TRANSFORMER ASSEMBLIES AND TRANSINDUCTIVITY VOLTAGE REGULATORS

Abstract

A power converter assembly for a transformer assembly, as discussed herein, may include multiple electrically conductive paths, such as a first electrically conductive path, a second electrically conductive path, and a third electrically conductive path. The first electrically conductive path extends through the magnetically permeable material. The second electrically conductive path extends through the magnetically permeable material. The second electrically conductive path is inductively coupled to the first electrically conductive path via the magnetically permeable material. The third electrically conductive path is arranged within the magnetically permeable material and extends along the first and second electrically conductive paths.

Description

[0001] A printed circuit board (PCB) is a laminated structure of conductive layers separated by insulating layers. Generally, PCBs have two functions. The first is to mount electronic components at specific locations on the outer layers of the PCB using methods such as soldering. The electronic circuit instantiated by the populated circuit board is designed to provide one or more specific functions. After fabrication, the electronic circuit is powered to perform its intended functions.

[0002] Typically, a printed circuit board (PCB) is a planar device on which multiple components are interconnected via conductive traces to provide the functions discussed previously. Such implementations of circuit fabrication on a planar PCB assembly are dimensionally limited, thus preventing the implementation of high-density circuits.

[0003] Modern VR modules (VR = Voltage Regulator) for high-power applications (such as AI training processors and TPU-based data centers) can be divided into two categories based on the way in which the heat generated by the semiconductor components is dissipated from the module towards the heat sink.

[0004] Conventional power stage-cooled modules involve a physical stack of components that allows direct contact between the power stage itself (such as including a set of semiconductor devices and the housing that encloses it) and the heat sink, which is the most effective way to dissipate the generated heat and therefore results in a very low Rth (thermal resistance, the lower the better).

[0005] It is further noted that a conventional TLVR system (TLVR = Trans-inductance Voltage Regulator) is generally a voltage regulator (e.g., a buck converter) where the magnetic component is no longer a single-winding inductor, but a transformer with two windings; the primary windings being the phase inductors. The secondary windings are the so-called TLVR windings, which are used to improve transient performance. The secondary windings of each phase are connected in series, and their routing with respect to a PCB (printed circuit board) ensures that the transformer point rule is always satisfied.

[0006] The implementation of clean energy (or green technology) is crucial for reducing our impact on the environment. Generally, clean energy encompasses all developing processes and materials aimed at reducing the overall environmental toxicity of energy consumption.

[0007] This revelation includes the observation that raw energy, whether received from green or non-green energy sources, typically needs to be converted into a suitable form (such as desired AC, DC, etc.) before it can be used to power end devices such as servers, computers, mobile communication devices, and so on. Regardless of whether energy is received from green or non-green energy sources, it is desirable to use the raw energy provided by such systems as efficiently as possible to reduce our impact on the environment. This revelation contributes to reducing our carbon footprint (and green energy) through more efficient energy conversion and circuit implementations that support it.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide a device or method with improved characteristics.

[0009] This problem is solved by a device according to claim 1 and a method according to claim 21.

[0010] As discussed herein, a manufacturer produces one or more assemblies (or arrays) to provide circuit arrangements with higher density and better heat sinking capability than is provided by conventional instantiation of a circuit arrangement on planar printed circuit boards.

[0011] In particular, this disclosure includes a device, system, method, etc. For example, a power converter assembly or transformer assembly, as discussed herein, may include several electrically conductive paths, such as a first electrically conductive path, a second electrically conductive path, and a third electrically conductive path. The first electrically conductive path extends through the magnetically permeable material. The second electrically conductive path extends through the magnetically permeable material. The second electrically conductive path is inductively coupled to the first electrically conductive path via the magnetically permeable material. The third electrically conductive path is arranged in the magnetically permeable material and extends along the first and second electrically conductive paths.

[0012] According to further examples, a first section of the third electrically conductive path is inductively coupled to the first electrically conductive path; and a second section of the third electrically conductive path is inductively coupled to the second electrically conductive path.

[0013] Further examples, as discussed herein, include a configuration in which: i) a first section of the third electrically conductive path and the first electrically conductive path is a first transformer of a transinductance voltage regulator circuit; and ii) a second section of the third electrically conductive path and the second electrically conductive path is a second transformer of the transinductance voltage regulator circuit.

[0014] The transformer assembly and / or power converter assembly, as discussed herein, may be configured to include: a first switching circuit arrangement effective to control an amount of a first current supplied to a first axial end of the first electrically conductive path, the first current being carried through the first electrically conductive path to a second end of the first electrically conductive path; and a second switching circuit arrangement effective to control an amount of a second current supplied to a first axial end of the second electrically conductive path, the second current being carried through the second electrically conductive path to a second end of the second electrically conductive path.An electrically conductive element associated with the transformer assembly provides a coupling between the second axial end of the first electrically conductive path and the second axial end of the second electrically conductive path. The electrically conductive element outputs a voltage.

[0015] In another example, the first electrically conductive path in the transformer assembly is a first inductor; the second electrically conductive path in the transformer assembly is a second inductor; and the first inductor is inversely coupled with respect to the second inductor in the transformer assembly.

[0016] Furthermore, the magnetically permeable material in the transformer assembly can be configured to include a space located within a first volume of the magnetically permeable material. This first volume is situated between the first electrically conductive path and the second electrically conductive path. It should be noted that this space can be empty or filled with any suitable material.

[0017] In another example, the transformer assembly as described herein can include a first cavity located in the magnetically permeable material. The first cavity can be located in a first volume between the first electrically conductive path and the second electrically conductive path. The transformer assembly as described herein can be configured to include a second cavity located in the magnetically permeable material, with the first electrically conductive path located in a second volume between the first cavity and the second cavity. The transformer assembly as described herein can be configured to include a third cavity located in the magnetically permeable material, with the second electrically conductive path located between the first cavity and the third cavity.

[0018] In yet another example, a combination of the magnetically permeable material, the first electrically conductive path, the second electrically conductive path, and the third electrically conductive path is arranged in a transformer assembly. The device and / or transformer assembly, as further discussed herein, may be configured to include a first substrate; the transformer assembly may be fixed to the first substrate. The transformer assembly may be configured to include a first switching circuit arrangement on a second substrate, the first switching circuit arrangement being effective in controlling a flow of a first current through the first electrically conductive path and the second electrically conductive path.The combination of the magnetically permeable material, the first electrically conductive path, the second electrically conductive path, and the third electrically conductive path can be arranged between the first and second substrates. The power converter assembly, as described herein, can be configured to include a heat sink coupled to the first substrate.

[0019] In yet another example, the first electrically conductive path is arranged parallel to the second electrically conductive path. The power converter assembly can be configured to include a first switching circuit arrangement effective to control the flow of a first current in a first direction through the first electrically conductive path, and a second switching circuit arrangement effective to control the flow of a second current in a second direction through the second electrically conductive path. The second direction can be substantially opposite to the first direction. The device, as described herein, can further include an electrically conductive element effective to convey a summation of the first current and the second current to a load.

[0020] In yet another example, the magnetically permeable material can be configured to assist the transport of a first magnetic flux around a combination of the first electrically conductive path and the second electrically conductive path; the magnetically permeable material can be configured to assist the transport of a second magnetic flux around a combination of the first electrically conductive path and a first section of the third electrically conductive path, with the second magnetic flux passing between the first electrically conductive path and the second electrically conductive path;and the magnetically permeable material can be configured to assist the transport of a third magnetic flux around a combination of the second electrically conductive path and a second section of the third electrically conductive path, wherein the third magnetic flux passes between the first electrically conductive path and the second electrically conductive path.

[0021] Furthermore, as discussed herein, the device can be configured to include: a substrate; a first switching circuit arrangement fixed to the substrate, wherein the first switching circuit arrangement is effective to control a flow of a first current through the first electrically conductive path; and a second switching circuit arrangement fixed to the substrate, wherein the second switching circuit arrangement is effective to control a flow of a second current through the second electrically conductive path.The device may further include: a first electrically conductive element extending from a first axial end of the first electrically conductive path to the first switching circuit arrangement; a second electrically conductive element extending from a second axial end of the first electrically conductive path to the substrate; a third electrically conductive element extending from the first axial end of the second electrically conductive path to the second switching circuit arrangement; and a fourth electrically conductive element extending from the second axial end of the second electrically conductive path to the substrate.

