Multi-level power converter with light load flying capacitor voltage regulation

US10693372B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Dialog Semiconductor (UK) Limited · GB

Inventors

• Aravind Mangudi · Gilbert, US
• Mark Mercer · Phoenix, US
• James Steele · Chandler, US
• Taek Chang · Gilbert, US
• Bill McKillop · Gilbert, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jul 31, 2018
• Grant date: Jun 23, 2020
• Expiry date: Jul 31, 2038

Classification

• Technology area (CPC —): General

Abstract

A multi-level power converter and a method using first, second, third and fourth switching elements, an inductor, and a flying capacitor are presented. A first terminal of the inductor may be connected to a switching terminal connecting the second and third switching elements. A first terminal of the flying capacitor may be connected to a terminal connecting the first and second elements. A second terminal of the flying capacitor may be connected to a terminal connecting the third and fourth switching elements. The multi-level power converter may have a first feedback circuit to generate control signals for setting the switching elements in a plurality of switching states for regulating an output voltage or an output current. The converter may have a second feedback circuit to generate control signals to allow the flying capacitor to be charged or discharged using an inductor current flowing through the inductor.