Magnetic assembly with integrated communication link

Abstract

A planar energy transfer element includes a magnetic core and a multilayer circuit. The multilayer circuit includes an opening configured to receive the magnetic core, a first power winding spanning a winding area with the opening interior to the first power winding, a second power winding magnetically coupled to the first power winding with the opening interior to the second power winding, and a first communication link generally disposed within a projection of the winding area of the first power winding. The first communication link includes a first communication winding generally disposed within the projection of the winding area with the opening exterior to the first communication winding, and a second communication winding generally disposed within the projection of the winding area with the first communication winding and the second communication winding magnetically coupled and the opening exterior to the second communication winding.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to communication between circuits. Background Technology

[0002] Electronic devices use electricity to operate. Switch-mode power converters (also known as switching power converters) are widely used to power many of today's electronic devices due to their high efficiency, small size, and low weight. Conventional wall outlets provide high-voltage alternating current (AC). In a switch-mode power converter, the high-voltage AC input is converted and a well-regulated direct current (DC) output can be provided through energy transfer elements. Switch-mode power converters typically provide output regulation by sensing one or more signals representing one or more output quantities and controlling the output in a closed-loop manner. During operation, the desired output is provided by using switches to change the duty cycle (typically the ratio of the switch's on time to the total switching cycle), changing the switching frequency, or changing the number of pulses per unit time of the switch in the switch-mode power converter.

[0003] Safety requirements for isolated switch-mode power converters typically necessitate the use of high-frequency magnetic components to provide current isolation between the input and output of the switch-mode power converter, in addition to providing voltage level variations at the output. The power converter typically includes one or more controllers that sense the output of the power converter and control the operation of switches to regulate the output. These controllers may rely on communication systems to send information to operate the power converter. Summary of the Invention

[0004] A power converter typically includes: a first controller (sometimes called a primary controller) coupled to the input side of the power converter; and a second controller (sometimes called a secondary controller) coupled to the output side of the power converter. The first controller controls the on and off states of a power switch to transfer energy between the input and output of the power converter. The second controller can sense the output of the power converter to determine whether and how the power switch should be switched. The second controller can communicate with the first controller. For example, the second controller can convey a request to turn on the power switch or convey feedback information about the output of the power converter.

[0005] The power converter typically includes an energy transfer element to transfer energy between its input and output sides. An example energy transfer element includes a transformer. A communication link between the first controller and the second controller transmits information between the input and output sides of the power converter. An example communication link may include an inductive coupler, an optical coupler, or a capacitive coupler. Embodiments of inductive couplers include a transformer and a coupling inductor. Both the energy transfer element and the communication link can provide current isolation. Typically, the energy transfer element and the communication link are discrete components, which can increase the size and cost of the power converter.

[0006] Embodiments of this disclosure include a component in which a power delivery element and a communication link are integrated together in a multilayer circuit. The multilayer circuit includes a conductive layer for the power delivery element and a conductive layer for the communication link. In one embodiment, one or more communication links may be integrated close to the layer for the power delivery element. The one or more communication links may be located in a layer above the layer for the power delivery element. The one or more communication links may be located in a layer below the layer for the power delivery element. In another embodiment, layers having one or more communication links may be integrated between the layers of the power delivery element. Integrating the power delivery element and the communication link in the same multilayer circuit can result in a reduction in the size and number of components of the power converter. The benefits of a reduced component count may include easier assembly, fewer points of failure, and improved reliability.

[0007] The energy transfer element includes a first power winding and a second power winding. The first power winding may be an input winding of the energy transfer element, while the second power winding is an output winding of the energy transfer element. The first power winding is disposed on a first power layer of the multilayer circuit. The first power winding spans (extends and covers) the winding region. Furthermore, the first power winding is wound around a first axis. The second power winding is disposed on a second power layer of the multilayer circuit and is wound around the first axis.

[0008] The communication link includes a first communication winding and a second communication winding. The first communication winding may be a transmitter winding, and the second communication winding may be a receiver winding. The first communication winding is disposed on a first communication layer and arranged within the projection of the winding region. The first communication winding is wound around a second axis. The second communication winding is disposed on a second communication layer and arranged within the projection of the winding region. The second communication winding is wound around a second axis. The second axis is different from the first axis. Furthermore, the first communication winding and the second communication winding may substantially overlap each other.

[0009] In one embodiment, the multilayer circuit board may include an opening. The first power winding and the second power winding may be wound around the opening. The first communication winding and the second communication winding may be wound such that these windings do not surround the opening. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments of the invention are described with reference to the following accompanying drawings, wherein, unless otherwise stated, the same reference numerals refer to the same parts in all various views. Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts in all several views of the drawings.

[0011] Figure 1 An example power converter according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated, the power converter having a magnetic component that includes an energy transfer element and a communication link.

[0012] Figure 2A An embodiment of this disclosure is illustrated. Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of a magnetic component, which includes an energy transfer element and a communication link.

[0013] Figure 2B This is an implementation scheme based on the content of this disclosure. Figure 2A An exploded view of a magnetic component, which includes an energy transfer element and a communication link.

[0014] Figure 2C yes Figure 2A and Figure 2B A side view of an example core.

[0015] Figure 3 This is an implementation scheme based on the content of this disclosure. Figure 2A An exploded view of an example layer of the energy transfer elements and communication links of the magnetic components.

[0016] Figure 4A This is an exemplary top view of a communication layer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the communication layer including a layer superimposed on a first power winding. Figure 3 The second communication winding.

[0017] Figure 4B This is an exemplary top view of a communication layer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the communication layer including a layer superimposed on a first power winding. Figure 3 The first communication winding.

[0018] Figure 5A An embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated, including... Figure 3 A top view of the first power layer of the first power winding.

[0019] Figure 5B An embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated, including... Figure 3 A top view of the second communication layer of the second communication winding.

[0020] Figure 5C An embodiment of this disclosure is illustrated. Figure 3 A top view of the first communication layer, including the first communication winding.

[0021] Figure 5D An embodiment of this disclosure is illustrated. Figure 3 A top view of the second power layer, including the second power winding.

[0022] Figure 6A An example of a first partial loop and a second partial loop of a communication winding according to an embodiment of the present disclosure are illustrated.

[0023] Figure 6B Another example of a communication winding including a jog, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, is illustrated: a first partial loop and a second partial loop.

[0024] Figure 6C Another example of a communication winding including one or more deflections according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated, namely a first partial loop and a second partial loop.

[0025] Figure 6D An example first partial loop and a second partial loop comprising one or more deflected communication windings according to an embodiment of the present disclosure are illustrated.

[0026] Figure 6E An example of a second communication winding according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0027] Figure 6F An example first communication winding is illustrated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 6G An embodiment of this disclosure is illustrated relative to a reference line. Figure 6F Example of the first communication winding.

[0029] Figure 7A According to one embodiment of this disclosure, it includes a winding superimposed with a first power winding. Figure 6E An illustrative top view of the second communication winding layer.

[0030] Figure 7B According to one embodiment of this disclosure, it includes a winding superimposed with a first power winding. Figure 6F An illustrative top view of the first communication winding layer.

[0031] Figure 8A A top view of a first power layer including a first power winding is illustrated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 8B An embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated, including... Figure 6E A top view of the second communication layer of the second communication winding.

[0033] Figure 8C An embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated, including... Figure 6F A top view of the first communication layer of the first communication winding.

[0034] Figure 8D A top view of a second power layer including a second power winding is illustrated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 9A The first power winding is illustrated. Figure 6E The second communication winding and Figure 6F A three-dimensional view of the first communication winding.

[0036] Figure 9B Examples Figure 9A The first power winding, the second communication winding, and the cross-section of the first communication winding are shown.

[0037] Figure 10 An example power converter with another magnetic component is illustrated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the magnetic component including an energy transfer element, a communication link, and a reinforcement winding.

[0038] Figure 11A This is an exemplary top view of a layer including a second communication winding and a first reinforcement winding overlapping a first power winding, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 11B This is an exemplary top view of a layer including a first communication winding and a second reinforcing winding overlapping a first power winding, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 12A A top view of a first power layer including a first power winding is illustrated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 12B An embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated, including... Figure 11A A top view of the second communication layer of the second communication winding and the first reinforcing winding.

[0042] Figure 12C An embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated, including... Figure 11B A top view of the first communication layer of the first communication winding and the second reinforcement winding.

[0043] Figure 12D A top view of a second power layer including a second power winding is illustrated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 13A A top view of a second communication layer including another second communication winding and a first reinforcing winding, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, is illustrated.

[0045] Figure 13B A top view of a first communication layer including another first communication winding and a second reinforcing winding is illustrated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 14 An example of a switch controller with a magnetic component according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated, the magnetic component including an energy transfer element and multiple communication links.

[0047] Figure 15 This is an implementation scheme based on the content of this disclosure. Figure 14 An example layer decomposition view of multiple communication links of the magnetic component.

[0048] Figure 16 This is an implementation scheme based on the content of this disclosure. Figure 15 A top view of the communication layer on the interface side.

[0049] Figure 17 This is an implementation scheme based on the content of this disclosure. Figure 16 A magnified view of the communication layer.

[0050] Figure 18 This is an implementation scheme based on the content of this disclosure. Figure 15 A top view of the communication layer on the driver side.

[0051] Figure 19 This is an implementation scheme based on the content of this disclosure. Figure 18 A magnified view of the communication layer.

[0052] Figure 20 This is an implementation scheme based on the content of this disclosure. Figure 19 A three-dimensional view of the communication winding.

[0053] The accompanying drawings are shown in one example orientation and can be referenced by the orientation shown, using terms such as top, bottom, upper, lower, left, right, above, below, vertical, and horizontal. It should be understood that orientation and arrangement can be changed without functionally affecting embodiments of this disclosure. For ease of explanation and clarity, the elements discussed herein will be referred to by the specific example orientation shown in the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0054] Embodiments of this disclosure include a component in which power delivery elements and communication links are integrated together into a multilayer circuit. Furthermore, multiple communication links can be integrated with the power delivery elements into the same multilayer circuit. Integrating the power delivery elements and communication links can reduce the size of the power converter, improve reliability, and potentially reduce costs.

[0055] Figure 1 An embodiment of a power converter 100 according to this disclosure is illustrated. The power converter 100 has a magnetic component 124, which includes an energy transfer element T1 and a communication link COM1. The illustrated power converter 100 also includes a clamping circuit 102, a power switch S1, an input return circuit 108, an output rectifier S2, and an output capacitor C. O The power converter 100 includes an output return circuit 112 and an output sensing circuit 116. The power converter 100 includes a control system having a first controller 110 and a second controller 118. The first controller 110 may also be referred to as a primary controller, and the second controller 118 may also be referred to as a secondary controller. A communication link COM1 is shown between the first controller 110 and the second controller 118.

[0056] Magnetic component 124 includes an energy transfer element T1 and a communication link COM1. The energy transfer element T1 includes a first power winding 104 and a second power winding 106. The first power winding 104 may also be referred to as the input winding of the energy transfer element T1, while the second power winding 106 may also be referred to as the output winding of the energy transfer element T1. Each end of the first power winding 104 is represented by nodes 103 and 105, respectively. Each end of the second power winding 106 is represented by nodes 107 and 109, respectively. Two solid parallel lines between the first power winding 104 and the second power winding 106 indicate that the coupling between the first power winding 104 and the second power winding 106 includes a core with relatively high permeability. Example materials include iron and ferrite. However, it should be understood that the coupling between the first power winding 104 and the second power winding 106 can also be air coupling, which can also be referred to as an air core (air-core).

[0057] Communication link COM1 includes a first communication winding 120 and a second communication winding 122. Each end of the first communication winding 120 is represented by nodes 119 and 121, respectively. Each end of the second communication winding 122 is represented by nodes 123 and 125, respectively. Communication link COM1 can also be referred to as the first communication link. In the illustrated embodiment, there is no wire between the first communication winding 120 and the second communication winding 122, indicating that the coupling between these windings is air coupling. Although the primary coupling path between windings 120 and 122 is through air, it should be understood that the coupling between windings 120 and 122 can be more than just air-core coupling.

[0058] Figure 1 The input voltage V is also shown. IN First switching current I D First drive signal DR, first power winding voltage V P Second power winding voltage V S Second power winding current I S Output voltage V O Output current I O Output U O Feedback signal FB, second drive signal SR, transmit voltage V T Emitting current I T Received voltage V R and received current I R .

[0059] In the illustrated embodiment, the power converter 100 is shown as having a flyback topology. For the flyback power converter, the power switch S1 is turned on and off to control the amount of energy delivered to the output of the power converter 100. When the power switch S1 is on, the first power winding 104 conducts current and energy is stored by the energy transfer element T1. When the power switch S1 is off, the second power winding 106 conducts current and energy is stored in the output capacitor C. O It may be delivered to payload 114.

[0060] Furthermore, the input and output currents of power converter 100 are isolated, such that input return 108 and output return 112 are also current-isolated. Due to this input and output current isolation, there is no DC path across the isolation barrier of the energy transfer element T1, either between the first power winding 104 and the second power winding 106, or between the first communication winding 120 and the second communication winding 122, or between input return 108 and output return 112. It should be understood that other known power converter topologies and configurations may also benefit from the teachings of this disclosure.

[0061] The power converter 100 takes an unregulated input voltage V IN Output power is supplied to load 114. In one embodiment, the input voltage V... IN It is the rectified and filtered AC line voltage. In another embodiment, the input voltage V IN This is the DC input voltage. Input voltage V IN Coupled to energy transfer element T1. In some embodiments, energy transfer element T1 may be a coupling inductor, a transformer, or an inductor with a single winding. It should be understood that an inductor with a single winding does not provide current isolation. Energy transfer element T1 is shown as including a first power winding 104 and a second power winding 106. However, energy transfer element T1 may have more than two windings. The first power winding 104 of energy transfer element T1 is also coupled to power switch S1, and power switch S1 is also coupled to input return 108. Clamping circuit 102 is coupled across the first power winding 104. Clamping circuit 102 limits the maximum voltage on power switch S1. First controller 110 outputs a first drive signal DR to control the turning on and off of power switch S1.

[0062] In one embodiment, the power switch S1 can be a transistor, such as a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET), a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), an insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT), or a high electron mobility transistor (HEMT). The power switch S1 can also be a silicon (Si)-based transistor, a gallium nitride (GaN)-based transistor, or a silicon carbide (SiC)-based transistor. In another embodiment, the power switch can be a cascode switch comprising a normally on first switch and a normally off second switch coupled together in a cascode configuration. The first switch is typically a GaN-based HEMT or a SiC-based MOSFET, while the second switch can be a MOSFET, a BJT, or an IGBT.

[0063] The second power winding 106 is coupled to the output rectifier S2. The output rectifier S2 is illustrated as a transistor used as a synchronous rectifier. However, the output rectifier can also be illustrated as a diode. Output capacitor C O It is shown as coupled to the output rectifier S2 and the output return 112. The power converter 100 also includes a means for regulating the output quantity U. O In one embodiment, the circuit system outputs a quantity U. O It can be the output voltage V O Output current I O Or a combination of both. The output sensing circuit 116 is configured to sense the output quantity U. O The output sensing circuit 116 provides a feedback signal FB to the second controller 118, representing the output of the power converter 100.

[0064] The second controller 118 is configured to output a second drive signal SR to control the switching on and off of the output synchronous rectifier S2. In one embodiment, the second controller is configured to output a request signal in response to a feedback signal FB. In another embodiment, the second controller 118 is configured to pass the feedback signal FB to the first controller 110. For the embodiment of the request signal, the request signal represents a request to turn on the power switch S1. The request signal may include a request event generated in response to the feedback signal FB. The second controller 118 is configured to compare the feedback signal FB with an adjustment reference. In response to this comparison, the second controller 118 may output a request event in the request signal.

[0065] The second controller 118 communicates with the first controller 110 via communication link COM1. The first controller 110 is coupled to receive information from the second controller 118. For example, the first controller 110 may receive a request signal such as turning on the power switch S1 or an indication of the output quantity U. O The feedback signal FB provides information. The first controller 110 provides a first drive signal DR to the power switch S1 to control various switching parameters of the power switch S1. The switching control of the power switch S1 is achieved through the energy transfer element T1, which transfers energy from the input to the output of the power converter 100. Examples of such parameters include the switching frequency f. SW (or switching period T) SW The first controller 110 can adjust the duty cycle, on-time, off-time, or the number of pulses per unit time of the power switch S1. Furthermore, the power switch S1 can be controlled to have a fixed switching frequency or a variable switching frequency. The first controller 110 can adjust the switching frequency f of the power switch S1. SW Jitter is applied to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI), regardless of the switching frequency f. SW Is it fixed or variable?

[0066] The first controller 110 and the second controller 118 may be included in an integrated circuit, which is manufactured as a hybrid or monolithic integrated circuit. In one embodiment, the first controller 110 is included in a first integrated circuit chip, and the second controller 118 is included in a second integrated circuit chip, both of which are disposed in the same integrated circuit package. The power switch S1 may be included in a monolithic or hybrid structure in the integrated circuit package, which also includes the first controller 110 and the second controller 118. In one embodiment, the power switch S1 is disposed on the first integrated circuit chip, which also includes the first controller 110, while the second controller 118 is included in the second integrated circuit chip. In another embodiment, the power switch S1 is disposed on the first integrated circuit chip, the first controller 110 is included in the second integrated circuit chip, and the second controller 118 is included in a third integrated circuit chip. Furthermore, it should be understood that the first controller 110, the second controller 118, and the power switch S1 need not be included in a single package, and may be implemented in discrete packages or in a combination of combined and discrete packages. It should also be understood that the first controller 110 or the second controller 118 need not be housed in an integrated circuit package and can be directly attached to a circuit board. The power switch S1 can be a common-source, common-gate switch including both the first and second switches. The first switch and the second switch can be disposed on the same integrated circuit chip. Alternatively, the first and second switches can be disposed on discrete integrated circuit chips. The first and second switches can be included in a single package or can be implemented in discrete packages.

[0067] The second controller 118 and the first controller 110 communicate via a communication link COM1. The second controller 118 is an embodiment of a transmitter, while the first controller 110 is an embodiment of a receiver. However, it should be understood that communication can also occur from the first controller 110 to the second controller, or bidirectionally. In the illustrated embodiment, the second controller 118 is coupled to the output side of the power converter 100 and references output return 112, while the first controller 110 is coupled to the input side of the power converter 100 and references input return 108. The first controller 110 and the second controller 118 are current-isolated from each other, and the communication link COM1 uses an inductive coupler to provide current isolation. Embodiments of the inductive coupler include a transformer and a coupling inductor.

[0068] The communication link COM1 includes a first communication winding 120 and a second communication winding 122. The first communication winding 120 is one embodiment of a transmitter winding, while the second communication winding 122 is one embodiment of a receiver winding. However, it should be understood that the first communication winding 120 can be a receiver winding, and the second communication winding 122 can be a transmitter winding. Furthermore, the first communication winding 120 and the second communication winding 122 can be bidirectional windings.

[0069] The first communication winding 120 has two ends. The first end is represented as node 119, and the second end is represented as node 121. Node 119 is shown as the delta end of the first communication winding 120. Node 121 is shown as the non-delta end of the first communication winding 120.

[0070] The second communication winding 122 has two ends. The first end is represented as node 123, and the second end is represented as node 125. Node 123 is shown as the triangular end of the second communication winding 122. Node 125 is shown as the non-triangular end of the second communication winding 122. Furthermore, node 125 is shown as the point end of the second communication winding 122, while node 123 is the non-point end of the second communication winding 122.

[0071] The first communication winding 120 conducts the transmitter current I. T Furthermore, a transmitter voltage V exists across the first communication winding 120. T As shown in the figure. Transmitter voltage V T It is shown as positive at node 119 relative to node 121. And the transmitter current I... T It is shown as positive when conducted from node 119 to node 121. The second communication winding 122 conducts the receiver current I. R And there is a receiver voltage V across the receiver winding. R As shown in the figure. Receiver voltage V R It is shown as positive at node 123 relative to node 125. Receiver current I R It is shown as positive when propagated from node 125 to node 123.

[0072] It should also be noted that, Figure 1 The dots and triangles shown on windings 104, 106, 120, and 122 represent the polarity of the voltage induced in one winding by magnetic coupling between the windings. Specifically, the triangles represent the polarity of the voltage induced by magnetic coupling between the first communication winding 120 and the second communication winding 122. The dots represent the polarity of the voltage induced by magnetic coupling between the first power winding 104 and the second power winding 106. In other words, the dots and triangles help to illustrate the relationship of the windings relative to the external circuitry.

[0073] Furthermore, dotted line 111 indicates the magnetic coupling between the energy transfer element T1 and the communication link COM1. Due to the proximity of the energy transfer element T1 and the communication link COM1, the changing magnetic flux in the energy transfer element T1 may unintentionally induce voltages in the first communication winding 120 and the second communication winding 122. For example, the second power winding 106 may conduct current I. S This generates a changing magnetic field, which may unintentionally induce a voltage across the second communication winding 122, which is positive at node 125 relative to node 123. This can happen for windings with a specific physical orientation on T1 and COM1. Specifically, the second communication winding 122 is wound relative to the second power winding 106, causing the second power winding 106 to conduct a non-zero current I. S A negative receiver voltage V is generated across the second communication winding 122. R When node 107 is positive relative to node 109, if the second power winding 106 conducts current I from node 109 to node 107... S Therefore, the voltage at node 123 relative to node 125 is generally negative. It should be understood that the magnitude and polarity of the voltage, which is not intentionally induced in the winding of the communication link COM1 in response to the current in the winding of the energy transfer element T1, depends on the relative orientation of the windings and the direction of the current.

[0074] The second controller 118 can transmit information to the first controller 110 via magnetic coupling between the first communication winding 120 and the second communication winding 122. The second controller 118 can transmit the information as a voltage signal and / or a current signal, and the first controller 110 can receive the information as a voltage signal and / or a current signal. In some embodiments, the second controller 118 can utilize the transmitter current I... T To convey information. In one embodiment, the circuitry within the second controller 118 can control the transmitter current I. T Various attributes are used to communicate information to the first controller 110. Request signals or feedback signals FB are examples of information that the second controller 118 can communicate to the first controller 110. When the transmitter current I... T When the amplitude changes, the transmitter current I T A changing magnetic field is generated near the conductor. In some embodiments, the second communication winding is a conductor. Due to the law of electromagnetic induction, a voltage is generated across the conductor subjected to the changing magnetic field. In some embodiments, the receiver voltage V... R Due to the transmitter current I T The change in the magnetic field generated by the change in the magnetic field can induce a receiver current I. RThe first controller 110 includes circuitry capable of receiving voltage and / or current induced by the transmitter and interpreting that voltage and / or current into information. Transmitter current I T The attributes that can be controlled to convey information may include transmitter current I. T The amplitude and rate of change. The transmitted signal can be in the form of digital or analog information. In the case of digital information, the transmission can be in the form of binary signals or more complex encoded digital data, as will be known to those skilled in the art. It should be understood that other communication technologies can be used. In other embodiments, a communication technology can be used that utilizes a transmitter current I. T The induced receiver voltage V received by the first controller 110 R and receiver current I R The relationship between them.

