Apparatus for power conversion, method for manufacturing same, and method for controlling same

Abstract

An apparatus for power conversion, a method of manufacturing the same, and a method of controlling the same are provided. A multi-level power converter as discussed herein includes a first power converter circuit and a second power converter circuit. The first power converter circuit is magnetically coupled to the first circuit path. The second power converter circuit is magnetically coupled to the second circuit path. The multi-level power converter also includes a third circuit path. Each of the first and second circuit paths is magnetically coupled to the third circuit path to support conversion of at least one input voltage to at least one output voltage.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of earlier filed U.S. Patent Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 567,209, filed on March 19, 2024, entitled “ELECTRIC COUPLED INDUCTOR FORMULTI-STAGE DC-DC POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM” (Agent Docket No. 2024P04682US), and U.S. Patent Non-Provisional Application Serial No. 19 / 079,953, filed on March 14, 2025, entitled “MULTI-TIEREDMAGNETIC COUPLING IN APOWER CONVERTER” (Agent Docket No. 2024P04682US01), the entire teachings of the above U.S. patent applications being incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a device for power conversion and a manufacturing method and a control method thereof. Background Art

[0004] There are many types of switching power converters. For example, one type of conventional switching power converter is a buck converter. Typically, to maintain the output voltage within a desired range, a controller associated with the buck converter compares the magnitude of the generated output voltage to a setpoint reference voltage. Based on the corresponding error voltage from the comparison, the power converter controller modifies the corresponding switching frequency and / or pulse width modulation associated with activating the high-side switching circuit or the low-side switching circuit in the buck converter to maintain the corresponding output voltage magnitude.

[0005] Another type of power converter is the so-called trans-inductor voltage regulator (TLVR). Typically, a TLVR includes multiple power converter phases, each of which includes a multi-winding transformer. The first winding of each power converter phase (such as a buck converter configuration) is connected in series, providing series coupling between the multiple phases. The second winding of each phase helps generate a corresponding output voltage to power the load.

[0006] Therefore, a conventional TLVR (Trans-Inductor Voltage Regulator) system is typically a voltage regulator (e.g., a buck converter) in which the magnetic component is no longer a single-winding inductor, but a two-winding transformer; the primary winding constitutes the phase inductor. The secondary winding is a so-called TLVR winding connected in series, which is used to improve the transient performance of the corresponding output voltage supplied to the load. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present disclosure includes the observation that conventional trans-inductor power converters, as previously described, can be limited in power density and transient performance due to limitations on the maximum number of phases that can be coupled in series. As discussed herein, novel power converter solutions may include a cascaded TLVR (also known as a trans-inductor voltage regulator) architecture that overcomes key limitations of conventional techniques. In one example, to address the drawbacks associated with conventional techniques for implementing trans-inductor voltage regulators, the techniques herein include implementing a multi-level trans-inductor power converter.

[0008] More specifically, the present disclosure as discussed herein includes an apparatus comprising: a first power converter circuit magnetically coupled to a first circuit path; a second power converter circuit magnetically coupled to a second circuit path; and a third circuit path, wherein each of the first circuit path and the second circuit path is magnetically coupled to the third circuit path.

[0009] In one example, a first power converter circuit includes a first winding, wherein the first winding is magnetically coupled to a second winding disposed in a first circuit path or more specifically disposed in series with the first circuit path; and a second power converter circuit includes a third winding, wherein the third winding is magnetically coupled to a fourth winding disposed in a second circuit path or more specifically disposed in series with the second circuit path.

[0010] In another example, a first power converter circuit can be configured to include a first group of power converters, each power converter in the first group of power converters being magnetically coupled to a first circuit path. A second power converter circuit can be configured to include a second group of power converters, each power converter in the second group of power converters being magnetically coupled to a second circuit path. The apparatus can also include a control circuit or controller operable to control each power converter in the power converters to provide a balance of output currents output from the power converters in the first group of power converters and the power converters in the second group of power converters to generate an output voltage.

[0011] In another example as discussed herein, the apparatus further includes a first power supply or power source operable to supply a first current to the first circuit path at a first terminal of the first circuit path. A second terminal of the first circuit path can be configured to output the first current to generate an output voltage. The apparatus can also include a second power source operable to supply a second current to the second circuit path at a first terminal of the second circuit path. A second terminal of the second circuit path can be configured to output the second current to generate an output voltage.

[0012] Furthermore, the apparatus may be configured to include: a first transformer including a first winding magnetically coupled to a second winding, wherein the first winding is arranged in series in a first circuit path; and a second transformer including a third winding magnetically coupled to a fourth winding, wherein the third winding is arranged in series in a second circuit path. It should also be noted that the second winding may be arranged in series with the fourth winding in the third circuit path.

[0013] Furthermore, it should be noted that the first power converter circuit and the second power converter circuit may be configured to operate in parallel to jointly generate an output voltage.

[0014] In another example as discussed herein, the apparatus may further include: a third power converter circuit magnetically coupled to the fourth circuit path; a fourth power converter circuit magnetically coupled to the fifth circuit path; and a sixth circuit path, wherein each of the fourth and fifth circuit paths is magnetically coupled to the sixth circuit path. The apparatus may further include a seventh circuit path, wherein the third circuit path is magnetically coupled to the seventh circuit path, and wherein the sixth circuit path is magnetically coupled to the seventh circuit path.

[0015] The apparatus may further include: an output node operable to output an output voltage, wherein each of the first power converter circuit, the second power converter circuit, the third power converter circuit, and the fourth power converter circuit collectively contribute to generating the output voltage; and wherein each of the first circuit path, the second circuit path, the third circuit path, the fourth circuit path, the fifth circuit path, the sixth circuit path, and the seventh circuit path outputs a corresponding output current to the output node to generate the output voltage.

[0016] In a further example, an apparatus as discussed herein can be configured to include: an output node operable to output an output voltage jointly generated by a first power converter circuit and a second power converter circuit. Each power converter in the first power converter circuit can be configured to include a respective output terminal, wherein the respective output terminals of the power converters in the first power converter circuit can be configured to jointly supply a first output current to the output node. Each power converter in the second power converter circuit can be configured to include a respective output terminal, wherein the respective output terminals of the power converters in the second power converter circuit can be configured to jointly supply a second output current to the output node.

