switch the solid-state switch so that the solid-state switch is conductive during a conduction angle of a cycle of an incoming AC power waveform conveyed by the phase path, calculate the conduction angle based on a generally sinusoidal reference value that has a frequency lower than a frequency of the incoming AC power waveform, and adjust the generally sinusoidal reference value based on a value indicative of flux in a load coupled to the phase path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Haihui Lu, David M. Messersmith, Thomas A. Nondahl
  • Patent number: 8179082
    Abstract: The invention relates to a soft starting method and system thereof in the way of wave-skipping with stepped frequency and stepless voltage regulating for a motor which can be applied to the large torque starting of AC motor under the condition of a power supply of a industrial frequency supply source and the safe starting of higher load. Trigger signals generated by a control system, in the soft starting method of the invention, act on five sets of anti-parallel thyristor valves connected between the power supply and the motor to conduct a pair of thyristors thereof according to a set frequency and sequence, and the motor is started from a standstill status to full speed in the way of wave-skipping by controlling the sets of the thyristor valves. The method may improve the starting torque for more than 10 times of the traditional motor soft starting of the voltage reduction and control the starting current for about two times of the rated current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Rongxin Power Electronics Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Xing Li, Qiang Zuo, Yingsheng Xu, Mingqi Si
  • Patent number: 8111529
    Abstract: An over current protection circuit and a power converter using the same. The over current protection circuit includes a soft start cell and an operational amplifier. The soft start cell outputs a soft start signal according to a direct current (DC) level, and the soft start signal increases progressively to the DC level in a soft start interval. The operational amplifier outputs an over current signal to a feedback control circuit according to the soft start signal and an inductance current of a switching converter so that a duty cycle of a driving signal from the feedback control circuit increases progressively in the soft start interval.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Novatek Microelectronics Corp.
    Inventors: Lan-Shan Cheng, Chih-Yuan Hsieh
  • Patent number: 8072784
    Abstract: An exemplary electronic device includes a controller, a first convertor, a second convertor, and a switching unit. The first convertor is configured for receiving a first voltage from an external power supply and converting the first voltage into a second voltage. The controller is coupled to the first convertor for generating a start signal when receiving the second voltage. The second convertor is connected to the controller for receiving the first voltage, converting the first voltage into a third voltage to power an operating unit of the electronic device, and converting the first voltage into a fourth voltage to power the controller when receiving the start signal. The switching unit is coupled to the controller and the first convertor for disabling the first convertor when the controller receives the fourth voltage. A related power supply unit is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chun-Lung Hung, Tao Wang, Wen-Ming Chen, Wang-Chang Duan, Qiang Huang, Shi-Ming Zhang
  • Patent number: 8067924
    Abstract: In an information handling system, a multi-phase electrical converter includes an electrical input, an electrical output, a plurality of converter phases coupled with the electrical input and the electrical output, and a controller to ramp operation of one or more of the converter phases as a load demand adjusts. In an embodiment the converter may be a multi-phase buck converter having a high side switch, a low side switch, and an inductor. In an embodiment, the controller may ramp operation of the converter phases by adjusting a duty cycle of the high side switch. In an embodiment, the controller may adjust a phase angle of one or more of the converter phases, wherein the adjustment may be relative to the ramping operation of the one or more of the converter phases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Dell Products L.P.
    Inventors: Brent A. McDonald, George G. Richards
  • Publication number: 20110248689
    Abstract: In an information handling system, a multi-phase electrical converter includes an electrical input, an electrical output, a plurality of converter phases coupled with the electrical input and the electrical output, and a controller to ramp operation of one or more of the converter phases as a load demand adjusts. In an embodiment the converter may be a multi-phase buck converter having a high side switch, a low side switch, and an inductor. In an embodiment, the controller may ramp operation of the converter phases by adjusting a duty cycle of the high side switch. In an embodiment, the controller may adjust a phase angle of one or more of the converter phases, wherein the adjustment may be relative to the ramping operation of the one or more of the converter phases.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2011
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Applicant: DELL PRODUCTS L.P.
