Monolithic Ultra-High Efficiency DC-DC Converter

Ridgetop Group, Inc. will develop a unique and innovative capacitance-only switching power converter with efficiencies over 99%. Power efficiency and battery life are vital concerns for the modern war-fighters who rely on portable electronic technology to enhance their effectiveness. Batteries used for radios, rangefinders, and night vision equipment contribute weight and reduce net carrying capacity. The proposed monolithically integrated power supply unit will alleviate this burden by providing ultra-high efficiency DC-DC conversion in a small package. Weight reductions will be achieved in required batteries and conversion electronics. Achieving small package size and efficiencies above 95% are extreme challenges for a conventional inductive switch-mode power supply. Ridgetop will develop a capacitive-only switching supply based on a charge-pump and charge capacitor approach. Recent advances in semiconductor processing, including low-power, high-voltage devices, will enable new designs to achieve efficiencies greater than 99%.