[0022] In another example herein, a combination of the magnetically permeable material, the first electrically conductive path, the second electrically conductive path, and the third electrically conductive path are arranged in a transformer assembly. The device may further include: a substrate to which the transformer assembly is fixed; and a layer of electrically conductive material. In such a case, the transformer assembly may be arranged between the substrate and the layer of electrically conductive material. The device may further include an electrically conductive element extending between the layer of electrically conductive material and the substrate; one or more electrically conductive elements may be configured to carry a respective output voltage generated by the first electrically conductive path and the second electrically conductive path to the substrate.

[0023] According to another example, this disclosure includes a method comprising: receiving magnetically permeable material; producing a first electrically conductive path to extend through the magnetically permeable material; producing a second electrically conductive path to extend through the magnetically permeable material, wherein the second electrically conductive path is inductively coupled to the first electrically conductive path via the magnetically permeable material; and producing a third electrically conductive path arranged in the magnetically permeable material, wherein the third electrically conductive path is effective in extending along the first electrically conductive path and the second electrically conductive path.

[0024] It is further noted that, although each of the various features, techniques, configurations, etc., may be discussed at different points in this disclosure, it may be intended that each of the concepts can optionally be implemented independently or in combination with one another. Accordingly, the one or more inventions presented herein, as described herein, can be implemented and viewed in many different ways.

[0025] It should also be noted that this preliminary discussion of techniques herein (Summary) deliberately does not include every novel aspect of the present disclosure or the claimed invention(s). Instead, this Summary presents only general aspects and corresponding points of novelty over conventional techniques. For additional details and / or possible perspectives (permutations) of the invention(s), the reader is referred to the Full Description section (which is a summary) and corresponding figures of the present disclosure, as further discussed below.

[0026] Preferred embodiments of the present invention are discussed in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. These show: Fig. 1 An exemplary 3-dimensional diagram representing electrically conductive paths associated with a transformer assembly as described herein; Fig. 2 an exemplary 3-dimensional diagram representing a transformer assembly as described herein; Fig. 3 a side view diagram showing the flow of a magnetic flux in a transformer assembly as described herein; Fig. 4 an exemplary diagram showing a circuit equivalent of the transformer assembly as described herein; Fig. 5 an exemplary diagram showing a switching circuit arrangement assigned to each power converter phase as described herein; Fig. 6 an exemplary 3-dimensional diagram representing an implementation of a transformer assembly as described herein; Fig. 7 an exemplary diagram representing a respective transinductance voltage regulator circuit comprising an implementation of multiple power converter assemblies as described herein; Fig. 8 an exemplary diagram representing an implementation of a respective transinductance voltage regulator circuit as described herein; Fig. 9 an exemplary diagram showing several views of a respective transformer assembly and / or power converter assembly as described herein; and Fig. 10 An exemplary diagram showing multiple views of a respective transformer assembly and / or power converter assembly as described herein.

[0027] The foregoing and other tasks, features, and advantages of the subject matter disclosed herein will become apparent from the more detailed description herein, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals in the various views refer to the same parts. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, the emphasis instead being placed on illustrating the principles, concepts, aspects, techniques, etc.

[0028] In particular, Fig. 1 An exemplary 3-dimensional exploded view showing electrically conductive paths associated with a transformer assembly as described herein.

[0029] In this example, manufacturer 140 generates and / or receives the electrically conductive path 121 and the electrically conductive path 122. Additionally, manufacturer 140 generates and / or receives the electrically conductive path 123.

[0030] As shown, the electrically conductive path 121 (made of metal or other suitable electrically conductive material) extends axially along the z-axis from the first axial end N11 (also known as node N11) to the second axial end N12 (also known as node N12).

[0031] Similarly, the electrically conductive path 122 (made of metal or other suitable electrically conductive material) extends axially along the z-axis from the first axial end N21 (also known as node N21) to the second axial end N22 (also known as node N22).

[0032] As further shown, the electrically conductive path 123 (which extends along several different axes including the z-axis and the y-axis) includes several sections, such as the electrically conductive path 123-1, the electrically conductive path 123-2 and the electrically conductive path 123-3.

[0033] As previously discussed, the various sections of the electrically conductive path 123 extend axially in several directions. For example, a first section (electrically conductive path 123-1) of the electrically conductive path 123 extends axially along the z-axis. The second section (electrically conductive path 123-2) of the electrically conductive path 123 extends axially along the x-axis. The third section (electrically conductive path 123-3) of the electrically conductive path 123 extends axially along the z-axis.

[0034] It is noted that the electrically conductive path 123 can be configured as a homogeneous or heterogeneous material of connected paths (electrically conductive path 123-1, electrically conductive path 123-2 and electrically conductive path 123-3).

[0035] As further shown and discussed herein, one aspect of generating a respective transformer assembly involves aligning the electrically conductive path 121 with respect to the electrically conductive path 123-1. The manufacturer 140 may be configured to provide an insulating layer (such as non-conductive material) between the electrically conductive path 121 and the electrically conductive path 123-1 to prevent a short-circuit condition. Likewise, another aspect of generating a respective assembly involves aligning the electrically conductive path 122 with respect to the electrically conductive path 123-3. The manufacturer 140 may be configured to provide an insulating layer (such as non-conductive material) between the electrically conductive path 122 and the electrically conductive path 123-3 to prevent a short-circuit condition.

[0036] Another example of manufacturing a respective transformer assembly 200 is in Fig. 2 shown.

[0037] Fig. Figure 2 is an exemplary 3-dimensional diagram representing a transformer assembly as described herein.

[0038] In addition to receiving and / or producing the first electrically conductive path 121, the second electrically conductive path 122 and the third electrically conductive path 123, the manufacturer 140 receives and / or produces a structure, such as one or more components made of magnetically permeable material 111.

[0039] For example, the magnetically permeable material 111 can include several sections of magnetically permeable material, such as magnetically permeable material 111-1 and magnetically permeable material 111-2, to create the corresponding transformer assembly 200.

[0040] As previously discussed, the electrically conductive path 121 in the transformer assembly 200 is spaced from the electrically conductive path 123-1 by a void or a layer of electrically non-conductive material (such as an insulator). This prevents the electrically conductive path 121 from being short-circuited with the electrically conductive path 123-1. Similarly, the electrically conductive path 122 in the assembly 200 is spaced from the electrically conductive path 123-3 by a void or a layer of electrically non-conductive material (such as an insulator).

[0041] As further shown, the manufacturer 140 produces the transformer assembly 200 based on the production of a first electrically conductive path 121 to extend through magnetically permeable material 111 (such as a combination of the magnetically permeable material 111-1 and the magnetically permeable material 111-2).

[0042] It is noted that the respective axial ends or nodes of the electrically conductive path 121 may terminate at a corresponding surface of the transformer assembly 200 (or of the magnetically permeable material 111) or may extend beyond the corresponding surfaces.

[0043] For example, the manufacturer 140 can be configured to terminate node N11, which is associated with the electrically conductive path 121, at surface 211 (such as the surface) of the transformer assembly 200 and / or the magnetically permeable material 111. Alternatively, node N11 and the corresponding section of the electrically conductive path 121 can extend from the corresponding surface 211 of the assembly 200 and / or the magnetically permeable material 111.

[0044] Similarly, the manufacturer 140 can be configured to terminate node N12, which is associated with the electrically conductive path 121, at surface 212 (such as the surface) of the transformer assembly 200 or the magnetically permeable material 111. Alternatively, node N12 and the corresponding section of the electrically conductive path 121 can extend from the corresponding surface 212 of the transformer assembly 200 or the magnetically permeable material 111.

[0045] As further shown, the manufacturer 140 produces the transformer assembly 200 based on the production of a second electrically conductive path 122 to extend through magnetically permeable material 111 (such as a combination of the magnetically permeable material 111-1 and the magnetically permeable material 111-2).

[0046] It is noted that the respective axial ends of the electrically conductive path 122 may terminate at a corresponding surface of the transformer assembly 200 or may extend beyond the corresponding surfaces.

[0047] For example, manufacturer 140 may be configured to terminate node N21, which is associated with electrically conductive path 122, at surface 212 (such as the surface) of transformer assembly 200. Alternatively, node N21 and the corresponding section of electrically conductive path 122 may extend from the corresponding surface 212 of assembly 200.