    Inventors: Brent A. McDonald, George G. Richards, III
  • Patent number: 7999519
    Abstract: In an information handling system, a multi-phase electrical converter includes an electrical input, an electrical output, a plurality of converter phases coupled with the electrical input and the electrical output, and a controller to ramp operation of one or more of the converter phases as a load demand adjusts. In an embodiment the converter may be a multi-phase buck converter having a high side switch, a low side switch, and an inductor. In an embodiment, the controller may ramp operation of the converter phases by adjusting a duty cycle of the high side switch. In an embodiment, the controller may adjust a phase angle of one or more of the converter phases, wherein the adjustment may be relative to the ramping operation of the one or more of the converter phases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Dell Products L.P.
    Inventors: Brent A. McDonald, George G. Richards, III
  • Patent number: 7948273
    Abstract: A soft-start device including a current source, a first transistor, and a second transistor is described. The first transistor is coupled to the current source, and an amount of current conducted by the first transistor is determined according to a voltage. The second transistor is also coupled to the current source, and an amount of current conducted by the second transistor is determined according to a fixed bias. An initial voltage value of the voltage is smaller than a voltage value of the fixed bias. However, after a soft start, the voltage value of the first voltage is increased gradually to be larger than the voltage value of the fixed bias, such that the soft start may be implemented smoothly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: Realtek Semiconductor Corp.
    Inventors: Chao-Cheng Lee, Wei-Chou Wang
  • Publication number: 20110115449
    Abstract: A power isolation system and method is disclosed. The system includes a transformer suitable for use in the power isolation system, and a semiconductor device electrically connected to the transformer to provide a reduction of the inrush current associated with powering the transformer, wherein the semiconductor device is activated upon power up based upon the previous shutdown state of the power isolation system to provide a soft start to the transformer, and after activation of the transformer, the semiconductor device is shorted in the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2009
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventors: Robert Schluter, Bernard P. O'Kane, Brendan K. Walsh
  • Patent number: 7932641
    Abstract: A method and structure for preventing operation of a circuit in a high current operating region by disabling a start-up circuit until a power supply headroom is detected at a predetermined voltage level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Bradford L. Hunter, Joseph A. Iadanza
  • Patent number: 7906945
    Abstract: A soft-start voltage circuit includes an operational amplifier, a first and a second capacitors, a first and a second switches, and a voltage level shifter. The operational amplifier includes a positive end, a negative end, and an output end coupled to the negative end of the operational amplifier for outputting the soft-start voltage. The voltage level shifter is coupled between the first capacitor and the positive end of the operational amplifier for shifting a level of the voltage on the first capacitor. The first switch is coupled between the first and the second capacitors for coupling the first and the second capacitors according to the clock. The second switch is coupled between the second capacitor and the negative end of the operational amplifier for coupling the second capacitor and the negative end of the operational amplifier according to the inverted clock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Advanced Analog Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Shun-Hau Kao, Mao-Chuan Chien
  • Patent number: 7855903
    Abstract: A programmable parameter or feature is provided for a power converter through a multi-function connection on the converter controller. The parameter or feature selection is active for programming during a startup mode, and the connection is used for other control purposes during a steady state run mode. A reference signal is read on the multifunction connection during startup mode and a selection of a parameter value or feature is made based on a value of the reference signal. The reference signal is compared to preset, internal reference values to select a desired parameter value or feature. An internal preset value is chosen based on the selection and the programming circuitry is disconnected from the connection to permit alternate functionality for the connection. The programmable circuit permits selection from a variety of parameter values or features based on an external signal, without dedicating an external pin on the controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventors: Joseph Maurice Khayat, Brian Thomas Lynch, Aditya Makharia
  • Patent number: 7852642
    Abstract: A full digital soft-start circuit adapted for a power supply system is provided. The full digital soft-start circuit includes a ring oscillator, a pulse generator, a counter, and a multiplexer. The ring oscillator generates a plurality of clock signals which are different in phase, while equivalent in duty cycle and frequency. The pulse generator generates a plurality of pulse signals with different duty cycles. The counter generates a multi-bit counting signal. The multiplexer determines whether to transmit the pulse signals generated by the pulse generator so as to generate an output pulse which becomes stable as time going on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Faraday Technology Corp.