[0075] The power transfer element T1 and the communication link COM1 are included in the same magnetic assembly 124. This magnetic assembly includes a multilayer circuit. The multilayer circuit can be attached to a rigid or flexible medium. Both the power transfer element T1 and the communication link COM1 can be implemented within this multilayer circuit. The multilayer circuit may include openings to receive the core of the power transfer element T1. A first power winding 104 can be disposed on one or more layers of the multilayer circuit. A second power winding 106 can be disposed on one or more layers of the multilayer circuit. A first communication winding 120 can be disposed on one or more layers of the multilayer circuit. A second communication winding 122 can be disposed on one or more layers of the multilayer circuit. The first communication winding 120 and the second communication winding 122 can be disposed on different layers and substantially overlap each other.

[0076] The communication link COM1 can be located close to the power transfer element T1. For example, the communication link COM1 can be located in the layer of the multilayer circuit above the power transfer element T1. In another embodiment, the communication link COM1 can be located in the layer of the multilayer circuit below the power transfer element T1.

[0077] The communication link COM1 can also be disposed between the layers of the power transfer element T1. For example, the communication link COM1 can be disposed between one or more layers of the first power winding 104 and one or more layers of the second power winding 106. If the first power winding 104 is disposed on two or more layers, the communication link COM1 can be disposed between the layers of the first power winding 104. Similarly, if the second power winding 106 is disposed on two or more layers, the communication link COM1 can be disposed between the layers of the second power winding 106. Although the magnetic component 124 illustrates one communication link, it should be understood that the magnetic component can include two or more communication links.

[0078] A Cartesian coordinate system is introduced to illustrate the orientation of several embodiments in the accompanying drawings. As shown, this coordinate system includes an x-axis, a y-axis, and a z-axis. The x-axis and y-axis may be referred to as the first lateral direction and the second lateral direction, respectively. The z-axis may be referred to as the first vertical direction. Arrows illustrate the directions of the axes. It should be understood that "dot" indicates an axis exiting the page, while "×" indicates an axis entering the page. Each axis is approximately 90 degrees to the other axes. Figure 2A and Figure 2B The first vertical direction (z-axis) travels towards the top of the page, the first horizontal direction (x-axis) travels towards the upper right diagonal of the page, and the second horizontal direction (y-axis) travels towards the upper left diagonal of the page.

[0079] Figure 2A A perspective view of magnetic component 224 is shown, which is Figure 1 An embodiment of the magnetic component 124 is shown. The magnetic component 224 is shown as including a multilayer circuit 226 and a core 228 of magnetic material. The multilayer circuit 226 is shown as a multilayer circuit board.

[0080] Multilayer circuit 226 comprises multiple layers. Multilayer circuit 226 is typically named by the number of layers it comprises that contain conductive material. For example, a fourteen-layer circuit board would refer to a circuit board comprising fourteen layers of conductive material. Copper can be one embodiment of the conductive material. However, it should be understood that while a layer may have a conductive material, it may or may not conduct current. For example, a layer may include copper shielding windings that typically do not conduct current. Between the conductive material layers may be insulating or dielectric layers. Example materials for insulation or dielectric include resin glass, polycrystalline silicon, ceramic, or prepreg material to be cured at a later time. In one example manufacturing technique, conductive material is disposed on a dielectric layer. The conductive material is then etched to form traces. When the layers are coupled together, gaps or voids between traces in one layer can be filled with dielectric from another layer. Multilayer circuits can also be produced by additive manufacturing techniques, which deposit and cure both conductive and insulating inks on a substrate.

[0081] The multilayer circuit 226 may also have interconnects between conductive layers to couple conductive paths in different layers. Interconnects are commonly referred to as vias. Embodiments of interconnects include plated through-holes or micro-vias. The multilayer circuit 226 may comprise a single multilayer printed circuit board, or the multilayer circuit 226 may comprise several printed circuit boards adhered together. In one embodiment, the multilayer circuit 226 may have a width of approximately 18.2 mm (first lateral direction, x-axis), a length of approximately 17.2 mm (second lateral direction, y-axis), and a thickness of approximately 3.2 mm (first vertical direction, z-axis).

[0082] Core 228 provides a path for the magnetic field generated by the current in the first power winding 104 or the second power winding 106. Core 228 is typically made of a material with relatively high permeability (e.g., ferrite or steel). Core 228 strengthens the magnetic coupling between the first power winding 104 and the second power winding 106. Core 228 also provides shielding for the multilayer circuit 226 from external magnetic fields.

[0083] Figure 2B An exploded view of the magnetic assembly 224 along the first axis G1 is shown. The axis G1 is parallel to the first vertical direction (z-axis) and perpendicular to both the first transverse direction (x-axis) and the second transverse direction (y-axis).

[0084] The multilayer circuit comprises multiple layers. Each layer of the multilayer circuit spans a plane defined by a first lateral direction (x-axis) and a second lateral direction (y-axis). In other words, each layer of the multilayer circuit spans a plane perpendicular to a first vertical direction (z-axis). The dashed line illustrates a winding region 235 that surrounds one or more conductive paths forming a first power winding 104 or a second power winding 106, or both. The winding region 235 is disposed within the plane defined by the first lateral direction (x-axis) and the second lateral direction (y-axis). As will be discussed further, the multilayer circuit 226 includes a first power winding 104 and a second power winding 106 of the power transfer element T1, and a first communication winding 120 and a second communication winding 122 of the communication link COM1.

[0085] The multilayer circuit 226 includes an opening 234. The opening 234 extends along a first vertical direction (z-axis) through the multilayer circuit 226 and through each layer of the multilayer circuit 226. The opening 234 is configured to receive a core 228. An axis G1 is also shown centered along the first vertical direction (z-axis) with the opening 234 of the multilayer circuit 226 as its center. The multilayer circuit 226 may also include guides on its edges for positioning the core 228.

[0086] Core 228 is shown as an EI-type core having a first portion 228a and a second portion 228b. It should be understood that core 228 may have only one portion or may have more than two portions shown, and still benefit from the teachings of this disclosure. Furthermore, although core 228 is shown as an EI-type core, the core may be of other shapes, such as an EE-type core, and still benefit from the teachings of this disclosure. The first portion 228a of core 228 includes a central leg 229 projecting along a first vertical direction (z-axis). The central leg 229 of core 228 is received in an opening 234, allowing core 228 to pass through multiple layers of multilayer circuit 226. Core 228 also includes outer legs that can be positioned in guides of multilayer circuit 226. In one embodiment, the first portion 228a of the core 228 may have a width of approximately 5.33 mm (first lateral direction, x-axis), a length of approximately 17.2 mm (second lateral direction, y-axis), and a thickness of approximately 5.63 mm (first vertical direction, z-axis). The second portion 228b may have a width of approximately 5.33 mm (first lateral direction, x-axis), a length of approximately 17.2 mm (second lateral direction, y-axis), and a thickness of approximately 1.25 mm (first vertical direction, z-axis).

[0087] In one embodiment, the first power winding 104 and the second power winding 106 may be air-core. Thus, the magnetic assembly 224 will not include the core 228. The opening 234 may be optional. The conductive paths forming the first power winding 104 and the second power winding 106 are laid around the first axis G1.

[0088] Figure 2C Examples Figure 2A and Figure 2B The image shows a side view of core 228. Specifically, Figure 2C This illustrates a side view when facing a plane having a first vertical direction (z-axis) and a second horizontal direction (y-axis). The first vertical direction (z-axis) is shown as traveling from bottom to top across the page. The second horizontal direction (y-axis) is shown as traveling from right to left across the page. The first horizontal direction (x-axis) is shown as entering the page.

[0089] The first portion 228a of core 228 includes a central leg 229. On either side of the central leg 229 are a first core window 232 and a second core window 230. The first core window 232 and the second core window 230 refer to the space defined by core 228, in which conductive paths can be placed. The first core window 232 and the second core window 230 can represent the volume where core 228 overlaps with multilayer circuit 226. The first core window 232 and the second core window 230 can represent the volume of space defined by core 228, which can be completely or partially occupied by portions of multilayer circuit 226. Figure 2CIn the diagram, the first core window 232 represents the volume where core 228 and multilayer circuit 226 overlap on the right side of center leg 229. The second core window 230 represents the volume where core 228 and multilayer circuit 226 overlap on the left side of center leg 229.

[0090] Furthermore, discrete regions with relatively low permeability—often referred to as gaps—are typically introduced into the magnetic field path provided by the core. The size of these gaps can be chosen to manage the energy distribution within the energy transfer element. Materials with relatively low permeability are typically air, and these gaps are often referred to as air gaps, although they can contain other materials with relatively low permeability, such as paper, epoxy resin, or varnish. In the illustrated embodiment, the gap can be positioned between the central leg 229 of the first portion 228a and the second portion 228b.

[0091] Figure 3 This is an exploded view of the first power layer 326a, the second power layer 326d, the first communication layer 326c, and the second communication layer 326b. The first power layer 326a, the second power layer 326d, the first communication layer 326c, and the second communication layer 326b are positioned along planes in a first lateral direction (x-axis) and a second lateral direction (y-axis). In other words, each of the first power layer 326a, the second power layer 326d, the first communication layer 326c, and the second communication layer 326b spans a plane perpendicular to a first vertical direction (z-axis). The first power layer 326a and the second power layer 326d include conductive paths forming the power transfer element T1. The first communication layer 326c and the second communication layer 326b include conductive paths forming the communication link COM1. Figure 3 Therefore with Figure 2A and Figure 2B Examples from the same perspective.

[0092] Figure 3 A first axis G1 and a second axis G2 are also illustrated. Both the first axis G1 and the second axis G2 are parallel to the first vertical direction (z-axis). Furthermore, the second axis G2 is an axis different from the first axis G1. The conductive path forming the energy transfer element T1 is laid around the first axis G1. The conductive path forming the first energy transfer element T1 is around the first axis G1. The conductive path forming the communication link COM1 is laid around the second axis G2. The conductive path forming the communication link COM1 is around the second axis G2.

[0093] First power layer 326a The first power layer 326a includes a first power winding 304. As shown, conductive paths forming the first power winding 304 are disposed on the first power layer 326a. Thus, the conductive paths or traces disposed on the first power layer 326a will travel in a plane defined by a first lateral direction (x-axis) and a second lateral direction (y-axis). The first power winding 304 is... Figure 1 An embodiment of the first power winding 104 shown.

[0094] The first power winding 304 forms at least one turn around the opening 234. The first power winding 304 surrounds the opening 234 on the first power layer 326a. Furthermore, the first power winding 304 surrounds the opening 234 N. P Next, to create the N of the first power winding 304 P Turn. Opening 234 is located inside the turn formed by the first power winding 304.

[0095] Regarding the first axis G1, the first power winding 304 is laid around the first axis G1. The first power winding 304 extends spirally around the first axis G1. The first power winding 304 can be wound around this axis N. P Next, create N P Turn. The first axis G1 is located inside the turn formed by the first power winding 304.

[0096] The dotted line illustrates winding region 235. Winding region 235 represents the space spanned by the first power winding 304 within the first power layer 326a.

[0097] Although the first power winding 304 is shown as being disposed on one layer (e.g., first power layer 326a), it should be understood that the first power winding 304 may be disposed on multiple layers. A conductive path forming the first power winding 304 in one layer can be coupled to a conductive path forming the first power winding 304 in another layer. Conductive paths in different layers can be coupled via an interconnect. This interconnect travels along a first vertical direction (z-axis) to couple conductive paths in different layers of the multilayer circuit 226.

[0098] Second power layer 326d: The second power layer 326d is parallel to the first power layer 326a. The second power layer 326d includes a second power winding 306. As shown, conductive paths forming the second power winding 306 are disposed on the second power layer 326d. The conductive paths or traces disposed on the second power layer 326d will travel in a plane defined by a first lateral direction (x-axis) and a second lateral direction (y-axis). The second power winding 306 is... Figure 1 An embodiment of the second power winding 106 shown.

[0099] The second power winding 306 forms at least one turn around the opening 234. The second power winding 306 surrounds the opening 234 on the second power layer 326d. S Next, to create the N of the second power winding 306 S A single turn of the second power winding 306 is created by wrapping around the opening 234 once in the illustrated embodiment. However, it should be understood that the second power winding 306 may have more turns than shown in the figures. The opening 234 is located inside the turn formed by the second power winding 306.

[0100] Regarding the first axis G1, the second power winding 306 is laid around the first axis G1. The second power winding 306 extends spirally around the first axis G1. The second power winding 306 can be wound around this axis N. S Next, create N S Number of turns. The first axis G1 is located inside the turns formed by the second power winding 306.

[0101] The first power winding 304 and the second power winding 306 are magnetically coupled to each other. Both the first power winding 304 and the second power winding 306 surround the opening 234. In this way, the magnetic coupling between the first power winding 304 and the second power winding 306 can be strengthened by the core 228.

[0102] Although the second power winding 306 is shown as being disposed on one layer (e.g., second power layer 326d), it should be understood that the second power winding 306 may be disposed on multiple layers. A conductive path forming the second power winding 306 in one layer can be coupled to a conductive path forming the second power winding 306 in another layer. Conductive paths in different layers can be coupled via an interconnect. This interconnect travels along a first vertical direction (z-axis) to couple conductive paths in different layers of the multilayer circuit 226.

[0103] First communication layer 326c: The first communication layer 326c is parallel to the first power layer 326a. Conductive paths or traces disposed on the first communication layer 326c travel in a first lateral direction (x-axis) and a second lateral direction (y-axis). The first communication layer 326c includes a first communication winding 320. As shown, conductive paths forming the first communication winding 320 are disposed on the first communication layer 326c. The first communication winding 320 is... Figure 1 An embodiment of the first communication winding 120 shown.

[0104] The dotted lines illustrate the projection 335 of the winding region 235 onto the first communication layer 326c and the second communication layer 326b. Projection 335 is the projection of the winding region 235 of the first power winding 304 onto the other layers of the multilayer circuit 226. Projection 335 is the projection of the winding region 235 onto the first vertical direction (z-axis).

[0105] A first communication winding 320 is disposed within the projection 335. The first communication winding 320 forms at least one turn within the projection 335. Unlike the first power winding 304 and the second power winding 306, the first communication winding 320 does not surround the opening 234. In other words, the first communication winding 320 does not encircle the opening 234. The turns of the first communication winding 320 are formed such that the opening 234 is located outside the first communication winding 320. The first communication winding 320 is shown having N... T Turns. However, it should be understood that the first communication winding 320 may have more or fewer turns than shown in the figures. The first communication winding 320 extends spirally within projection 335 to form the turns of the first communication winding 320.

[0106] Regarding the second axis G2, the first communication winding 320 is laid around the second axis G2. The first communication winding 320 extends spirally around the second axis G2. The first communication winding 320 can be wound around this axis N. T Next, create N T The second axis G2 is located inside the turn formed by the first communication winding 320.

[0107] Although the first communication winding 320 is shown as being disposed on one layer (e.g., first communication layer 326c), it should be understood that the first communication winding 320 may be disposed on multiple layers. A conductive path forming the first communication winding 320 in one layer can be coupled to a conductive path forming the first communication winding 320 in another layer. Conductive paths in different layers can be coupled via an interconnect. This interconnect travels along a first vertical direction (z-axis) to couple conductive paths in different layers of the multilayer circuit 226.

[0108] Second communication layer 326b: The second communication layer 326b is parallel to the first power layer 326a. Conductive paths or traces disposed on the second communication layer 326b travel in a first lateral direction (x-axis) and a second lateral direction (y-axis). The second communication layer 326b includes a second communication winding 322. As shown, conductive paths forming the second communication winding 322 are disposed on the second communication layer 326b. The second communication winding 322 is... Figure 1 An embodiment of the second communication winding 122 shown.

[0109] The second communication winding 322 is disposed within the projection 335. The second communication winding 322 forms at least one turn within the projection 335. Unlike the first power winding 304 and the second power winding 306, the second communication winding 322 does not surround the opening 234. In other words, the second communication winding 322 does not encircle the opening 234. The turns of the second communication winding 322 are formed such that the opening 234 is located outside the second communication winding 322. The second communication winding 322 is shown having N... R The second communication winding 322 extends spirally within projection 335 to form its turns.

[0110] Regarding the second axis G2, the second communication winding 322 is laid around the second axis G2. The second communication winding 322 extends spirally around the second axis G2. The second communication winding 322 can be wound around this axis N. R Next, create N R Turn. The second axis G2 is located inside the turn formed by the second communication winding 322.

[0111] Although the second communication winding 322 is shown as being disposed on one layer (e.g., second communication layer 326b), it should be understood that the second communication winding 322 may be disposed on multiple layers. A conductive path forming the second communication winding 322 in one layer can be coupled to a conductive path forming the second communication winding 322 in another layer. Conductive paths in different layers can be coupled via an interconnect. This interconnect travels along a first vertical direction (z-axis) to couple conductive paths in different layers of the multilayer circuit 226.

[0112] The first communication winding 320 and the second communication winding 322 are magnetically coupled. Furthermore, the first communication winding 320 and the second communication winding 322 are magnetically coupled substantially independently of the core 228. As shown, the first communication layer 326c is adjacent to the second communication layer 326b in the first vertical direction (z-axis). However, it should be understood that an intermediate layer may exist between the first communication layer 326c and the second communication layer 326b. Such a layer may, for example, include an insulating layer made of an electrically insulating material, thereby providing current isolation between the communication layers 326c and 326b, for example, in an isolated power converter. If the conductive path is not located within the projection of the communication windings 320, 322, the intermediate layer may also include a conductive path, which can be used as a jumper or partial shield.

[0113] In one embodiment, the first communication winding 320 and the second communication winding 322 have the same number of turns, for example, N. T equals N R However, it should be understood that the first communication winding and the second communication winding may not have the same number of turns, as will be discussed later, for example. Figure 16 and Figure 18 As shown in the figure.

[0114] The first communication winding 320 and the second communication winding 322 are positioned relative to each other on their respective layers. In one embodiment, one or more conductive paths of the first communication winding 320 substantially overlap one or more conductive paths of the second communication winding 322. Furthermore, the first communication winding 320 overlaps the second communication winding 322 in a first vertical direction (z-axis). By substantially overlapping the first communication winding 320 and the second communication winding 322, the magnetic coupling between the first communication winding 320 and the second communication winding 322 can be strengthened.

[0115] exist Figure 3 In this embodiment, a first power layer 326a is disposed above a second power layer 326d in the first vertical direction (z-axis). A second communication layer 326b is disposed above a first communication layer 326c in the first vertical direction (z-axis). The first communication layer 326c and the second communication layer 326b are disposed between the first power layer 326a and the second power layer 326d in the first vertical direction (z-axis). However, it should be understood that the order of the layers may differ from that shown. For example, the first communication layer 326c and the second communication layer 326b may be disposed above both the first power layer 326a and the second power layer 326d. In another embodiment, the first communication layer 326c and the second communication layer 326b may be disposed below the first power layer 326a and the second power layer 326d.

[0116] Furthermore, the first power winding 304 or the second power winding 306, or both, can be disposed on multiple layers. Thus, the first communication layer 326c can be disposed between the layers of the first power winding 304, or between the layers of the second power winding 306, or between the layers of both. Similarly, the second communication layer 326b can be disposed between the layers of the first power winding 304, or between the layers of the second power winding 306, or between the layers of both.

[0117] for Figure 4A and Figure 4B The first communication layer 326c and the second communication layer 326b are visible in a plane defined by a first lateral direction (x-axis) and a second lateral direction (y-axis). The first lateral direction (x-axis) is shown pointing to the right side of the page, while the second lateral direction (y-axis) is shown pointing to the top of the page. The first vertical direction (z-axis) points outward from the page. Figure 4A Solid lines represent the outline or edge of the second communication layer 326b. Figure 4B In the diagram, solid lines represent the outline or edge of the first communication layer 326c. For Figure 4A and Figure 4BBoth, the thick dashed line illustrates the outline 436 of the core 228 on the plane defined by the first vertical direction (z-axis) and the first transverse direction (x-axis) and the second transverse direction (y-axis). In other words, the thick dashed line illustrates the outline 436 of the core 228 along the first transverse direction (x-axis) and the second transverse direction (y-axis). The thin dotted line illustrates the projection 335. The projection 335 is the projection of the winding region 235 onto the plane defined by the first transverse direction (x-axis) and the second transverse direction (y-axis).

[0118] for Figure 4A and Figure 4B The first core window 232 and the second core window 230 are the spaces where the core outline 436 (thick dotted line) overlaps with the second communication layer 326b and the first communication layer 326c. As shown, the first core window 232 is the space where the core outline 436 (thick dotted line) overlaps with the second communication layer 326b and the first communication layer 326c below the opening 234 in the second lateral direction (y-axis). The second core window is the space where the core outline 436 (thick dotted line) overlaps with the second communication layer 326b and the first communication layer 326c above the opening 234 in the second lateral direction (y-axis).

[0119] For the purposes of this disclosure, the inner end of a winding may refer to the end located inside the turns of the winding. The outer end of a winding may refer to the end located outside the turns formed by the winding. The winding is laid about a central axis. Furthermore, the winding may extend helically about the central axis. The inner end may refer to the end closest to the central axis, while the outer end refers to the end furthest from the central axis. The winding may be formed by one or more conductive paths, such that the inner end of the winding may refer to the end located inside the turns formed by the one or more conductive paths. The outer end of the winding may refer to the end located outside the turns formed by the one or more conductive paths. Furthermore, the number of turns of the winding may refer to the number of times the one or more conductive paths are laid about the central axis. Embodiments of the central axis include a first axis G1 and a second axis G2. The first axis G1 and the second axis G2 enter and exit the page parallel to a first vertical direction (z-axis) and are shown as solid circles. Furthermore, the innermost conductor of the winding may refer to the conductor closest to the central axis, while the outermost conductor of the winding may refer to the conductor furthest from the central axis.

[0120] Figure 4A This is an exemplary top view of the second communication layer 326b, which includes... Figure 3 The second communication winding 322. The first power winding 304 is shown for illustrative purposes, and it should be understood that the first power winding 304 is not disposed on the second communication layer 326b. Figure 4A An example placement of the second communication winding 322 relative to the first power winding 304 is illustrated.

