Design optimization of a fully integrated charge-pump with LC tank oscillator for ultra-low voltage energy harvesting

Jayaweera H. M. P. C., Muhtaroglu A.

MICROELECTRONICS JOURNAL, vol.59, pp.33-39, 2017 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 59
  • Publication Date: 2017
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.mejo.2016.10.010
  • Journal Name: MICROELECTRONICS JOURNAL
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.33-39
  • Keywords: Low voltage DC-DC, Integrated step-up, Energy harvester interface, Micro-power generator, LC oscillator, BOOST CONVERTER, CIRCUITS
  • Middle East Technical University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Model based optimization of a novel integrated interface circuit topology is presented for low voltage DC-DC step-up conversion. A cross-coupled charge pump is implemented in standard 0.18 mu m CMOS technology using an integrated LC tank oscillator to enable a compact, low cost, self-starting solution with maximum efficiency at ultra-low input voltage levels available from embedded micro-power generators. The voltage doubling oscillator can start up with input as low as 0.10 V. Full system can step 0.2 V up to 1.7 V to supply >400 mu V to 6 k Omega load with 46.5% efficiency based on post-layout simulations. The minimum simulated input voltage is 0.11 V, which is boosted up to 1.0 V under open circuit conditions. The optimized system thorough the established model improves output power and efficiency more than 30% compared to the alternatives. The compact LC tank leads to 17% area reduction compared to the conventional VCO with four planar inductors.