    Inventor: Wen-Hao Yu
  • Patent number: 7834599
    Abstract: In one embodiment, an apparatus is provided for a system including an integrated circuit coupled to a node to receive a supply voltage and having bypass capacitors coupled in parallel with the integrated circuit to the node. The apparatus comprises a first capacitor, a switch coupled to the first capacitor, and a voltage source configured to charge the first capacitor. The switch is coupled to receive a control signal that is asserted, during use, if the supply voltage to an integrated circuit is to be increased. The switch is configured to electrically couple the first capacitor to the node in response to an assertion of the control signal. When electrically coupled to the node, the first capacitor supplies charge to the bypass capacitors. A system comprising the apparatus, the node, the integrated circuit, and the bypass capacitors is also contemplated in some embodiments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventor: Vincent R. von Kaenel
  • Patent number: 7791309
    Abstract: The present invention relates a motor controller and a motor control method of controlling a motor having a stator coil and a rotator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Sun Ho Hwang, Han Su Jung, Chung Hun Lee
  • Patent number: 7667989
    Abstract: A method for controlling start time series by stages adopted for use on a power supply consisting of a main power system and a standby power system. The power supply includes an energy storage unit to store a judgment power. The method mainly includes: setting a start voltage, setting a boosted voltage, getting a judgment power voltage and detecting whether the judgment power has reached the start voltage or the boosted voltage, and alternately starting the standby power system and the main power system. Thus the main power system and the standby power system are started at different time series. In terms of the energy storage unit the load increases by stages. Therefore the energy storage unit can be charged to increase the judgment power voltage and increase loading by stages. As a result, inrush current also rises by stages and can be harnessed as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Andyson International Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Che-Chia Liu
  • Patent number: 7642754
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a voltage regulator uses a first current to charge a by-pass capacitor for a first time period and uses a second current after the first time period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Semiconductor Components Industries, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Stephen W. Dow, Praveen Manapragada, David F. Moeller
  • Patent number: 7638995
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for softstarting a voltage regulation circuit. A circuit for generating an output voltage at an output thereof includes a capacitor having a first terminal configured to be coupled to a reference potential and having a second terminal coupled to the output, and a switchable current source coupled to the capacitor for intermittently charging the capacitor until the output voltage is reached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Freescale Semiconductor, Inc.
    Inventors: Brett J. Thompsen, Ira G. Miller, Eduardo Velarde, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20090289608
    Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention includes a system for providing a soft-start for a power regulator comprising a differential transistor pair that receives an input current and conducts a first current through a first transistor and a second current through a second transistor. One of the first and second current changes in response to a change in the other to maintain a sum of the first and second current being substantially equal to the input current. The system also comprises a comparator that provides an output signal based on a comparison of a first input voltage and a second input voltage associated with the first current and the second current, respectively. The system further comprises a current source activated by the output signal to charge a capacitor that increases a soft-start reference voltage associated with control of the power regulator and which controls the change in the other of the first and second current.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2007
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Inventor: Mohammad A. Al-Shyoukh
  • Publication number: 20090251115
    Abstract: In one embodiment, an apparatus is provided for a system including an integrated circuit coupled to a node to receive a supply voltage and having bypass capacitors coupled in parallel with the integrated circuit to the node. The apparatus comprises a first capacitor, a switch coupled to the first capacitor, and a voltage source configured to charge the first capacitor. The switch is coupled to receive a control signal that is asserted, during use, if the supply voltage to an integrated circuit is to be increased. The switch is configured to electrically couple the first capacitor to the node in response to an assertion of the control signal. When electrically coupled to the node, the first capacitor supplies charge to the bypass capacitors. A system comprising the apparatus, the node, the integrated circuit, and the bypass capacitors is also contemplated in some embodiments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2009
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventor: Vincent R. von Kaenel