[0121] The second communication winding 322 is disposed within the second communication layer 326b. Furthermore, the second communication winding 322 is generally within the projection 335. The second communication winding 322 is generally below the opening 234 in the second lateral direction (y-axis). The solid lines illustrating the second communication winding 322 also represent the conductive path of the second communication winding 322. The second communication winding 322 extends outward in a spiral manner from its inner end. The second communication winding 322 extends outward in a clockwise spiral direction. Figure 4A In the diagram, the second communication winding 322 has approximately three turns. Each turn is generally rectangular in shape. The overall shape of the second communication winding 322 is shown as rectangular. However, it should be understood that the second communication winding 322 can be formed in other shapes.

[0122] The second communication winding 322 is generally located within the first core window 232. The first core window 232 is rectangular in shape. However, it should be understood that the first core window 232 may have other shapes, such as square. The number of turns, shape, or both of the second communication winding 322 may be determined based on the size and shape of the first core window 232. The number of turns selected for the second communication winding 322 is determined in part based on the maximum number of turns that would fit the first core window 232, taking into account the constraints on trace spacing and width. The number of turns may also be selected to enhance the magnetic coupling between the first communication winding 320 and the second communication winding 322.

[0123] In one embodiment, communication layers 326b and 326c may have a width of approximately 18.2 mm (first lateral direction, x-axis) and a length of approximately 17.2 mm (second lateral direction, y-axis). It should be understood that each layer of the multilayer circuit has substantially the same dimensions in the first lateral direction (x-axis) and the second lateral direction (y-axis). The first core window 232 may have a width of approximately 5.33 mm (first lateral direction, x-axis) and a length of approximately 5.3 mm (second lateral direction, y-axis). In the illustrated embodiment, the second core window 230 is substantially the same size as the first core window 232. However, it should be understood that the dimensions may differ.

[0124] Furthermore, the second communication winding 322 is positioned relative to the first power winding 304. The second communication winding 322 is positioned relative to the opening 234, and with respect to the innermost and outermost conductors of the first power winding 304. The innermost conductor of the first power winding 304 refers to the conductor closest to the opening 234. The outermost conductor of the first power winding 304 refers to the conductor furthest from the opening 234. In other words, the outermost conductor of the first power winding 304 refers to the conductor closest to the edge of the first power layer 326a. Referring to the first axis G1, the innermost conductor of the first power winding 304 refers to the conductor closest to the first axis G1, while the outermost conductor of the first power winding 306 refers to the conductor furthest from the first axis G1.

[0125] A reference line can be used to indicate the location of the second communication winding 322. In one embodiment, the reference line intersects the second communication winding 322 parallel to a first lateral direction (x-axis). Given that the conductors of the first power winding 304 are substantially parallel and equidistant, the second communication winding 322 is positioned such that the reference line is substantially midway between the innermost and outermost conductors of the first power winding 304. In another embodiment, the second communication winding 322 is positioned such that the voltage induced in the conductive path of the second communication winding 322 on one side of the reference line is substantially balanced by the voltage of opposite polarity in the conductive path of the second communication winding 322 on the other side of the reference line. In yet another embodiment, the second communication winding 322 is positioned such that the reference line is substantially located on the line of symmetry of the magnetic flux generated by the first power winding 304 along a first vertical direction when the first power winding 304 conducts current. One embodiment of the reference line is... Figures 6A-6G And shown as reference line 639 in Figure 9. The communication winding 322 can be positioned to minimize the net magnetic field along the first vertical direction (z-axis) surrounded by the communication winding 322 when the first power winding 304 conducts current.

[0126] Figure 4B This is an exemplary top view of the first communication layer 326c, which includes... Figure 3 The first communication winding 320. The first power winding 304 is shown for illustrative purposes, and it should be understood that the first power winding 304 is not disposed on the first communication layer 326c. Figure 4B An example placement of the first communication winding 320 relative to the first power winding 304 is illustrated.

[0127] A first communication winding 320 is disposed within the first communication layer 326c. The first communication winding 320 is generally within the projection 335. The first communication winding 320 is generally below the opening 234 in the second lateral direction (y-axis). The solid lines illustrating the first communication winding 320 also represent the conductive path of the first communication winding 320. The first communication winding 320 extends outward in a spiral manner from its inner end. The first communication winding 320 extends outward in a clockwise spiral direction. Figure 4B In the diagram, the first communication winding 320 has generally three turns. Each turn is generally rectangular in shape. The overall shape of the first communication winding 320 is shown as rectangular. However, it should be understood that the first communication winding 320 can be formed into other shapes.

[0128] The first communication winding 320 is generally located within the first core window 232. The number of turns, shape, or both of the first communication winding 320 can be determined based on the size and shape of the first core window 232. The number of turns selected for the first communication winding 320 is determined in part based on the maximum number of turns suitable for the first core window 232, taking into account the constraints on trace spacing and width. The number of turns can also be selected to enhance the magnetic coupling between the first communication winding 320 and the second communication winding 322.

[0129] Furthermore, the first communication winding 320 is positioned relative to the first power winding 304. The first communication winding 320 is positioned relative to the opening 234, and with respect to the innermost and outermost conductors of the first power winding 304. (The above refers to...) Figure 4A The reference line discussed can also be used to refer to the positioning of the first communication winding 320. In one embodiment, the reference line intersects the first communication winding 320 parallel to a first lateral direction (x-axis). Given that the conductors of the first power winding 304 are generally parallel and equidistant, the first communication winding 320 is positioned such that the reference line is generally located midway between the innermost and outermost conductors of the first power winding 304. In another embodiment, the first communication winding 320 is positioned such that the voltage induced in the conductive path of the first communication winding 320 on one side of the reference line is generally balanced by the voltage of opposite polarity in the conductive path of the first communication winding 320 on the other side of the reference line. In yet another embodiment, the first communication winding 320 is positioned such that the reference line is generally located on the line of symmetry of the magnetic flux generated by the first power winding 304 along a first vertical direction when the first power winding 304 conducts current. One embodiment of the reference line is... Figures 6A-6G And shown as reference line 639 in Figure 9. The first communication winding 320 can be positioned to minimize the net magnetic field along the first vertical direction (z-axis) surrounded by the first communication winding 320 when the first power winding 304 conducts current.

[0130] The first communication winding 320 and the second communication winding 322 are substantially overlapped in the first vertical direction (z-axis). Thus, each turn of the second communication winding 322 substantially overlaps the corresponding turn of the first communication winding 320. This overlap forms the conductive path between the first communication winding 320 and the second communication winding 322, thereby strengthening the magnetic coupling between them.

[0131] The number of turns of the first communication winding 320 and the second communication winding 322 are selected to maximize the size of the first communication winding 320 and the second communication winding 322 within the first core window 232. The larger the area enclosed by the first communication winding 320 and the second communication winding 322, the stronger the magnetic coupling between these windings. In one embodiment, the first communication winding 320 and the second communication winding 322 may have a width of approximately 4.95 mm (first lateral direction, x-axis) and a length of approximately 3.77 mm (second lateral direction, y-axis).

[0132] for Figure 5A , Figure 5B , Figure 5C and Figure 5D The first power layer 326a, the second communication layer 326b, the first communication layer 326c, and the second power layer 326d are viewed in a plane defined by a first lateral direction (x-axis) and a second lateral direction (y-axis). The first lateral direction (x-axis) is shown pointing to the right side of the page, while the second lateral direction (y-axis) is shown pointing to the top of the page. The first vertical direction (z-axis) points outward from the page. For each figure, thin solid lines represent the outline of each layer. The winding region 235 is shown with dashed lines. The projection 335 of the winding region 235 is shown with thin dotted lines.

[0133] End-to-end reference lines 511a, 511b, 511c, and 511d are shown as thick dashed lines in each figure. These reference lines traverse a plane defined by a first lateral direction (x-axis) and a second lateral direction (y-axis). An end-to-end reference line is a line that runs from one end of the winding to the other. End-to-end reference lines are shown as straight lines from one end of the winding to the other. End-to-end reference lines may intersect the winding. End-to-end reference lines can be used to indicate the number of turns in the winding. The number of turns is typically the number of times the winding wraps around the inner endpoint of the end-to-end reference line. One turn of the winding can refer to the path traversed by the conductive path of the winding from one side of its corresponding end-to-end reference line and back to the other side of that end-to-end reference line. Regarding end-to-end reference lines, the number of turns can be determined based on the number of times the winding intersects the end-to-end reference line. In one embodiment, the number of turns can be the number of times the winding intersects the end-to-end reference line plus one. Regarding the central axis, the number of turns of the winding can refer to the number of times one or more conductive paths are laid around the central axis. Embodiments of the central axis include a first axis G1 and a second axis G2. The first axis G1 and the second axis G2 will enter and exit the page parallel to a first vertical direction (z-axis) and are shown as solid circles.

[0134] for Figure 5A Reference line 511a is shown extending from end 503 to end 505. For Figure 5BReference line 511b is shown extending from end 523 of the second communication winding 322 to end 525. For Figure 5C Reference line 511c is shown extending from end 519 of the first communication winding 320 to end 521. For Figure 5D Reference line 511d is shown as extending from end 507 to end 509.

[0135] For the purposes of this disclosure, the winding direction is determined by the direction in which the winding travels through its respective layers from the positive marked terminal to the negative marked terminal, such as... Figure 1 This is shown and viewed from the perspective of the page. However, it should be understood that different conventions can be used. For example, the direction of winding can also be determined by the direction in which the winding travels through its respective layers from its negative-marked terminal to its positive-marked terminal. In another embodiment, the direction of winding can be from the inner end of the winding to the outer end, and vice versa.

[0136] Figure 5A A top view is shown, illustrating a first power layer 326a including a first power winding 304. The first power winding 304 includes a conductive path 504a. The conductive path 504a forms the first power winding 304 and is disposed on the first power layer 326a. The conductive path 504a is Figure 1 This is one embodiment of the first power winding 104 shown. The conductive path 504a includes an end 503 and an end 505. The conductive path 504a traverses the first power layer 326a from end 503 to end 505. End 503 of the conductive path 504a corresponds to... Figure 1 The electrical node 103 is shown. End 505 of conductive path 504a corresponds to... Figure 1 The electrical node 105 shown is shown. Terminal 503 can be a voltage V. P The positive marking terminal, and terminal 505 can be a voltage V. P The negative-marked terminal. As shown, terminal 503 can be coupled to the input voltage V. INTerminal 505 can be coupled to power switch S1. Terminal 503 is the outer terminal and is located outside the turn formed by the first power winding 304. Terminal 503 is located near the outer edge of the first power layer 326a. Terminal 505 is the inner terminal and is located inside the turn formed by the first power winding. Terminal 505 is located near opening 234. Terminal 505 is closer to the first axis G1 than terminal 503. The conductive path 504a, terminal 503, and terminal 505 can be made of conductive material. Copper is one embodiment of conductive material, but it should be understood that other conductive materials can be used. The portion of conductive path 504a furthest from opening 234 and the first axis G1 of the first power layer 326a can be referred to as the outer conductor of the first power winding 304. The portion of conductive path 504a closest to opening 234 and the first axis G1 can be referred to as the inner conductor of the first power winding 304.

[0137] Conductive path 504a originates from end 503 and travels clockwise around opening 234 through the first power layer 326a. Starting from end 503, conductive path 504a spirally extends from the outer edge of the first power layer 326a toward opening 234 to end 505. Conductive path 504a extends spirally inward around the first axis G1 from end 503 to end 505. Thus, the first power winding 304 can be wound clockwise from end 503 to end 505.

[0138] exist Figure 5A Each instance where the conductive path 504a intersects with the reference line 511a can be considered as a turn of the first power winding 304. End 503 is shown as the beginning of the reference line 511a. The conductive path 504a travels down the page to the right of the opening 234 from end 503. The conductive path 504a wraps below the opening and continues up the page to the left of the opening 234. The conductive path 504a continues above the opening and reaches the reference line 511a. For the illustrated embodiment, this is one turn of the first power winding 304. It should be understood that the first power winding 304 is a planar winding. The conductive path 504a continues to extend clockwise around the opening 234 toward end 505 in a spiral fashion. As the conductive path 504a travels around the first power layer 326a to form a turn of the first power winding 304, each subsequent instance of the conductive path 504a reaching the reference line 511a is closer to end 505. Conductive path 504a illustrates eleven turns in the first power winding 304. However, it should be understood that the first power winding 304 may have more or fewer turns than shown.

[0139] Opening 234 is located inside the first power winding 304. Opening 234 is located inside the turn formed by the conductive path 504a of the first power winding 304 in the first power layer 326a. Opening 234 is generally racetrack-shaped. Figure 5AIn the middle, each turn of the conductive path 504a is roughly racetrack shaped.

[0140] Although the first power winding 304 is shown as being disposed on a single first power layer 326a, it should be understood that the first power winding 304 may be disposed on multiple layers. For example, additional power layers may include another conductive path coupled to conductive path 504a.

[0141] Figure 5B A top view of a second communication layer 326b including a second communication winding 322 is shown. The second communication winding 322 includes a conductive path 522a. The conductive path 522a forms the second communication winding 322 and is disposed on the second communication layer 326b. The conductive path 522a is Figure 1 An embodiment of the second communication winding 122 shown.

[0142] Conductive path 522a has end 523 and end 525. Conductive path 522a traverses the second communication layer 326b from end 523 to end 525. End 523 of conductive path 522a corresponds to... Figure 1 The electrical node 123 is shown. End 525 of conductive path 522a corresponds to... Figure 1 The electrical node 125 is shown. Terminal 523 can be a delta terminal or a non-point terminal of the second communication winding 322, while terminal 525 can be a non-delta terminal or a point terminal of the second communication winding 322. In one embodiment, terminal 523 can be the receiver voltage V. R The positive marking terminal, and terminal 525 can be the receiver voltage V. R The negative marking terminal.

[0143] End 525 is the outer end. End 525 is located near the outer edge of the second communication layer 326b. End 525 is located outside the turn formed by the conductive path 522a of the second communication winding 322. End 523 is the inner end and is located inside the turn formed by the conductive path 522a of the second communication winding 322. End 523 is closer to the second axis G2 than end 525. The conductive path 522a, end 523, and end 525 may be made of conductive material. The conductive path 522a runs clockwise through the second communication layer 326b from end 523 to end 525. Starting from end 523, the conductive path 522a runs outward in a spiral around the second axis G2 toward end 525. In this way, the second communication winding 322 winds clockwise from end 523 to end 525. The conductive path 522a forms a generally rectangular spiral. However, it should be understood that the conductive path 522a can extend in other spiral shapes.

[0144] exist Figure 5BEach instance where the conductive path 522a intersects with the reference line 511b can be considered as a turn of the second communication winding 322. End 523 is... Figure 5B The reference line 511b begins. Starting from end 523, the conductive path 522a travels towards the left side of the page. The conductive path 522a forms a 90-degree clockwise rotation to form a first corner. The conductive path 522a then travels upward across the page. The conductive path 522a forms another 90-degree clockwise rotation to form a second corner. The conductive path 522a then travels towards the right side of the page. The conductive path 522a forms a third 90-degree clockwise rotation to form a third corner, and then travels downward across the page. The conductive path 522a forms a fourth 90-degree clockwise rotation to form a fourth corner, such that the conductive path 522a then travels towards the left side of the page. After the fourth corner, the conductive path 522a reaches the reference line 511b. For the illustrated embodiment, this is one turn of the second communication winding 322. This can also be referred to as one loop of the conductive path 522a. For the illustrated conductive path 522a, four rotations form one turn of the second communication winding. It should be understood that the second communication winding 322 is a planar winding. As the conductive path 522a extends outward in a spiral motion to end 525, the conductive path 522a continues to rotate ninety degrees. As the conductive path 522a forms turns of the second communication winding 322, each successive turn formed when the conductive path 522a reaches reference line 511b is further away from end 523. The conductive path 522a exemplifies three turns in the second communication winding 322.

[0145] Opening 234 is located outside the second communication winding 322. Opening 234 is located outside the turn formed by the conductive path 522a of the second communication winding 322. The first axis G1 is located outside the turn formed by the conductive path 522a of the second communication winding 322. The conductive path 522a is located on one side of opening 234. The conductive path 522a is located below opening 234 in the second transverse direction (y-axis). The conductive path 522a is generally within the first core window.

[0146] Although the second communication winding 322 is shown as being disposed on a single second communication layer 326b, it should be understood that the second communication winding 322 may be disposed on multiple layers. For example, an additional communication layer may include another conductive path coupled to conductive path 522a.

[0147] Figure 5C A top view of a first communication layer 326c including a first communication winding 320 is shown. The first communication winding 320 includes a conductive path 520a. The conductive path 520a forms the first communication winding 320 and is disposed on the first communication layer 326c. The conductive path 520a may be referred to as a first conductive path, and the conductive path 522a may be referred to as a second conductive path. The conductive path 520a is... Figure 1 An embodiment of the first communication winding 120 shown.

[0148] Conductive path 520a has end 519 and end 521. Conductive path 520a traverses the first communication layer 326c from end 519 to end 521. End 519 of conductive path 520a corresponds to... Figure 1 The electrical node 119 is shown. End 521 of conductive path 520a corresponds to... Figure 1 The electrical node 121 shown is illustrated. Terminal 519 can be the delta terminal of the first communication winding 320, while terminal 521 can be the non-delta terminal of the first communication winding 320. In one embodiment, terminal 519 can be the transmit voltage V. T The positive marking terminal, and terminal 521 can be the emitter voltage V. T The negative marking terminal.

[0149] Terminal 521 is an outer terminal and is located near the outer edge of the first communication layer 326c. Terminal 521 is an outer terminal and is located outside the turn formed by the conductive path 520a. Terminal 521 is an outer terminal located outside the turn of the first communication winding 320. Terminal 519 is an inner terminal and is located inside the turn formed by the conductive path 520a of the first communication winding 320. The conductive path 520a, terminal 519, and terminal 521 may be made of a conductive material. Copper is one embodiment of a conductive material, but it should be understood that other conductive materials may be used.

[0150] The conductive path 520a extends clockwise through the first communication layer 326c from end 519. From end 519, the conductive path 520a spirals outwards toward end 521 around the second axis G2. Thus, the first communication winding 320 is wound clockwise. The conductive path 520a forms a generally rectangular spiral. However, it should be understood that the conductive path 520a can extend in other spiral shapes.

[0151] exist Figure 5C Each instance where the conductive path 520a intersects with the reference line 511c can be considered as a turn of the first communication winding 320. End 519 is Figure 5CThe reference line 511c begins. Similar to the discussion above regarding conductive path 522a, conductive path 520a traverses the first communication layer 326c and forms several 90-degree clockwise rotations to form corners. As shown, four 90-degree clockwise rotations form one turn of the first communication winding 320. In other words, four corners form one turn of the first communication winding 320. It should be understood that the first communication winding 320 is a planar winding. As conductive path 520a extends outward spirally toward end 521, conductive path 520a continues with 90-degree clockwise rotations. As conductive path 520a forms a turn of the first communication winding 320, each successive turn formed when conductive path 520a reaches reference line 511c is further away from end 519. Conductive path 520a exemplifies three turns in the first communication winding 320.

[0152] Opening 234 is located outside the first communication winding 320. Opening 234 is located outside the turn formed by the conductive path 520a of the first communication winding 320. First axis G1 is located outside the turn formed by the conductive path 520a of the first communication winding 320. Conductive path 520a is disposed on one side of opening 234. Conductive path 520a is disposed below opening 234 in the second lateral direction (y-axis). Conductive path 520a is generally within the first core window. It should be understood that conductive path 522a generally overlaps conductive path 520a.

[0153] Although the first communication winding 320 is shown as being disposed on a single first communication layer 326c, it should be understood that the first communication winding 320 may be disposed on multiple layers. For example, an additional communication layer may include another conductive path coupled to conductive path 520a.

[0154] The widths of conductive paths 522a and 520a, as well as the spacing between them, are determined by the manufacturing process of the multilayer circuit. However, the number of turns in conductive paths 522a and 520a is selected to maximize the dimensions of the first communication winding 320 and the second communication winding 322 within the first core window 232. The larger the area enclosed by the first communication winding 320 and the second communication winding 322, the stronger the magnetic coupling between conductive paths 522a and 520a.

[0155] The conductive path 522a of the second communication winding 322 is wound in the same direction as the conductive path 520a of the first communication winding 320. In the illustrated embodiment, conductive paths 522a and 520a are wound clockwise from their inner ends to their outer ends. However, conductive paths 522a and 520a can be wound counterclockwise. It should be understood that conductive paths 522a and 520a can be wound in opposite directions to each other.

[0156] Figure 5DExamples Figure 3 A top view of the second power layer 326d, which includes a second power winding 306. The second power winding 306 includes a conductive path 506a. The conductive path 506a is... Figure 1 An embodiment of the second power winding 106 shown is illustrated. Conductive path 506a has an end 507 and an end 509. Conductive path 506a traverses the second power layer 326d from end 507 to end 509. End 507 of conductive path 506a corresponds to... Figure 1 The electrical node 107 is shown. End 509 of conductive path 506a corresponds to... Figure 1 The electrical node 109 is shown. Terminal 507 can be a point terminal, while terminal 509 is a non-point terminal of the second power winding 306. Terminal 507 can be a voltage V S The positive marking terminal, and terminal 509 can be a voltage V. S The negative-marked terminal. As shown, terminal 507 can be coupled to the output capacitor C. O Terminal 509 can be coupled to the output rectifier S2. Conductive paths 506a, terminal 507, and terminal 509 can be made of conductive material.

[0157] Conductive path 506a starts from end 507 and travels counterclockwise around opening 234 through the second power layer 326d to end 509. Conductive path 506a is laid around the first axis G1 from end 507 to end 509. In this way, the second power winding 306 can be wound counterclockwise.

[0158] In the illustrated embodiment, conductive path 506a does not intersect reference line 511d. Thus, in Figure 5D The conductive path 506a forms one turn of the second power winding 306. It should be understood that the second power winding 306 is a planar winding. However, with... Figure 5A Similar to the first power winding 304 shown, the second power winding 306 may include more turns than shown. In a multi-turn embodiment, the conductive path 506a may extend inward or outward in a spiral manner to form additional turns of the second power winding 306.

[0159] Opening 234 is located inside the second power winding 306. Opening 234 is located inside the turn formed by the conductive path 506a of the second power winding 306 in the second power layer 326d. Figure 5D In the middle, the turns of conductive path 506a are roughly racetrack shaped.

[0160] Although the second power winding 306 is shown as being disposed on a single second power layer 326d, it should be understood that the second power winding 306 may be disposed on multiple layers. For example, an additional power layer may include another conductive path coupled to conductive path 506a.