[0017] In another example, a first circuit path as discussed herein can be configured to include a terminal operable to supply a third output current to an output node; a second circuit path can be configured to include a terminal operable to supply a fourth output current to the output node; a third circuit path can be configured to include a terminal operable to supply a fifth output current to the output node; and a fourth circuit path of the device can be magnetically coupled to the third circuit path, wherein the fourth circuit path includes a terminal operable to supply a sixth output current to the output node.

[0018] In yet another example, an apparatus as discussed herein can be configured to include: a plurality of transformers including a first set of transformers and a second set of transformers, wherein each transformer in the first set of transformers is arranged in series in a first circuit path; and wherein each transformer in the second set of transformers is arranged in series in a second circuit path. The first set of transformers can be configured to provide magnetic coupling between the first power converter circuit and the first circuit path; the second set of transformers can be configured to provide magnetic coupling between the second power converter circuit and the second circuit path. The plurality of transformers of the apparatus can also include a third set of transformers arranged in series in a third circuit path, wherein the third set of transformers is operable to provide magnetic coupling between i) the third circuit path and the first circuit path and ii) the third circuit path and the second circuit path.

[0019] According to another example, an apparatus as discussed herein may include: a first power input node operable to supply a first power to a first node of a first circuit path; a second power input node operable to supply a second power to a first node of a second circuit path; and a third power input node operable to supply a third power to a first node of a third circuit path.

[0020] Other examples as discussed herein include one or more manufacturing methods. In one example, a method as discussed herein includes a manufacturer or other suitable entity providing a magnetic coupling of a first power converter circuit to a first circuit path; providing a magnetic coupling of a second power converter circuit to a second circuit path; and providing a magnetic coupling of each of the first circuit path and the second circuit path to a third circuit path.

[0021] The manufacturing method may also include a manufacturer or other suitable entity providing magnetic coupling of the third power converter circuit to the fourth circuit path; providing magnetic coupling of the fourth power converter circuit to the fifth circuit path; providing magnetic coupling of each of the fourth circuit path and the fifth circuit path to the sixth circuit path; providing magnetic coupling between the third circuit path and the seventh circuit path; and providing magnetic coupling between the sixth circuit path and the seventh circuit path.

[0022] Other examples as discussed herein include one or more methods of operating a corresponding power converter. In one example, a method as discussed herein includes a controller or control circuit controlling operation of a first power converter circuit to generate a first output current, the first power converter circuit being magnetically coupled to a first circuit path; controlling operation of a second power converter circuit to generate a second output current, the second power converter circuit being magnetically coupled to a second circuit path, wherein both the first circuit path and the second circuit path are magnetically coupled to a third circuit path; and generating an output voltage via at least the first output current and the second output current.

[0023] These and other more specific concepts are discussed in greater detail below.

[0024] As discussed further herein, the techniques herein are well suited for use in the fields of power supplies and power converters. However, it should be noted that the present disclosure is not limited to use in such applications, and the techniques discussed herein are also well suited for other applications.

[0025] In addition, it should be noted that although each of the different features, techniques, configurations, etc. herein may be discussed at different places in the present disclosure, it is intended that each of the concepts may optionally be implemented independently of each other or in combination with each other where appropriate. Thus, one or more of the present inventions as described herein may be implemented and observed in many different ways.

[0026] In addition, it should be noted that this preliminary discussion (Summary of the Invention) herein purposefully does not specify every implementation and / or incremental novel aspect of the present disclosure or the claimed invention. Instead, this Summary of the Invention presents only the general implementation and corresponding novel points relative to conventional techniques. For additional details and / or possible viewpoints (arrangements) of the present invention, the reader is directed to the Detailed Description of the Invention section (which is an overview of possible implementations and operations) and corresponding figures, as discussed further below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Figure 1 is an example overall diagram of a multi-stage (also known as multi-level) trans-inductive power converter as discussed herein.

[0028] Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B and Figure 2C Combined to form a multi-level trans-inductor voltage regulator as discussed herein.

[0029] Figure 3 is an example diagram illustrating a transformer model associated with a respective power converter as discussed herein.

[0030] Figure 4A、 Figure 4B 、 Figure 4C 、 Figure 4D 、 Figure 4E and Figure 4F Combined to form a multi-level trans-inductor voltage regulator as discussed herein.

[0031] Figure 5A and Figure 5B Combined to form a multi-level trans-inductor voltage regulator as discussed herein.

[0032] Figure 6 is an example timing diagram illustrating signals associated with the operation of a multi-level power converter that converts an input voltage to an output voltage as discussed herein.

[0033] Figure 7 is an example timing diagram illustrating signals associated with the operation of a multi-level power converter that converts an input voltage to an output voltage as discussed herein.

[0034] Figure 8A and Figure 8B Combined to form a multi-level trans-inductor voltage regulator as discussed herein.

[0035] Figure 9 is an example timing diagram illustrating signals associated with the operation of a multi-level power converter that converts an input voltage to an output voltage as discussed herein.

[0036] Figure 10A and Figure 10B The combination is an example implementation of a multi-level power converter as discussed herein.

[0037] Figure 11 is an example diagram illustrating a method of manufacturing a multi-level power converter as discussed herein.

[0038] Figure 12 is an example diagram illustrating a method of controlling a multi-level power converter as discussed herein.

[0039] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following more particular description of preferred implementations herein as illustrated in the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout the different views. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the implementation, operation, principles, concepts, etc. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] Generally, as discussed herein, a multi-level power converter can be configured to include a first power converter circuit and a second power converter circuit. The first power converter circuit can be magnetically coupled to a first circuit path. The second power converter circuit can be magnetically coupled to the second circuit path. The multi-level power converter can also be configured to include a third circuit path. Each of the first circuit path and the second circuit path can be magnetically coupled to the third circuit path to support conversion of at least one input voltage to at least one output voltage.

[0041] Now, more specifically, Figure 1 is an example overall diagram of a multi-level power converter according to levels of magnetic coupling as discussed herein.

[0042] In this example, power converter 100 includes power converter circuit 101 , power converter circuit 102 , etc., in a level 1 connection.

