With Soft Start Patents (Class 323/238)
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Patent number: 11722105Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 11, 2021Date of Patent: August 8, 2023Assignee: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATEDInventors: Tawen Mei, Jiun Heng Goh, Robert Blattner
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Patent number: 11489333Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 4, 2021Date of Patent: November 1, 2022Assignee: ABB SCHWEIZ AGInventors: Xiaoqing Song, Yu Du, Yuzhi Zhang
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Patent number: 10630169Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 28, 2019Date of Patent: April 21, 2020Assignee: NXP B.V.Inventor: Joan Wichard Strijker
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Patent number: 10594202Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 15, 2019Date of Patent: March 17, 2020Assignee: pSemi CorporationInventor: Antony Christopher Routledge
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Patent number: 10379152Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 7, 2016Date of Patent: August 13, 2019Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Raphael P. Robertazzi, Peilin Song, Franco Stellari
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Patent number: 9922214Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 30, 2016Date of Patent: March 20, 2018Assignee: EM Microelectronic-Marin SAInventors: Christian Lamothe, Thomas Coulot, Goran Stojanovic
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Patent number: 9819182Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 12, 2011Date of Patent: November 14, 2017Assignee: SunPower CorporationInventors: Robert Batten, Ravindranath Naiknaware
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Patent number: 9651285Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 21, 2013Date of Patent: May 16, 2017Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.Inventors: Sangoh Kim, Hoyoun Lee
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Patent number: 9651964Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 13, 2015Date of Patent: May 16, 2017Assignee: STMICROELECTRONICS (CHINA) INVESTMENT CO. LTDInventors: Zhenghao Cui, Fei Wang, Ming Jiang
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Patent number: 9608508Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 22, 2014Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: Microsemi P.O.E Ltd.Inventor: Yair Darshan
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Patent number: 9030855Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 14, 2011Date of Patent: May 12, 2015Assignee: Macronix International Co., Ltd.Inventors: Wing-Chor Chan, Chih-Min Hu, Li-Fan Chen
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Patent number: 9018923Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 5, 2011Date of Patent: April 28, 2015Assignee: Texas Instruments IncorporatedInventors: Charles Parkhurst, Mark Hamlyn
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Patent number: 9007791Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 27, 2011Date of Patent: April 14, 2015Assignee: Infineon Technologies AGInventors: Stefano Marsili, Werner Hoellinger, Gerhard Maderbacher
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Patent number: 9000739Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 8, 2013Date of Patent: April 7, 2015Assignees: Universal Scientific Industrial (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Universal Global Scientific Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jeffrey Chen, Sam Huang, Dean Wu, Louis Huang
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Patent number: 8896277Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 18, 2012Date of Patent: November 25, 2014Assignee: Seiko Instruments Inc.Inventors: Akihito Yahagi, Takashi Imura
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Patent number: 8879281Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 9, 2013Date of Patent: November 4, 2014Assignee: Fuji Electric Co., Ltd.Inventor: Koji Sonobe
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Patent number: 8767418Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 17, 2011Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Assignee: Power Systems Technologies Ltd.Inventors: Aaron Jungreis, Antony Brinlee, Paul Garrity
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Patent number: 8749211Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 22, 2010Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Pankaj Agarwal, Joon-hyun Yang, Sung-jin Choi
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Patent number: 8699253Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 5, 2008Date of Patent: April 15, 2014Assignee: Liebert CorporationInventors: Chuntao Zhang, Xiaofei Zhang, Xueli Xiao
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Patent number: 8636885Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 26, 2010Date of Patent: January 28, 2014Assignee: Dionex CorporationInventors: Martin Vana, William Dale Case
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Patent number: 8598800Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 19, 2011Date of Patent: December 3, 2013Assignee: Rohm Co., Ltd.Inventors: Daisuke Uchimoto, Hiroki Kikuchi, Naoki Inoue
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Patent number: 8581565Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 23, 2012Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Bel Fuse (Macao Commercial Offshore) LimitedInventors: Zhao Tang, Jia Deng, Yuanping Zhou, Hongliang Lu, Mark Jutras
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Patent number: 8519686Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 19, 2010Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand CorporationInventors: Gregory I. Rozman, Joshua C. Swenson, Vietson M. Nguyen
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Patent number: 8508196Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 21, 2011Date of Patent: August 13, 2013Assignee: Seiko Instruments Inc.Inventor: Michiyasu Deguchi
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Patent number: 8502492Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 14, 2012Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: Protective Energy Economizer TechnologyInventor: Mario Marcelo Marcoccia
