Current limiting for DC-DC converters
US8519691B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 22, 2010 |
| Grant date | Aug 27, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 29, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02B70/10
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Apparatus and method for providing current limiting in a DC-DC converter and especially to methods and apparatus suitable for a start-up mode of operation. The invention monitors the inductor (L) current when the high side supply switch is on against a peak current limit threshold. If the inductor current reaches the peak current limit threshold the high side switch is turned off. The inductor current when the low side switch is off is monitored against a valley current threshold. As long as the inductor current is above the valley current threshold turn on of the low side switch is inhibited. In this way current limiting is provided and the problems of stair-stepping are avoided. Embodiments employing lossless current sensing are described. The invention may be implemented in a start-up mode of operation wherein the converter is controlled purely by the peak current limit and valley current threshold which are increased over time.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.