[0043] Power converter circuit 101 includes multiple power converters (also referred to as voltage regulators or other suitable entities), such as power converter 211, power converter 212, etc. Power converter circuit 102 includes multiple power converters (also referred to as voltage regulators or other suitable entities), such as power converter 221, power converter 222, etc.

[0044] Each power converter in power converter 100 is magnetically coupled to a corresponding circuit path via a transformer.

[0045] For example, the power converter 100 includes a transformer T111, a transformer T112, ..., a transformer T121, a transformer T122, ..., a transformer T211, a transformer T212, ..., a transformer T311; and so on.

[0046] Transformer T 111 includes a primary winding PW 111 magnetically coupled to a secondary winding SW 111 ; transformer T 112 includes a primary winding PW 112 magnetically coupled to a secondary winding SW 112 ; and so on.

[0047] Transformer winding T 121 includes a primary winding PW 121 magnetically coupled to a secondary winding SW 121 ; transformer T 122 includes a primary winding PW 122 magnetically coupled to a secondary winding SW 122 ; and so on.

[0048] Transformer T 211 includes a primary winding PW 211 magnetically coupled to a secondary winding SW 211 ; transformer T 212 includes a primary winding PW 212 magnetically coupled to a secondary winding SW 212 ; and so on.

[0049] Transformer T 311 includes a primary winding PW 311 magnetically coupled to a secondary winding SW 311 ; and so on.

[0050] The power converter 211 includes a switching circuit 111 (one or more switches, such as a high-side switch or a low-side switch) to control the magnitude of the current from the input voltage Vin through the primary winding PW 111 and output from the output node Vout of the power converter 211; the power converter 212 includes a switching circuit 112 (one or more switches, such as a high-side switch or a low-side switch) to control the magnitude of the current from the input voltage Vin through the primary winding PW 112 and output from the output node Vout of the power converter 212; and so on.

[0051] The power converter 221 includes a switching circuit 121 (one or more switches, such as a high-side switch or a low-side switch) to control the magnitude of the current from the input voltage Vin through the primary winding PW 121 and output from the output node Vout of the power converter 221; the power converter 222 includes a switching circuit 122 (one or more switches, such as a high-side switch or a low-side switch) to control the magnitude of the current from the input voltage Vin through the primary winding PW 122 and output from the output node Vout of the power converter 222; and so on.

[0052] Each of the secondary windings associated with the combination of power converter 211, power converter 212, etc. is provided in circuit path CP 11. Circuit path CP 11 also includes primary winding PW 211 connected in series with secondary windings SW 111 and SW 112.

[0053] Figure 1 The power converter 100 shown in FIG. 1 also includes one or more power supplies, such as a power supply PS11 , a power supply PS12 , a power supply PS21 , a power supply PS31 , etc., that supply power or current.

[0054] The power supply PS11 provides power (input voltage) to a first node N11 (input node) of the circuit path CP11 ; a second node N12 (output node) of the circuit path CP11 generates an output voltage Vout and outputs it to the load 118 .

[0055] Therefore, a combination of the primary winding PW 211 , the secondary winding SW 111 , the secondary winding SW 112 , etc. is provided in series between, for example, an input node N11 of a power supply PS11 supplying input power and an output node N12 supplying an output voltage Vout to a load 118 .

[0056] The power supply PS12 supplies power (such as an input voltage) to a first node N21 (input node) of the circuit path CP12; a second node N22 (output node) of the circuit path CP12 generates an output voltage Vout and outputs it to supply power to the load 118. Therefore, a combination of the primary winding PW212, the secondary winding SW121, the secondary winding SW122, and the like is provided in series between the input node N21 of the power supply PS12, such as the input node N21, which supplies the input power, and the output node N22, which supplies the output voltage Vout to the load 118.

[0057] Note that the input voltage supplied by the power source PS11 and the input voltage supplied by the power source PS12 may be the same voltage or different voltages.

[0058] Note that the output voltage nodes of each of the circuit paths of power converter 100 may be electrically connected together at a single output node N99 of power converter 100 to supply a corresponding output voltage Vout to load 118 .

[0059] As further shown, circuit path CP 21 includes a plurality of windings arranged in series, including a primary winding PW311, a secondary winding SW 212, a secondary winding SW 211, etc. Power supply PS21 supplies an input voltage (output current) to node N31 of circuit path CP 21; and output node N32 of circuit path CP 21 outputs an output voltage Vout to load 118 or other suitable entities.

[0060] It should also be noted that the circuit path CP31 includes one or more windings arranged in series between the power supply PS31 and the output node generating the output voltage Vout. More specifically, in this example, the circuit path CP31 includes a secondary winding SW311 arranged in series between an input node N41 of the power supply PS31, which supplies a corresponding input voltage to the circuit path CP31, and an output node N42 generating the output voltage Vout.

[0061] Note again that each of nodes N12 , N22 , N32 , and N42 may be electrically connected to each other via one or more conductive paths.

[0062] As further shown, the power converter 100 includes a controller 140 that generates corresponding control signals 105 to control the operation of the switching circuits. More specifically, the control signals 105 control the operation of the switching circuits associated with the power converters in the power converter 100 (switch circuit 111, switch circuit 112, ..., switch circuit 121, switch circuit 122, ..., etc.) to convert one or more input voltages provided by power supplies PS11, PS12, PS21, and PS31, etc., into an output voltage Vout.

[0063] In one example, the controller 140 monitors the magnitude of the output voltage Vout and compares it with the corresponding set point reference voltage 195 to generate an error voltage, which is then used to adjust the control signal 105 accordingly. That is, based on the difference between the magnitude of the output voltage Vout relative to the set point reference voltage 195 and the corresponding generated error signal, the controller 140 (control circuit) can be configured to control the magnitude of the output voltage Vout via modification of the control signal 105 so that the magnitude of the output voltage Vout is substantially equal to the magnitude of the set point reference voltage 195.

[0064] Thus, first power converter circuit 101 includes power converters 211, 212, etc., magnetically coupled to first circuit path CP11; second power converter circuit 102 includes power converters 221, 222, etc., magnetically coupled to second circuit path CP12; and power converter 100 includes third circuit path CP21, wherein each of first circuit path CP11 and second circuit path CP12 is magnetically coupled to third circuit path CP21 via respective transformers T211 and T212. In other words, first circuit path CP11 includes primary winding PW211 that magnetically couples circuit path CP11 to circuit path CP21. Second circuit path CP12 includes primary winding PW212 that magnetically couples circuit path CP12 to circuit path CP21.