[0048] Similarly, manufacturer 140 can be configured to terminate node N22, which is associated with electrically conductive path 122, at surface 211 (such as the surface) of transformer assembly 200. Alternatively, node N22 and the corresponding section of electrically conductive path 122 can extend from the corresponding surface 211 of transformer assembly 200.

[0049] As further discussed herein, the transformer assembly 200 can be configured to include additional electrically conductive elements to provide conductivity from each of the nodes associated with the transformer assembly 200 to other nodes in a respective power converter assembly.

[0050] It is noted again that the second electrically conductive path 122 is inductively (e.g. magnetically) coupled to the first electrically conductive path 121 via the magnetically permeable material 111.

[0051] As further shown, manufacturer 140 produces the transformer assembly 200 based on the arrangement of a third electrically conductive path 123 in the magnetically permeable material 111. As previously discussed, the third electrically conductive path 123 is arranged in the transformer assembly 200 and extends along both the first electrically conductive path 121 and the second electrically conductive path 122.

[0052] More precisely, the first electrically conductive path 121 is arranged parallel to and along the electrically conductive path 123-1. The second electrically conductive path 123-2 is arranged parallel to and along the electrically conductive path 123-3.

[0053] Accordingly, in this example, the first section 123-1 of the third electrically conductive path 123 is inductively coupled to the electrically conductive path 121. The second section 123-3 of the electrically conductive path 123 is inductively coupled to the electrically conductive path 122.

[0054] It is noted that the coupling of the first electrically conductive path 121 with the electrically conductive path 123 is inverse with respect to the coupling of the second electrically conductive path 122 with the electrically conductive path 123.

[0055] Furthermore, as discussed herein, the first section 123-1 (such as a secondary winding) of the electrically conductive path 123 and the electrically conductive path 121 (such as a primary winding) constitute a first transformer (T12) in the assembly 200. As further discussed herein, the first transformer can be used to implement a corresponding transinductance voltage regulator and / or transinductance voltage power converter. Additionally, a second section 123-3 (such as a secondary winding) of the electrically conductive path 123 and the electrically conductive path 122 (such as a primary winding) constitutes a second transformer (T13) in the assembly 200. The second transformer can be used to implement a corresponding transinductance voltage regulator circuit and / or a corresponding transinductance voltage power converter.

[0056] As previously discussed, the electrically conductive path 121 can be inductively or magnetically coupled to the electrically conductive path 122. In one example, this creates a corresponding transformer T11, as further discussed herein.

[0057] Furthermore, as discussed herein, the assembly 200 can be implemented in a respective power converter, in which a first switching circuit arrangement of the power converter is effective to control the flow of a first current 159-11 in a first direction (along the z-axis) from node N11 through the first electrically conductive path 121 to node N12. As further discussed, the output current 223-11 from node N12 generates a respective output voltage 223 to supply power to a load. Furthermore, as discussed herein, the assembly 200 can be implemented in a respective power converter, in which a second switching circuit arrangement of the power converter is effective to control the flow of a second current 159-12 in a second direction (along a z-axis) from node N21 through the second electrically conductive path 122 to node N22.The output current 223-12 from node N22 also generates the respective output voltage 223 to supply power to a load. In this example, the second direction (along a first direction of the z-axis) of current flowing through the electrically conductive path 122 is opposite to the first direction (along a second direction of the z-axis) of current flowing through the electrically conductive path 121.

[0058] Accordingly, the assembly 200, as described herein, can be configured to include: i) a first electrically conductive path 121 extending through the magnetically permeable material 111; ii) a second electrically conductive path 122 extending through the magnetically permeable material 111, the second electrically conductive path 122 being inductively coupled to the first electrically conductive path 121 via the magnetically permeable material 111; and iii) a third electrically conductive path 123 arranged in the magnetically permeable material 111 and extending along the first electrically conductive path 121 and the second electrically conductive path 122.

[0059] It should also be noted that the assembly 200 can be configured to include one or more spaces in the magnetically permeable material 111 between the magnetically permeable material 111-1 and the magnetically permeable material 111-2.

[0060] For example, the magnetically permeable material 111 can include an intermediate space GC (such as a median space or a layer of material) located between the magnetically permeable material 111-1 and the magnetically permeable material 111-2. The layer associated with the intermediate space GC is located in the XZ plane. It is further noted that the intermediate space GC is located within a volume situated between a combination of the electrically conductive path 121 and the electrically conductive path 123-1, and a combination of the electrically conductive path 122 and the electrically conductive path 123-3.

[0061] It is noted that the gap GC can be any suitable material or it can be a void, such as no material at all. It is further noted that the width or thickness of the gap GC can be adjusted along the y-axis to control the degree of magnetic coupling between electrically conductive path 121 and electrically conductive path 123-1, as well as the magnetic coupling between electrically conductive path 122 and electrically conductive path 123-3. It is further noted that the distance between electrically conductive path 121 and electrically conductive path 122 along the x-axis controls the degree to which electrically conductive path 121 is magnetically coupled to electrically conductive path 122.

[0062] Additionally, assembly 200 includes a lateral gap G1 (arranged in the XZ plane) and a lateral gap G2 (arranged in the XZ plane) located between layers of magnetically permeable material, such as magnetically permeable material 111-1 and magnetically permeable material 111-2. It is noted that the lateral gaps G1 and G2 can be empty spaces containing no material, or they can be filled with any suitable material. It is further noted that the gaps G1 and G2 can be located at any position within the flux paths in Fig. 3 can be implemented or placed not only in the XZ plane, but also in the XY plane, and so on.

[0063] As previously discussed, the thickness of each of the respective gaps G1, GC and G2 can be controlled to control the respective coupling between the electrically conductive paths.

[0064] Fig. Figure 3 is a side view diagram illustrating the flow of a magnetic flux in a transformer assembly as described herein.

[0065] As shown in the side view of assembly 200, which is attached to the corresponding substrate 310 in Fig. 3. Attached (mounted), the sections made of magnetically permeable material 111 (such as magnetically permeable material 111-1 and magnetically permeable material 111-2) support the transmission of a first magnetic flux MF1 (such as in association with transformer T11) around a combination of the first electrically conductive path 121 and the second electrically conductive path 122. In such a case, based on the magnetic flux MF1, the electrically conductive path 121 is inductively or magnetically coupled to the electrically conductive path 122.

[0066] Furthermore, the magnetically permeable material 111 is effective in facilitating the transport of a second magnetic flux MF2 (such as that associated with transformer T12) around a combination of the first electrically conductive path 121 and the first section of the third electrically conductive path 123-1. It is noted that the second magnetic flux MF2 travels between the electrically conductive path 121 and the electrically conductive path 122. In such a case, the electrically conductive path 121 is inductively or magnetically coupled to the electrically conductive path 123-1.

[0067] Furthermore, the magnetically permeable material 111 is effective in facilitating the transport of the third magnetic flux MF3 (such as in association with transformer T13) around a combination of the second electrically conductive path 122 and the electrically conductive path 123-3. The third magnetic flux MF3 travels between the first electrically conductive path 121 and the second electrically conductive path 122. Similarly, the magnetically permeable material 111 is effective in facilitating the transport of a third magnetic flux MF3 (such as in association with transformer T13) around a combination of the second electrically conductive path 122 and the second section 123-3 of the third electrically conductive path 123, with the third magnetic flux MF3 traveling between the first electrically conductive path 121 and the second electrically conductive path 122.

[0068] As previously discussed, it is noted again that the gap G1 and the gap G2 can be located at any position within the flow paths MF1, MF2, MF3, etc. in Fig. 3 can be implemented and / or placed.

[0069] The corresponding logic circuit, which is assigned to module 200, is further described in Fig. 4 shown.

[0070] Fig. Figure 4 is an exemplary diagram that represents a circuit equivalent of the transformer assembly as described herein.

[0071] In this example, the power transformer 400 includes an instance of the transformer assembly 200 (such as the transformer assembly 200-1). Additionally, the power transformer 400 includes a corresponding switching circuit arrangement 102-11, which is effective in controlling an amount of a first current 159-11 supplied to the first axial end N11 of the first electrically conductive path 121. The first current 159-11 supplied to the first axial end N11 (or in this case, node ph1) of the first electrically conductive path 121 is carried through the first electrically conductive path 121 to a second end N21 of the first electrically conductive path 121.