[0161] In one winding configuration, the polarity of the voltage at the inner end of one winding relative to the outer end is the same as the polarity of the voltage at the inner end of another winding relative to the outer end. In another winding configuration, the polarity of the voltage at the inner end of one winding relative to the outer end is opposite to the polarity of the voltage at the inner end of another winding relative to the outer end.

[0162] As shown, the first power winding 304 is configured relative to the second power winding 306 such that the voltage from terminal 503 to terminal 505 has the opposite polarity to the voltage from terminal 507 to terminal 509. However, it should be understood that the first power winding 304 and the second power winding 306 can be configured such that the voltage from terminal 503 to terminal 505 has the same polarity as the voltage from terminal 507 to terminal 509. The second communication winding 322 is configured relative to the first communication winding 320 such that the voltage from terminal 523 to terminal 525 has the same polarity as the voltage from terminal 519 to terminal 521. However, it should be understood that the second communication winding 322 can be configured relative to the first communication winding 320 such that the voltage from terminal 523 to terminal 525 has the opposite polarity to the voltage from terminal 519 to terminal 521.

[0163] In one embodiment, the second communication winding 322 is a receiver winding. The second communication winding 322 is configured relative to the second power winding 306 such that the voltage from terminal 523 to terminal 525 has the opposite polarity to the voltage from terminal 507 to terminal 509. The second communication winding 322 is configured relative to the second power winding 306 such that a non-zero decreasing current conducted by the second power winding 306 from terminal 509 to terminal 507 can generate a negative voltage from terminal 523 to terminal 525.

[0164] Figure 6A , Figure 6B , Figure 6C , Figure 6D , Figure 6E , Figure 6F and Figure 6G It is viewed in a plane defined by a first horizontal direction (x-axis) and a second horizontal direction (y-axis). The first horizontal direction (x-axis) is shown pointing to the right side of the page, while the second horizontal direction (y-axis) is shown pointing to the top of the page. The first vertical direction (z-axis) points outwards from the page. Figure 6A , Figure 6B , Figure 6C , Figure 6D , Figure 6E , Figure 6F and Figure 6G The example shown is a local loop and / or conductive path located in a layer adjacent to another layer of a multilayer circuit that can conduct current. An arrow pointing to the left of the page illustrates the direction of current in that adjacent layer.

[0165] Figure 6A , Figure 6B , Figure 6C and Figure 6D The diagram illustrates the effect of local loops in the conductive path forming the winding and the additional surrounding flux. For these figures, the innermost loop of the first communication winding 320 is shown; however, it should be understood that other windings can be used to illustrate the teachings of this disclosure. Figure 6E An example is a second communication winding 622 including a feature or deflection 638. Figure 6F and 6G An example is a first communication winding 620 including a feature or deflection 638.

[0166] In one embodiment, Figure 6A , Figure 6B , Figure 6C , Figure 6D , Figure 6E , Figure 6F and Figure 6G The reference line 639 shown represents a line of symmetry between the inner and outer conductors of a winding in an adjacent layer. In another embodiment, reference line 639 represents a line of symmetry for the magnetic flux generated by the current conducted by the winding in the adjacent layer along a first vertical direction. In another embodiment, the voltage induced in a local loop on one side of reference line 639 is substantially canceled out by the voltage induced in a local loop on the opposite side of reference line 639.

[0167] The adjacent layer may refer to the first power layer 326a, and the current may be conducted by the first power winding 304. Reference line 639 represents a line of symmetry between the inner and outer conductors of the first power winding 304. In one embodiment, reference line 639 represents a line of symmetry for the magnetic flux generated by the first power winding 304 along a first vertical direction. In another embodiment, the voltage induced by the first power winding 304 on one side of reference line 639 is substantially canceled out by the voltage induced by the first power winding 304 in a local loop on the opposite side of reference line 639.

[0168] If the current direction in an adjacent layer is towards the left side of the page, the component of the magnetic flux generated in the first vertical direction (z-axis) enters the page approximately above reference line 639 (as indicated by "×") and exits the page approximately below reference line 639 (as indicated by a solid circle). For the embodiment where the first power layer 325a is this adjacent layer, the component of the magnetic flux generated by the current in the first power winding 304 in the first vertical direction (z-axis) enters the page approximately above reference line 639 (as indicated by "×") and exits the page approximately below reference line 639 (as indicated by a solid circle).

[0169] Figure 6A An example of a first partial loop 698 and a second partial loop 699 is shown for the second communication winding 322. The first partial loop 698 and the second partial loop 699 are portions forming the conductive path of the second communication winding 322.

[0170] The first partial loop 698 is the portion of the conductive path below reference line 639. The first partial loop 698 begins at terminal 613. The first partial loop 698 travels downwards and rotates 90 degrees clockwise to form a corner. The first partial loop 698 then travels to the left side of the page. The first partial loop 698 then rotates 90 degrees clockwise to form a second corner. The first partial loop 698 then travels upwards along the page and reaches reference line 639.

[0171] The second partial loop 699 is the portion of the conductive path above reference line 639. Starting at the intersection of the conductive path and reference line 639 on the left side of the page, the second partial loop 699 travels upwards along the page and rotates 90 degrees to form a corner. The second partial loop 699 then travels to the right side of the page. The second partial loop 699 then rotates another 90 degrees to form a second corner. The second partial loop 699 then travels downwards along the page and reaches terminal 617.

[0172] Terminals 613 and 617 are both disposed on reference line 639. Thus, the first partial loop 698 and the second partial loop 699 form one turn of the second communication winding 322. However, the conductive paths used to form the communication winding are disposed on each circuit board layer. To form an additional turn in the communication winding, the first partial loop 698 does not begin at the same position as the end of the second partial loop 699. Figure 6A In this diagram, the area enclosed by the second partial ring 699 and reference line 639 is larger than the area enclosed by the first partial ring 698 and reference line 639. The diagonal line illustrates area E1, which represents the additional area enclosed by the second partial ring 699 and reference line 639 compared to the area enclosed by the first partial ring 698 and reference line 639.

[0173] Area E1 can cause problems for the communication windings. Specifically, the current in a winding in an adjacent layer (such as the current in the first power winding 304 in the first power layer 326a) generates magnetic flux that may interfere with communication between the first communication winding 320 and the second communication winding 322. Area E1 surrounds an additional magnetic flux that generates a non-zero voltage between terminals 613 and 617. The increased magnetic flux in the direction of entry into the page above reference line 639 generates a voltage V with the polarity shown between terminals 613 and 617, with terminal 613 having a larger potential than terminal 617. The decreased flux in the direction of entry into the page will reverse the polarity of the voltage between terminals 613 and 617.

[0174] In other words, current in an adjacent layer may unintentionally generate a voltage in the communication winding and affect the voltage induced in the other communication winding by current in one communication winding. In the embodiment of the second communication winding 322, the voltage V between terminals 613 and 617 affects the receiver voltage V. R For the first communication winding 320, the voltage generated due to the additional enclosing area will affect the transmitter voltage V. T Thus, the expected receiver voltage V R Or the emission voltage V T It may be affected by the magnetic flux generated by the current in an adjacent layer.

[0175] However, according to embodiments of this disclosure, interference of current in an adjacent layer can be minimized by shaping the conductive path of the communication winding such that the area surrounded by the first local loop 698 and the reference line is substantially equal to the area surrounded by the second local loop 699 and the reference line 639. The first local loop 698 and the second local loop 699 form one turn of the communication winding. Furthermore, the subsequent local loops are substantially equal in area to the area surrounded by the reference line 639. In other words, the area surrounded by the local loops below the reference line 639 is substantially equal to the area surrounded by the corresponding local loops above the reference line 639.

[0176] Figure 6B Examples of a first local loop 698 and an example of a second local loop 699 with feature 638 are shown. Feature 638 can also be referred to as a deflection. Feature 638 can also be referred to as a discontinuity in the direction of the conductive path. Figure 6B In one embodiment, feature 638 is added to the first local ring 698.

[0177] The first partial loop 698 is the portion of the conductive path below reference line 639. The first partial loop 698 begins at terminal 613. Feature 638 is formed in the first partial loop 698. As shown, feature 638 is a discontinuity in the direction of the first partial loop 698, which adds an additional area E2. As shown, feature 638 inserts four 90-degree offsets into the first partial loop 698 such that the area enclosed by the first partial loop 698 and reference line 639 includes the additional area E2 (shown diagonally). Although 90-degree offsets are shown, offsets of other degrees can also be used. Furthermore, the offsets can also be shaped in other ways, such as curved offsets or arched offsets. In addition, the length of the first partial loop 698 having feature 638 is longer than the length of the first partial loop 698 without this feature.

[0178] The properties of feature 638 can be selected such that the additional area E2 compensates for area E1. The magnetic flux enclosed by area E2 is in the opposite direction to the magnetic flux enclosed by area E1. The magnetic flux in area E2 generates a non-zero voltage, which cancels out the non-zero voltage generated by the magnetic flux enclosed in area E1, so that the net voltage due to the current in an adjacent layer is substantially zero. Thus, the area enclosed by the first local loop 698 and the reference line 639 is substantially equal to the area enclosed by the second local loop 699 and the reference line 639.

[0179] Figure 6C Another embodiment of using features to compensate for the additional area E1 is illustrated. Figure 6C Examples include a first partial ring 698, a second partial ring 699, and deflections 638a and 638b. Deflections 638a and 638b can also be referred to as features. Deflections 638a and 638b can also be described as discontinuities in the direction of the conductive path. Figure 6C In the embodiment, deflections 638a and 638b are included in the second partial ring 699. Furthermore, deflections 638a and 638b are shown as ninety-degree notches in the second partial ring 699.

[0180] Similar to Figure 6A The first partial loop 698 is the portion of the conductive path below reference line 639. The first partial loop 698 is related to... Figure 6A This is discussed in detail. The second local loop 699 is the portion of the conductive path above reference line 639. Deflections 638a and 638b are several 90-degree rotations that form the 90-degree notch in the second local loop.

[0181] exist Figure 6CIn the second partial ring 699, deflectors 638a and 638b reduce the area surrounding the magnetic flux. Deflector 638a forms a 90-degree notch in the second partial ring 699, resulting in the second partial ring 699 enclosing a smaller area E3 compared to a second partial ring 699 without deflector 638a. Deflector 638b forms a 90-degree notch in the second partial ring 699, resulting in the second partial ring 699 enclosing a smaller area E4 compared to a second partial ring 699 without deflector 638b.

[0182] The sum of areas E3 and E4 was chosen to be approximately equal to Figure 6A The area E1 shown is... In other words, Figure 6C The second partial ring 699 shown is formed such that the area ratio between the second partial ring 699 and the reference line 639 is... Figure 6A The area enclosed by the second partial ring 699 and the reference line 639 is less than the area E1. Thus, the area enclosed by the first partial ring 698 and the reference line 639 is approximately equal to the area enclosed by the second partial ring 699 and the reference line 639.

[0183] Figure 6D Another embodiment is illustrated by utilizing a feature added to the second local ring 699 to ensure that the areas enclosed by the local rings are substantially equal. Figure 6D Examples include a first local loop 698, a second local loop 699, and deflections 638c and 638d. Deflections 638c and 638d can also be referred to as features. Deflections 638c and 638d can also be described as discontinuities in the direction of the conductive path. Figure 6D In the embodiment, deflections 638c and 638d are included in the second partial ring 699. Furthermore, deflections 638c and 638d are shown as ninety-degree notches in the second partial ring 699.

[0184] Similar to Figure 6A The first partial loop 698 is the portion of the conductive path below reference line 639, and has been discussed in detail above. The second partial loop 699 is the portion of the conductive path above reference line 639.

[0185] exist Figure 6D In this design, deflectors 638c and 638d reduce the area surrounding the magnetic flux. Deflector 638c forms a 90-degree notch in the second local loop 699, reducing the area surrounded by the second local loop 699 by E5 compared to a second local loop 699 without deflector 638c. Deflector 638d also forms a 90-degree notch in the second local loop 699, reducing the area surrounded by the second local loop 699 by E6 compared to a second local loop 699 without deflector 638d.

[0186] The sum of areas E5 and E6 was chosen to be approximately equal to Figure 6A and Figure 6B The area E1 shown is... In other words, Figure 6D The second partial ring 699 shown is formed such that the area ratio between the second partial ring 699 and the reference line 639 is... Figure 6A The area enclosed by the second local ring 699 and the reference line 639 is less than area E1. Thus, the area enclosed by the first local ring 698 and the reference line 639 is approximately equal to the area enclosed by the second local ring 699 and the reference line 639. Removing areas E5 and E6 from local ring 699 allows the flux enclosed to be balanced, resulting in a net voltage that is approximately zero.

[0187] Areas E5 and E6 are shown as rectangles, where the length of the rectangle in the first horizontal direction (x-axis) is much longer than its length in the second horizontal direction (y-axis). Areas E3 and E4 are also shown as rectangles; however, the length of this rectangle in the first horizontal direction (x-axis) is almost the same as its length in the second horizontal direction (y-axis). It should be understood that area E3 is substantially the same as area E5, and area E4 is substantially the same as area E6. However, the shapes of the rectangles formed by these areas are different. Figure 6B , Figure 6C and Figure 6D The example deflection shown illustrates that local loops can be formed in different ways, such that the area enclosed by the first local loop 698 and the reference line 639 is substantially equal to the area enclosed by the second local loop 699 and the reference line 639.

[0188] Figure 6E An example is shown of a second communication winding 622 having deflections 638a-638l. The second communication winding 622 includes a conductive path 622a, an end 623, and an end 625. Deflections 638a-638l are formed in the conductive path 622a. The second communication winding 622 is... Figure 1 An embodiment of the second communication winding 122 is shown. Deflections 638a-638s may also be referred to as features. Deflections 638a-638l may also be referred to as discontinuities in the conductive path forming the second communication winding 622. Furthermore, deflections 638a-638l are shown as 90-degree notches in the second communication winding 622. Deflections 638a-638l are replaced by 90-degree notches. Figure 3 , Figure 4A and Figure 5B The corner of the second communication winding 322 is shown. Although the deflectors 638a-638l are shown as 90-degree notches, it should be understood that notches of other degrees can also be used. Furthermore, the deflectors 638a-638l can have notches of other shapes, such as arched notches or curved notches.

[0189] The conductive path 622a forming the second communication winding 622 includes end 623 and end 625. The conductive path 622a traverses the second communication layer from end 623 to end 625. End 623 corresponds to... Figure 1 The electrical node 123 shown is shown. Terminal 625 corresponds to... Figure 1 The electrical node 125 is shown. Terminal 623 can be a delta terminal or a non-point terminal of the second communication winding 622, while terminal 625 can be a non-delta terminal or a point terminal of the second communication winding 622. In one embodiment, terminal 623 can be the receiver voltage V. R The positive marking terminal, and terminal 625 can be the receiver voltage V. R The negative marking terminal.

[0190] End 625 is the outer end and is located outside the turn formed by the conductive path 622a of the second communication winding 622. End 623 is the inner end and is located inside the turn formed by the conductive path 622a of the second communication winding 622. The conductive path 622a, end 623, and end 625 may be made of conductive material. The conductive path 622a runs clockwise from end 623 to end 625. Starting from end 623, the conductive path 622a runs in an outward spiral toward end 625. In this way, the second communication winding 622 is wound clockwise.

[0191] exist Figure 4A and Figure 5B In this design, the conductive path 522a of the second communication winding 322 extends in a rectangular spiral shape. However, the 90-degree bends of the second communication winding 322 are replaced with 90-degree notches. These 90-degree notches or offsets are designated as deflections 638a-638l. Deflections 638a-638l may also be referred to as wiring notches. However, it should be understood that the second communication winding 622 may extend in a spiral shape in other ways.

[0192] Starting at end 623, conductive path 622a travels downwards along the page. A deflection 638a is formed in conductive path 622a, causing a 90-degree clockwise rotation. As shown, the 90-degree notch formed by deflection 638a is the result of three 90-degree rotations. A first 90-degree clockwise rotation is followed by a second 90-degree counter-clockwise rotation, and then a third 90-degree clockwise rotation. The overall result is a notched 90-degree clockwise rotation of conductive path 622a. Conductive path 622a then travels towards the left side of the page. A deflection 638b is formed in conductive path 622a, causing a notched 90-degree clockwise rotation. Conductive path 622a then travels upwards along the page.

[0193] A deflection 638c is formed in the conductive path 622a, causing another 90-degree clockwise rotation with a notch. The conductive path 622a then travels toward the right side of the page. A deflection 638d is formed in the conductive path 622a, causing a 90-degree clockwise rotation with a notch. The conductive path 622a then travels downwards along the page.

[0194] Deflections 638e-638l are formed in the conductive path 622a, and each of these deflections results in a 90-degree clockwise rotation with a notch. The conductive path 622a continues spirally from end 623 to end 625 with the 90-degree rotation with the notch. It should be understood that the end-to-end reference line 511b can be drawn from end 623 to end 625, and... Figure 8B The diagram is further shown. The intersection of conductive path 622a with end-to-end reference line 511b can represent the turns of the second communication winding 622. Figure 6E The conductive path 622a shown illustrates three turns in the second communication winding 622.

[0195] It should be understood that the various parts of the conductive path 622a can form as described above. Figures 6A-6D The discussed local loops. The first local loop may be the portion of conductive path 622a, including deflections 638a and 638b, and below reference line 639. The corresponding second local loop may be the portion of conductive path 622a, including deflections 638c and 638d, and above reference line 639. The area enclosed by the first local loop and reference line 639 is substantially the same as the area enclosed by the second local loop and reference line 639.

[0196] Similarly, the first partial ring can be the portion of conductive path 622a including deflections 638e and 638f and below reference line 639. The corresponding second partial ring can be the portion of conductive path 622a including deflections 638g and 638h and above reference line 639. The area enclosed by the first partial ring and reference line 639 is substantially the same as the area enclosed by the second partial ring and reference line 639.

[0197] The first partial loop can be the portion of conductive path 622a, including deflections 638i and 638j, and located below reference line 639. The corresponding second partial loop can be the portion of conductive path 622a, including deflections 638k and 638l, and located above reference line 639.

[0198] Figure 6FAn example first communication winding 620 with deflections 638m-638w is illustrated. The first communication winding 620 includes a conductive path 620a, an end 619, and an end 621. Deflections 638m-638w are formed in the conductive path 620a. The first communication winding 620 is... Figure 1 One embodiment of the first communication winding 120. In one embodiment, conductive path 620a may be referred to as the first conductive path, and conductive path 622a may be referred to as the second conductive path. Deflections 638m-638w may also be referred to as features. Deflections 638m-638w may also be referred to as discontinuities in conductive path 620a forming the first communication winding 620. Furthermore, deflections 638m-638w are shown as 90-degree notches in the first communication winding 620. Deflections 638m-638w are replaced by 90-degree notches. Figure 3 , Figure 4B and Figure 5C The first communication winding 320 is shown at a bend. Although the deflection 638m-638w is shown as a 90-degree notch, it should be understood that notches of other degrees can also be used. Furthermore, the deflection 638m-638w can also have notches of other shapes, such as arched or curved notches.

[0199] The conductive path 620a forming the first communication winding 620 includes end 619 and end 621. The conductive path 620a traverses the first communication layer from end 619 to end 621. End 619 corresponds to... Figure 1 The electrical node 119 shown is shown. Terminal 621 corresponds to... Figure 1 The electrical node 121 shown is illustrated. Terminal 619 can be the delta terminal of the first communication winding 620, while terminal 621 can be the non-delta terminal of the first communication winding 620. In one embodiment, terminal 619 can be the transmit voltage V. T The positive marking terminal, and terminal 621 can be the emitter voltage V. T The negative marking terminal.

[0200] End 621 is the outer end and is located outside the turn formed by the conductive path 620a of the first communication winding 620. End 619 is the inner end and is located inside the turn formed by the conductive path 620a of the first communication winding 620. The conductive path 620a, end 619, and end 621 may be made of conductive material. The conductive path 620a runs clockwise from end 619 to end 621. Starting from end 619, the conductive path 620a runs in an outward spiral toward end 621. In this way, the first communication winding 620 is wound clockwise.

[0201] exist Figure 4B and Figure 5CIn the first communication winding 320, the conductive path 520a extends in a rectangular spiral shape. However, the first communication winding 620 replaces the 90-degree bends of the first communication winding 320 with 90-degree notches. These 90-degree notches or 90-degree offsets are marked as deflections 638m-638w. Deflections 638m-638w can also be referred to as wiring notches. However, it should be understood that the first communication winding 620 can extend in a spiral shape in other ways.

[0202] The end-to-end reference line 511b can be drawn from end 619 to end 621, and... Figure 8C The first communication winding 620 is shown in the diagram. The intersection of the conductive path 620a with the end-to-end reference line 511b can represent the turns of the first communication winding 620. Figure 6F The conductive path 620a shown illustrates three turns in the first communication winding 620.

[0203] It should be understood that the various parts of the conductive path 620a can be formed as described above. Figures 6A-6D The discussed local loops. The first local loop may be the portion of conductive path 620a including deflection 638m and below reference line 639. The corresponding second local loop may be the portion of conductive path 620a including deflections 638n and 638o and above reference line 639. The area enclosed by the first local loop and reference line 639 is substantially the same as the area enclosed by the second local loop and reference line 639.

[0204] Similarly, the first partial ring can be the portion of conductive path 620a including deflections 638p and 638q and located below reference line 639. The corresponding second partial ring can be the portion of conductive path 620a including deflections 638r and 638s and located above reference line 639. The area enclosed by the first partial ring and reference line 639 is substantially the same as the area enclosed by the second partial ring and reference line 639.

[0205] The first partial loop can be the portion of conductive path 620a, including deflections 638t and 638u, and located below reference line 639. The corresponding second partial loop can be the portion of conductive path 620a, including deflections 638v and 638w, and located above reference line 639.

[0206] Figure 6G Examples Figure 6F The diagram shows the relationship of the conductive path 620a of the first communication winding 620 relative to the reference line 639. As mentioned above, the conductive path 620a forming the first communication winding 620 extends outward in a clockwise spiral direction from end 619. The portions of the conductive path 620a can be formed as shown regarding... Figures 6A-6DThe discussed local loops. The first local loop may be the portion of conductive path 620a, including deflection 638m and below reference line 639. The area A1 enclosed by the first local loop is shown in shaded vertical lines. The corresponding second local loop may be the portion of conductive path 620a, including deflections 638n and 638o and above reference line 639. The area A2 enclosed by the second local loop and reference line 639 is shown in shaded diagonal lines. The first and second local loops are shaped such that areas A1 and A2 are substantially the same. In this way, any voltage caused by the magnetic flux generated by current in an adjacent layer (such as the current conducted in the first power winding 304 in the first power layer 326a) can be minimized.