[0065] Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B and Figure 2C Combined to form a multi-level trans-inductor voltage regulator as discussed herein.

[0066] like Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B and Figure 2C The illustrated multi-level trans-inductor voltage regulator, such as power converter 100-2, includes three levels. Note, however, that the multi-level trans-inductor voltage regulator may include any number of cascaded levels of magnetically coupled circuit paths.

[0067] The techniques as discussed herein include one or more of the following blocks:

[0068] On the first level (Level 1) of the power converter 100-2, a zero-bias TLVR concept with N elementary transformers is referred to, where their primary windings LM are connected in series at ph i，k，z (i.e., controlled by the switching network) and the common output voltage V out The switch network controlled by the controller 140 controls the switching of the corresponding winding L m The magnitude of the current is to ensure equal current sharing between the power converters, where each inductor L m Delivering substantially the same amount of DC current I ph (If for example the winding ratio is equal to n1 = n2 for all basic transformers).

[0069] Winding Each winding in the (inductor) may be electrically coupled to a common "TLVR line" (also referred to as a serial communication path) designated "TLVR line level 2" or level 2 (i.e., all n4 windings are connected in series in a respective circuit path between the output voltage node and the input node PHTLVRZ), which terminates the inductor on one side. and on the other side connected to the common output voltage V out . Note that the inductor and the corresponding current therethrough can be controlled by a switching network of switches in the corresponding power converter so that in steady state the corresponding inductor delivers a DC current to The common output voltage V out .

[0070] As further shown, each The inductor may be electrically coupled to a common "main TLVR line" or level 3 referred to as "TLVR line level 3" (ie, all n6 windings connected in series), which terminates the inductor on one side. and on the other side is connected to the common output voltage V out In one example, the inductor and the corresponding current therethrough are controlled by the switching network so that, in steady state, the respective inductors deliver a DC current to The output voltage V out For magnetic displacement, this "main TLVR line" can also be connected between two common quiet potentials (ie the ground of the power converter).

[0071] In a similar manner as previously discussed, each of circuit paths CP11, CP12, CP13, ... CP18, CP19 generates a respective output voltage Vout based on controller 140 controlling operation of respective switches of power converters magnetically coupled to the respective circuit paths.

[0072] Each of the circuit paths is magnetically coupled to circuit path CP 21 via a corresponding transformer and winding, as shown in FIG. Figures 2A to 2C shown.

[0073] Figure 3 is an example diagram illustrating transformers associated with respective power converters as discussed herein.

[0074] As previously discussed, a cascaded TLVR such as power converter 100-2 or other power converters as discussed herein may include: Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 2C A plurality of transformers connected as shown, each of which can be described by a model having a given coupling k between the primary winding and the secondary winding and a magnetizing inductance L m To describe the transformer. Figure 3 The equivalent circuit is shown, which yields the following equation:

[0075] L m1 =k 1，2 L1 (1)

[0076] L k1 =(1-k 1,2 )L1 (2)

[0077] L m2 =k 1，2 L2 (3)

[0078] L k2 =(1-k 1，2 )L2 (4)

[0079] The turns ratio of the transformer has the following relationship, where k ps1 >0:

[0080]

[0081] Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 2C A second perspective of the cascaded trans-inductor voltage regulator or power converter 100 - 2 and other illustrated circuits is that the circuit is a cascaded electrically coupled inductor network comprising a plurality of TLVR lines of different levels. For example:

[0082] Level 1 (one or more circuit paths, such as circuit paths CP 11, CP 12, CP 13, etc.) includes a plurality of transformers connected in series with secondary windings having n1 turns, which terminate on one side at an output voltage V out The other end is terminated by an inductor controlled by a switching network. Each transformer of the plurality of transformers has a primary winding having n2 turns connected on one side to the switching network and on the other side to the output voltage V out .

[0083] Level 2 (one or more circuit paths, such as circuit paths CP 21, CP 22, CP 23, etc.) includes one or more transformers, wherein a primary winding having n3 turns is connected in series with a secondary winding having n1 turns of "TLVR Level 1". Each of the multiple transformers on Level 2 has its secondary winding having n4 turns and connected in series. The circuit is terminated on one side to the output voltage V out and on the other side terminated with an inductor controlled by a switching network

[0084] Level 3 (one or more circuit paths CP 31, etc.) includes one or more transformers, where the primary winding has n5 turns, connected in series to the secondary winding of the "Level 2" cascaded TLVR. Each of the multiple transformers is connected in series on its secondary winding with n6 turns, which terminates on one side at the output voltage V out And the other end is connected to an inductor controlled by a switching network

[0085] The proposed architecture can be implemented with any level higher than 1, where the last level (highest level) can always be connected to a quiet potential (such as ground reference 199) by connecting the two terminals or alternatively to the active switch network and the common output voltage V out This is achieved by termination between them.

[0086] describe Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 2C The third view of the cascaded TLVR shown in comprises several basic transformers shifted at any level (i.e., more than one). Each basic transformer has an equivalent model summarized by the equation, from which it is obvious that each phase node ph i，k，z Generates an induced voltage to the "TLVR Line Level 1". This voltage is then passed through Reflected to "TLVR Line Level 2", that is, through the mark Basic transformer. On TLVR line level 2, The sum of the voltages on Finally, on TLVR line level 3, The sum of the voltages is called The main transient inductor is seen.

[0087] describe Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 2C The fourth perspective of the cascaded TLVR (power converter) shown in [1] is as follows: A novel magnetic architecture includes several cascaded TLVR levels, where each level includes a switching network and a basic transformer coupled to a higher level and a basic transformer coupled to a lower level. The last highest TLVR level (i.e., it can be extended to any level) can have a switching network and / or a physical inductor Or alternatively connected between a common quiet potential (ie the power converter reference ground).

[0088] Description as discussed in this article Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 2C The fifth perspective of the cascaded TLVR shown in the other figures includes several cascaded TLVR levels, where, starting from the last level (i.e., level 3), the Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 2C The cascaded TLVR structure consists of The coupling voltage on the current changes caused by the basic transformer Reflected to the following levels (i.e., taking into account Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 2C 2). The same mechanism applies to any level below, cascading down to the level connected at ph i，k，z The switching network on the common output voltage V out The inductor L between m This is useful because Any change in current at one level is reflected to any level below. Therefore, the transient response of the circuit can be significantly improved.

