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Phase-compensating gate driver for synchronous rectifiers

Energy & Power ElectronicsElectronics & SemiconductorsLab validated

This technology improves the efficiency of synchronous rectifiers—components used in power converters to replace diodes with transistors for lower energy loss. The core problem is that the physical packaging of these transistors introduces stray inductance that distorts the voltage signal used to time their switching, causing them to turn on or off at the wrong moment. This invention applies a phase compensation circuit that mathematically corrects for that distortion, giving the controller a cleaner signal that reflects what's actually happening inside the transistor. The result is more precise switching timing, which reduces wasted energy from unwanted body diode conduction and reverse recovery effects—both well-known efficiency killers in high-frequency power conversion.

What you could build

A control IC or gate driver module for DC-DC power converters incorporating built-in phase compensation, sold to power supply manufacturers serving computing, telecom, and consumer electronics markets where efficiency standards are tightening.

Who in Virginia should care

Defense contractors and data center operators in Northern Virginia with high-density power supply requirements would be natural licensees or technology adopters.

Readiness: Lab validated

Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.

Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.

The record

Inventors
Dianbo Fu, Fred C. Lee
Granted
October 13, 2009
Status
Granted patent
Patent number
7602154

Ready to talk?

Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.

VTIP contact coming shortly

Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.