Alpha and Omega Semiconductor has been granted a patent for a multi-phase current mode hysteretic modulator. This technology balances phase currents across multiple power stages using slope-compensated emulated signals, generating pulse width modulation (PWM) signals to enhance efficiency in power delivery systems. GlobalData’s report on Alpha and Omega Semiconductor gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.

According to GlobalData’s company profile on Alpha and Omega Semiconductor, Under-screen biometric identification was a key innovation area identified from patents. Alpha and Omega Semiconductor's grant share as of June 2024 was 82%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.

Multi-phase current mode hysteretic modulator for power stages

Source: United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Credit: Alpha and Omega Semiconductor Limited

The patent US12027983B2 describes a multi-phase current mode hysteretic modulator designed to generate multiple pulse width modulation (PWM) signals for driving various power stages across different phases. Each power stage receives an input voltage and delivers a phase current through an inductor to an output node connected to an output capacitor and load. The modulator operates based on a feedback voltage signal that reflects the regulated output voltage at the output node. A key feature of this modulator is its phase current balance circuit, which generates control signals to ensure balanced phase currents by comparing slope-compensated emulated phase current signals with an average phase current signal. This balance is crucial for maintaining efficiency and performance across the power stages.

The modulator includes a voltage control loop that processes the feedback voltage signal and a target voltage to produce a voltage control loop error signal. This signal is then combined with the phase current balance control signal to generate duty cycle control signals for each phase. The architecture incorporates various components, including error amplifiers, modulating comparators, and latch circuits, to facilitate the generation of PWM signals. Additionally, ramp signal generator circuits are employed to create slope-compensated emulated phase current signals, which are essential for the modulator's operation. The patent outlines methods for balancing phase currents, generating PWM signals, and implementing different current mode control strategies, such as peak and valley current control, enhancing the versatility and applicability of the modulator in voltage regulation systems.

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