[0089] Description as discussed in this article Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 2C The final perspective of cascaded TLVR shown in the other figures includes several cascaded TLVR levels, where Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 2C Starting from the last level (i.e. level 3) of the cascaded TLVR structure, the switch network controls The current on all basic transformers has zero DC bias flux in its transformer. Similarly, the same mechanism can be applied to the following down-cascade to connect at ph i，k，z The switching network on the common output voltage V out The inductor L between m any level.

[0090] Using inductor-based topologies with different input voltages and / or switching frequencies

[0091] As mentioned earlier, the examples in this article include Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 2C Or the novel architecture of the electrically coupled inductor of other Figures, which in the second example can utilize a switching network (connected to the ph) with different input voltages and / or controlled at different frequencies i，k，z ) is implemented. Therefore, one of the main advantages of the proposed cascaded TLVR approach is its scalability. In this subsection, an example is given considering a new building block formed by a transformer-based topology. The electrical coupling is implemented on level 1 by Figures 4A to 4F shown and implementation, which is a generalized cascaded TLVR of level 3 with extension to hybrid implementations (ie, with transformer-based and non-transformer-based elements).

[0092] Now, more specifically, Figure 4A 、 Figure 4B 、 Figure 4C 、 Figure 4D 、 Figure 4E and Figure 4F Combined to form a multi-level trans-inductor voltage regulator as discussed herein.

[0093] An example of the proposed cascaded TLVR structure as discussed in this article can be implemented with a classic buck converter (i.e., connected to an input voltage V in Each ph of the half bridge between the ground potential GND i，k，z 、 ) to achieve. The magnetic structure can be constructed with any magnetic shape and material, wherein the connection to the ph i，k，z Each magnetic element of the same sub-level (ie, magnetic coupling at any level can also be considered) can also be magnetically coupled (ie, at the same sub-level) i，k，z 、ph i+1，k，z 、ph i+2，k，z 、ph i+u，k，z In this section, several examples are provided, including possible hybrid implementations with so-called current multiplier-based rectifiers.

[0094] Figure 5A and Figure 5B Combined to form a multi-level trans-inductor voltage regulator as discussed herein.

[0095] For example, Figure 5A and Figure 5B The proposed cascaded TLVR is shown with one single core and the output voltage supplied by the third level, where i=2, k=2, z=2 and n1=n2=n3=n4=n5=n6, where:

[0096] Two buck converters connected to a common output voltage V out , where each converter delivers the same DC current I ph .

[0097] o Both phases are electrically coupled to a common TLVR line (ie all connected in series), which is terminated on one side by an inductor controlled by a half-bridge and on the other side is terminated to the common output voltage V out Inductor Controlled by the half bridge, in steady state, it ph The output voltage V out Delivers DC current.

[0098] Each The inductor is then electrically coupled to a common TLVR line (ie, all n1 windings connected in series), which terminates the inductor on one side. and on the other side is connected to the common output voltage V out Inductor Controlled by the half bridge, in steady state, it ph The output voltage V out Delivers DC current.

[0099] Each The inductor is then electrically coupled to a common "main" TLVR line (ie, all the n4 windings connected in series), which terminates the inductor on one side. and on the other side is connected to the common output voltage V out Inductor is controlled by the buck converter so that in steady state it ph The output voltage V out Delivers DC current.

[0100] In this example, the power converter 100-5 includes the Figure 1 The circuits and connections discussed in.

[0101] As further shown, Figures 5A to 5BThe power converter 100 - 5 in FIG. 1 includes a power converter circuit 103 and a power converter circuit 104 .

[0102] Power converter circuit 103 includes multiple power converters (also referred to as voltage regulators or other suitable entities), such as power converter 231 , power converter 232 , etc. Power converter circuit 104 includes multiple power converters (also referred to as voltage regulators or other suitable entities), such as power converter 241 , power converter 242 , etc.

[0103] Each of the power converters 100 - 5 is magnetically coupled to a corresponding circuit path via a transformer.

[0104] For example, the power converter 100 - 5 includes a transformer T 131 , a transformer T 132 , . . . , a transformer T 141 , a transformer T 142 , . . . , a transformer T 213 , a transformer T 214 , . . . , a transformer T 312 , and so on.

[0105] Transformer T 131 includes a primary winding PW 131 magnetically coupled to a secondary winding SW 131 ; transformer T 132 includes a primary winding PW 132 magnetically coupled to a secondary winding SW 132 ; and so on.

[0106] Transformer winding T 141 includes a primary winding PW 141 magnetically coupled to a secondary winding SW 141 ; transformer T 142 includes a primary winding PW 142 magnetically coupled to a secondary winding SW 142 ; and so on.

[0107] Transformer T 213 includes a primary winding PW 213 magnetically coupled to a secondary winding SW 213 ; transformer T 214 includes a primary winding PW 214 magnetically coupled to a secondary winding SW 214 ; and so on.

[0108] Transformer T 312 includes a primary winding PW 312 magnetically coupled to a secondary winding SW 312; and so on.

[0109] The power converter 231 includes a switching circuit 131 (one or more switches, such as a high-side switch or a low-side switch) to control the magnitude of the current from the input voltage Vin through the primary winding PW 131 and output from the output node Vout of the power converter 231; the power converter 232 includes a switching circuit 132 (one or more switches, such as a high-side switch or a low-side switch) to control the magnitude of the current from the input voltage Vin through the primary winding PW 132 and output from the output node Vout of the power converter 232; and so on.

[0110] The power converter 241 includes a switching circuit 141 (one or more switches, such as a high-side switch or a low-side switch) to control the magnitude of the current from the input voltage Vin through the primary winding PW 141 and output from the output node Vout of the power converter 241; the power converter 242 includes a switching circuit 142 (one or more switches, such as a high-side switch or a low-side switch) to control the magnitude of the current from the input voltage Vin through the primary winding PW 142 and output from the output node Vout of the power converter 242; and so on.

[0111] Each of the secondary windings associated with the combination of power converter 231, power converter 232, etc. is provided in circuit path CP 13. Circuit path CP 13 also includes a primary winding PW 213 connected in series with secondary windings SW 131 and SW 132.

