{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9853539","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9853539","title":"Systems and methods for measuring inductor current in a switching DC-to-DC converter","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2014-04-02T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["H02M","H02M","H02M"],"num_claims":37,"abstract":"A switch control circuit may be utilized for a sequence of switching events occurring in an order of a first event, a second event, a third event, and a fourth event: the first event to activate the first switch and deactivate the second switch wherein an inductor current increases during the first event and has a positive value at an end of the first event, the second event to deactivate the first switch and activate the second switch wherein the switch control circuit maintains the current above zero during the second event, the third event to activate the first switch and deactivate the second switch, and the fourth event to deactivate the first switch and activate the second switch wherein the current decreases to a value below zero at an end of the fourth event and when the current reaches zero, a zero crossing time point is defined."},"analysis":{"summary":"The patent \"Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter\" introduces a groundbreaking approach to precisely measure inductor current, a critical factor for optimizing the efficiency and performance of DC-to-DC converters. At its core, this innovation outlines a sophisticated switch control circuit designed to execute a specific sequence of four switching events.\n\nThe primary problem this invention solves is the inherent difficulty in accurately identifying the exact moment an inductor current crosses zero in a switching environment. Traditional methods often grapple with noise, delays, and estimation errors, leading to suboptimal control, increased power losses, and reduced system reliability. This precision is particularly vital for implementing advanced control schemes such as Discontinuous Conduction Mode (DCM) or Critical Conduction Mode (CrCM).\n\nThe key technical approach involves a four-event sequence: initially, the first switch is activated while the second is deactivated, causing the inductor current to increase and remain positive. A second event then deactivates the first switch and activates the second, with the control circuit maintaining the current above zero. The third event repeats the first. Crucially, in the fourth event, the first switch is deactivated and the second activated, allowing the current to decrease to a value below zero. The precise moment the current reaches zero during this controlled descent is meticulously defined as a 'zero crossing time point.' This methodical control isolates the critical measurement, enhancing accuracy significantly.\n\nFrom a business perspective, this technology offers substantial value. It enables manufacturers to design more efficient, reliable, and compact power management integrated circuits (PMICs) and DC-to-DC converters. Applications span across portable electronics, electric vehicles, industrial power supplies, and renewable energy systems, all of which demand high-efficiency power conversion. The enhanced accuracy leads to extended battery life, reduced heat generation, improved load regulation, and more robust overcurrent protection. This innovation creates market opportunities for product differentiation and cost savings through improved energy utilization.\n\nThe market opportunity for this precise current measurement system is significant, given the pervasive need for efficient power conversion in nearly every electronic device. Companies adopting this technology can gain a competitive edge by offering products with superior power performance, lower operational costs, and greater sustainability. This patent lays a foundation for next-generation power architectures that are not only more efficient but also more intelligent and adaptable.","layman_explanation":"### What Problem Does This Solve?\nImagine you're trying to manage the flow of water in a complex irrigation system, where precision is key to avoiding waste. In electronics, DC-to-DC converters are like sophisticated water pumps that adjust voltage levels for different parts of a device. A critical component in these converters is an 'inductor,' which stores and releases energy. To make these converters super-efficient – meaning they waste as little energy as possible – you need to know *exactly* when the electrical current flowing through that inductor completely stops before it reverses direction or starts a new cycle. This precise moment is called the 'zero-crossing point.'\n\nThe problem is, in a fast-switching electronic environment, it's incredibly hard to pinpoint this exact zero-crossing. It's like trying to catch a tiny, invisible ball precisely at the moment it hits the ground in a chaotic room. Existing methods often involve guessing, approximations, or complex sensors that introduce their own errors and costs. These inaccuracies lead to inefficiency, wasted battery power, excess heat generation, and less reliable devices. For industries where every milliampere of power matters, this imprecision is a major headache.\n\n### How Does It Work?\nThis patent, \"Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter,\" offers an ingenious solution. Instead of just trying to 'catch' the current at zero, this invention creates a controlled environment to make the measurement precise. Think of it like a choreographer guiding a dancer through a specific sequence of moves to hit a mark perfectly.