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Patent number: 8497665Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 30, 2010Date of Patent: July 30, 2013Assignee: Simatelex Manufactory Co. Ltd.Inventor: Zhong Mei Wang
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Patent number: 8497666Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 29, 2010Date of Patent: July 30, 2013Assignee: Renesas Electronics CorporationInventor: Toshio Nagasawa
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Patent number: 8446744Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 2, 2009Date of Patent: May 21, 2013Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventors: Thomas Scheel, Christian Hattrup, Peter Luerkens
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Patent number: 8350541Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 31, 2008Date of Patent: January 8, 2013Assignee: Nokia CorporationInventors: Martti Ojanen, Janne Tiisanoja
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Patent number: 8207715Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 17, 2009Date of Patent: June 26, 2012Assignee: Ricoh Company, Ltd.Inventor: Takashi Gotoh
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Patent number: 8203304Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 31, 2007Date of Patent: June 19, 2012Assignee: Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Haihui Lu, David M. Messersmith, Thomas A. Nondahl
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Patent number: 8179082Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 24, 2007Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Assignee: Rongxin Power Electronics Co., LtdInventors: Xing Li, Qiang Zuo, Yingsheng Xu, Mingqi Si
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Patent number: 8111529Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 27, 2009Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Assignee: Novatek Microelectronics Corp.Inventors: Lan-Shan Cheng, Chih-Yuan Hsieh
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Patent number: 8072784Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 21, 2008Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Assignees: 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
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Patent number: 8067924Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 22, 2011Date of Patent: November 29, 2011Assignee: Dell Products L.P.Inventors: Brent A. McDonald, George G. Richards
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Publication number: 20110248689Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2011Publication date: October 13, 2011Applicant: DELL PRODUCTS L.P.Inventors: Brent A. McDonald, George G. Richards, III
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Patent number: 7999519Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 11, 2007Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Assignee: Dell Products L.P.Inventors: Brent A. McDonald, George G. Richards, III
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Patent number: 7948273Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 18, 2009Date of Patent: May 24, 2011Assignee: Realtek Semiconductor Corp.Inventors: Chao-Cheng Lee, Wei-Chou Wang
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Publication number: 20110115449Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: November 16, 2009Publication date: May 19, 2011Inventors: Robert Schluter, Bernard P. O'Kane, Brendan K. Walsh
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Patent number: 7932641Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 11, 2007Date of Patent: April 26, 2011Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Bradford L. Hunter, Joseph A. Iadanza
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Patent number: 7906945Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 17, 2008Date of Patent: March 15, 2011Assignee: Advanced Analog Technology, Inc.Inventors: Shun-Hau Kao, Mao-Chuan Chien
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Patent number: 7855903Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 23, 2005Date of Patent: December 21, 2010Assignee: Texas Instruments IncorporatedInventors: Joseph Maurice Khayat, Brian Thomas Lynch, Aditya Makharia
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Patent number: 7852642Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 6, 2007Date of Patent: December 14, 2010Assignee: Faraday Technology Corp.Inventor: Wen-Hao Yu
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Patent number: 7834599Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 18, 2009Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventor: Vincent R. von Kaenel
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Patent number: 7791309Abstract: The present invention relates a motor controller and a motor control method of controlling a motor having a stator coil and a rotator.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2008Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Sun Ho Hwang, Han Su Jung, Chung Hun Lee
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Patent number: 7667989Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 29, 2007Date of Patent: February 23, 2010Assignee: Andyson International Co., Ltd.Inventor: Che-Chia Liu
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Patent number: 7642754Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 8, 2006Date of Patent: January 5, 2010Assignee: Semiconductor Components Industries, L.L.C.Inventors: Stephen W. Dow, Praveen Manapragada, David F. Moeller
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Patent number: 7638995Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 18, 2005Date of Patent: December 29, 2009Assignee: Freescale Semiconductor, Inc.Inventors: Brett J. Thompsen, Ira G. Miller, Eduardo Velarde, Jr.
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Publication number: 20090289608Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: November 6, 2007Publication date: November 26, 2009Inventor: Mohammad A. Al-Shyoukh
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Publication number: 20090251115Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: June 18, 2009Publication date: October 8, 2009Inventor: Vincent R. von Kaenel