[0112] The power converter 100 - 5 further includes one or more power supplies, such as a power supply PHTLVR1 ( PS21 ) at a node N31 and a power supply PHTLVR2 at a node N33 , to supply power or current.

[0113] The power converter 100 - 5 also includes one or more power supplies, such as a power supply PHTLVR1 , 1 (such as power supply PS11 ) at a node N11 and a power supply PHTLVR1 , 2 (such as power supply PS12 ) at a node N21 , to supply power or current.

[0114] Power converter 100 - 5 further includes one or more power supplies, such as power supply PHTLVR2 , 1 at node N51 of circuit path CP 13 and power supply PHTLVR2 , 2 at node N61 of circuit path CP 14 , to supply power or current.

[0115] The power supply PS11 or PHTLVR1,1 provides power (input voltage) to a first node N11 (input node) of the circuit path CP11 ; a second node N12 (output node) of the circuit path CP11 generates an output voltage Vout and outputs it to the load 118 .

[0116] Therefore, a combination of primary winding PW211, secondary winding SW111, secondary winding SW112, etc. is provided in series in a circuit path CP11 such as between an input node N11 of a power supply PS11 supplying input power and an output node N12 supplying an output voltage Vout to a load 118.

[0117] A combination of primary winding PW 212 , secondary winding SW 121 , secondary winding SW 122 , etc. is provided in series in a circuit path CP12 such as between an input node N21 of a power supply PS12 supplying input power and an output node N22 supplying an output voltage Vout to a load 118 .

[0118] A combination of primary winding PW 213 , secondary winding SW 131 , secondary winding SW 132 , etc. is provided in series in a circuit path CP 13 such as between an input node N51 of a power supply PS13 supplying input power and an output node N52 supplying an output voltage Vout to a load 118 .

[0119] A combination of primary winding PW 214 , secondary winding SW 141 , secondary winding SW 142 , etc. is provided in series in a circuit path CP 14 between an input node N61 of a power supply PS14 supplying input power and an output node N62 supplying an output voltage Vout to a load 118 .

[0120] Note that the output voltage nodes of each of the circuit paths of level 1 and other levels of power converter 100 - 5 may be electrically connected together at a single output node N99 of power converter 100 - 5 to supply corresponding output voltages Vout to load 118 .

[0121] As further shown, circuit path CP22 includes a plurality of windings arranged in series, including a primary winding PW 312, a secondary winding SW 214, a secondary winding SW 213, etc. A power source at node N33 supplies an input voltage (or current) to node N33 of circuit path CP 22; and an output node N34 of circuit path CP 22 outputs an output voltage Vout to a load 118 or other suitable entity.

[0122] At level 3, it should also be noted that circuit path CP31 includes one or more windings arranged in series between reference voltage 199. More specifically, in this example, circuit path CP31 includes inductor LCMAIN, secondary winding SW311, and secondary winding SW312 arranged in series between input node N71 of circuit path CP31 and node N72 of circuit path CP31, where nodes N71 and N72 are connected to ground reference voltage 199.

[0123] Note again that each of nodes N12 , N22 , N32 , and N42 may be electrically connected to each other via one or more conductive paths.

[0124] As previously described, power converter 100-5 includes controller 140 that generates corresponding control signals 105 to control the operation of the switching circuits. More specifically, control signals 105 control the operation of the switching circuits associated with the power converters in power converter 100-5 (switch circuit 111, switch circuit 112, ..., switch circuit 121, switch circuit 122, ..., switch circuit 131, switch circuit 132, ..., switch circuit 141, switch circuit 142, etc.) to convert one or more input voltages provided by corresponding one or more power supplies PS11, PS12, PS21, and PS31, etc., into an output voltage Vout.

[0125] In one example, in a manner similar to that previously discussed, the controller 140 monitors the magnitude of the output voltage Vout and compares it to the corresponding set point reference voltage 195 to generate an error voltage, which is then used to adjust the control signal 105 accordingly. That is, based on the difference between the magnitude of the output voltage Vout relative to the set point reference voltage 195 and the corresponding generated error signal, the controller 140 (control circuit) can be configured to control the magnitude of the output voltage Vout via modification of the control signal 105 so that the magnitude of the output voltage Vout is substantially equal to the magnitude of the set point reference voltage 195.

[0126] Also, in this example, note that DC offset cancellation can be achieved with any inductor except the inductor which is actually just an inductor. This is achieved at all basic transformers except for the MOSFET. As a result, the losses in the circuit are greatly reduced.

[0127] Thus, this example shows a 3-level implementation with i=2, k=2, z=2 and the third level supplies the output voltage. Figure 6 The waveforms associated with the generation of phase current from each of the power converters are shown in .

[0128] Figure 6 is a diagram showing a multi-level power converter (such as Figure 5A and Figure 5B 6. An example timing diagram (graph 600) of signals associated with the operation of FIG. 1 is shown in FIG.

[0129] Figure 7 is an example timing diagram illustrating signals associated with the operation of a multi-level power converter that converts an input voltage to an output voltage as discussed herein.

[0130] In this example, it is assumed that the power converter 100 as discussed herein is a cascaded TLVR with one single magnetic core, where i=2, k=2, z=2, and the third stage is not actively transferring energy to the load.

[0131] Figure 7 The timing diagram in FIG. 7 (graph 700 ) shows the phase currents associated with a cascaded TLVR architecture where i=2, k=2, z=2, and n1=n2=n3=n4=n5=n6, where the “main TLVR line” is connected between the ground references. Thus, It does not carry any DC current component in steady state.

[0132] In this example, DC offset cancellation is performed in addition to the inductor. and Implemented in all but the basic transformers.

[0133] Figure 8A and Figure 8B Combined to form a multi-level trans-inductor voltage regulator as discussed herein.

[0134] In this example, node N91 of circuit path CP 21 is connected to ground reference 199 ; node N92 of circuit path CP 21 is connected to ground reference 199 .

[0135] The power converter 100 - 8 , such as a 2-level power converter, is a cascaded TLVR with a single magnetic core, where i=2, k=2, z=2, and the second level does not actively transfer energy to the load. Furthermore, in this example, the number of turns associated with the respective windings is n1=n2=n3=n4, where:

[0136] Two buck converters connected to a common output voltage V out , where each converter delivers the same DC current I ph .