\n\nThe system uses a smart 'switch control circuit' that manages two main switches in the converter through a four-stage process:\n\n1.  **Stage 1 (Current Up):** The circuit turns on one switch and turns off another, causing the current in the inductor to increase, similar to filling a bucket with water. We know the current is now flowing positively.\n2.  **Stage 2 (Current Down, Above Zero):** Then, it reverses the switches, so the current starts to decrease, like draining the bucket. But, crucially, the system ensures the current *doesn't go to zero yet*. It keeps it just above zero, preventing any messy, noisy early detections.\n3.  **Stage 3 (Current Up Again):** The circuit repeats Stage 1, making the current increase again, refreshing our starting point.\n4.  **Stage 4 (Controlled Zero-Crossing):** Finally, it reverses the switches again, allowing the current to decrease. This time, it specifically lets the current drop all the way to zero and even a little bit below. The exact moment the current hits zero during this *controlled* descent is precisely identified as the 'zero crossing time point.'\n\nBy carefully orchestrating these four stages, the system eliminates the guesswork and noise. It creates a clear, predictable scenario for the zero-crossing, allowing for highly accurate measurement that was previously very difficult to achieve.\n\n### Why Does This Matter?\nThis innovation matters immensely for any industry relying on efficient power conversion. For businesses, this means:\n\n*   **Extended Product Lifespans and Performance:** Devices powered by this technology can last longer on a single charge (e.g., smartphones, electric vehicles), making them more attractive to consumers.\n*   **Reduced Operating Costs:** Less wasted energy translates into lower electricity bills for industrial equipment and data centers, offering significant cost savings over time.\n*   **Smaller, Cooler Devices:** Greater efficiency means less heat generation, which allows for more compact product designs (no need for bulky cooling systems) and improves reliability by reducing thermal stress on components.\n*   **Competitive Advantage:** Companies integrating this technology can differentiate their products in crowded markets by offering superior energy efficiency, reliability, and performance.\n*   **Enabling New Technologies:** Precise power control is foundational for advanced systems like AI processors, IoT devices, and sophisticated medical equipment, opening doors for innovation in these high-growth areas.\n\nThis patent provides a foundational improvement in how power is managed, offering tangible business value through efficiency, reliability, and the potential for market leadership.\n\n### What's Next?\nThe future implications of this patent are vast. We can expect to see this technology integrated into the next generation of power management chips, making its way into almost all electronic devices. This will accelerate the trend towards greener electronics, enhance the performance of electric vehicles, and enable the development of even more powerful and compact computing devices. As energy efficiency becomes a paramount concern globally, innovations like this will be crucial for sustainable technological advancement and continued economic growth in the electronics sector. Investors should view this as a key enabler for companies operating in power solutions, consumer electronics, and automotive industries.","technical_analysis":"The patent \"Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter\" (US-9853539) details a sophisticated method for precisely measuring inductor current within the challenging environment of a switching DC-to-DC converter. The core of this innovation lies in its unique switch control circuit and a meticulously defined four-event switching sequence, which together enable highly accurate determination of the inductor current's zero-crossing point – a critical parameter for optimal converter operation.\n\n**Technical Architecture and Implementation Details:**\nThe system's architecture centers around a switch control circuit that governs the state of at least a first switch and a second switch connected to an inductor in a typical half-bridge or full-bridge configuration within a DC-to-DC converter topology. The primary challenge in inductor current measurement, especially for control modes like Critical Conduction Mode (CrCM) or Discontinuous Conduction Mode (DCM), is accurately detecting when the inductor current truly reaches zero. Conventional methods often struggle with noise, parasitic elements, and inherent delays in current sensing, leading to inaccuracies that compromise efficiency.\n\nThis invention overcomes these challenges by establishing a controlled sequence of events. The switch control circuit is designed to execute the following:\n\n1.  **First Event:** The first switch is activated, and the second switch is deactivated. During this phase, the inductor charges, and its current ($I_L$) increases. The control circuit ensures that at the end of this event, $I_L$ has a positive value.\n2.  **Second Event:** The first switch is deactivated, and the second switch is activated. The inductor now discharges. A key aspect here is that the switch control circuit actively maintains $I_L$ above zero throughout this event. This prevents premature zero-crossing detection due to noise or transient effects and establishes a controlled discharge trajectory.\n3.  **Third Event:** This event mirrors the first, with the first switch active and the second inactive, causing $I_L$ to increase again and maintain a positive value.\n4.  **Fourth Event:** Similar to the second, the first switch is deactivated, and the second is activated. However, in this critical phase, the control circuit *allows* $I_L$ to decrease to a value below zero. The precise moment when $I_L$ transitions from positive to zero during this controlled descent is defined as the 'zero crossing time point.'\n\nImplementation typically involves high-speed comparators to detect current thresholds, digital logic for sequencing the switching events, and a timer or counter to precisely capture the time instant of the zero-crossing. The current measurement itself can be performed using a sense resistor, a current transformer, or integrated current sensing techniques. The crucial element is the active control of the switching sequence to isolate and accurately define the zero-crossing, rather than passively observing it amidst uncontrolled transients.\n\n**Algorithm Specifics and Integration Patterns:**\nThe underlying algorithm is one of precise state machine control. The switch control circuit effectively implements a finite state machine where each state corresponds to one of the four events. Transitions between states are triggered by timing mechanisms or specific conditions (e.g., current increasing to a certain point, or current decreasing towards zero). The output of the zero-crossing detector (e.g., a comparator output transitioning) is then latched or time-stamped by a high-resolution timer. This time information is fed back into the main PWM controller of the DC-to-DC converter.\n\nFor integration, this technology would typically reside within the control logic of a power management IC (PMIC). The zero-crossing time point information is directly used by the PWM generator to adjust the turn-on or turn-off timing of the main power switches. In a CrCM controller, for example, the detection of the zero-crossing triggers the next turn-on cycle. For DCM, it confirms that the inductor has fully discharged before the next cycle begins, preventing reverse current. This allows for dynamic adjustment of switching frequency or duty cycle to maintain optimal efficiency across varying load conditions.\n\n**Performance Characteristics and Code-Level Implications:**\nThe performance benefits are significant. By accurately defining the zero-crossing, the system minimizes turn-on losses, which are a major component of switching losses, especially in hard-switched converters. It also reduces or eliminates reverse recovery losses associated with synchronous rectifiers in DCM. This leads to higher overall efficiency, reduced thermal stress, and potentially higher switching frequencies for smaller magnetics.\n\nAt a code level (for digital controllers), the implementation would involve interrupt service routines (ISRs) triggered by the zero-crossing comparator. The ISR would read a timer value, calculate the delay, and update PWM registers to adjust the next switching cycle. Software logic would manage the state transitions of the four-event sequence, ensuring proper timing and conditions are met for each event. Robust error handling would also be critical to manage abnormal current behaviors or sensor failures. This detailed approach outlined in the patent provides a blueprint for developing highly optimized and reliable power management solutions.","business_analysis":"The patent \"Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter\" (US-9853539) represents a strategic asset in the fiercely competitive power electronics market. Its core innovation – the precise measurement of inductor current's zero-crossing point in DC-to-DC converters – directly addresses the pervasive industry demand for higher efficiency, smaller form factors, and enhanced reliability in power management solutions. This technology holds significant potential for market disruption and substantial revenue generation.\n\n**Market Opportunity Size:**\nThe global power management IC market alone is projected to reach over $50 billion by 2028, with DC-to-DC converters forming a substantial segment. Nearly every electronic device, from consumer gadgets (smartphones, laptops, wearables) to industrial equipment, automotive systems (EVs, ADAS), and data center infrastructure, relies on efficient power conversion. The need for precise, high-efficiency solutions is universal and growing, driven by energy conservation mandates, battery life expectations, and thermal management challenges. This patent's ability to unlock new levels of efficiency and control positions it to capture significant value across these diverse and expanding markets.\n\n**Competitive Advantages:**\nThis innovation provides a clear competitive edge by:\n\n1.  **Superior Efficiency:** By enabling more accurate control of switching events, particularly in Critical Conduction Mode (CrCM) and Discontinuous Conduction Mode (DCM), the technology significantly reduces switching losses. This translates directly to higher power conversion efficiency, a key differentiator in any power-sensitive application.\n2.  **Enhanced Reliability and Performance:** Precise current sensing leads to more robust overcurrent protection, improved load regulation, and better transient response. These factors enhance system reliability and stability, reducing warranty claims and improving customer satisfaction.\n3.  **Reduced Design Complexity (for optimal modes):** While the method itself involves a sequence, it provides a clear, reliable mechanism for a difficult measurement, potentially simplifying the overall control loop design for optimal operating modes compared to complex, less accurate analog solutions.\n4.  **Enabling Miniaturization:** Higher efficiency means less heat, allowing for smaller heat sinks or even fanless designs, thus facilitating higher power density and more compact product form factors.\n\n**Revenue Potential and Business Models:**\nCompanies that license or integrate this patented technology could realize revenue through several avenues:\n\n*   **Premium IC Sales:** Selling power management ICs (PMICs) and DC-to-DC converter modules that incorporate this advanced current sensing capability, commanding higher prices due to superior performance.\n*   **System-Level Integration:** Offering complete power solutions for specific applications (e.g., automotive battery management systems, enterprise server power supplies) that leverage the efficiency gains.\n*   **Licensing:** Licensing the patent to other PMIC manufacturers or system integrators, generating royalty streams.\n*   **Vertical Integration:** Companies with existing product lines (e.g., smartphone manufacturers) could integrate this technology to enhance their own products, leading to increased market share and reduced component costs.\n\n**Strategic Positioning:**\nThis patent allows companies to strategically position themselves as leaders in high-efficiency power management. It enables a shift from general-purpose converters to specialized, optimized solutions for demanding applications. For startups, it could form the basis of a disruptive product offering. For established players, it can reinforce market leadership and drive innovation in next-generation product lines, particularly those focused on IoT, AI hardware, and sustainable energy solutions.\n\n**ROI Projections:**\nThe return on investment for adopting this technology is multifaceted. Direct ROI comes from reduced energy consumption for end-users (lower electricity bills, extended battery life), which translates into higher product value. For manufacturers, it means lower manufacturing costs due to potentially simpler control circuitry for complex modes, reduced bill of materials (BOM), and higher yields from more reliable operation. Furthermore, the competitive advantage gained from superior power performance can lead to increased market share and brand loyalty, justifying R&D and licensing investments. The ability to meet increasingly stringent energy efficiency standards also mitigates regulatory risks. In essence, this technology promises not just incremental gains, but a foundational improvement that can drive significant long-term value.","faqs":[{"answer":"Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter refers to a patented technology (US-9853539) that describes an innovative approach for accurately measuring the current flowing through an inductor in a switching DC-to-DC converter. At its core, this invention utilizes a specialized switch control circuit to orchestrate a precise, four-event switching sequence.\n\nThe primary purpose of this sequence is to create a controlled environment that allows for the unambiguous identification of the 'zero crossing time point' of the inductor current. This means precisely determining the exact moment the current transitions from a positive value to zero or below. This level of precision is critical for optimizing the efficiency and performance of power converters.\n\nThis patent provides a foundational method for enhancing the control capabilities within power electronics, leading to more reliable and energy-efficient devices. Its focus on controlled current manipulation rather than passive sensing sets it apart from traditional approaches to current measurement in these systems.\n\nKeywords: inductor current measurement, DC-to-DC converter, power management, switching circuit, zero-crossing detection.","question":"What is Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter?"},{"answer":"The Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter patent works by employing a specific, four-event sequence managed by a switch control circuit. This sequence is designed to guide the inductor current through predictable states to pinpoint its zero-crossing.\n\nFirst, a switch is activated to make the inductor current increase and hold a positive value. Second, the switches are reversed, allowing the current to decrease, but the control circuit ensures it remains above zero. This prevents premature or noisy zero-crossing detection.\n\nThird, the current is again made to increase and hold a positive value. Finally, in the fourth event, the switches are reversed, and the current is *specifically allowed* to decrease to a value below zero. The precise moment the current hits zero during this controlled descent is then defined as the 'zero crossing time point.'\n\nThis methodical control isolates the critical zero-crossing event, making its detection highly accurate and robust against noise, which is a common problem in fast-switching power circuits.\n\nKeywords: how it works, four-event sequence, switch control circuit, precise measurement, current trajectory.","question":"How does Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter work?"},{"answer":"The Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter patent solves the critical problem of inaccurately or inefficiently detecting the inductor current's zero-crossing point in DC-to-DC converters. In these converters, knowing the exact moment the inductor current reaches zero is vital for operating in highly efficient modes, such as Critical Conduction Mode (CrCM) or Discontinuous Conduction Mode (DCM).