[0072] The power converter 400 includes a corresponding switching circuit arrangement 102-12, which is effective in controlling an amount of a second current 159-12 supplied to the first axial node N21 of the second electrically conductive path 122. The second current 159-12, supplied at the first axial end (such as node N21) of the second electrically conductive path, is carried through the second electrically conductive path 122 to a second end (such as node N22) of the second electrically conductive path 122.

[0073] According to further examples, an electrically conductive element 421 couples the second axial end (N12) of the first electrically conductive path 121 with the second axial end (N22) of the second electrically conductive path 122. The electrically conductive element 421 carries and outputs a combination of the output current 223-11 and the output current 223-12 to generate the corresponding output voltage Vout to supply power to a respective load 118.

[0074] Fig. Figure 5 is an exemplary diagram illustrating an implementation of a power converter stage to provide power to a dynamic load, as discussed herein.

[0075] In this non-restrictive example, the power supply circuit assembly or instance of the power converter 102-X is configured as a buck converter comprising an input voltage source 220 (such as from the substrate 310 or some other suitable entity), a switch Q11, a switch Q12, an electrically conductive path 501 (such as from the electrically conductive path 121, the electrically conductive path 122, etc.), and an output capacitor 235.

[0076] It is noted that the input voltage source 220 can include any number of input capacitors 299 arranged between ground potential (GND) and the drain node (D) of switch Q11. Such input capacitors can be mounted on any printed circuit board.

[0077] Although the power converter 400 in Fig. 5 is a step-down converter configuration, it is noted that the power converter can be instantiated as any suitable type of voltage converter that provides control as described herein.

[0078] As shown, switch Q11 is connected in series with switch Q12 between the input voltage source 220 and a corresponding ground reference potential or voltage (denoted GND). By switching switches Q11 and Q12 based on control signals 104-1 and 104-2, a node NX1 (where X is an integer value and node NX1 is node N11 for X=1; node NX1 is node N21 for X=2; node NX3 is node N13 for X=3; etc.), which couples the source node of switch Q11 and the drain node of switch Q12, provides a current 159-1X through the electrically conductive path 501 (such as electrically conductive path 121, electrically conductive path 122, etc.), resulting in the generation of the output voltage 223 (called VOUT).

[0079] In one example, the pulse-width modulation controller 260, which is associated with the controller 540 or another suitable entity, controls the switching of switches Q11 and Q12 based on one or more feedback parameters. As discussed earlier, the controller 540 can, for example, be configured to receive and monitor the output voltage feedback signal 223-FB, which is derived from the output voltage 223 supplied to power the load 118. Via the amplifier 240, the controller 540 compares the output voltage feedback signal 223-FB (such as the output voltage 223 or VOUT itself, or a derived signal) with the reference voltage 203. As discussed earlier, the reference voltage 203 is a desired setpoint at which an amount of the output voltage 223 is to be controlled.

[0080] Based on the comparison provided by amplifier 240, amplifier 240 generates a respective error voltage 255 based on the difference between the output voltage feedback signal 223-FB and the reference voltage 203. The magnitude of the error voltage 255 (signal) varies depending on the degree to which the magnitude of the output voltage 223 is within or outside the control range (with respect to a reference voltage 203).

[0081] As further shown, the PWM controller 260 of the controller 540 controls the operation of switching switches Q11 and Q12 (in phase X) based on the magnitude of the error voltage 255. For example, if the error voltage 255 indicates that the output voltage 223 (of the power converter 102) is less than a certain magnitude of the reference voltage 203, the PWM controller 260 increases one duty cycle of activating the high-side switch Q11 (thereby decreasing one duty cycle of activating the low-side switch Q12) in a given switching control cycle.

[0082] Conversely, if the error voltage 255 indicates that the output voltage 223 (of the power converter 112) is greater than an amount of the reference voltage 203, the PWM control 260 reduces one duty cycle of activating the high-side switch Q11 (thereby increasing one duty cycle of activating the low-side switch Q12) in a given switching control cycle.

[0083] As is known in engineering, the 540 controller can be configured to control each of the switches Q11 and Q12 ON and OFF at different times to prevent a short circuit between the input voltage 221 (called VIN) and the ground reference voltage. For example, when switch Q11 is activated to an ON state, switch Q12 is deactivated to an OFF state. Conversely, when switch Q11 is deactivated to an OFF state, switch Q12 is activated to an OFF state.

[0084] By varying the pulse with modulation of the control of the respective switches Q11 and Q12, the controller 140 controls the generation of the output voltage 121 such that the output voltage 223 (VOUT) remains within a desired voltage range with respect to the reference voltage 203.

[0085] As further discussed herein, the switching circuit arrangement 102-X (also known as the power converter circuit arrangement) is duplicated such that each instance of the switching circuit arrangement 102-X controls each of the corresponding electrically conductive paths, including electrically conductive path 121, electrically conductive path 122, etc. In other words, each instance of the switching circuit arrangement 102-X can be implemented to control the flow of a respective current through each of the electrically conductive paths 121, 122, etc.

[0086] Fig. Figure 6 is an exemplary 3-dimensional diagram that represents an implementation of a transformer assembly as described herein.

[0087] As previously discussed, the switching circuit arrangement 102-11 controls an input of current (in this example from a top side of the assembly 200) to node ph1 through the electrically conductive path 121 to generate the respective output voltage VOUT, which is output via the electrically conductive element 621 from a bottom side of the assembly 200. The switching circuit arrangement 102-12 controls an input of current from a top side of the assembly 200 to node ph2 through the electrically conductive path 122 to generate the respective output voltage VOUT, which is output via the electrically conductive element 622 from a bottom side of the assembly 200.

[0088] As discussed previously, one or more instances of the 200 assembly can be used to implement a corresponding transinductance voltage regulator to generate a respective output voltage VOUT. In this example, the 200-X assembly includes an input to electrically conductive path 123, such as IN-TLVR-X (such as node N31), and an output OUT-TLVR-X (such as node N32) of electrically conductive path 123.

[0089] As further discussed herein, the 200-X module can be implemented in different circuits to convert a given input voltage into an output voltage.

[0090] Thus, examples included here are those found in the Fig. 4 to Fig. Figure 6 shows a new geometric structure (such as one or more instances of assembly 200) for an inductor-based DC-DC converter that enables simple TLVR line routing within a two-phase inverse magnetically coupled structure. Additionally, the proposed concepts, as discussed herein, reduce the peak voltage experienced by the TLVR line compared to conventional TLVR implementations, as previously discussed.

[0091] It is noted that a TLVR line is an actual electrical connection that allows electrical coupling, resulting in inverse coupling, between different inductors inside and outside the same magnetic core.

[0092] For example, as discussed previously, the Fig. 2 and Fig. Figure 4 shows an example of a basic element called a magnetically-electrically coupled inductor (MECI). The MECI or transformer assembly 200 comprises a single core with two windings (electrically conductive path 121 and electrically conductive path 122) connecting the same load V. out supplying power from PH1 and PH2, with an additional winding, the TLVR winding (such as electrically conductive path 123 in transformer assembly 200-X), being routed around the middle leg to provide a respective TLVR circuit path through assembly 200.

[0093] In contrast to a conventional inversely coupled inductor assembly, examples here include supporting inverse coupling between two phases, enabling simple TLVR routing, as in Fig. 4 and Fig. 6 shown. For example, each of the Fig. 4 and Fig. 6 two two-phase main VRM power module implementations using the new MECI magnetic device: • Power-stage cooled module (i.e., with heat sink having the lowest thermal resistance to silicon): ◯ IN TLVRi until OUT TLVRi do not touch the substrate where PH1 and PH2 are located. ◯ IN TLVRi until OUT TLVRi Windings consist of an integer number of turns around a central leg of a core that embeds two inductors (which can be either indirectly coupled or uncoupled). ◯ IN TLVRi until OUT TLVRi are directed to the substrate, where V out is conducted (i.e., the inductive energy flows from PH) x to V out ) ◯ IN TLVRi until OUT TLVRiThe winding is completely guided within a magnetic structure and allows electrical coupling between two phases (i.e., there is no need to connect externally to chain the induced voltage across the autoinductor). • Inductor-cooled module (i.e., with a heat sink with the lowest thermal resistance to the inductor windings) ◯ IN TLVRi until OUT TLVRi The contact points are located on the substrate where PH1 and PH2 are situated. ◯ IN TLVRi until OUT TLVRi Windings consist of an integer number of turns around a central leg of a core that embeds two inductors which are magnetically indirectly coupled. ◯ IN TLVRi until OUT TLVRi are directed to the substrate, where V out is conducted (i.e., the inductive energy flows from PH) x to V out ) ◯ IN TLVRi until OUT TLVRiThe winding is completely guided within a magnetic structure and allows electrical coupling between two phases (i.e., there is no need for complicated external routing to chain the induced voltage across the autoinductor).

