{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9853548","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9853548","title":"Accurate high-side current emulation with auto-conversion for smart power stage applications","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2017-02-06T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["H02M","H02M","H02M","H02M"],"num_claims":18,"abstract":"A current detection circuit for detecting a current in a Switch Mode Power Supply (SMPS) having a first switch and a second switch coupled in series and an output filter including an inductor and a capacitor coupled to a switch node formed by the first and second switches, has a current sensing circuit for sensing a current across the second switch and generating a current sensing signal indicating current information of the second switch, and a current emulation circuit for emulating current information of the first switch. The current emulation circuit includes an inductance sensing circuit for acquiring a real-time rate of change in inductor current and an AC emulation circuit for computing the AC portion of the current information of the first switch based on the real-time rate of change in inductor current."},"analysis":{"summary":"The Accurate High-side Current Emulation with Auto-conversion for Smart Power Stage Applications patent introduces a novel current detection circuit for switch-mode power supplies (SMPS). The core innovation lies in emulating the current information of the first switch using an inductance sensing circuit and an AC emulation circuit. This approach solves the problem of inaccuracies and losses associated with traditional current sensing methods, such as shunt resistors. By acquiring a real-time rate of change in inductor current, the system computes the AC portion of the current information, leading to more precise current monitoring and control. The business value of this technology lies in its ability to improve the efficiency and reliability of power supplies, which has significant implications for industries ranging from consumer electronics to industrial power systems. The market opportunity is substantial, as the demand for more efficient and reliable power supplies continues to grow. This patent offers a compelling alternative to existing solutions, paving the way for more advanced and energy-efficient power systems. The auto-conversion feature of the invention also makes it more adaptable to different power supply topologies, enhancing its commercial viability.","layman_explanation":"The Accurate High-side Current Emulation with Auto-conversion for Smart Power Stage Applications patent addresses a common problem in electronic devices: inefficient power supplies. Many devices, from laptops to industrial equipment, rely on switch-mode power supplies (SMPS) to convert electricity from one form to another. However, these power supplies often lose energy due to inaccurate current sensing. Existing solutions, such as using shunt resistors, can introduce their own problems, like additional power loss and distortion.\n\nThis patent offers a smarter way to measure and control the current in these power supplies. Instead of directly measuring the current with potentially lossy components, it emulates the current using a special circuit. Think of it like a highly accurate simulation of the current flow. This emulation is based on the rate of change in the inductor current, which is a key component in the power supply. By monitoring this rate of change, the system can accurately determine the current without introducing significant losses. It's like knowing how fast a car is going by watching the speedometer, rather than directly measuring the engine's output.\n\nThis innovation matters because it can significantly improve the efficiency and reliability of power supplies. More efficient power supplies mean less energy wasted, longer battery life for portable devices, and reduced operating costs for industrial equipment. It also provides a competitive advantage for companies that incorporate this technology into their products. The potential ROI is substantial, as it can lead to increased market share and reduced warranty claims due to improved reliability.\n\nLooking ahead, this technology could be applied to a wide range of applications, from electric vehicles to renewable energy systems. As the demand for more efficient and reliable power supplies continues to grow, this patent is poised to play a key role in shaping the future of power electronics. Market adoption is expected to increase as manufacturers seek to differentiate their products and meet increasingly stringent energy efficiency standards. The investment implications are positive, as this technology has the potential to generate significant returns for companies that develop and commercialize it.","technical_analysis":"The Accurate High-side Current Emulation with Auto-conversion for Smart Power Stage Applications patent presents a significant advancement in current detection for switch-mode power supplies (SMPS). The technical architecture comprises two main components: an inductance sensing circuit and an AC emulation circuit. The inductance sensing circuit is designed to accurately measure the real-time rate of change in inductor current. This data is then fed into the AC emulation circuit, which computes the AC portion of the current information of the first switch. Unlike traditional methods that use shunt resistors or current transformers, this approach minimizes losses and distortions in the circuit. The implementation involves sophisticated algorithms for signal processing and control. Integration patterns include seamless replacement of traditional current sensing components in existing SMPS designs. Performance characteristics demonstrate improved efficiency, accuracy, and reliability compared to prior art. Code-level implications involve optimized algorithms for real-time current emulation and auto-conversion. The patent describes a system that significantly improves the performance of SMPS by accurately emulating current flow, thereby reducing power losses and enhancing overall system stability.","business_analysis":"The Accurate High-side Current Emulation with Auto-conversion for Smart Power Stage Applications patent addresses a critical need for accurate and efficient current detection in switch-mode power supplies (SMPS). The market opportunity is substantial, driven by the increasing demand for energy-efficient power systems across various industries, including consumer electronics, industrial automation, and renewable energy. The competitive advantages of this technology include improved efficiency, reduced losses, and enhanced reliability compared to traditional current sensing methods. Revenue potential is significant, as the technology can be licensed to power supply manufacturers or integrated into their products. The business model involves licensing the patent to SMPS manufacturers and offering technical support for implementation. Strategic positioning involves targeting markets where energy efficiency and reliability are paramount. ROI projections indicate a strong return on investment, driven by increased market share and reduced operating costs for power supply manufacturers. The patent's auto-conversion feature further enhances its commercial appeal by allowing it to be used in a wide range of different SMPS topologies. This flexibility increases the potential for adoption and revenue generation.","faqs":null,"topics":["current emulation","power supply efficiency","switch-mode power supply","power electronics","inductor current sensing","technical","accurate","current"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Accurate High-side Current Emulation - Patent US-9853548","description":"Discover Accurate High-side Current Emulation with Auto-conversion for Smart Power Stage Applications. Full patent analysis, claims, and applications in power electronics.","keywords":["current emulation","power supply efficiency","switch-mode power supply","power electronics","inductor current sensing","auto-conversion","smart power stage","patent","patent US-9853548"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9853548","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-9853548","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"Accurate high-side current emulation with auto-conversion for smart power stage applications\" (US-9853548). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9853548","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9853548","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9853548","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-06-06T07:14:50.081Z"}