Multiple phase switching regulators with stage shedding
US6674274B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 8, 2001 |
| Grant date | Jan 6, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 4, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02B70/10
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Multiple phase switching regulators with stage shedding are provided. Multiple phase switching regulators of the present invention have a plurality of single phase switching regulators coupled in parallel to an output capacitor. The plurality of single phase switching regulators supply current to a load at a regulated voltage. A comparator monitors the load current and causes one or more of the single phase switching regulators to be OFF at a low load current threshold. At least one of the single phase switching regulators that remains ON increases its output current so that the multiple phase switching regulator output current continues to match the load current. The present invention may include a second comparator that causes additional single phase switching regulators to be OFF at a second low load current threshold that is lower than the first low load current threshold.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.