[0094] In both scenarios, it is noted that the maximum voltage reflected to the “TLVR line” depends on the number of connected modules, the input and output voltages, and the coupling coefficient of the inverse magnetically coupled inductor.

[0095] In contrast to a conventional transinductance voltage regulator circuit, the examples herein include or enable the reduction of the maximum voltage chained to the "TLVR connection" because of the structure (assembly 200) that is in Fig. 2 and Fig. As proposed in paragraph 4, the maximum voltage experienced by the “TLVR connection” depends on the number of phases, the input voltage, the output voltage, and additionally also on the coupling of the magnetically coupled inductors.

[0096] As further in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, multiple instances of the 200-X assembly can be connected in series to implement a respective transinductance voltage regulator circuit.

[0097] In particular, Fig. Figure 7 shows an exemplary diagram illustrating a respective transinductance voltage regulator circuit as described herein.

[0098] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the proposed magnetically-electrically coupled 2-phase inductor (such as one or more instances of the assembly 200) can be connected between several instances of the magnetically-electrically coupled 2-phase inductor, as shown in the power converter 700.

[0099] In this example, the 700 power converter includes multiple instances of the 200-X transformer assembly to convert a given input voltage VIN (such as a DC voltage) into an output voltage VOUT (such as a DC voltage). For example, the 700 power converter includes any number of transformer assemblies, such as a 200-1 transformer assembly, a 200-2 transformer assembly, ... and a 200-8 transformer assembly. Thus, an implementation of 8 instances of the 200-X transformer assembly is shown as a non-limiting example.

[0100] As previously discussed, the transformer assembly 200-1 (first instance of the transformer assembly 200) includes several electrically conductive paths between corresponding nodes. For example, the transformer assembly 200-1 includes a respective electrically conductive path (instance of electrically conductive path 121) between node N11-1 and node N12-1; the transformer assembly 200-1 includes a respective electrically conductive path (instance of electrically conductive path 122) between node N21-1 and node N22-1; the transformer assembly 200-1 includes a respective electrically conductive TLVR path (instance of electrically conductive path 123) between node N31-1 and node N32-1. The switchgear arrangement 102-11 (first instance of the in Fig. (The switch circuit arrangement shown in Figure 5) controls the flow of a current 159-11 through the electrically conductive path between node N11-1 and node N12-1 to generate the output voltage. Similarly, in parallel with the switch circuit arrangement 102-11, the switch circuit arrangement 102-12 (second instance of the one shown in Figure 5) controls the output voltage. Fig. In the switch circuit arrangement shown in Figure 5, the corresponding current 159-12 flows through the electrically conductive path located between node N21-1 and node N22-1. The electrically conductive element 750 provides connectivity between node N12-1 and node N22-1, so that the combined output current from node N12-1 and node N22-1 is supplied to the corresponding load 118.

[0101] The 700 power converter in Fig. 7 also includes the transformer assembly 200-2. The transformer assembly 200-2 (second instance of the transformer assembly 200) comprises several electrically conductive paths between corresponding nodes. For example, the transformer assembly 200-2 comprises a respective electrically conductive path (instance of 121) between node N11-2 and node N12-2; the transformer assembly 200-2 comprises a respective electrically conductive path (instance of 122) between node N21-2 and node N22-2; the transformer assembly 200-2 comprises a respective electrically conductive TLVR path (instance of 123) between node N31-2 and node N32-2. The switchgear arrangement 102-21 (such as a third instance of the switchgear arrangement in Fig. 5) controls the flow of a current 159-21 through the electrically conductive path between node N11-2 and node N12-2 to generate the output voltage. Similarly, in parallel with the switch circuit arrangement 102-21, the switch circuit arrangement 102-22 (such as a fourth instance of the switch circuit arrangement in Fig. 5) the corresponding current 159-22 through the electrically conductive path located between node N21-2 and node N22-2. The electrically conductive element 750 provides connectivity between node N12-2 and node N22-2, so that the combined output current from node N12-2 and node N22-2 also supplies a corresponding output current to load 118.

[0102] The 700 power converter in Fig. 7 also includes the transformer assembly 200-8. The transformer assembly 200-8 (eighth instance of the transformer assembly 200) comprises several electrically conductive paths between corresponding nodes. For example, the transformer assembly 200-8 comprises a respective electrically conductive path (instance 121) between node N11-8 and node N12-8; the transformer assembly 200-8 comprises a respective electrically conductive path (instance 122) between node N21-8 and node N22-8; the transformer assembly 200-8 comprises a respective electrically conductive TLVR path (instance 123) between node N31-8 and node N32-8. The switching circuit arrangement 102-81 controls the flow of a current 159-81 through the electrically conductive path between node N21-8 and node N12-8 to generate the output voltage.Similarly, in parallel to the switching circuit arrangement 102-81, the switching circuit arrangement 102-82 controls the corresponding current 159-82 through the electrically conductive path located between node N21-8 and node N22-8. The electrically conductive element 750 provides connectivity between node N12-8 and node N22-8, so that the combined output current from node N12-8 and node N22-8 is supplied to the corresponding load 118.

[0103] As further shown in this example, each of the phase pairs assigned to the respective instance of the transformer assembly works to convert the input voltage Vin into the corresponding output voltage Vout to supply power to the load 118. The series connectivity of the TLVR windings is achieved via: i) a first connectivity of node N32-1 to node N31-2 via a corresponding electrically conductive element 750; ii) a second connectivity of node N32-2 to node N31-3 via a corresponding electrically conductive element 750; ..., viii) an eighth connectivity of node N32-8 to node N31-1 via a corresponding series path 721. It is noted that the series path 721 includes a corresponding inductor 720.

[0104] Fig. Figure 8 is an exemplary diagram that represents an implementation of a respective transinductance voltage regulator circuit as described herein.

[0105] As previously explained, the proposed magnetically-electrically coupled inductor (such as assembly 200) represents two magnetically coupled phases, with such coupling reducing the actual voltage line-to-line through each autoinductor forming the magnetic inverse coupling inductor. It is noted that the actual voltage reflected to the TLVR link depends on the coupling coefficient of the magnetically coupled inductor, and therefore, when M magnetically-electrically coupled inductors are connected, the maximum voltage reflected to the TLVR line is lower than (V in - V out)2M. In general, in a two-phase implementation, if both phases have a high side (i.e., power from the input voltage V), in ) have the maximum voltage reflected to the TLVR winding lower than (V in - V out )2 and its value depends on the coupling coefficient of the magnetically coupled inductor.

[0106] Within the connection between all MECI devices, an additional inductor, referred to as the transient inductor 720, such as L, can be used. tr , are added to optimize the current rise rate.

[0107] A lower voltage reflected to the TLVR windings has several advantages. In particular, as discussed herein, it reduces both winding and core losses by reducing the voltage-time range (lower ripple and thus lower flux swing and lower RMS current during steady-state operation) for the transient inductor L. tr (i.e., if it is constructed with magnetic material). Additionally, it simplifies the manufacturability of the transformer and the overall system, since a lower induced voltage requires less spacing and creepage distances, and it is easier to achieve electrical insulation.

[0108] The coupling coefficient in a magnetically coupled inductor structure can be modulated by adjusting the lateral gap G1 (gap). l ) in G2 and the space GC (gap c) be custom-made, which means that the maximum voltage reflected to the “TLVR line” depends on the actual physical dimensions of the lateral and central gaps; therefore, we can identify two conditions: • gap c > 0: in this case, inverse coupling between the two phases is ensured, and therefore the maximum voltage reflected to the TLVR line is lower than (V in - V out )2 • gap c = 0: the two inductors are not magnetically coupled and therefore are only electrically coupled. In this specific case, the maximum voltage experienced by the "TLVR line" is (V in - V out )2.