[0207] for Figure 7A and Figure 7B The first communication layer 726c and the second communication layer 726b are based on... Figure 4A and Figure 4B Viewed from the same perspective. The outline or edge of each layer is shown with a thin solid line, the outline 436 of core 228 is illustrated with a thick dashed line, and the projection 335 is represented by a thin dotted line. The first core window 232 and the second core window 230 are also shown. The corresponding descriptions for these elements are as follows: Figure 4A and Figure 4B It was discussed.

[0208] Figure 7A This is an exemplary top view of the second communication layer 726b, which includes... Figure 6E The second communication winding 622. The second communication layer 726b is... Figure 3 An alternative implementation of the second communication layer 326b shown is illustrated. It should be understood that elements similarly named and numbered as described above (especially regarding...) Figure 4A and Figure 4B It couples and functions as described. The first power winding 304 is shown for illustrative purposes, and it should be understood that the first power winding 304 is not disposed on the second communication layer 726b. Figure 7A An example placement of the second communication winding 622 relative to the first power winding 304 is illustrated.

[0209] The second communication winding 622 is disposed within the second communication layer 726b. Furthermore, the second communication winding 622 is generally within the projection 335. The second communication winding 622 is generally below the opening 234 in the second lateral direction (y-axis). The solid line illustrating the second communication winding 622 also represents the conductive path 622a of the second communication winding 622. The second communication winding 622 extends outward in a clockwise spiral direction from its inner end (e.g., end 623). Figure 7AIn the second communication winding 622, there are generally three turns. The overall shape of the second communication winding 622 is shown as a rectangle with a 90-degree notch at the corner of each turn.

[0210] The second communication winding 622 is generally located within the first core window 232. The number of turns, shape, or both of the second communication winding 622 can be determined based on the size and shape of the first core window 232. The number of turns selected for the second communication winding 622 is determined in part based on the number of turns that would fit the first core window 232, taking into account constraints on trace spacing and width. This number of turns can also be selected to enhance the magnetic coupling between the first communication winding 620 and the second communication winding 622.

[0211] Furthermore, the second communication winding 622 is positioned relative to the first power winding 304. The second communication winding 622 is positioned relative to the opening 234, with respect to the innermost and outermost conductors of the first power winding 304. Figure 7A and Figure 7B The reference line 639 shown is relative to Figure 6E , Figure 6F and Figure 6G The same reference line 639. In one embodiment, given that the conductors are generally parallel and equidistant, the second communication winding 622 is positioned such that the reference line 639 is generally located midway between the innermost and outermost conductors of the first power winding 304. In another embodiment, the second communication winding 622 is positioned such that the voltage induced in the conductive path of the second communication winding 622 on one side of the reference line is generally balanced by the voltage of opposite polarity in the conductive path of the second communication winding 622 on the other side of the reference line. In yet another embodiment, the second communication winding 622 is positioned such that when the first power winding 304 conducts current, the reference line 639 is generally located on the line of symmetry of the magnetic flux generated by the first power winding 304 along the first vertical direction. The second communication winding 622 can be positioned to minimize the net magnetic field along the first vertical direction (z-axis) surrounded by the second communication winding 620 when the first power winding 304 conducts current.

[0212] Figure 7B This is an exemplary top view of the first communication layer 726c, which includes... Figure 6F and Figure 6G The first communication winding is 620. The first communication layer 726c is... Figure 3 An alternative embodiment of the first communication layer 326c shown is illustrated. It should be understood that elements are similarly named and numbered as described above (especially regarding...). Figure 4A and Figure 4BIt couples and functions as described. The first power winding 304 is shown for illustrative purposes, and it should be understood that the first power winding 304 is not disposed on the first communication layer 726c. Figure 7B An example placement of the first communication winding 620 relative to the first power winding 304 is illustrated.

[0213] A first communication winding 620 is disposed within the first communication layer 726c. The first communication winding 620 is generally within projection 335. The first communication winding 620 is generally below opening 234 in the second lateral direction (y-axis). The solid line illustrating the first communication winding 620 also represents the conductive path 620a of the first communication winding 620. The first communication winding 620 extends outward in a spiral manner from its inner end (e.g., end 619). The first communication winding 620 extends outward in a clockwise spiral direction from its inner end. Figure 7B In the first communication winding 620, there are generally three turns. The overall shape of the first communication winding 620 is shown as a rectangle with a 90-degree notch at each corner.

[0214] The first communication winding 620 is generally located within the first core window 232. The first core window 232 is rectangular in shape. The first core window 232 can also be other shapes, such as square. The number of turns, shape, or both of the first communication winding 620 can be determined based on the size and shape of the first core window 232. The number of turns selected for the first communication winding 620 is determined in part based on the number of turns that would fit the first core window 232, taking into account constraints on trace spacing and width. This number of turns can also be selected to enhance the magnetic coupling between the first communication winding 620 and the second communication winding 622.

[0215] Furthermore, the first communication winding 620 is positioned relative to the first power winding 304. The first communication winding 620 is positioned relative to the opening 234, with respect to the innermost and outermost conductors of the first power winding 304. In one embodiment, given that the conductors are generally parallel and equidistant, the first communication winding 620 is positioned such that the reference line 639 is generally located midway between the innermost and outermost conductors of the first power winding 304. In another embodiment, the first communication winding 620 is positioned such that the voltage induced in the conductive path of the first communication winding 620 on one side of the reference line is generally balanced by the voltage of opposite polarity in the conductive path of the first communication winding 620 on the other side of the reference line. In yet another embodiment, the first communication winding 620 is positioned such that the reference line 639 is generally located on the line of symmetry of the magnetic flux along a first vertical direction generated by the first power winding 304 when conducting current through the first power winding 304. The first communication winding 620 can be positioned such that when the first power winding 304 conducts current, the net magnetic field surrounding the first communication winding 620 along the first vertical direction (z-axis) is minimized.

[0216] The first communication winding 620 and the second communication winding 622 substantially overlap each other in the first vertical direction (z-axis). Thus, each turn of the second communication winding 622 substantially overlaps the corresponding turn of the first communication winding 620.

[0217] The number of turns of the first communication winding 620 and the second communication winding 622 are selected to maximize the size of the first communication winding 620 and the second communication winding 622 within the first core window 232. The larger the area enclosed by the first communication winding 620 and the second communication winding 622, the stronger the magnetic coupling between these windings. In one embodiment, the first communication winding 620 and the second communication winding 622 may have a width of approximately 4.95 mm (first lateral direction, x-axis) and a length of approximately 3.77 mm (second lateral direction, y-axis).

[0218] Figure 8A , Figure 8B , Figure 8C and Figure 8D Example power layer and example communication layer of multilayer circuit 226 are illustrated. For Figure 8A , Figure 8B , Figure 8C and Figure 8D The first power layer 326a, the second communication layer 726b, the first communication layer 726c, and the second power layer 326d are connected to... Figures 5A-5D Viewed from the same perspective. The outline or edge of each layer is shown with a thin solid line, and a thin dotted line indicates projection 335.

[0219] End-to-end reference lines 511a, 511b, 511c, and 511c are also included. Figure 8A , Figure 8B , Figure 8C and Figure 8D It is shown in the middle. For Figure 8A Reference line 511a is shown as running from end 503 to end 505. For Figure 8B Reference line 511b is shown as running from end 623 to end 625 of the second communication winding 622. For Figure 8C Reference line 511c is shown as running from end 619 to end 621 of the first communication winding 620. For Figure 8D Reference line 511d is shown as running from end 507 to end 509. The first axis G1 and the second axis G2 are... Figure 8A , Figure 8B , Figure 8C and Figure 8D The center is shown as a solid circle. The first axis G1 and the second axis G2 are parallel to the first vertical direction (z-axis) and pass through the page. The first power winding 304 and the second power winding 306 are laid around the first axis G1, while the first communication winding 620 and the second communication winding 622 are laid around the second axis G2.

[0220] Figure 8A A top view is shown, illustrating a first power layer 326a including a first power winding 304. The first power winding 304 is formed by a conductive path 504a and has ends 503 and 505. Figure 8A Also illustrated are opening 234, winding region 235, and end-to-end reference line 511a. It should be understood that similarly named and numbered elements couple and function as described above. Specifically, Figure 8A and Figure 5A They are largely the same, and for the first power layer 326a and Figure 8A Detailed descriptions of the other components shown can be found in the above description. Figure 5A A detailed description.

[0221] Figure 8B A top view illustrating a second communication layer 726b including a second communication winding 622 is shown. The second communication layer 726b is... Figure 3 An alternative embodiment of the second communication layer 326b shown is illustrated. The second communication winding 622 includes a conductive path 622a. The conductive path 622a forms the second communication winding 622 and is disposed on the second communication layer 726b. The conductive path 622a is Figure 1 An embodiment of the second communication winding 122 is shown. It should be understood that many details of the conductive path 622a of the second communication winding are described above regarding... Figure 6E It was discussed.

[0222] Conductive path 622a includes end 623 and end 625. Conductive path 622a traverses the second communication layer 626b from end 623 to end 625. End 623 corresponds to electrical node 123, while end 625 corresponds to... Figure 1 The electrical node 125 is shown. In one embodiment, terminal 623 may be the receiver voltage V. R The positive marking terminal, and terminal 625 can be the receiver voltage V. R The negative marking terminal.

[0223] End 623 is the inner end. End 625 is the outer end located near the outer edge of the second communication layer 326b. Starting from end 623, the conductive path 622a spirals outward in a clockwise direction around the second axis G2 from end 623 toward end 625. In this way, the second communication winding 622 is wound clockwise. The conductive path 622a forms a generally rectangular spiral with a 90-degree notch at the corner. However, it should be understood that the conductive path 622a can be formed in other shapes.

[0224] Terminal 623 is Figure 8B The reference line 511b begins. In Figure 8B Each instance where the conductive path 622a intersects with the reference line 511b can be considered as a turn of the second communication winding 622. It should be understood that the second communication winding 622 is a planar winding. As the conductive path 622a forms turns of the second communication winding 622, each successive turn formed by the conductive path 622a moves further away from end 623 as the conductive path 622a reaches the reference line 511b. The conductive path 622a exemplifies three turns in the second communication winding 622.

[0225] Opening 234 is located outside the second communication winding 622. Opening 234 is located outside the turn formed by conductive path 622a. Conductive path 622a is provided on one side of opening 234. Conductive path 622a is provided below opening 234 in the second transverse direction (y-axis) and is generally within the first core window. First axis G1 is located outside the turn of the second communication winding 622.

[0226] Although the second communication winding 622 is shown as being disposed on a single second communication layer 726b, it should be understood that the second communication winding 622 may be disposed on multiple layers. For example, an additional communication layer may include another conductive path coupled to conductive path 622a.

[0227] Figure 8C A top view is shown, illustrating a first communication layer 726c including a first communication winding 620. The first communication layer 726c is... Figure 3An alternative embodiment of the first communication layer 326c. The first communication winding 620 includes a conductive path 620a. The conductive path 620a forms the first communication winding 620 and is disposed on the first communication layer 726c. The conductive path 620a may be referred to as the first conductive path, and the conductive path 622a may be referred to as the second conductive path. The conductive path 620a is Figure 1 An embodiment of the first communication winding 120 is shown. It should be understood that details of the conductive path 620a also pertain to... Figure 6F It was discussed.

[0228] Conductive path 620a includes end 619 and end 621. Conductive path 620a traverses the first communication layer 726c from end 619 to end 621. End 619 corresponds to electrical node 119, while end 621 corresponds to... Figure 1 The electrical node 121 is shown. In one embodiment, terminal 619 may be the emitter voltage V. T The positive marking terminal, and terminal 621 can be the emitter voltage V. T The negative marking terminal.

[0229] End 619 is the inner end. End 621 is the outer end and is located near the outer edge of the first communication layer 726c. The conductive path 620a spirals outward from end 619 toward end 621 in a clockwise direction around the second axis G2. Thus, the first communication winding 620 is wound clockwise. The conductive path 620a forms a generally rectangular spiral with a 90-degree notch at the corner. However, it should be understood that the conductive path 620a can extend spirally in other shapes.

[0230] End 619 is Figure 8C The reference line 511c begins. In Figure 8C Each instance where the conductive path 620a intersects with the reference line 511c can be considered as a turn of the first communication winding 620. It should be understood that the first communication winding 620 is a planar winding. As the conductive path 620a forms turns of the first communication winding 620, each successive turn formed by the conductive path 620a moves further away from end 619 as the conductive path 620a reaches the reference line 511c. The conductive path 620a exemplifies three turns in the first communication winding 620.

[0231] Opening 234 is located outside the first communication winding 620. Opening 234 is located outside the turn formed by the conductive path 620a of the first communication winding 620. The conductive path 620a is disposed on one side of opening 234. The conductive path 620a is disposed below opening 234 and substantially within the first core window in the second lateral direction (y-axis). The first axis G1 is located outside the turn of the first communication winding 620. It should be understood that conductive path 622a substantially overlaps conductive path 620a.

[0232] Although the first communication winding 620 is shown as being disposed on a single first communication layer 726c, it should be understood that the first communication winding 620 may be disposed on multiple layers. For example, an additional communication layer may include another conductive path coupled to conductive path 620a.

[0233] The widths of conductive paths 622a and 620a, as well as the spacing between them, are determined by the manufacturing process of the multilayer circuit. However, the number of turns in conductive paths 622a and 620a is chosen to maximize the dimensions of the first communication winding 620 and the second communication winding 622 within the first core window 232. The larger the area enclosed by the first communication winding 620 and the second communication winding 622, the stronger the magnetic coupling between conductive paths 622a and 620a.

[0234] The conductive path 622a of the second communication winding 622 is wound in the same direction as the conductive path 620a of the first communication winding 620. In the illustrated embodiment, conductive paths 622a and 620a are wound clockwise. However, it should be understood that conductive paths 622a and 620a may be wound counterclockwise or in opposite directions.

[0235] Figure 8D A top view is shown, illustrating a second power layer 326d including a second power winding 306. The second power winding 306 is formed by a conductive path 506a and has ends 507 and 509. Figure 8D Opening 234, projection 335, and end-to-end reference line 511d are also illustrated. It should be understood that similarly named and numbered elements couple and function as described above. Specifically, Figure 8D and Figure 5D They are largely the same, and the second power layer 326d and... Figure 8D Detailed descriptions of the other components shown can be found in the above description. Figure 5D A detailed description.

[0236] The second communication winding 622 is configured relative to the first communication winding 320 such that the voltage from terminal 623 to terminal 625 has the same polarity as the voltage from terminal 619 to terminal 621. However, it should be understood that the second communication winding 622 and the first communication winding 620 can be configured such that the voltage from terminal 623 to terminal 625 has the opposite polarity to the voltage from terminal 619 to terminal 621. Similar to what has been discussed previously, the second communication winding 622 is a receiver winding. The second communication winding 622 is configured relative to the second power winding 306 such that the voltage from terminal 623 to terminal 625 has the opposite polarity to the voltage from terminal 507 to terminal 509. The second communication winding 622 is wound relative to the second power winding 306 such that a non-zero decreasing current conducted by the second power winding 306 from terminal 509 to terminal 507 can generate a negative voltage from terminal 623 to terminal 625.

[0237] Figure 9A The first power winding 304 is illustrated. Figure 6E The second communication winding 622 and Figure 6F A perspective view of the first communication winding 620. For Figure 9A The first vertical direction (z-axis) runs towards the top of the page, the first horizontal direction (x-axis) runs diagonally towards the lower right of the page, and the second horizontal direction (y-axis) runs diagonally towards the upper right of the page. The dotted line A-A' intersects the first power winding 304, the second communication winding 622, and the first communication winding 620. The arrow indicator for the dotted line A-A' is parallel to the first horizontal direction (x-axis) and points diagonally towards the lower right of the page. A reference line 639 is shown for both the first communication winding 620 and the second communication winding 622. Reference line 639 intersects the first communication winding 620 and the second communication winding 622. Reference line 639 is parallel to the first horizontal direction (x-axis).

[0238] Figure 9B Examples are given for Figure 9A The cross-sections of the first power winding 304, the second communication winding 622, and the first communication winding 620 shown along point line A-A'. For Figure 9B The first vertical direction (z-axis) travels towards the top of the page, the first horizontal direction (x-axis) travels out of the page as indicated by the point, and the second horizontal direction (y-axis) travels towards the right side of the page. Figure 9B The cross-section shown is viewed along the dotted line A-A', where the arrow indicator points out of the page, as shown at the point at the end of the dotted line A-A'.

[0239] The cross-section of the first power layer 326a shows the conductive path 504a of the first power winding 304 as a dark square disposed on the substrate 940a. The first power winding 304 has eleven turns around the opening 234. Thus, in Figure 9BIn the diagram, there are eleven dark squares representing eleven cross-sections of conductive path 504a.

[0240] The innermost conductor 504b of the first power winding 304 is shown as the portion of the conductive path 504a on the right side of the page. (Reference) Figure 9A The innermost conductor 504b is the portion of the conductive path 504a closest to opening 234. The outermost conductor 504c of the first power winding 304 is shown as the portion of the conductive path 504a on the left side of the page. (Reference) Figure 9A The outermost conductor 504c is the portion of the conductive path 504a furthest from the opening 234. In other words, the innermost conductor 504b is the portion of the conductive path 504a located inside the other turns of the first power winding 304. The outermost conductor 504c is the portion of the conductive path 504a located outside the other turns of the first power winding 304.

[0241] Substrates 940a, 940b, and 940c are shown as solid white rectangles. Substrates 940a, 940b, and 940c are formed of an insulating material, on which conductive paths 504a, 622a, and 622b are formed, respectively. Example materials for insulation or dielectric include resin glass, polycrystalline silicon, ceramic, or prepreg material to be cured at a later time. Conductive paths 504a, 622a, and 622b are formed of a conductive material, such as copper. In one example manufacturing method, the conductive material disposed on the substrate is etched to form one or more conductive paths. When the layers are coupled together, gaps or voids between conductive paths in one layer can be filled with substrate material from another layer.

[0242] Each cross-section of the conductive path 504a has a width W1, and there is a spacing P1 between each cross-section of the conductive path 504a. The minimum values ​​of the width W1 and the spacing P1 can be selected based on the manufacturing process of the multilayer circuit. Although the spacing P1 between each cross-section of the conductive path 504a is shown as equal, it should be understood that the spacing P1 need not be the same between each cross-section of the conductive path 504a.

[0243] exist Figure 9B The small dashed line 639a is shown to provide a connection with... Figure 9A The contextual relationship. The small dashed line 639a indicates reference line 639 in... Figure 9B The location of reference line 639 in the cross-sectional view. It should be understood that reference line 639 is... Figure 9B The page passes through the first power layer 326a, the second communication layer 726b, and the first communication layer 726c.

[0244] In one embodiment, reference line 639 represents a line of symmetry between the inner conductor 504b and the outer conductor 504c of the conductive path 504a forming the first power winding 304. In another embodiment, the voltage induced in the conductive path of the communication winding on one side of reference line 639 is substantially balanced by a voltage of opposite polarity in the conductive path of the communication winding on the other side of reference line 639. Figure 9B Given that the conductors of the first power winding 304 are generally parallel and equidistant, reference line 639 is positioned midway between the inner conductor 504b and the outer conductor 504c. In other words, Figure 9B The reference line 639 shown is the center line of the first power winding 304. The first communication winding 620 and the second communication winding 622 can be positioned to minimize the net magnetic field along the first vertical direction (z-axis) surrounded by these windings when the first power winding 304 conducts current.

[0245] The cross-section of the second communication layer 726b shows the conductive path 622a of the second communication winding 622 as a dark square disposed on the substrate 940b. The second communication winding 622 has three turns disposed on one side of the opening 234. Thus, the cross-section of the second communication layer 726b illustrates six dark squares representing the three turns of the second communication winding. The conductive path 622a is wound such that the conductive path 622a is symmetrical along the reference line 639. The substrate 940b is an insulating material on which the conductive path 622a is formed. Example materials for insulation or dielectric include resin glass, polycrystalline silicon, ceramic, or prepreg material to be cured at a later time. When the layers are coupled together, gaps or voids between conductive paths in one layer can be filled with substrate material from another layer. For example, when the layers are formed together, material from the substrate 940a can fill the gaps between conductive paths 622a.

[0246] Each cross-section of the conductive path 622a has a width W2, and there is a spacing P2 between each cross-section of the conductive path 622a. The minimum values ​​of the width W2 and the spacing P2 can be selected based on the manufacturing process of the multilayer circuit. Although the spacing P2 between each cross-section of the conductive path 622a is shown as equal, it should be understood that the spacing P2 need not be the same between each cross-section of the conductive path 622a.

[0247] The cross-section of the first communication layer 726c shows the conductive path 620a of the first communication winding 620 as a dark square disposed on the substrate 940c. The first communication winding 620 has three turns disposed on one side of the opening 234. Thus, the cross-section of the first communication layer 726c illustrates six dark squares representing the three turns of the first communication winding 620. The conductive path 620a is wound such that the conductive path 620a is symmetrical along the reference line 639. The substrate 940c is an insulating material on which the conductive path 620a is formed. Example materials for insulation or dielectric include resin glass, polycrystalline silicon, ceramic, or prepreg material to be cured at a later time. When the layers are coupled together, gaps or voids between conductive paths in one layer can be filled with substrate material from another layer. When the layers are formed together, material from the substrate 940b can fill the gaps between conductive paths 622b.

[0248] Each cross-section of conductive path 622a has a width W3, and there is a spacing P3 between each cross-section of conductive path 620a. The minimum values ​​of width W3 and spacing P3 can be selected based on the manufacturing process of the multilayer circuit. Although the spacing P3 between each cross-section of conductive path 620a is shown as equal, it should be understood that the spacing P3 need not be the same between each cross-section of conductive path 620a.

[0249] exist Figure 9B In the design, conductive paths 622a and 620a substantially overlap each other. As shown, in the first vertical direction (z-axis), each dark square of conductive path 622a is directly above the corresponding dark square of conductive path 620a. Furthermore, widths W2 and W3 are substantially the same. Spacing P2 and P3 are also substantially the same. It should be understood that widths W1, W2, and W3 can be the same or different, and spacing P1, P2, and P3 can be the same or different. The thickness of each substrate 940a, 940b, and 940c can also be substantially the same or different. Furthermore, the thickness can be selected to meet safety requirements.