[0137] o Both phases are electrically coupled to a common TLVR line (ie all n1 windings are connected in series), which is terminated on one side by an inductor controlled by a half-bridge and on the other side is connected to the common output voltage V out Inductor is controlled by the buck converter so that in steady state it ph The output voltage V out Delivers DC current.

[0138] Each The inductor is then electrically coupled to a common TLVR line where all the n4 windings are connected to the inductor. The TLVR line is then terminated on both sides by a common quiet potential ground GND.

[0139] In this example, DC offset cancellation is performed in addition to the inductor. and Implemented in all but the basic transformers.

[0140] Figure 9 is an example timing diagram illustrating signals associated with the operation of a multi-level power converter that converts an input voltage to an output voltage as discussed herein.

[0141] Figure 9 The graph 900 of the timing diagram in is associated with operation of a simplified example of the power converter 100-8 (i.e., not considering the optimal power path of a two-level implementation with i=2, k=2, z=2, wherein the second level does not actively deliver energy to the load because the terminals of the circuit path associated with the second level are connected to the same voltage potential, such as the ground reference potential 199).

[0142] Figure 10A and Figure 10B Combined to form example implementations of multi-level power converters as discussed herein.

[0143] As shown, the power converter 100 - 10 may be implemented as a so-called current doubler rectifier electrically coupled to a multi-phase buck converter coupled in a cascaded multi-level TLVR configuration.

[0144] In this example, power converter 100-10 includes power converter 211-1 and power converter 211-2 magnetically coupled to circuit path CP51. Circuit path CP51 also includes transformer T711 magnetically coupling circuit path CP51 to circuit path CP61.

[0145] Power converter 100-10 includes power converter 221-1 and power converter 221-2 magnetically coupled to circuit path CP52. Circuit path CP52 also includes transformer T712 magnetically coupling circuit path CP52 to circuit path CP61.

[0146] The power converter 100-10 includes a power converter 231-1 and a power converter 231-2 magnetically coupled to a circuit path CP53. The circuit path CP53 also includes a transformer T713 magnetically coupling the circuit path CP53 to the circuit path CP61.

[0147] Recall that, as previously mentioned Figures 2A to 2C The novel power converter 100-2 architecture discussed in the previous section can also utilize a power converter connected to a ph with different input voltages.i，k，z The cascaded TLVR approach, as discussed herein, can be implemented using switching networks of different types and / or switching networks controlled at different frequencies. Therefore, one of the main advantages of the proposed cascaded TLVR approach is the scalability of such circuits. That is, any number of individual voltage regulators can be connected in parallel at one or more different levels to produce an overall power converter architecture capable of providing the appropriate output power to the load.

[0148] In this section, examples are given considering new building blocks. It is possible to achieve locally high density converters in parallel arrangement (i.e. due to the zero-bias TLVR concept from TLVR level 1) while having classical TLVR electrical coupling at TLVR level 2.

[0149] More specifically, if Figure 10A and Figure 10B The power converter 100-10 shown in FIG can be configured based on a hybrid approach having a current multiplier-based topology (i.e., with any primary-side structure) coupled with a buck-based topology on TLVR level 1 (i.e., to cancel the DC flux within the current multiplier inductor). As shown in the power converter 100-10, the proposed hybrid cascaded TLVR structure ensures local DC flux cancellation on the inductor forming the current multiplier rectifier by appropriately controlling the current shared between the current multiplier-based converter and the buck converter. Each The inductor is then electrically coupled to a common TLVR line, both with the inductor Connected in series, the TLVR lines are then terminated on both sides with a common quiet potential ground GND reference.

[0150] Therefore, as discussed in this article, the proposed different TLVR architectures enable high density (small size power converter circuit providing high power output) and high transient capability DC-DC converter solutions.

[0151] Figure 11 is an example diagram illustrating a method of manufacturing a multi-level power converter as discussed herein.

[0152] In process operation 1110 in flowchart 1100 , manufacturer 150 provides magnetic coupling of a first power converter circuit to a first circuit path.

[0153] In process operation 1120 , manufacturer 150 provides magnetic coupling of the second power converter circuit to the second circuit path.

[0154] In process operation 1130 , the manufacturer 150 provides a magnetic coupling of each of the first circuit path and the second circuit path to the third circuit path.

[0155] Figure 12is an example diagram illustrating a method of controlling a multi-level power converter as discussed herein.

[0156] At process operation 1210 in flowchart 1200 , controller 140 controls operation of a first power converter circuit to produce a first output current, the first power converter circuit being magnetically coupled to a first circuit path.

[0157] In process operation 1220 , controller 140 controls operation of a second power converter circuit to produce a second output current, the second power converter circuit being magnetically coupled to the second circuit path, wherein both the first circuit path and the second circuit path are magnetically coupled to the third circuit path.

[0158] In process operation 1230 , the controller 140 generates an output voltage via the first output current and the second output current.

[0159] Note again that the techniques herein are well suited for use in power conversion and multi-level trans-inductor voltage regulator applications. However, it should be noted that the concepts of the present disclosure are not limited to use in such applications, and the techniques discussed herein are well suited for other applications as well.

[0160] Based on the description set forth herein, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a comprehensive understanding of the claimed subject matter. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the claimed subject matter can be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, methods, devices, systems, etc. known to those skilled in the art have not been described in detail to avoid obscuring the claimed subject matter. Some portions of the detailed description have been presented in terms of algorithms or symbolic representations of operations on data bits or binary digital signals stored within a computing system memory, such as a computer memory. These algorithmic descriptions or representations are examples of techniques used by those skilled in the art of data processing to convey the essence of their work to those skilled in the art. An algorithm, as described herein, is generally considered to be a self-consistent sequence of operations or similar processes leading to a desired result. In this context, an operation or process involves the physical manipulation of physical quantities. Typically, although not necessarily, such quantities can take the form of electrical or magnetic signals that can be stored, transmitted, combined, compared, or otherwise manipulated. Primarily for reasons of common usage, it is sometimes convenient to refer to such signals as bits, data, values, elements, symbols, characters, terms, numbers, digits, etc. However, it should be understood that all of these and similar terms are associated with the appropriate physical quantities and are merely convenient labels. Unless expressly stated otherwise, as will become apparent from the following discussion, it should be understood that throughout this specification, discussions utilizing terms such as "processing," "computing," "calculating," "determining," and the like refer to the actions or processes of a computing platform, such as a computer or similar electronic computing device, that manipulate or transform data represented as physical electronic or magnetic quantities within the computing platform's memory, registers, or other information storage devices, transmission devices, or display devices.