[0109] As previously discussed, the proposed magnetically-electrically coupled inductor can be implemented in a power converter system where high transient power and high current density are typically required. Two types of implementation are shown in this section: The first is a power-stage cooled inductor (such as...). Fig. 9) Voltage regulation module, while the second (such as e.g. Fig. 10) is an inductor-cooled voltage regulation module.

[0110] It is noted that the 2-phase step-down converter in Fig. 8 can be implemented with a power stage cooled implementation that has a TLVR winding that is not connected to the power stage PCB layer.

[0111] As particularly in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the corresponding power converter 805 (power supply assembly) can be configured to include a respective transformer assembly 200, which is connected between the substrate 821, such as a power stage board, which contains a switch circuit arrangement (a Fig. 5) includes, and is arranged on the substrate 820, such as a so-called distribution circuit board.

[0112] The substrate 820 can be connected or coupled to the corresponding substrate 800, such as a mainboard. In one example, the substrate 810 provides the input voltage, the ground reference voltage, and other signals through the substrate 820 and electrically conductive paths 851 and / or electrically conductive paths 852. The corresponding substrate 821 can be configured to include one or more instances of the switching circuit arrangement 102-X, as previously discussed, to control the respective flow of current to node ph1 and node ph2.

[0113] If desired, the power converter 805 includes only electrically conductive paths 851 or electrically conductive paths 852.

[0114] Thus, in an example, a power supply implementation, such as the power converter 805, can include a combination of the magnetically permeable material 111, such as the magnetically permeable material 111-1 and the magnetically permeable material 111-2, the first electrically conductive path 121, the second electrically conductive path 122, and the third electrically conductive path 123, which are arranged in the transformer assembly 200. The power converter 805 or the power supply includes a substrate 820, such as a distribution plate, to which the corresponding assembly 200 is fixed.

[0115] As further shown, the exemplary power converter 805 and the corresponding assembly can be configured to include a substrate 821 (such as a first printed circuit board) and one or more corresponding instances of the switch circuit arrangement 102-X to control a flow of current through the first electrically conductive path and the second electrically conductive path of the transformer assembly 200 in a manner as previously discussed.

[0116] Furthermore, as previously discussed, the power converter assembly, such as the power converter 805, can be configured to include a substrate 820, such as a second printed circuit board. The substrate 820, such as a second printed circuit board (such as a distribution board), provides connectivity between the assembly 200 and the substrate 810. In such an instance, a combination of the magnetically permeable material (such as the magnetically permeable material 111-1 and the magnetically permeable material 111-2), the first electrically conductive path 121, the second electrically conductive path 122, and the third electrically conductive path 123 are arranged between the first printed circuit board (substrate 820) and the second printed circuit board (substrate 821).

[0117] As further shown, the power converter 805 can be configured to include a respective heat sink 860 coupled to the substrate 821 and / or the corresponding switch circuit arrangement 102-X. If desired, the capacitors 299 can be arranged on the substrate 821 between the substrate 821 and the magnetically permeable material 111-2.

[0118] As mentioned, one of the main advantages of the proposed magnetically-electrically coupled inductor (assembly 200) is the simple TLVR winding guide, as shown in Fig. Section 6 reports that such an advantage can be exploited for a power-stage cooled top surface, where the half-bridge (HB) is typically mounted on a heat spreader to improve the thermal performance of silicon and, consequently, the system performance. Considering a classic TLVR implementation, the TLVR windings of a single elementary transformer must be routed at the level of the phase node PCB, which increases complexity when vertical power flow is required. For these reasons, our proposed magnetically-electrically coupled inductor overcomes such a routing limitation when a power-stage cooled implementation is necessary.

[0119] A top-cooled power stage is typically designed with two horizontal PCBs and vertical connections: • The distribution board 820 is connected to the main board (i.e., where Vin and Vout of the converter are located) and to the TLVR connection. • Power stage plate 102-x, where HB is placed and thermally connected to a heat sink 860 and is not connected to the TLVR connection. • Vertical routing, such as via electrically conductive paths 851 and / or 852: of digital / analog signals Vin and GND that are shifted to two sides (i.e., to maintain a symmetrical power flow from Vin to Vout for both phases, as in Fig. 8 shown). If desired, to eliminate the need for a two-sided vertical connection in Fig. 8 to overcome, be modified to include only a one-sided vertical connection, ensuring Vin connection symmetry between the two phases through the power stage plate layout (i.e., the same resistance path of the Vin connection from one side of the Vin connection).

[0120] Another example here includes a two-phase step-down converter with an inductor-cooled implementation, which features a TLVR winding guided inside the magnetic core.

[0121] As mentioned, one of the main advantages of the proposed magnetically-electrically coupled inductor is the simplified TLVR winding routing within a two-phase implementation. This advantage can be leveraged for inductor-cooled two-phase power buck converters, where the inductor windings are typically mounted to a heat sink, with the power stage cooled by the winding inductance to improve the thermal performance of silicon and, consequently, the system performance. In a conventional TLVR implementation, each TLVR winding of a single elementary transformer must be routed outside the magnetic component, increasing complexity due to the routing between the two phases. In contrast to conventional techniques, the Transformer Assembly 200 overcomes such routing limitations.

[0122] An inductor-cooled implementation can be designed with a horizontal PCB and a two-phase MECI inductor, as shown in the Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 shown: • The PCB module is connected to the main board (i.e., where Vin and Vout of the converter are located) and to the TLVR connection. • Two-phase inductor: realized in a core that exhibits indirect magnetic coupling and enables electrical coupling between different MECI magnetic components, as in Fig. 4c) enables.

[0123] The Fig. 9 and Fig. Figure 10 shows two different implementations, the main difference being the TLVR leading position (i.e., depending on the actual PCB module underside footprint to the mainboard).

[0124] Fig. Figure 9 is an exemplary diagram showing several views of a respective transformer assembly and / or power converter assembly as described herein.

[0125] In particular, view A (along the x-axis) of Fig. Figure 9 shows an exemplary first side view diagram of a power converter assembly 901 and a respective transformer assembly 200-9, as described herein. View B (along the z-axis) of Fig. Figure 9 is an exemplary second side view diagram of the power converter assembly 901 and the corresponding transformer assembly 200-9, as described herein. View C (along the y-axis) of Fig. Figure 9 is an exemplary diagram showing a first printed circuit board and corresponding printed circuit board layout associated with the power converter assembly 901 and the corresponding transformer assembly 200-9, as described herein. A view D (along the y-axis) of Fig. Figure 9 is an exemplary diagram showing a top view of a transformer assembly 200-9 as described herein.

[0126] In this example, view A represents Fig. Figure 9 represents the transformer assembly 200-9 (such as an instance of the assembly 200-X) arranged in a respective power transformer 901. The transformer assembly 200-9 is arranged between the substrate 820 and the layer of electrically conductive material 895. One or more instances of the switchgear assembly 102-X are arranged in or on the substrate 820. As discussed previously, the switchgear assembly 102-X controls the flow of current through the corresponding electrically conductive paths 121 and 122 of the transformer assembly 200-9.

[0127] As further shown, the substrate 820 is coupled to the substrate 810 (such as a so-called mainboard). The substrate 820 (such as a printed circuit board) can be configured to receive the input voltage and a ground reference voltage, as described herein, from the mainboard 810. As previously discussed, the switching circuit arrangement 102-X, located on the substrate 820, receives and uses, via switching, the received input voltage and a ground reference voltage to control the delivery of a respective current through the electrically conductive paths 121 and 122 to generate the respective output voltage.

[0128] Furthermore, in this example, the power converter assembly 901 includes a layer of electrically conductive material 895 arranged on a top surface of the transformer assembly 200-9. The layer of electrically conductive material 895 is located between the magnetically permeable material 111-2 and the heat sink 860. The advantage of manufacturing the transformer assembly 200-9 and the corresponding power converter assembly 901 by including the layer of electrically conductive material 895 and corresponding electrically conductive elements extending from the layer of electrically conductive material 895 to the electrically conductive paths 121, 122, 123 is the transfer of heat generated by one or more of the following components, such as...The transformer assembly 200-9, the switchgear assembly 102-X, the substrate 820, the substrate 810, the electrically conductive path 121, the electrically conductive path 122, the electrically conductive path 123, etc., are all directed upwards to the heat sink 860. The heat sink 860 dissipates any received heat upwards to the air or another medium, so that the power converter 901 is not damaged by excessive heat.