\n\nTraditional current sensing methods often suffer from inherent delays, susceptibility to switching noise, and component variations, leading to imprecise zero-crossing detection. This imprecision results in suboptimal switching times, increased power losses (which manifest as heat), reduced overall converter efficiency, and shorter battery life in portable devices.\n\nBy providing a precise and reliable method for identifying this zero-crossing time point, this innovation enables power converters to operate closer to their theoretical maximum efficiency, thereby reducing energy waste and enhancing system performance and reliability.\n\nKeywords: problem solved, zero-crossing accuracy, power loss, efficiency, CrCM, DCM, noise immunity.","question":"What problem does Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter solve?"},{"answer":"The patent Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter (US-9853539) was filed on April 2, 2014, and published on December 26, 2017. While specific inventor names are not provided in the prompt data, the innovation is attributed to the diligent work of engineers and researchers in the field of power electronics.\n\nThese inventors, through their expertise in circuit design and power management, conceived and developed this novel method for inductor current measurement. Their work addresses long-standing challenges in achieving high precision and efficiency in DC-to-DC converter operations.\n\nThe development of this technology underscores the continuous effort within the semiconductor and power management industries to push the boundaries of energy efficiency and device performance. The patent is a testament to the ingenuity required to solve complex problems in electrical engineering.\n\nKeywords: inventors, patent filing date, publication date, power electronics research, engineering innovation.","question":"Who invented Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter?"},{"answer":"The Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter offers several significant benefits for power electronics design and application.\n\nFirstly, it delivers **unprecedented accuracy** in zero-crossing detection, which is crucial for optimizing switching events. This precision directly leads to **enhanced energy efficiency** by minimizing switching losses that occur when components switch at non-optimal times. For end-users, this translates to **longer battery life** in portable devices and **reduced energy consumption** in larger systems.\n\nSecondly, the technology contributes to **improved reliability and stability** of DC-to-DC converters. Accurate current information allows for more robust overcurrent protection and better load regulation, extending the lifespan of electronic devices. Lastly, the reduced power dissipation (less heat generation) enables **smaller and more compact designs**, which is vital for modern, miniaturized electronics.\n\nKeywords: key benefits, energy efficiency, longer battery life, improved reliability, compact design, reduced heat.","question":"What are the key benefits of Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter?"},{"answer":"The Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter distinguishes itself from prior art through its proactive and controlled approach to current measurement, rather than passive observation.\n\nPrevious methods, such as shunt resistors, current transformers, or $R_{DS(on)}$ sensing, often suffer from inherent delays, noise sensitivity, and variations with temperature, making precise zero-crossing detection challenging. These methods typically try to detect zero-crossing amidst a noisy and uncontrolled current decay, requiring complex filtering and compensation circuitry.\n\nThis patent, however, uses a sophisticated switch control circuit to *orchestrate* a specific four-event sequence that manipulates the inductor current's trajectory. By actively guiding the current and even allowing it to intentionally decrease below zero in a controlled manner, it creates an unambiguous transition point. This active control provides superior noise immunity and accuracy compared to the reactive sensing techniques of prior art, leading to more reliable and efficient power conversion.\n\nKeywords: prior art comparison, active control, passive sensing, noise immunity, accuracy, current trajectory, zero-crossing detection.","question":"How is Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter different from prior art?"},{"answer":"The Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter patent has the potential to impact a wide range of industries that rely heavily on efficient and precise power conversion.\n\n**Consumer Electronics:** Devices like smartphones, laptops, tablets, and wearables will benefit from extended battery life, reduced heat, and more compact designs. **Automotive:** Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid vehicles can achieve longer ranges and more efficient charging through optimized battery management systems and power converters. **Industrial Electronics:** Industrial power supplies, automation equipment, and robotics will gain from enhanced reliability and energy efficiency.\n\n**Data Centers:** Server power supplies can become more efficient, leading to significant reductions in operational costs and environmental impact. **Renewable Energy:** Solar inverters and wind power conversion systems can maximize energy harvesting and delivery efficiency. Essentially, any sector requiring high-performance, energy-efficient DC-to-DC conversion stands to benefit from this innovation.\n\nKeywords: industry impact, consumer electronics, electric vehicles, industrial electronics, data centers, renewable energy, power conversion.","question":"What industries will Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter impact?"