[0161] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present application as defined by the appended claims. Such variations are intended to be encompassed by the scope of the present application. Therefore, the foregoing description of the present application is not intended to be limiting. Rather, any limitations to the present invention are set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A device for power conversion, comprising: a first power converter circuit magnetically coupled to the first circuit path; a second power converter circuit magnetically coupled to the second circuit path; as well as A third circuit path, wherein each of the first circuit path and the second circuit path is magnetically coupled to the third circuit path.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein The first power converter circuit includes a first winding magnetically coupled to a second winding disposed in series in the first circuit path; and The second power converter circuit includes a third winding magnetically coupled to a fourth winding arranged in series in the second circuit path.

3. The device according to claim 1, wherein the first power converter circuit comprising a first set of power converters, each power converter in the first set of power converters being magnetically coupled to the first circuit path; wherein the second power converter circuit includes a second set of power converters, each power converter in the second set of power converters is magnetically coupled to the second circuit path, and the apparatus further includes: A control circuit is operable to control a balance of output currents output from the power converters in the first group of power converters and the power converters in the second group of power converters to generate an output voltage.

4. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a first power source operable to supply a first current to the first circuit path at a first terminal of the first circuit path; as well as wherein the second terminal of the first circuit path is operable to output the first current to generate an output voltage; a second power source operable to supply a second current to the second circuit path at a first terminal of the second circuit path; and The second terminal of the second circuit path is operable to output the second current to generate the output voltage.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a first transformer including a first winding magnetically coupled to a second winding, the first winding being disposed in series in the first circuit path; as well as A second transformer includes a third winding magnetically coupled to a fourth winding, the third winding being disposed in series in the second circuit path.

6. The device according to claim 5, wherein The second winding is arranged in series with the fourth winding in the third circuit path.

7. The device according to claim 1, wherein The first power converter circuit and the second power converter circuit operate in parallel to jointly generate an output voltage.

8. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a third power converter circuit magnetically coupled to the fourth circuit path; a fourth power converter circuit magnetically coupled to the fifth circuit path; as well as A sixth circuit path, wherein each of the fourth circuit path and the fifth circuit path is magnetically coupled to the sixth circuit path.

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, further comprising: seventh circuit path; wherein the third circuit path is magnetically coupled to the seventh circuit path, and Wherein, the sixth circuit path is magnetically coupled to the seventh circuit path.

10. The apparatus according to claim 9, further comprising: an output node operable to output an output voltage; wherein each of the first power converter circuit, the second power converter circuit, the third power converter circuit, and the fourth power converter circuit collectively contributes to generating the output voltage; and Each of the first circuit path, the second circuit path, the third circuit path, the fourth circuit path, the fifth circuit path, the sixth circuit path, and the seventh circuit path outputs a corresponding output current to the output node to generate the output voltage.

11. The apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising: an output node operable to output an output voltage jointly generated by the first power converter circuit and the second power converter circuit; wherein each power converter in the first power converter circuit comprises a respective output terminal, the respective output terminals of the power converters in the first power converter circuit being operable to collectively supply a first output current to the output node; Wherein each power converter in the second power converter circuit comprises a respective output terminal, the respective output terminals of the power converters in the second power converter circuit being operable to collectively supply a second output current to the output node.

12. The device according to claim 11, wherein the first circuit path includes a terminal operable to supply a third output current to the output node; and The second circuit path includes a terminal operable to supply a fourth output current to the output node.

13. The device according to claim 12, wherein The third circuit path includes a terminal operable to supply a fifth output current to the output node.

14. The apparatus according to claim 13, further comprising: A fourth circuit path is magnetically coupled to the third circuit path.

15. The device according to claim 14, wherein The fourth circuit path includes a terminal operable to supply a sixth output current to the output node.

16. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a plurality of transformers including a first set of transformers and a second set of transformers; wherein each transformer in the first set of transformers is arranged in series in the first circuit path; and Wherein, each transformer in the second set of transformers is arranged in series in the second circuit path.

17. The device according to claim 16, wherein the first set of transformers being operable to provide magnetic coupling between the first power converter circuit and the first circuit path; and Wherein, the second set of transformers is operable to provide magnetic coupling between the second power converter circuit and the second circuit path.

18. The device according to claim 17, wherein The plurality of transformers also includes a third set of transformers disposed in series in the third circuit path, the third set of transformers operable to i) provide magnetic coupling between the third circuit path and the first circuit path and ii) provide magnetic coupling between the third circuit path and the second circuit path.

19. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a first power input node operable to supply a first power to a first node of the first circuit path; a second power input node operable to supply a second power to the first node of the second circuit path; as well as A third power input node is operable to supply a third power to the first node of the third circuit path.

20. A method of manufacturing a power converter, comprising: providing magnetic coupling of the first power converter circuit to the first circuit path; providing magnetic coupling of the second power converter circuit to the second circuit path; as well as Magnetic coupling of each of the first circuit path and the second circuit path to a third circuit path is provided.

21. The method according to claim 20, further comprising: providing magnetic coupling of the third power converter circuit to the fourth circuit path; providing magnetic coupling of the fourth power converter circuit to the fifth circuit path; providing magnetic coupling of each of the fourth circuit path and the fifth circuit path to a sixth circuit path; providing a magnetic coupling between the third circuit path and the seventh circuit path; as well as A magnetic coupling is provided between the sixth circuit path and the seventh circuit path.

22. A method of controlling a power converter, comprising: controlling operation of a first power converter circuit to produce a first output current, the first power converter circuit being magnetically coupled to the first circuit path; controlling operation of a second power converter circuit to produce a second output current, the second power converter circuit being magnetically coupled to a second circuit path, wherein both the first circuit path and the second circuit path are magnetically coupled to a third circuit path; as well as An output voltage is generated via the first output current and the second output current.

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