[0129] As previously discussed, the electrically conductive path 121 and the electrically conductive path 122 output the corresponding output voltage, which is used to supply power to a respective load 118. The load 118 can be coupled to any suitable entity, such as the substrate 810, the substrate 820, etc. The power converter assembly 901 and the corresponding transformer assembly 200-9 can be configured to include a respective electrically conductive path from node N12 to the layer of electrically conductive material 895. Additionally, the power converter assembly 901 and the corresponding transformer assembly 200-9 can be configured to include a respective electrically conductive path from node N22 to the layer of electrically conductive material 895.

[0130] Furthermore, also according to Fig. 6, the transformer assembly 200-9 of Fig. 9 be configured to include a respective electrically conductive element 621 that couples node N12 of the electrically conductive path 121 to the corresponding substrate 820. The substrate 820 comprises one or more circuit paths to carry the received output voltage to the substrate 810 and the corresponding load 118.

[0131] In a similar way to how in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the transformer assembly 200-9 can be configured to include a respective electrically conductive element 622 that couples node N22 of the electrically conductive path 122 to the corresponding substrate 820. The substrate 820 can further be configured to include a respective circuit path to carry the received output voltage through the substrate 820 to the substrate 810 corresponding to the load 118.

[0132] Although the output voltage Vout can be used to supply power to a respective load 118 arranged on the substrate 810 or substrate 820, or to any other suitable entity, conveying the output voltage to the layer of electrically conductive material 895 provides a good thermally conductive path in which heat is conveyed from one or more of the substrate 810, the substrate 820, the switchgear assembly 102-X, the transformer assembly 200-9 to the layer of electrically conductive material 895 and the corresponding heat sink 860. As discussed previously, the heat received by the heat sink 860 is dissipated over or to the side thereof.

[0133] View B of the power converter assembly 901 in Fig. Figure 9 shows that the switchgear arrangement associated with the power converter assembly 901 may include a first instance of the switchgear arrangement 102-11 and the switchgear arrangement 102-12. As previously described in Fig. As discussed in section 4, the switching circuit arrangement 102-11 controls a respective flow of a current 159-11 through the electrically conductive path 121 of the transformer assembly 200-9 to generate the respective output voltage. The switching circuit arrangement 102-12 controls a respective flow of a current 159-12 through the electrically conductive path 122 of the transformer assembly 200-9 to generate the respective output voltage.

[0134] View C of Fig. Figure 9 (a top view of the corresponding substrate 820) illustrates the placement of various components on the substrate 820 to facilitate the generation of the output voltage. For example, node N71 of the substrate 820 receives the output voltage from node N12 of the electrically conductive path 121 via an electrically conductive element 621 or other suitable entity; node N72 of the substrate 820 receives the output voltage from node N22, which is output by the electrically conductive path 122, via the electrically conductive element 622 or other suitable entity. Node N76 provides or outputs the corresponding current 159-11 through a respective electrically conductive element to node N11 of the electrically conductive path 121. Node N77 provides the corresponding current 159-12 through a respective electrically conductive element to node N21 of the electrically conductive path 122.As previously discussed, the controlled flow of a current leads to the generation of the corresponding output voltage Vout.

[0135] As further shown, the power converter assembly 901 comprises a respective electrically conductive element extending from node N31 of the electrically conductive path 123 to the corresponding node N31-1 (such as the surface contact point) located on the substrate 820. Additionally, the power converter assembly 901 comprises a respective electrically conductive element extending from node N32 of the electrically conductive path 123 to the corresponding node N32-1 located on the substrate 820. Accordingly, in this example, both ends of the electrically conductive path 123 are connected to the corresponding substrate 820 at different nodes. The corresponding electrically conductive elements provide a transmission of an output current and an output voltage from the electrically conductive paths to node N32-1 and node N32-2.

[0136] A view D of Fig. Figure 9 represents the layer of electrically conductive material 895 as well as locations of corresponding electrically conductive elements along the y-axis.

[0137] Fig. Figure 10 is an exemplary diagram showing several views of a respective transformer assembly and / or power converter assembly as described herein.

[0138] A view A (along the x-axis) of Fig. Figure 10 is an exemplary first side view diagram of a power converter assembly 1001 and a respective transformer assembly 200-10, as described herein. A view B (along the z-axis) of Fig. Figure 10 is an exemplary second side view diagram of the power converter assembly 1001 and the corresponding transformer assembly 200-10, as described herein. View C (along the y-axis) of Fig. Figure 10 is an exemplary diagram showing a first printed circuit board and corresponding printed circuit board layout associated with the power converter assembly 1001 and the corresponding transformer assembly 200-10, as described herein. A view D (along the y-axis) of Fig. Figure 10 is an exemplary diagram showing a top view of a transformer assembly 200-10 as described herein.

[0139] In this example, view A represents the transformer assembly 200-10 (such as an instance of assembly 200-X) arranged in a respective power transformer 1001. The transformer assembly 200-10 is not located between the substrate 820 and the layer of electrically conductive material 895. One or more instances of the switchgear assembly 102-X are located in or on the substrate 820.

[0140] As previously discussed, the switch circuit arrangement 102-X controls the transport of current through the corresponding electrically conductive paths 121 and 122 of the transformer assembly 200-10.

[0141] As further shown, the substrate 820 is coupled to the substrate 810 (such as a so-called mainboard). The substrate 820 (such as a printed circuit board) can be configured to receive the input voltage and a ground reference voltage, as described herein, from the mainboard 810. As previously discussed, the switching circuit arrangement 102-X, located on the substrate 820, receives and uses, via switching, the received input voltage and a ground reference voltage to control the delivery of a respective current through the electrically conductive paths 121 and 122.

[0142] Furthermore, in this example, the power converter assembly 1001 includes a layer of electrically conductive material 895 arranged on a top surface of the transformer assembly 200-10. The layer of electrically conductive material 895 is located between the magnetically permeable material 111-2 and the heat sink 860. The advantage of manufacturing the transformer assembly 200-10 and the corresponding power converter assembly 1001 by including the layer of electrically conductive material 895 and corresponding electrically conductive elements extending from the layer of electrically conductive material 895 to the electrically conductive paths 121, 122, 123 is the transfer of heat generated by one or more of the following components, such as...The transformer assembly 200-10, the switchgear assembly 102-X, the substrate 820, the substrate 810, the electrically conductive path 121, the electrically conductive path 122, the electrically conductive path 123, etc., are connected to the heat sink 860. The heat sink 860 dissipates any received heat either upwards or to the side, so that the power converter 1001 is not damaged by excessive heat.

[0143] As previously discussed, the electrically conductive path 121 and the electrically conductive path 122 output the corresponding output voltage, which is used to supply power to a respective load 118. The load 118 can be coupled to any suitable entity, such as the substrate 810, the substrate 820, etc. The power converter assembly 1001 and the corresponding transformer assembly 200-10 can be configured to include a respective electrically conductive path from node N12 to the layer of electrically conductive material 895. Additionally, the power converter assembly 1001 and the corresponding transformer assembly 200-10 can be configured to include a respective electrically conductive path from node N22 to the layer of electrically conductive material 895.

[0144] Furthermore, also according to Fig. 6, the transformer assembly 200-10 of Fig. 10 are configured to include a respective electrically conductive element 621 that couples node N12 of the electrically conductive path 121 to the corresponding substrate 820. The substrate 820 includes a respective circuit path to carry the received output voltage to the substrate 810 and the corresponding load 118. In a similar manner to that described in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the transformer assembly 200-10 can be configured to include a respective electrically conductive element 622 that couples node N22 of the electrically conductive path 122 to the corresponding substrate 820. The substrate 820 can further be configured to include a respective circuit path to carry the received output voltage through the substrate 820 to the substrate 810 corresponding to the load 118.

[0145] Although the output voltage Vout can be used to supply power to a respective load 118 arranged on the substrate 810 or substrate 820, or to any other suitable entity, conveying the output voltage to the layer of electrically conductive material 895 provides a good thermally conductive path in which heat is conveyed from one or more of the substrate 810, the substrate 820, the switchgear assembly 102-11, the switchgear assembly 102-12, the transformer assembly 200-10 to the layer of electrically conductive material 895 and the corresponding heat sink 860. As discussed previously, the heat received from the heat sink 860 is dissipated upwards.