[0250] Figure 10 An embodiment of a power converter 1000 according to this disclosure is illustrated. The power converter 1000 has a magnetic component 1024, which includes an energy transfer element T1 and a communication link COM2. The communication link COM2 includes a first reinforcing winding 1044 and a second reinforcing winding 1041. The illustrated power converter 1000 also includes a clamping circuit 102, a power switch S1, an input return 108, an output rectifier S2, and an output capacitor C. OThe power converter 1000 includes an output return circuit 112 and an output sensing circuit 116. The power converter 1000 includes a control system having a first controller 110 and a second controller 118. The first controller 110 may also be referred to as a primary controller, and the second controller 118 may also be referred to as a secondary controller. A communication link COM2 is shown between the first controller 110 and the second controller 118.

[0251] It should be understood that similarly named and numbered components couple and function as described above. Specifically, Figure 10 and Figure 1 They share many similarities and are used for Figure 10 For a detailed description of similarly named and numbered components, refer to [reference]. Figure 1 As can be seen. However, at least one difference is that the magnetic component 1024 includes a communication link COM2, which includes a first reinforcing winding 1044 and a second reinforcing winding 1041.

[0252] It should also be noted that, Figure 10 The dots, triangles, and squares shown on windings 104, 106, 120, 122, 1041, and 1044 represent the polarity of the voltage induced in one winding by magnetic coupling between the windings. Specifically, triangles represent the polarity of the voltage that may be induced due to the magnetic coupling between the first communication winding 120 and the second communication winding 122. Dots represent the polarity of the voltage induced due to the magnetic coupling between the first power winding 104 and the second power winding 106. Squares represent the polarity of the voltage induced due to the magnetic coupling between the first reinforcement winding 1044 and the second reinforcement winding 1041. In other words, dots and triangles help to illustrate the relationship of the windings relative to an external circuit.

[0253] Magnetic component 1024 includes power transfer element T1 and communication link COM2. Power transfer element T1 includes a first power winding 104 and a second power winding 106. The first power winding 104 is the input winding of power transfer element T1, while the second power winding 106 is the output winding of power transfer element T1. Each end of the first power winding 104 is represented by nodes 103 and 105. Node 103 is shown as a non-point end of the first power winding 104, while node 105 is shown as a point end of the first power winding 104. Each end of the second power winding 106 is represented by nodes 107 and 109. Node 107 is shown as a point end of the second power winding 106, and node 109 is a non-point end of the second power winding 106. In the illustrated embodiment, the first power winding 104 is coupled relative to the second power winding 106 such that the voltage from node 103 to node 105 has the opposite polarity to the voltage from node 107 to node 109. However, it should be understood that for another embodiment of the power converter (such as a forward converter), the first power winding 104 may be configured relative to the second power winding 106 such that the voltage from node 103 to node 105 has the same polarity as the voltage from node 107 to node 109. The solid line between the first power winding 104 and the second power winding 106 indicates that the coupling between the first power winding 104 and the second power winding 106 includes a core of magnetic material. However, it should be understood that these windings may be air-core.

[0254] Communication link COM2 includes a first communication winding 120 and a second communication winding 122. The first communication winding 120 is one embodiment of a transmitter winding, while the second communication winding 122 is one embodiment of a receiver winding. However, it should be understood that the first communication winding 120 can be a receiver winding, and the second communication winding 122 can be a transmitter winding. Furthermore, the first communication winding 120 and the second communication winding 122 can be bidirectional windings. Communication link COM2 can also be referred to as the first communication link.

[0255] The first communication winding 120 has two ends. The first end is represented as node 119, and the second end is represented as node 121. Node 119 is shown as the delta end of the first communication winding 120. Node 121 is shown as the non-delta end of the first communication winding 120.

[0256] The second communication winding 122 has two ends. The first end is designated as node 123, and the second end as node 125. Node 123 is shown as the triangular end of the second communication winding 122. Node 125 is shown as the non-triangular end of the second communication winding 122. Additionally, node 125 is shown as the dot end of the second communication winding 122. The first communication winding 120 is coupled relative to the second communication winding 122 such that the voltage from node 119 to node 121 has the same polarity as the voltage from node 123 to node 125. Furthermore, the second communication winding 122 is coupled relative to the second power winding 106 such that the voltage from node 123 to node 125 has the opposite polarity to the voltage from node 107 to node 109. In the illustrated embodiment, there is no wire between the first communication winding 120 and the second communication winding 106, indicating that the coupling between these windings is substantially air coupling.

[0257] A first reinforcing winding 1044 is coupled to a second communication winding 122. The first reinforcing winding 1044 has two ends, namely node 1045 and node 1046. Node 1046 is coupled to node 125 of the second communication winding 122. Node 1046 is the square end, or point end, of the first reinforcing winding 1044. Node 1045 is coupled to a first controller 110. Node 1045 is the non-square end, or non-point end, of the first reinforcing winding 1044. Furthermore, regarding the magnetic flux caused by the second power winding 106, the voltage across the first reinforcing winding 1044 from node 1046 to node 1045 has the opposite polarity to the voltage across the second communication winding 122 from node 123 to node 125. As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the first reinforcing winding 1044 and the second communication winding 122 form a figure-eight path with respect to the magnetic flux caused by the second power winding 106. In other words, the first reinforcing winding 1044, which begins winding at node 1046, and the second communication winding 122, which begins winding at node 123, are in opposite directions relative to each other. For example, the first reinforcing winding 1044 may begin winding counterclockwise at node 1046, and the second communication winding 122 may begin winding clockwise at node 123.

[0258] The second reinforcing winding 1041 is coupled to the first communication winding 120. The second reinforcing winding 1041 has two ends, namely node 1042 and node 1043. Node 1043 is coupled to node 121 of the first communication winding 120. Node 1043 is the square end of the second reinforcing winding 1041. Node 1042 is coupled to the second controller 118. Node 1042 is the non-square end of the second reinforcing winding 1041. The second reinforcing winding 1041 is magnetically coupled to the first reinforcing winding 1044. As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the second reinforcing winding 1041 and the first communication winding 120 form a figure-eight path with respect to the magnetic flux caused by the second power winding 106. In other words, the second reinforcing winding 1041, which begins winding at node 1043, and the first communication winding 120, which begins winding at node 119, are in opposite directions relative to each other. For example, the second reinforcing winding 1041 may begin to be wound counterclockwise at node 1043, and the first communication winding 120 may begin to be wound clockwise at node 119. In the illustrated embodiment, there is no wire between the first reinforcing winding 1044 and the second reinforcing winding 1042, thus indicating that the coupling between these windings is air coupling.

[0259] The first communication winding 120 and the second reinforcement winding 1041 conduct the transmitter current I. T Furthermore, a transmitter voltage V exists across the first communication winding 120 and the second reinforcement winding 1041. T When measured from node 119 to node 1042, the transmitter voltage V T It is shown as positive. When the transmitter current I flows from node 119 to node 1042, it is shown as positive. T Shown as positive. The second communication winding 122 and the first reinforcement winding 1044 conduct the receiver current I. R And there is a receiver voltage V R When measured from node 123 to node 1045, the receiver voltage V R It is shown as positive. The receiver current I is shown as positive when flowing from node 1045 to node 123. R It is shown as positive.

[0260] The second controller 118 can transmit information to the first controller 110 via the magnetic coupling between the first communication winding 120 and the second communication winding 122, and the magnetic coupling between the second reinforcement winding 1041 and the first reinforcement winding 1044. The second controller 118 can transmit the information as a voltage signal and / or a current signal, and the first controller 110 can receive the information as a voltage signal and / or a current signal. In some embodiments, the second controller 118 can utilize the transmitter current I... TTo convey information. In one embodiment, the circuitry within the second controller 118 can control the transmitter current I. T Various attributes are used to communicate information to the first controller 110. When the transmitter current I... T When the amplitude of the magnetic field changes, it generates a changing magnetic field near the conductor. In some embodiments, the second communication winding 122 and the first reinforcement winding 1041 are conductors. Due to the law of electromagnetic induction, a voltage is generated across the conductor subjected to the changing magnetic field. In some embodiments, the receiver voltage V... R Due to the transmitter current I T The change in the magnetic field generated by the change in the magnetic field can be sensed and a receiver current I can be generated. R The first controller 110 includes circuitry capable of receiving voltage and / or current sensed by the transmitter and interpreting that voltage and / or current into information. Transmitter current I T The attributes that can be controlled to convey information may include transmitter current I. T The amplitude and rate of change. The transmitted signal can be in the form of digital or analog information. In the case of digital information, the transmission can be in the form of binary signals or more complex encoded digital data, as will be known to those skilled in the art. It should be understood that other communication technologies can be used. In other embodiments, a communication technology can be used that utilizes a transmitter current I. T The induced receiver voltage V received by the first controller 110 R and receiver current I R The relationship between them.

[0261] Dotted line 111 indicates the magnetic coupling between energy transfer element T1 and communication link COM2. Due to the proximity of energy transfer element T1 and communication link COM2, the changing magnetic flux in energy transfer element T1 may unintentionally induce a voltage in either the first communication winding 120 or the second communication winding 122. For example, the second power winding 106 may conduct current I. S This generates a changing magnetic field, which may unintentionally induce a voltage across the second communication winding 122, which is positive at node 125 relative to node 123. This can occur with a specific orientation of the windings for the energy transfer element T1 and the communication link COM2. Specifically, the second communication winding 122 is wound relative to the second power winding 106, causing a non-zero decreasing current I conducted by the second power winding 106. S This generates a negative voltage from node 123 to node 125. If the current I... S Conducted from node 109 to node 107 with current I SDecreasing the magnetic field reduces the magnetic field, resulting in a generally negative induced voltage drop between nodes 123 and 125. It should be understood that the magnitude and polarity of the voltage unintentionally induced in the windings of the communication link COM2 in response to the current in the windings of the energy transfer element T1 depend on the relative orientation of the windings and the direction of the current.

[0262] The first reinforcing winding 1044 and the second reinforcing winding 1041 enhance the communication between the second controller 118 and the first controller 110 by supplementing the first communication winding 120 and the second communication winding 122. The first reinforcing winding 1044 can be used as a cancellation winding and can cancel the effects of noise (e.g., noise caused by an external magnetic field). The second reinforcing winding 1041 can be used as a strengthening winding and enhances the communication between the second controller 118 and the first controller 110 by utilizing the magnetic coupling between the second reinforcing winding 1041 and the first reinforcing winding 1044 and electrically coupling them to the first communication winding 120 and the second communication winding 122 respectively, such that the transmitted voltage V... T and the received voltage V R The emission current I is significantly increased or required T It was significantly reduced. Figure 10 In the illustrated embodiment, the communication link COM2 includes both a first reinforcing winding 1044 and a second reinforcing winding 1041. However, it should be understood that the communication link COM2 may include either the first reinforcing winding 1044 or the second reinforcing winding 1041.

[0263] Noise (such as, for example, an external magnetic field) may induce a voltage drop in the second communication winding 122 and the first reinforcement winding 1044. The noise-induced receiver voltage V... R This is the difference between the voltage across the second communication winding 122, from node 123 to node 125, and the voltage across the first reinforcement winding 1044, from node 1045 to node 1046. If the second communication winding 122 and the first reinforcement winding 1044 are substantially similar in size and number of turns, then the receiver voltage V due to noise... R It is substantially zero, and there is likely substantially no receiver current I due to noise. RIn other words, in the illustrated embodiment, since the second communication winding 122 and the first reinforcement winding 1044 are substantially similar in size and number of turns, the noise signal component induced in the second communication winding 122 in response to external noise is substantially equal to and opposite to the noise signal component induced in the first reinforcement winding 1044 in response to external noise. Thus, the noise signal components induced in their respective second communication winding 122 and first reinforcement winding substantially cancel each other out. The second reinforcement winding 1041 can also be similarly used as a canceling winding for the first communication winding 120.

[0264] The second reinforcing winding 1041 can be used to improve communication between the second controller 118 and the first controller 100 by supplementing the communication between the first communication winding 120 and the second communication winding 122. The magnetic coupling between the first communication winding 120 and the second communication winding 122 is partly due to the substantial overlap of the areas surrounded by the two windings. When the first reinforcing winding 1044 is coupled to the second communication winding 122, and no second reinforcing winding 1041 is utilized or coupled to the first communication winding 120, when the first communication winding 120 conducts the transmitting current I... T Furthermore, magnetic flux is generated to induce a voltage V on the second communication winding 122. R When the first reinforcing winding 1044 is not used or coupled to the first communication winding 120, the transmitting current I... T The generated magnetic flux is not coupled to the first reinforcing winding 1044 and does not generate a voltage across the first reinforcing winding 1044. When the second reinforcing winding 1041 is utilized and coupled to the first communication winding 120, it is magnetically coupled to the first reinforcing winding 1044, which increases the total area available for transmission and effectively increases the inductance seen across nodes 119 and 1042. With a higher inductance, for the same transmission current I... T Transmit voltage V T This can be increased, which can increase the received voltage V. R Including a second reinforcing winding 1041, which is similar in size and shape to the first reinforcing winding 1044, can improve communication between the second controller 118 and the first controller 110.

[0265] In an alternative embodiment, the second reinforcement winding 1041 may be coupled in parallel to the first communication winding 120. Node 1043 of the second reinforcement winding may be coupled to node 119 of the first communication winding 120. Node 1042 may be coupled to node 121. Transmit voltage V T At nodes 119 and 1043, the values ​​can be positive relative to nodes 121 and 1042.

[0266] Energy transfer element T1 and communication link COM2 are included in the same magnetic assembly 1024. This magnetic assembly includes a multilayer circuit. Both energy transfer element T1 and communication link COM2 can be implemented in this multilayer circuit. The multilayer circuit includes an opening 234 to receive the core of energy transfer element T1. A first power winding 104 can be disposed on one or more layers of the multilayer circuit. A second power winding 106 can be disposed on one or more layers of the multilayer circuit. A first communication winding 120 and a second reinforcement winding 1041 can be disposed on one or more layers of the multilayer circuit. A second communication winding 122 and a first reinforcement winding 1044 can be disposed on one or more layers of the multilayer circuit. The first communication winding 120 and the second communication winding 122 can be disposed on different layers and substantially overlap each other.

[0267] The communication link COM2 can be located close to the power transfer element T1. For example, the communication link COM2 can be located in the layer of the multilayer circuit above the power transfer element T1. In another embodiment, the communication link COM2 can be located in the layer of the multilayer circuit below the power transfer element T1.

[0268] The communication link COM2 can also be disposed between the layers of the energy transfer element T1. For example, the communication link COM2 can be disposed between one or more layers of the first power winding 104 and one or more layers of the second power winding 106. If the first power winding 104 is disposed on two or more layers, the communication link COM2 can be disposed between the layers of the first power winding 104. Similarly, if the second power winding 106 is disposed on two or more layers, the communication link COM2 can be disposed between the layers of the second power winding 106.

[0269] for Figure 11A and Figure 11B The first communication layer 1126c and the second communication layer 1126b are based on... Figures 4A-4B and Figures 7A-7B Viewed from the same perspective. The outline or edge of each layer is shown with a thin solid line, a thick dashed line illustrates the outline 436 of core 228, and a thin dotted line represents projection 335. The first core window 232 and the second core window 230 are also shown relative to the second communication layer 1126b and the first communication layer 1126c. Corresponding descriptions for these elements are provided below. Figure 4A and Figure 4B It was discussed.

[0270] Figure 11AThis is an exemplary top view of the second communication layer 1126b, which includes a second communication winding 1122 and a first reinforcement winding 1144. The second communication winding 1122 and the first reinforcement winding 1144 are... Figure 10 The embodiment of the second communication winding 122 and the first reinforcement winding 1044 shown is illustrated. The second communication layer 1126b is... Figure 3 An alternative implementation of the second communication layer 326b shown is illustrated. It should be understood that elements similarly named and numbered as described above (especially regarding...) Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figure 7A and Figure 7B It couples and functions as described. The first power winding 304 is shown for illustrative purposes, and it should be understood that the first power winding 304 is not disposed on the second communication layer 1126b. Figure 11A An example placement of the second communication winding 1122 and the first reinforcement winding 1144 relative to the first power winding 304 is illustrated.

[0271] Second communication winding 1122: The second communication winding 1122 is disposed within the second communication layer 1126b. Furthermore, the second communication winding 1122 is generally within the projection 335. The second communication winding 1122 is generally below the opening 234 in the second lateral direction (y-axis). The solid lines illustrating the second communication winding 1122 also represent the conductive path of the second communication winding 1122. The second communication winding 1122 extends outward in a spiral manner from its inner end. The second communication winding 1122 extends outward in a clockwise spiral direction from its inner end. Figure 11A In the middle, the second communication winding 1122 has approximately three turns. Figure 11A The second communication winding 1122 shown has a relationship with... Figure 6E , Figure 7A and Figure 8B The second communication winding 622 shown has a similar shape. The overall shape of the second communication winding 1122 is shown as a rectangle with a 90-degree notch at the corner of each turn.

[0272] The second communication winding 1122 is generally located within the first core window 232. The first core window 232 is rectangular in shape. The number of turns, shape, or both of the second communication winding 1122 can be determined based on the size and shape of the first core window 232. The number of turns selected for the second communication winding 1122 is determined in part based on the number of turns that will fit the first core window 1132, taking into account constraints on trace spacing and width.

[0273] Furthermore, the second communication winding 1122 is positioned relative to the first power winding 304. The second communication winding 1122 is positioned relative to the opening 234, with respect to the innermost and outermost conductors of the first power winding 304. A reference line for the second communication winding 1122 may refer to a line intersecting the second communication winding 1122. In one embodiment, the reference line may intersect the second communication winding 1122 parallel to a first lateral direction (x-axis). The reference line 639 discussed above is one embodiment of the reference line discussed herein. Given that the conductors are generally parallel and equidistant, the second communication winding 1122 is positioned such that the reference line is generally midway between the innermost and outermost conductors of the first power winding 304 within the first core window 232. In another embodiment, the second communication winding 1122 is positioned such that the voltage induced in the conductive path of the second communication winding 1122 on one side of the reference line is substantially balanced by the voltage of opposite polarity in the conductive path of the second communication winding 1122 on the other side of the reference line. In yet another embodiment, the second communication winding 1122 is positioned such that when the first power winding 304 conducts current in the first core window 232, the reference line 639 lies substantially on the line of symmetry of the magnetic flux generated by the first power winding 304 along the first vertical direction. The second communication winding 1122 can be positioned to minimize the net magnetic field along the first vertical direction (z-axis) surrounded by the second communication winding 1122 when the first power winding 304 conducts current.

[0274] First reinforcing winding 1144: A first reinforcing winding 1144 is disposed on the second communication layer 1126b. The first reinforcing winding 1144 is generally within projection 335 and above opening 234. The solid line illustrating the first reinforcing winding 1144 also represents the conductive path of the first reinforcing winding 1144. The first reinforcing winding 1144 extends inwardly in a spiral manner to an inner end. The first reinforcing winding 1144 extends inwardly in a counterclockwise spiral manner to an inner end. Figure 11A In the middle, the first reinforcing winding 1144 has approximately three turns. Figure 11A The first reinforcing winding 1144 shown has a relationship with... Figure 6E , Figure 7A and Figure 8B The second communication winding 622 shown has a similar shape. The overall shape of the first reinforcing winding 1144 is shown as a rectangle with a 90-degree notch at the corner of each turn. However, it should be understood that the first reinforcing winding 1144 can be formed in other shapes.

[0275] The first reinforcing winding 1144 is generally located within the second core window 230. The second core window 230 is rectangular in shape. However, the second core window 230 may have other shapes, such as square. The number of turns, shape, or both of the first reinforcing winding 1144 may be determined based on the size and shape of the second core window 230. The number of turns selected for the first reinforcing winding 1144 is determined in part based on the number of turns that would fit the second core window 230, taking into account constraints on trace spacing and width. Furthermore, the number of turns, shape, or both of the first reinforcing winding 1144 may be selected based on the second communication winding 1122. For example, the number of turns, shape, or both of the first reinforcing winding 1144 may be selected to be substantially equal to or match the second communication winding 1122. In one embodiment, the first reinforcing winding 1142 may be substantially a duplicate of the second communication winding 622. When the first power winding 306 conducts current, the current direction of the first power winding 306 in the first core window is opposite to the current direction of the first power winding 306 in the second core window. For example, if the current is conducted from terminal 503 to terminal 505, the current direction of the first power winding 306 in the first core window 232 is towards the left side of the page. The current direction in the second core window 230 is towards the right side of the page.

[0276] Furthermore, the first reinforcing winding 1144 is positioned relative to the first power winding 304. The first reinforcing winding 1144 is positioned relative to the opening 234, with respect to the innermost and outermost conductors of the first power winding 304. A reference line for the first reinforcing winding 1144 may refer to a line intersecting the first reinforcing winding 1144. In one embodiment, the reference line may intersect the first reinforcing winding 1144 parallel to a first lateral direction (x-axis). The reference line 639 discussed above may be one embodiment of the reference line discussed herein. Given that the conductors are generally parallel and equidistant, the first reinforcing winding 1144 is positioned such that the reference line is generally midway between the innermost and outermost conductors of the first power winding 304 within the second core window 230. In another embodiment, the first reinforcing winding 1144 is positioned such that the voltage induced in the conductive path of the first reinforcing winding 1144 on one side of the reference line is substantially balanced by the voltage of opposite polarity in the conductive path of the first reinforcing winding 1144 on the other side of the reference line. In yet another embodiment, the first reinforcing winding 1144 is positioned such that when the first power winding 304 conducts current in the second core window 230, the reference line 639 lies substantially on the line of symmetry of the magnetic flux generated by the first power winding 304 along the first vertical direction. The first reinforcing winding 1144 can be positioned to minimize the net magnetic field along the first vertical direction (z-axis) surrounded by the first reinforcing winding 1144 when the first power winding 304 conducts current.

[0277] The second communication winding 1122 is coupled to the first reinforcing winding 1144. A conductive path is shown that runs between the first core window 232 and the second core window 230 to couple the second communication winding 1122 to the first reinforcing winding 1144. The conductive path of the second communication winding 1122 begins at its inner end and extends outward in a clockwise spiral. The conductive path of the second communication winding 1122 is coupled to the conductive path of the first reinforcing winding 1144. From this coupling between the first core window 232 and the second core window 230, the first reinforcing winding 1144 extends inward in a counterclockwise spiral toward its inner end. This creates a figure-eight path.

[0278] Figure 11B This is an exemplary top view of a first communication layer 1126c, which includes a first communication winding 1120 and a second reinforcement winding 1141. The first communication winding 1120 and the second reinforcement winding 1141 are... Figure 10 The embodiment of the first communication winding 120 and the second reinforcement winding 1041 shown is illustrated. The first communication layer 1126c is... Figure 3 An alternative embodiment of the first communication layer 326c shown is illustrated. It should be understood that elements are similarly named and numbered as described above (especially regarding...). Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figure 7A and Figure 7B It couples and functions as described. The first power winding 304 is shown for illustrative purposes, and it should be understood that the first power winding 304 is not disposed on the first communication layer 1126c. Figure 11B An example placement of the first communication winding 1120 and the second reinforcement winding 1141 relative to the first power winding 304 is illustrated. It should be understood that the shape and placement of the first communication winding 1120 and the second reinforcement winding 1141 are similar to the shape and placement of the second communication winding 1122 and the first reinforcement winding 1144.