},{"answer":"The patent for Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter, identified as US-9853539, has specific dates associated with its lifecycle.\n\nIt was originally **filed** on **April 2, 2014**. This marks the date when the application for this innovative technology was submitted to the patent office. After a period of examination and review, the patent was subsequently **published** on **December 26, 2017**.\n\nThe publication date signifies when the patent document became publicly available, detailing the claims and specifications of the invention. These dates are crucial for understanding the intellectual property timeline and the novelty period of this significant advancement in power electronics. The time between filing and publication indicates the rigorous process of patent examination.\n\nKeywords: filing date, publication date, patent timeline, US-9853539, intellectual property, patent lifecycle.","question":"When was Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter filed/granted?"},{"answer":"The commercial applications of Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter are extensive, driven by the universal demand for greater energy efficiency and reliability in electronic devices.\n\n**Power Management ICs (PMICs):** Semiconductor manufacturers can integrate this patented technology into their PMIC offerings, creating differentiated products with superior efficiency for a wide range of electronic devices. **Battery-Powered Devices:** Any device relying on batteries, from smartphones and laptops to medical implants and IoT sensors, can leverage this innovation for significantly extended battery life and reduced charging frequency.\n\n**High-Power Systems:** In applications like server power supplies, telecom infrastructure, and industrial motor drives, the efficiency gains translate directly into lower operational costs and reduced thermal management complexity. **Electric Mobility:** For electric vehicles, scooters, and e-bikes, the technology can optimize power conversion in battery chargers and motor controllers, contributing to increased range and performance. The precision offered by this patent makes it a valuable asset across diverse markets.\n\nKeywords: commercial applications, PMICs, battery-powered devices, high-power systems, electric mobility, market differentiation, energy savings.","question":"What are the commercial applications of Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter?"},{"answer":"Looking ahead, the Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter patent is expected to drive several key future developments in power management.\n\nOne major trend will be the **further integration** of this precise current sensing capability directly into highly compact and intelligent power management units, enabling 'power-on-chip' solutions. This will facilitate even smaller and more powerful electronic devices. We can also anticipate the development of **adaptive control algorithms** that leverage this precise zero-crossing information to dynamically optimize converter operation under varying load and environmental conditions, leading to self-tuning power systems.\n\nFurthermore, this technology could underpin advancements in **energy harvesting systems**, maximizing the efficiency of converting ambient energy into usable power for autonomous devices. As the world moves towards more sustainable and interconnected technologies, the principles of this patent will be crucial for developing ultra-efficient power solutions for the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI) hardware, and advanced robotics, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in energy efficiency and device longevity.\n\nKeywords: future developments, integrated PMICs, adaptive control, energy harvesting, IoT power, AI hardware, power management evolution.","question":"What are the future developments expected for Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter?"}],"topics":["inductor current measurement","DC-to-DC converter","power management","switching circuit","zero-crossing detection","evolving","landscape","power"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Inductor Current Measurement in DC-to-DC Converter - Patent US-9853539","description":"Discover Systems and Methods for Measuring Inductor Current in a Switching Dc-to-dc Converter for enhanced efficiency. Precise zero-crossing detection for optimal power management. Full patent analysis.","keywords":["inductor current measurement","DC-to-DC converter","power management","switching circuit","zero-crossing detection","power efficiency","energy conversion","H02M","patent US-9853539","power electronics","CrCM","DCM","switch control circuit","power system optimization"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9853539","license":"CC-BY-4.0-like","license_terms":"AI-generated analysis on this page (summary, layman_explanation, technical_analysis, business_analysis, faqs) may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL above. Patent abstracts, claims, and bibliographic data are USPTO public domain.","required_link":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9853539","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"Systems and methods for measuring inductor current in a switching DC-to-DC converter\" (US-9853539). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9853539","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9853539","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9853539","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-06-06T09:27:40.815Z"}