[0146] View B of the power converter assembly 1001 in Fig. Figure 10 shows that the switchgear arrangement associated with the power converter assembly 1001 may comprise a first instance of the switchgear arrangement 102-11 and the switchgear arrangement 102-12. As previously stated in Fig. As discussed in Figures 4 and others, the switching circuit arrangement 102-11 controls a respective flow of a current 159-11 through the electrically conductive path 121 of the transformer assembly 200-10 to generate the respective output voltage. The switching circuit arrangement 102-12 controls a respective flow of a current 159-12 through the electrically conductive path 122 of the transformer assembly 200-10 to generate the respective output voltage.

[0147] View C of Fig. Figure 10 (a top view of the corresponding substrate 820) illustrates the placement of various components on the substrate 820 to facilitate the generation of the output voltage. For example, node N71 of the substrate 820 receives the output voltage from node N12 of the electrically conductive path 121 via an electrically conductive element 621 or other suitable entity; node N72 of the substrate 820 receives the output voltage from node N22, which is output by the electrically conductive path 122, via the electrically conductive element 622 or other suitable entity. Node N76 provides or outputs the corresponding current 159-11 through a respective electrically conductive element to node N11 of the electrically conductive path 121. Node N77 provides the corresponding current 159-12 through a respective electrically conductive element to node N21 of the electrically conductive path 122.As discussed previously, the controlled flow of a current leads to the generation of the corresponding output voltage Vout.

[0148] As further shown, the power converter assembly 1001 comprises an electrically conductive element extending from node N31 of the electrically conductive path 123 to the corresponding node N31-1 (such as the surface contact point) located on the substrate 820. Additionally, the power converter assembly 1001 comprises an electrically conductive element extending from node N32 of the electrically conductive path 123 to the corresponding node N32-1 located on the substrate 820. Accordingly, in this example, both ends of the electrically conductive path 123 are connected to the corresponding substrate 820 at different nodes.

[0149] A view D of Fig.Figure 10 represents the layer of electrically conductive material 895 as well as locations of corresponding electrically conductive elements along the y-axis.

[0150] It is noted again that the techniques contained herein are well suited for use in circuit assembly applications such as those providing power delivery to one or more loads. However, it should be noted that the disclosure of the subject matter herein is not limited to use in such applications and that the techniques discussed herein are also well suited for other applications.

[0151] Although this invention has been shown and described with particular reference to preferred aspects thereof, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications in form and details can be made to it without departing from the essence and scope of the present application as defined by the appended claims. Such variations are intended to be covered by the scope of this present application. Thus, the foregoing description in the present disclosure is not intended to be limiting. Rather, any limitations of the invention are set forth in the following claims.

Claims

[1] Device having the following features: a first electrically conductive path extending through magnetically permeable material; a second electrically conductive path extending through the magnetically permeable material, the second electrically conductive path being inductively coupled to the first electrically conductive path via the magnetically permeable material; and a third electrically conductive path disposed in the magnetically permeable material and extending along the first electrically conductive path and the second electrically conductive path. [2] The device of claim 1, wherein a first portion of the third electrically conductive path is inductively coupled to the first electrically conductive path; and wherein a second portion of the third electrically conductive path is inductively coupled to the second electrically conductive path. [3] The device of claim 1 or 2, wherein a first portion of the third electrically conductive path and the first electrically conductive path is a first transformer of a transinductance voltage regulator circuit; and wherein a second portion of the third electrically conductive path and the second electrically conductive path is a second transformer of the transinductance voltage regulator circuit. [4] Device according to claim 3, further comprising the following features: a first switch circuit arrangement operative to control an amount of a first current supplied to a first axial end of the first electrically conductive path, the first current being conveyed through the first electrically conductive path to a second end of the first electrically conductive path; and a second switch circuit arrangement operable to control an amount of a second current supplied to a first axial end of the second electrically conductive path, the second current being carried through the second electrically conductive path to a second end of the second electrically conductive path. [5] Device according to claim 4, further comprising the following feature: an electrically conductive element coupling the second axial end of the first electrically conductive path to the second axial end of the second electrically conductive path, the electrically conductive element outputting an output voltage. [6] The device of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first electrically conductive path is a first inductor; wherein the second electrically conductive path is a second inductor; and wherein the first inductor is inversely coupled with respect to the second inductor. [7] The device of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the magnetically permeable material includes a space disposed within a volume of the magnetically permeable material disposed between the first electrically conductive path and the second electrically conductive path. [8] Device according to claim 7, wherein the gap is a void. [9] Device according to one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising the following features: a first gap disposed in the magnetically permeable material, the first gap being disposed in a first volume between the first electrically conductive path and the second electrically conductive path; a second gap disposed in the magnetically permeable material, wherein the first electrically conductive path is disposed in a second volume between the first gap and the second gap; and a third gap disposed in the magnetically permeable material, wherein the second electrically conductive path is disposed between the first gap and the third gap. [10] A device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein a combination of the magnetically permeable material, the first electrically conductive path, the second electrically conductive path and the third electrically conductive path is arranged in a transformer assembly, the device further comprising the following feature: a first substrate; and wherein the transformer assembly is fixed to the first substrate. [11] The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the transformer assembly comprises a first switch circuitry on a second substrate, the first switch circuitry operable to control a flow of a first current through the first electrically conductive path and the second electrically conductive path. [12] The device of claim 11, wherein the combination of the magnetically permeable material, the first electrically conductive path, the second electrically conductive path, and the third electrically conductive path is disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate. [13] The device of claim 12, further comprising a heat sink coupled to the second substrate. [14] Device according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the first electrically conductive path is arranged parallel to the second electrically conductive path, the device further comprising the following features: a first switch circuit arrangement operable to control a first current to flow in a first direction through the first electrically conductive path; a second switch circuit arrangement operative to control a second current to flow in a second direction through the second electrically conductive path; and wherein the second direction is substantially opposite to the first direction. [15] Device according to claim 14, further comprising the following feature: an electrically conductive element operative to convey a summation of the first current and the second current to a load. [16] The device of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the magnetically permeable material is effective to assist in conveying a first magnetic flux around a combination of the first electrically conductive path and the second electrically conductive path; wherein the magnetically permeable material is effective to assist in conveying a second magnetic flux around a combination of the first electrically conductive path and a first portion of the third electrically conductive path, the second magnetic flux passing between the first electrically conductive path and the second electrically conductive path; and wherein the magnetically permeable material is effective to assist in conveying a third magnetic flux around a combination of the second electrically conductive path and a second portion of the third electrically conductive path, the third magnetic flux passing between the first electrically conductive path and the second electrically conductive path. [17] Device according to one of claims 1 to 16, further comprising the following features: a substrate; a first switch circuit arrangement fixed to the substrate, the first switch circuit arrangement being operative to control a flow of a first current through the first electrically conductive path; and a second switch circuit arrangement fixed to the substrate, the second switch circuit arrangement being operative to control a flow of a second current through the second electrically conductive path. [18] Device according to claim 17, further comprising the following features: a first electrically conductive element extending between a first axial end of the first electrically conductive path to the first switch circuit arrangement; a second electrically conductive element extending between a second axial end of the first electrically conductive path to the substrate; a third electrically conductive element extending between the first axial end of the second electrically conductive path to the second switch circuit arrangement; and a fourth electrically conductive element extending between the second axial end of the second electrically conductive path to the substrate. [19] A device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein a combination of the magnetically permeable material, the first electrically conductive path, the second electrically conductive path and the third electrically conductive path is arranged in a transformer assembly, the device further comprising the following features: a substrate to which the transformer assembly is fixed; a layer of electrically conductive material; wherein the transformer assembly is arranged between the substrate and the layer of electrically conductive material. [20] Device according to claim 19, further comprising the following feature: an electrically conductive element extending between the layer of electrically conductive material and the substrate, the electrically conductive element carrying a respective output voltage generated by the first electrically conductive path and the second electrically conductive path. [21] Method comprising the following steps: Receiving magnetically permeable material; Creating a first electrically conductive path to extend through magnetically permeable material; Producing a second electrically conductive path to extend through the magnetically permeable material, wherein the second electrically conductive path is inductively coupled to the first electrically conductive path via the magnetically permeable material; and Producing a third electrically conductive path disposed in the magnetically permeable material, the third electrically conductive path being operative to extend along the first electrically conductive path and the second electrically conductive path.

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