[0279] First communication winding 1120: A first communication winding 1120 is disposed within the first communication layer 1126c. The first communication winding 1120 is generally within the projection 335. The first communication winding 1120 is generally below the opening 234 in the second lateral direction (y-axis). The solid line illustrating the first communication winding 1120 also represents the conductive path of the first communication winding 1120. The first communication winding 1120 extends outward in a spiral manner from its inner end. The first communication winding 1120 extends outward in a clockwise spiral direction from its inner end. Figure 11B In the first communication winding 1120, there are approximately three turns. The shape of the first communication winding 1120 is similar to that in Figure 68. Figure 6G, Figure 7B and Figure 8C The shape of the first communication winding 620 shown is similar. The overall shape of the first communication winding 1120 is shown as a rectangle with a 90-degree notch at each corner.

[0280] The first communication winding 1120 is generally located within the first core window 232. The first core window 232 is rectangular in shape. The first core window 232 can also be other shapes, such as square. The number of turns, shape, or both of the first communication winding 1120 can be determined by the size and shape of the first core window 232. The first communication winding 1120 is designed with a number of turns that takes into account constraints on trace spacing and width to fit the first core window 232, thereby enhancing the magnetic coupling between the first communication winding 1120 and the second communication winding 1122.

[0281] Furthermore, the first communication winding 1120 is positioned relative to the first power winding 304. The first communication winding 1120 is positioned relative to the opening 234, with respect to the innermost and outermost conductors of the first power winding 304. A reference line for the first communication winding 1120 may refer to a line intersecting the first communication winding 1120. In one embodiment, the reference line may intersect the first communication winding 1120 parallel to a first lateral direction (x-axis). Reference line 639 is one embodiment of the reference line discussed herein. In other words, the reference line is parallel to the first lateral direction. Furthermore, the reference line for the first communication winding 1120 may be the same reference line used for the second communication winding 1122. Given that the conductors are generally parallel and equidistant, the first communication winding 1120 is positioned such that the reference line is generally midway between the innermost and outermost conductors of the first power winding 304 within the first core window 232. In another embodiment, the first communication winding 1120 is positioned such that the voltage induced in the conductive path of the first communication winding 1120 on one side of the reference line is substantially balanced by the voltage of opposite polarity in the conductive path of the first communication winding 1120 on the other side of the reference line. In yet another embodiment, the first communication winding 1120 is positioned such that when the first power winding 304 conducts current in the first core window 232, the reference line 639 lies substantially on the line of symmetry of the magnetic flux generated by the first power winding 304. The first communication winding 1120 can be positioned to minimize the net magnetic field along the first vertical direction (z-axis) surrounded by the first communication winding 1120 when the first power winding 304 conducts current.

[0282] The first communication winding 1120 and the second communication winding 1122 are substantially overlapped in the first vertical direction (z-axis). Thus, each turn of the second communication winding 1122 substantially overlaps the corresponding turn of the first communication winding 1120. This overlap forms the conductive path between the first communication winding 1120 and the second communication winding 1122, thereby strengthening the magnetic coupling between them.

[0283] The number of turns of the first communication winding 1120 and the second communication winding 1122 are selected to maximize the size of the first communication winding 1120 and the second communication winding 1122 within the first core window 232. The larger the area enclosed by the first communication winding 1120 and the second communication winding 1122, the stronger the magnetic coupling between these windings.

[0284] Second reinforcing winding 1141: A second reinforcing winding 1141 is disposed within the first communication layer 1126c. The second reinforcing winding 1141 is generally within projection 335 and above opening 234. The solid line illustrating the second reinforcing winding 1141 also represents the conductive path of the second reinforcing winding 1141. The second reinforcing winding 1141 extends in a counterclockwise spiral manner to an inner end. Figure 11B In the middle, the second reinforcing winding 1141 has approximately three turns. Figure 11B The second reinforcing winding 1141 shown has the same characteristics as... Figure 6F , Figure 6G , Figure 7B and Figure 8C The first communication winding 620 shown has a similar shape. The overall shape of the second reinforcing winding 1141 is shown as a rectangle with a 90-degree notch at the corner of each turn. However, it should be understood that the second reinforcing winding 1141 can take other shapes.

[0285] The second reinforcing winding 1141 is generally located within the second core window 230. The second core window 230 is rectangular in shape. However, the second core window 230 may have other shapes, such as square. The number of turns, shape, or both of the second reinforcing winding 1141 may be determined by the size and shape of the second core window 230. The second reinforcing winding 1141 is designed to have a number of turns that will fit the second core window 230, taking into account constraints on trace spacing and width. Furthermore, the number of turns, shape, or both of the second reinforcing winding 1141 may be selected based on the first communication winding. For example, the number of turns, shape, or both of the second reinforcing winding 1141 may be selected to be substantially equal to or matched with the first communication winding 1120. In one embodiment, the second reinforcing winding 1141 may be substantially a copy of the first communication winding 1120.

[0286] Furthermore, the second reinforcing winding 1141 is positioned relative to the first power winding 304. The second reinforcing winding 1141 is positioned relative to the opening 234, with respect to the innermost and outermost conductors of the first power winding 304. A reference line may refer to a line intersecting the second reinforcing winding 1141. In one embodiment, the reference line may intersect the second reinforcing winding 1141 parallel to a first lateral direction (x-axis). Reference line 639 is one embodiment of the reference line discussed herein. Given that the conductors are generally parallel and equidistant, the second reinforcing winding 1141 is positioned such that reference line 639 is generally midway between the innermost and outermost conductors of the first power winding 304 within the second core window 230. In another embodiment, the second reinforcing winding 1141 is positioned such that the voltage induced in the conductive path of the second reinforcing winding 1141 on one side of the reference line is generally balanced by the voltage of opposite polarity in the conductive path of the second reinforcing winding 1141 on the other side of the reference line. In another embodiment, the second reinforcing winding 1141 is positioned such that when the first power winding 304 conducts current in the second core window 230, the reference line lies substantially on the line of symmetry of the magnetic flux generated by the first power winding 304 along the first vertical direction. The second reinforcing winding 1141 can be positioned to minimize the net magnetic field along the first vertical direction (z-axis) enclosed by the second reinforcing winding 1141 when the first power winding 304 conducts current.

[0287] The first communication winding 1120 is coupled to the second reinforcement winding 1141. A conductive path is shown that runs between the first core window 232 and the second core window 230 to couple the first communication winding 1120 to the second reinforcement winding 1141. The conductive path of the first communication winding 1120 begins at its inner end and extends outward in a clockwise spiral. The conductive path of the first communication winding 1120 is coupled to the conductive path of the second reinforcement winding 1141. From this coupling between the first core window 232 and the second core window 230, the second reinforcement winding 1141 extends inward towards its inner end in a counterclockwise spiral. This creates a figure-eight path.

[0288] The first reinforcing winding 1144 substantially overlaps the second reinforcing winding 1141 in the first vertical direction (z-axis). Thus, each turn of the first reinforcing winding 1144 substantially overlaps the corresponding turn of the second reinforcing winding 1141. This overlapping forms the conductive path between the first and second reinforcing windings 1144 and 1141, strengthening the magnetic coupling between them. Furthermore, the second communication winding 1122 and the first reinforcing winding 1144 substantially overlap the first communication winding 1120 and the second reinforcing winding 1141.

[0289] Figure 12A , Figure 12B , Figure 12C and Figure 12D Example power layer and example communication layer of multilayer circuit 226 are illustrated. For Figure 12A , Figure 12B , Figure 12C and Figure 12D The first power layer 326a, the second communication layer 1126b, the first communication layer 1126c, and the second power layer 326d are connected to... Figures 5A-5D and Figures 8A-8D Viewed from the same perspective. The thin solid lines represent the outline of each layer, the dashed lines represent the winding region 235 of the first power winding 304, and the thin dotted lines illustrate the projection 335.

[0290] End-to-end reference lines 511a, 511b, 511c, 511d, 511e, and 511f are in Figure 12A , Figure 12B , Figure 12C and Figure 12D It is shown in the middle. For Figure 12A Reference line 511a is shown as running from end 503 to end 505. For Figure 12B Reference line 511b for the second communication winding 1122 is shown running from end 1223 to end 1225. Reference line 511e for the first reinforcing winding 1144 is shown running from end 1246 to end 1245a. For Figure 12C Reference line 511c for the first communication winding 1120 is shown running from end 1219 to end 1221. Reference line 511f for the second reinforcing winding 1141 is shown running from end 1243 to end 1242a. For Figure 12D Reference line 511d is shown as running from end 507 to end 509. The first axis G1, the second axis G2, and the third axis G3 are... Figure 12A , Figure 12B , Figure 12C and Figure 12D The center is shown as a solid circle. First axis G1, second axis G2, and third axis G3 pass through and out of the page parallel to the first vertical direction (z-axis). First axis G1, second axis G2, and third axis G3 are different axes. First power winding 304 and second power winding 306 are laid around first axis G1. First communication winding 1120 and second communication winding 1122 are laid around second axis G2. First reinforcing winding 1144 and second reinforcing winding 1141 are laid around third axis G3.

[0291] For the purposes of this disclosure, the winding direction is determined by the direction in which the winding travels through its respective layers from the positive marked terminal to the negative marked terminal, such as... Figure 10This is shown and viewed from the perspective of the page. However, it should be understood that different conventions can be used. For example, the direction of winding can also be determined by the direction in which the winding travels through its respective layers from its negative-marked terminal to its positive-marked terminal. In another embodiment, the direction of winding can be from the inner end of the winding to the outer end, and vice versa.

[0292] Figure 12A A top view is shown, illustrating a first power layer 326a including a first power winding 304. The first power winding 304 is formed by a conductive path 504a and has ends 503 and 505. Figure 12A Also illustrated are opening 234, winding region 235, and end-to-end reference line 511a. It should be understood that similarly named and numbered elements couple and function as described above. Specifically, Figure 12A and Figure 5A They are largely the same, and for the first power layer 326a and Figure 12A Detailed descriptions of the other components shown can be found in the above description. Figure 5A A detailed description.

[0293] Figure 12B A top view is shown illustrating a second communication layer 1126b, including a second communication winding 1122 and a first reinforcing winding 1144. The second communication layer 1126b is... Figure 3 An alternative implementation of the second communication layer 326b shown is illustrated. It should be understood that elements similarly named and numbered as described above (especially regarding...) Figure 5A , Figure 5B , Figure 8B and Figure 8C It couples and functions as described.

[0294] Second communication winding 1122: The second communication winding 1122 includes a conductive path 1122a. The conductive path 1122a forms the second communication winding 1122 and is disposed on the second communication layer 1126b. Figure 10 An embodiment of the second communication winding 122 shown.

[0295] Conductive path 1222a has end 1223 and end 1225. Conductive path 1222a traverses the second communication layer 1126b from end 1223 to end 1225. End 1223 of conductive path 1222a corresponds to... Figure 10 The electrical node 123 is shown. End 1225 of conductive path 1222a corresponds to... Figure 10The electrical node 125 is shown. Terminal 1223 can be the delta terminal of the second communication winding 1122, while terminal 1225 can be the non-delta terminal or point terminal of the second communication winding 1122. In one embodiment, terminal 1223 can be the receiver voltage V. R The positive marking terminal. Terminal 1225 can be coupled to the first reinforcing winding 1144.

[0296] End 1225 is the outer end, located outside the turn formed by the conductive path 1222a of the second communication winding 1122. End 1223 is the inner end, located inside the turn formed by the conductive path 1222a of the second communication winding 1122. The conductive path 1222a, end 1223, and end 1225 may be made of conductive material. The conductive path 1222a spirals outward from end 1223 toward end 1225 in a clockwise direction around the second axis G2. Thus, the second communication winding 1122 is wound clockwise. The conductive path 1222a forms a generally rectangular spiral with a 90-degree notch at the corner.

[0297] Terminal 1223 is Figure 12B The beginning of the end-to-end reference line 511b. Figure 12B Each instance where the conductive path 1222a intersects the reference line 511b can be considered as a turn of the second communication winding 622. As the conductive path 1222a forms a turn of the second communication winding 1122, each subsequent turn formed by the conductive path 1222a is further away from end 1223 when the conductive path 1222a reaches the reference line 511b. The conductive path 1222a exemplifies three turns in the second communication winding 1122. It should be understood that the second communication winding 1122 is a planar winding.

[0298] Opening 234 is located outside the second communication winding 1122. Opening 234 is located outside the turn formed by conductive path 1222a. First axis G1 is located outside the turn of the second communication winding 1122. Conductive path 1222a is provided on one side of opening 234. Conductive path 1222a is provided below opening 234 in the second transverse direction (y-axis). Conductive path 1222a is generally inside the first core window.

[0299] First reinforcing winding 1144: The first reinforcing winding 1144 includes a conductive path 1244a. The conductive path 1244a forms the first reinforcing winding 1144 and is disposed on the second communication layer 1126b. The conductive path 1244a is... Figure 10 One embodiment of the first reinforcing winding 1044 is shown. In one embodiment, conductive path 1222a may be referred to as the second conductive path, and conductive path 1244a may be referred to as the third conductive path.

[0300] Conductive path 1244a has end 1246 and end 1245a. Conductive path 1244a traverses the second communication layer 1126b from end 1246 to end 1245a. End 1246 of conductive path 1244a corresponds to... Figure 10 The electrical node 1046 is shown. End 1245a of conductive path 1244a corresponds to... Figure 10 The electrical node 1045 is shown. Terminal 1246 can be a square or dotted end of the first reinforcing winding 1144, while terminal 1245a can be a non-square or non-dotted end of the first reinforcing winding 1144. In one embodiment, terminal 1246 can be coupled to a second communication winding 1122. Terminal 1245a can be the receiver voltage V. R The negative marking terminal.

[0301] End 1246 is the outer end and is located outside the turn formed by the conductive path 1244a of the first reinforcing winding 1144. End 1245a is the inner end and is located inside the turn formed by the conductive path 1244a of the first reinforcing winding 1144. The conductive path 1244a, end 1246, and end 1245a may be made of conductive material. The conductive path 1244a travels counterclockwise from end 1246 to end 1245a through the second communication layer 1126b. Starting from end 1246, the conductive path 1244a travels in an inward spiral around the third axis G3 toward end 1245a. In this way, the first reinforcing winding 1144 is wound counterclockwise. The conductive path 1244a is formed into a generally rectangular spiral with a 90-degree notch at the corner.

[0302] Terminal 1246 is Figure 12B The reference line 511e used for the first reinforcing winding 1144 begins. Figure 12B Each instance where the conductive path 1244a intersects with the reference line 511e can be considered as a turn of the first reinforcing winding 1144. As the conductive path 1244a forms turns of the first reinforcing winding 1144, each successive turn formed by the conductive path 1244a is closer to end 1245a when the conductive path 1244a reaches the reference line 511e. The conductive path 1244a exemplifies three turns in the first reinforcing winding 1144. It should be understood that the first reinforcing winding 1144 is a planar winding.

[0303] Opening 234 is located outside the first reinforcing winding 1144. Opening 234 is located outside the turn formed by conductive path 1244a. First axis G1 is located outside the turn of the first reinforcing winding 1144. Conductive path 1244a is disposed on one side of opening 234. Conductive path 1244a is disposed above opening 234 in the second transverse direction (y-axis) and generally within the second core window.

[0304] Conductive path 1222a of the second communication winding 1122 is coupled to conductive path 1244a of the first reinforcing winding 1144. End 1225 is coupled to end 1246. Conductive path 1257 is an intermediate conductive path coupling the second communication winding 1122 and the first reinforcing winding 1144. As shown, conductive path 1257 travels on the second communication layer 1126b to couple conductive path 1222a to conductive path 1244a. In other words, conductive path 1257 couples end 1225 to end 1246. Conductive paths 1222a and 1244a form a trace on the second communication layer 1126b. As shown, conductive paths 1222a, 1257, and 1244a form a trace on the second communication layer 1126b.

[0305] The conductive path 1222a for the second communication winding 1122 begins at the inner end 1223 and extends outward in a clockwise spiral direction to its outer end 1225. The outer end 1225 of the conductive path 1222a is coupled to the outer end 1246 of the conductive path 1244a of the first reinforcing winding 1144. From the outer end 1246, the first reinforcing winding 1144 extends inward in a counterclockwise spiral direction toward its inner end 1245a. This creates a figure-eight path.

[0306] Figure 12B A conductive path 1258 with terminals 1245b and 1245c is also illustrated. Terminals 1245b and 1245c also correspond to... Figure 10 Electrical node 1045 is shown. Conductive path 1258 runs through the second communication layer 1126b toward the edge of the second communication layer 1126b. End 1245a can be coupled to end 1245b via another conductive path on another communication layer (not shown). These additional ends and conductive paths can be utilized so that the first reinforcing winding 1144 can terminate at a desired location on the second communication layer 1126b.

[0307] Figure 12C A top view is shown, illustrating a first communication layer 1126c including a first communication winding 1120 and a second reinforcing winding 1141. The first communication layer 1126c is... Figure 3 An alternative implementation of the first communication layer 326c. It should be understood that elements similarly named and numbered as above (especially regarding...) Figure 5A , Figure 5B , Figure 8B and Figure 8C It couples and functions as described.

[0308] First communication winding 1120: The first communication winding 1120 includes a conductive path 1220a. The conductive path 1220a forms the first communication winding 1120 and is disposed on the first communication layer 1126c. The conductive path 1220a may be referred to as the first conductive path, and the conductive path 1222a may be referred to as the second conductive path. The conductive path 1220a is... Figure 1 An embodiment of the first communication winding 120 shown.

[0309] Conductive path 1220a has end 1219 and end 1221. Conductive path 1220a traverses the first communication layer 1126c from end 1219 to end 1221. End 1219 of conductive path 1220a corresponds to... Figure 10 The electrical node 119 is shown. End 1221 of conductive path 1220a corresponds to... Figure 10 The electrical node 121 is shown. Terminal 1219 can be the delta terminal of the first communication winding 1120, while terminal 1221 can be the non-delta terminal of the first communication winding 1120. In one embodiment, terminal 1219 can be the transmit voltage V. T The positive marking terminal, and terminal 1221 can be coupled to the second reinforcing winding 1141.

[0310] Terminal 1221 is an outer terminal and is located outside the turn formed by the conductive path 1220a. Terminal 1221 is an outer terminal and is located outside the turn of the first communication winding 1120. Terminal 1219 is an inner terminal and is located inside the turn formed by the conductive path 1220a. In other words, terminal 1219 is an inner terminal and is located inside the turn of the first communication winding 1120. The conductive path 1220a, terminal 1219, and terminal 1221 may be made of conductive material.

[0311] Conductive path 1220a travels clockwise through the first communication layer 1126c starting from end 1219. From end 1219, conductive path 1220a spirals outward around the second axis G2 and reaches end 1221. Thus, the first communication winding 1120 is wound clockwise. Conductive path 1220a forms a generally rectangular spiral with a 90-degree notch at the corner. However, it should be understood that conductive path 1220a can extend spirally in other shapes.

[0312] Terminal 1219 is Figure 12C The reference line 511c begins. In Figure 12CEach instance where the conductive path 1220a intersects with the reference line 511c can be considered as a turn of the first communication winding 1120. As the conductive path 1220a forms turns of the first communication winding 1120, each subsequent turn formed by the conductive path 1220a is further away from end 1219 when the conductive path 1220a reaches the reference line 511c. The conductive path 1220a exemplifies three turns in the first communication winding 1120. It should be understood that the first communication winding 1120 is a planar winding.

[0313] Opening 234 is located outside the first communication winding 1120. Opening 234 is located outside the turn formed by the conductive path 1220a of the first communication winding 1120. The first axis G1 is located outside the turn of the first communication winding 1120. Conductive path 1220a is disposed on one side of opening 234. Conductive path 1220a is disposed below opening 234 in the second lateral direction (y-axis) and substantially within the first core window. It should be understood that conductive path 1222a substantially overlaps conductive path 1220a.

[0314] Although the first communication winding 1120 is shown as being disposed on a single first communication layer 1126c, it should be understood that the first communication winding 1120 may be disposed on multiple layers. For example, an additional communication layer may include another conductive path coupled to conductive path 1220a.

[0315] The widths of conductive paths 1222a and 1220a, as well as the spacing between them, are determined by the manufacturing process of the multilayer circuit. However, the number of turns in conductive paths 1222a and 1220a is chosen to maximize the dimensions of the first communication winding 1120 and the second communication winding 1122 within the first core window 232. The larger the area enclosed by the first communication winding 1120 and the second communication winding 1122, the stronger the magnetic coupling between conductive paths 1222a and 1220a.

[0316] The conductive path 1222a of the second communication winding 1122 and the conductive path 1220a of the first communication winding 1120 are wound in the same direction from their respective inner ends. In the illustrated embodiment, conductive paths 1222a and 1220a are wound clockwise at end 1223 and end 1219, respectively. However, it should be understood that conductive paths 1222a and 1220a may be wound counterclockwise or in opposite directions.

[0317] Second reinforcing winding 1141: The second reinforcing winding 1141 includes a conductive path 1241a. The conductive path 1241a forms the second reinforcing winding 1141 and is disposed on the first communication layer 1126c. The conductive path 1241a is... Figure 10 One embodiment of the second reinforcing winding 1041 is shown. In one embodiment, conductive path 1220a may be referred to as the first conductive path, and conductive path 1241a may be referred to as the fourth conductive path.

[0318] Conductive path 1241a has end 1243 and end 1242a. Conductive path 1241a traverses the second communication layer 1126b from end 1243 to end 1242a. End 1243 of conductive path 1241a corresponds to... Figure 10 The electrical node 1043 is shown. End 1242a of conductive path 1241a corresponds to... Figure 10 The electrical node 1042 is shown. Terminal 1243 can be a square end of the second reinforcing winding 1141, while terminal 1242a can be a non-square end of the second reinforcing winding 1141. In one embodiment, terminal 1243 can be coupled to the first communication winding 1120. Terminal 1242a can be a transmit voltage V. T The negative marking terminal.

[0319] End 1243 is the outer end and is located outside the turn formed by the conductive path 1241a of the second reinforcing winding 1141. End 1242a is the inner end and is located inside the turn formed by the conductive path 1241a of the second reinforcing winding 1141. The conductive path 1241a, end 1243, and end 1242a may be made of conductive material. The conductive path 1241a travels counterclockwise from end 1243 to end 1242a through the first communication layer 1126c. Starting from end 1243, the conductive path 1241a travels in an inward spiral around the third axis G3 and reaches end 1242a. In this way, the second reinforcing winding 1141 is wound counterclockwise. The conductive path 1241a is formed into a generally rectangular spiral with a 90-degree notch at the corner.

[0320] Terminal 1243 is Figure 12C The beginning of the reference line 511f used for the second reinforcing winding 1141. Figure 12C Each instance where the conductive path 1241a intersects the reference line 511f of the second reinforcing winding 1141 can be considered as a turn of the second reinforcing winding 1141. As the conductive path 1241a forms turns of the second reinforcing winding 1141, each successive turn formed by the conductive path 1241a is closer to end 1242a when the conductive path 1241a reaches the reference line 511f. The conductive path 1241a exemplifies three turns in the second reinforcing winding 1141. It should be understood that the second reinforcing winding 1141 is a planar winding.

[0321] Opening 234 is located outside the second reinforcing winding 1141. Opening 234 is located outside the turn formed by conductive path 1241a. First axis G1 is located outside the turn of the second reinforcing winding 1141. Conductive path 1241a is provided on one side of opening 234. Conductive path 1241a is provided above opening 234 in the second transverse direction (y-axis) and is generally within the second core window.

[0322] Conductive path 1220a of the first communication winding 1120 is coupled to conductive path 1241a of the second reinforcement winding 1141. End 1221 is coupled to end 1243. Conductive path 1251 is an intermediate conductive path coupling the first communication winding 1120 and the second reinforcement winding 1141. As shown, conductive path 1251 travels on the first communication layer 1126c to couple conductive path 1220a to conductive path 1241a. In other words, conductive path 1251 couples end 1221 to end 1243. Conductive paths 1220a and 1241a form a trace on the first communication layer 1126c. As shown, conductive paths 1220a, 1251, and 1241a form a trace on the first communication layer 1126c.

[0323] The conductive path 1220a of the first communication winding 1120 begins at its inner end 1219 and extends outward in a clockwise spiral direction to its outer end 1221. The outer end 1221 of the conductive path 1220a is coupled to the outer end 1243 of the conductive path 1241a of the second reinforcing winding 1141. From the outer end 1243, the second reinforcing winding 1141 extends inward in a counterclockwise spiral direction toward its inner end 1242a. In this way, a figure-eight path is created.

[0324] Regarding such as Figure 10 In an alternative embodiment of the parallel-coupled second reinforcing winding discussed, the conductive paths can be configured such that end 1219 is coupled to end 1243, and end 1242a is coupled to end 1221. For example, intermediate conductive path 1251 can couple end 1219 to end 1243, and intermediate conductive path 1252 can couple end 1242a to end 1221. Ends 1219 and 1243 will correspond to the emitter voltage V. T The positive marking terminals, and terminals 1221, 1242a, 1242b and 1242c will correspond to the transmit voltage V. T The negative marking terminal.

[0325] Figure 12C A conductive path 1252 with terminals 1242b and 1242c is also illustrated. Terminals 1242b and 1242c also correspond to... Figure 10Electrical node 1045 is shown. Conductive path 1252 runs through the first communication layer 1126c towards its edge. End 1242a can be coupled to end 1242b via another conductive path on another communication layer (not shown). These additional ends and conductive paths can be utilized so that the second reinforcing winding 1141 can terminate at a desired location on the first communication layer 1126c.

[0326] Figure 12D A top view is shown, illustrating a second power layer 326d including a second power winding 306. The second power winding 306 is formed by a conductive path 506a and has ends 507 and 509. Figure 12D Opening 234, projection 335, and end-to-end reference line 511d are also illustrated. It should be understood that similarly named and numbered elements couple and function as described above. Specifically, Figure 12D and Figure 5D They are largely the same, and the second power layer 326d and... Figure 12D Detailed descriptions of the other components shown can be found in the above description. Figure 5D A detailed description.

[0327] The second communication winding 1122 is coupled to the first communication winding 1120 such that the voltage from end 1223 to end 1225 has the same polarity as the voltage from end 1219 to end 1221. However, it should be understood that the second communication winding 1122 can be coupled to the first communication winding 1120 such that the voltage from end 1223 to end 1225 has the opposite polarity as the voltage from end 1219 to end 1221. The first reinforcement winding 1144 is coupled to the second reinforcement winding 1141 such that the voltage from end 1246 to end 1245a has the same polarity as the voltage from end 1243 to end 1242a. Similar to what has been discussed previously, the second communication winding 1122 is a receiver winding. Furthermore, the second communication winding 1122 is configured relative to the second power winding 306 such that the voltage from end 1223 to end 1225 has the opposite polarity as the voltage from end 507 to end 509.

[0328] Figure 13A and Figure 13B An example communication layer of a multilayer circuit 226 is shown. For Figure 13A and Figure 13B The second communication layer 1326b and the first communication layer 1326c are based on... Figures 4A-4B , Figures 5A-5D , Figures 8A-8D and Figures 12A-12D Viewed from the same perspective. Thin solid lines represent the outline of each layer, and thin dotted lines indicate projection 335.

[0329] Figure 13AA top view of a second communication layer 1326b is illustrated, which includes another embodiment of a second communication winding 1322 and a first reinforcing winding 1344. The second communication layer 1326b is... Figure 3 An alternative embodiment of the second communication layer 326b shown is illustrated. The first reinforcement winding 1344 and the second communication winding 1322 are generally disposed within the projection 335. The example second communication winding 1322 and the first reinforcement winding 1344 share many similarities with the other figures. However, at least one difference is that both the second communication winding 1322 and the first reinforcement winding 1344 are on the same side of the opening 234.

[0330] Second communication winding 1322: The second communication winding 1322 includes a conductive path 1322a. The conductive path 1322a forms the second communication winding 1322 and is disposed on the second communication layer 1326b. The conductive path 1322a is... Figure 10 An embodiment of the second communication winding 122 shown.

[0331] Conductive path 1322a has end 1323 and end 1325. Conductive path 1322a traverses the second communication layer 1326b from end 1323 to end 1325. End 1323 of conductive path 1322a corresponds to... Figure 10 The electrical node 123 is shown. End 1325 of conductive path 1322a corresponds to... Figure 10 The electrical node 125 is shown. Terminal 1323 can be the delta terminal of the second communication winding 1322, while terminal 1325 can be the non-delta terminal or point terminal of the second communication winding 1322. In one embodiment, terminal 1323 can be the receiver voltage V. R The positive marking terminal. Terminal 1325 can be coupled to the first reinforcing winding 1344.

[0332] The conductive path 1322a, end 1323, and end 1325 can be made of conductive material. The conductive path 1322a extends clockwise from end 1323 through the second communication layer 1326b and reaches end 1325. The conductive path 1322a is rectangular in shape. It should be understood that the conductive path 1322a can be formed in other shapes. Thus, the second communication winding 1322 is wound counterclockwise. The conductive path 1322a forms one turn of the second communication winding 1322.

[0333] The opening 234 is located outside the second communication winding 1322. The opening 234 is located outside the turn formed by the conductive path 1322a. The conductive path 1322a is provided on one side of the opening 234. The conductive path 1322a is provided below the opening 234 in the second lateral direction (y-axis).

[0334] First reinforcing winding 1344: The first reinforcing winding 1344 includes a conductive path 1344a. The conductive path 1344a forms the first reinforcing winding 1344 and is disposed on the second communication layer 1326b. The conductive path 1344a is... Figure 10 One embodiment of the first reinforcing winding 1044 is shown. In one embodiment, conductive path 1322a may be referred to as the second conductive path, and conductive path 1344a may be referred to as the third conductive path.

[0335] Conductive path 1344a has end 1346 and end 1345a. Conductive path 1344a traverses the second communication layer 1326b from end 1346 to end 1345a. End 1346 of conductive path 1344a corresponds to... Figure 10 The electrical node 1046 is shown. End 1345a of conductive path 1344a corresponds to... Figure 10 The electrical node 1045 is shown. Terminal 1346 can be a square or dotted end of the first reinforcing winding 1344, while terminal 1345a can be a non-square or non-dotted end of the first reinforcing winding 1344. In one embodiment, terminal 1346 can be coupled to a second communication winding 1322. Terminal 1345a can be the receiver voltage V. R The negative marking terminal.

[0336] The conductive path 1344a, end 1346, and end 1345a can be made of conductive material. The conductive path 1344a runs counterclockwise from end 1346 to end 1345a through the second communication layer 1326b. The conductive path 1344a forms a generally rectangular shape. However, it should be understood that the conductive path 1344a can form other shapes. Thus, the first reinforcing winding 1344 is wound counterclockwise. The conductive path 1344a forms one turn of the first reinforcing winding 1344.

[0337] The opening 234 is located outside the first reinforcing winding 1344. The opening 234 is located outside the turn formed by the conductive path 1344a. The conductive path 1344a is disposed on one side of the opening 234. The conductive path 1344a is disposed below the opening 234 in the second lateral direction (y-axis).

[0338] Conductive path 1322a of the second communication winding 1122 is coupled to conductive path 1344a of the first reinforcement winding 1344. End 1325 is coupled to end 1346. Conductive path 1357 is an intermediate conductive path coupling the second communication winding 1322 and the first reinforcement winding 1344. As shown, conductive path 1357 runs in a straight line through the second communication layer 1326b to couple conductive path 1322a to conductive path 1344a. In other words, conductive path 1357 couples end 1325 to end 1346. Conductive paths 1322a and 1344a form a trace on the second communication layer 1326b. As shown, conductive paths 1322a, 1357, and 1344a form a trace on the second communication layer 1326b.

[0339] The conductive path 1322a of the second communication winding 1322 begins at end 1323 and forms a rectangular shape clockwise toward end 1325. End 1325 of the conductive path 1322a is coupled to end 1346 of the first reinforcing winding 1344. From end 1346, the first reinforcing winding 1344 forms a rectangular shape counterclockwise toward end 1345a. In this way, a figure-eight path is created.

[0340] Figure 13A A conductive path 1358 with terminals 1345b and 1345c is also illustrated. Terminals 1345b and 1345c also correspond to... Figure 10 Electrical node 1045 is shown. Conductive path 1358 runs through the second communication layer 1326b toward the edge of the second communication layer 1326b. End 1345a can be coupled to end 1345b via another conductive path on another communication layer (not shown). These additional ends and conductive paths can be utilized so that the first reinforcing winding 1344 can terminate at a desired location on the second communication layer 1326b. Ends 1323 and 1345c can be used as test nodes and are shown as being located outside the outer edge of the second communication layer 1326b. It should be understood that ends 1323 and 1345c can be located inside the edge of the second communication layer 1326b.

[0341] Figure 13B A top view of a first communication layer 1326c is shown, which includes a first communication winding 1320 and a second reinforcement winding 1341. The first communication layer 1326c is... Figure 3An alternative embodiment of the first communication layer 326c. The first communication winding 1320 and the second reinforcement winding 1341 may be disposed within the projection 335. Example: The first communication winding 1320 and the second reinforcement winding 1341 share many similarities with the other figures. However, at least one difference is that both the first communication winding 1320 and the second reinforcement winding 1341 are on the same side of the opening 234.

[0342] First communication winding 1320: The first communication winding 1320 includes a conductive path 1320a. The conductive path 1320a forms the first communication winding 1320 and is disposed on the first communication layer 1326c. The conductive path 1320a may be referred to as the first conductive path, and the conductive path 1322a may be referred to as the second conductive path. The conductive path 1320a is... Figure 1 An embodiment of the first communication winding 120 shown.

[0343] Conductive path 1320a has end 1319 and end 1321. Conductive path 1320a traverses the first communication layer 1326c from end 1319 to end 1321. End 1319 of conductive path 1320a corresponds to... Figure 10 The electrical node 119 is shown. End 1321 of conductive path 1320a corresponds to... Figure 10 The electrical node 121 shown is illustrated. Terminal 1319 can be a delta terminal of the first communication winding 1320, while terminal 1321 can be a non-delta terminal of the first communication winding 1320. In one embodiment, terminal 1319 can be the transmit voltage V. T The positive marking terminal, and terminal 1321 can be coupled to the second reinforcing winding 1341. The conductive path 1320a, terminal 1319 and terminal 1321 can be made of conductive material.

[0344] Conductive path 1320a extends from end 1319 in a generally clockwise direction through the first communication layer 1326c and reaches end 1321. Thus, the first communication winding 1320 is wound clockwise. The shape of conductive path 1320a is generally rectangular. However, it should be understood that conductive path 1320a can be formed in other shapes. As shown, conductive path 1320a forms one turn of the first communication winding 1320.

[0345] Opening 234 is located outside the first communication winding 1320. Opening 234 is located outside the turn formed by the conductive path 1320a of the first communication winding 1320. The conductive path 1320a is disposed on one side of opening 234. The conductive path 1320a is disposed below opening 234 in the second lateral direction (y-axis). It should be understood that conductive path 1322a substantially overlaps conductive path 1320a.

[0346] Although the first communication winding 1320 is shown as being disposed on a single first communication layer 1326c, it should be understood that the first communication winding 1320 may be disposed on multiple layers. For example, an additional communication layer may include another conductive path coupled to conductive path 1320a.

[0347] The conductive path 1322a of the second communication winding 1322 and the conductive path 1320a of the first communication winding 1320 begin winding at ends 1323 and 1319, respectively, in the same direction. In the illustrated embodiment, conductive paths 1322a and 1320a begin winding clockwise at ends 1323 and 1319, respectively. However, it should be understood that conductive paths 1322a and 1320a can be wound counterclockwise.

[0348] Second reinforcing winding 1341: The second reinforcing winding 1341 includes a conductive path 1341a. The conductive path 1341a forms the second reinforcing winding 1341 and is disposed on the first communication layer 1326c. The conductive path 1341a is... Figure 10 One embodiment of the second reinforcing winding 1041 is shown. In one embodiment, conductive path 1320a may be referred to as the first conductive path, and conductive path 1341a may be referred to as the fourth conductive path.

[0349] Conductive path 1341a has end 1343 and end 1342a. Conductive path 1341a traverses the second communication layer 1326b from end 1343 to end 1342a. End 1343 of conductive path 1341a corresponds to... Figure 10 The electrical node 1043 is shown. End 1342a of conductive path 1341a corresponds to... Figure 10 The electrical node 1042 is shown. Terminal 1343 can be a square end of the second reinforcing winding 1341, while terminal 1342a can be a non-square end of the second reinforcing winding 1341. In one embodiment, terminal 1343 can be coupled to the first communication winding 1320. Terminal 1342a can be the transmit voltage V. T The negative terminal.

[0350] The conductive path 1341a, end 1343, and end 1342a can be made of a conductive material. The conductive path 1341a runs counterclockwise from end 1343 to end 1342a through the first communication layer 1326c. Thus, the second reinforcing winding 1341 is wound counterclockwise. The conductive path 1341a forms a generally rectangular shape. It should be understood that the conductive path 1341a can form other shapes. As shown, the conductive path 1341a forms one turn of the second reinforcing winding 1341.

[0351] The opening 234 is located outside the second reinforcing winding 1341. The opening 234 is located outside the turn formed by the conductive path 1341a. The conductive path 1341a is provided on one side of the opening 234. The conductive path 1341a is provided below the opening 234 in the second lateral direction (y-axis).

[0352] Conductive path 1320a of the first communication winding 1320 is coupled to conductive path 1341a of the second reinforcement winding 1341. End 1321 is coupled to end 1343. Conductive path 1351 is an intermediate conductive path coupling the first communication winding 1320 and the second reinforcement winding 1341. As shown, conductive path 1351 travels in a straight line on the first communication layer 1326c to couple conductive path 1320a to conductive path 1341a. In other words, conductive path 1351 couples end 1321 to end 1343. Conductive paths 1320a and 1341a form a trace on the first communication layer 1326c. As shown, conductive paths 1320a, 1351, and 1341a form a trace on the first communication layer 1326c.

[0353] The conductive path 1320a of the first communication winding 1320 begins at end 1319 and forms a rectangular shape clockwise toward end 1321. End 1321 of the conductive path 1320a is coupled to end 1343 of the second reinforcing winding 1341. From end 1343, the second reinforcing winding 1341 forms a rectangular shape counterclockwise toward end 1342a. This creates a figure-eight path.

[0354] Figure 13B A conductive path 1352 with terminals 1342b and 1342c is also illustrated. Terminals 1342b and 1342c also correspond to... Figure 10 Electrical node 1042 is shown. Conductive path 1352 runs through the first communication layer 1326c toward the edge of the first communication layer 1326c. End 1342a can be coupled to end 1342b via another conductive path on another communication layer (not shown). These additional ends and conductive paths can be utilized so that the second reinforcing winding 1341 can terminate at a desired location on the first communication layer 1326c. Ends 1319 and 1342c can be used as test nodes and are shown as being located outside the outer edge of the second communication layer 1326b. It should be understood that ends 1319 and 1342c can be located inside the edge of the second communication layer 1326b.

[0355] Figure 14An example switch controller 1400 utilizing a magnetic component 1424 is illustrated. The magnetic component 1424 includes a power transfer element T2 and communication links COM3, COM4, ​​and COM5. The switch controller 1400 is also shown as including a control interface 1418, a driver 1410, an on switch Q1, and an off switch Q2. A power switch S2 is also shown to provide context for the switch controller 1400. The power switch S2 is shown as an insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT). However, other transistors can be used for the power switch S2, such as metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs), bipolar transistors, injection-enhanced-gate transistors (IEGTs), and gate-turn-off thyristors (GTOs). Furthermore, power switches based on gallium nitride (GaN) semiconductors or silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductors can also be utilized.

[0356] Magnetic component 1424 includes power transfer element T2 and communication links COM3, COM4, ​​and COM5. Power transfer element T2 includes a first power winding 1404 and a second power winding 1406. The first power winding 1404 may also be referred to as the input winding of power transfer element T2, and the second power winding 1406 may also be referred to as the output winding of power transfer element T2. As shown, power transfer element T2 transfers energy from the interface to driver 1410. Thus, driver 1410 is provided with operating power to operate various circuit systems of driver 1410. As shown, the second power winding 1406 is coupled to the driver to provide a reference voltage VAUX and a reference voltage VNEG. The reference voltage VAUX is greater than the reference voltage VNEG. Driver 1410 may include circuit systems for generating an regulated voltage reference VIGD from the reference voltage VAUX. The regulated voltage reference VIGD can be used to power driver 1410. The lines between the windings of the energy transfer element T2 indicate that these windings are generally coupled through a core of magnetic material (such as iron or ferrite). As shown, there are no lines between the windings of communication links COM3, COM4, ​​and COM5, thus indicating that the coupling between their respective windings is generally air coupling.

[0357] Communication link COM3 includes a first communication winding 1420a and a second communication winding 1422a. Each end of the first communication winding 1420a is represented by nodes 1419a and 1421a, respectively. Each end of the second communication winding 1422a is represented by nodes 1423a and 1425a, respectively. The second communication winding 1422a also includes a tap node 1460. Transmit voltage V T1 These are the voltages across nodes 1419a and 1421a. As shown, 1419a is the transmit voltage V. T1The positive marking terminal, and node 1421a is the emitter voltage V. T1 The negative-marked terminal. Receiver voltage V R1 These are the voltages across nodes 1423a and 1425a. Node 1423a is the receiver voltage V. R1 The positive marking terminal, and node 1425a is the receiver voltage V. R1 The negative-marked terminals. Node 1419a is a dot terminal, while 1421a is a non-dot terminal of the first communication winding 1420a. Node 1423a is a dot terminal, while 1425a is a non-dot terminal of the second communication winding 1422a. The first communication winding 1420a is coupled to the second communication winding 1422a such that the voltage from node 1419a to node 1421a has the same polarity as the voltage from node 1423a to node 1425a. However, it should be understood that the first communication winding 1420a can be configured relative to the second communication winding 1422a such that the voltage from node 1419a to node 1421a has the opposite polarity to the voltage from node 1423a to node 1425a. Communication link COM3 may be referred to as the first communication link.

[0358] Communication link COM4 includes a first communication winding 1420b and a second communication winding 1422b. Each end of the first communication winding 1420b is represented by nodes 1419b and 1421b, respectively. Each end of the second communication winding 1422b is represented by nodes 1423b and 1425b, respectively. The second communication winding 1422b also includes a tap node 1460. Transmit voltage V T2 These are the voltages across nodes 1419b and 1421b. As shown, 1419b represents the transmit voltage V. T2 The positive marking terminal, and node 1421b is the emitter voltage V. T2 The negative-marked terminal. Receiver voltage V R2 These are the voltages across nodes 1423b and 1425b. Node 1423b represents the receiver voltage V. R2 The positive marking terminal, and node 1425b is the receiver voltage V. R2The negative-marked terminals. Node 1419b is a dot terminal, while 1421b is a non-dot terminal of the first communication winding 1420b. Node 1423b is a dot terminal, while 1425b is a non-dot terminal of the second communication winding 1422b. The first communication winding 1420b is coupled to the second communication winding 1422b such that the voltage from node 1419b to node 1421b has the same polarity as the voltage from node 1423b to node 1425b. However, it should be understood that the first communication winding 1420b can be configured relative to the second communication winding 1422b such that the voltage from node 1419b to node 1421b has the opposite polarity to the voltage from node 1423b to node 1425b. Communication link COM4 can be referred to as the second communication link.

[0359] As shown, a tap node of the second communication winding 1422a of communication link COM3 is coupled to a tap node of the second communication winding 1422b of communication link COM4. This tap node is designated as node 1460. Tap nodes on the second communication winding can be used to reduce common-mode noise. However, it should be understood that the tap nodes do not necessarily need to be coupled together. Node 1460 is shown as coupled to a reference VIGD. As mentioned above, the reference VIGD can be generated from a reference VAUX. Within driver 1410, the reference VIGD can be coupled to one end of a capacitor. The other end of this capacitor is coupled to a reference VNEG. This internal capacitor can be used as a blocking capacitor (DC blocking capacitor).

[0360] Communication link COM5 includes a first communication winding 1420c and a second communication winding 1422c. Each end of the first communication winding 1420c is represented by nodes 1419c and 1421c, respectively. Each end of the second communication winding 1422c is represented by nodes 1423c and 1425c, respectively. The second communication winding 1422c also includes a tap node 1461. Transmit voltage V T3 These are the voltages across nodes 1419c and 1421c. As shown, 1419c is the transmit voltage V. T3 The positive marking terminal, and node 1421c is the emitter voltage V. T3 The negative-marked terminal. Receiver voltage V R3 These are the voltages across nodes 1423c and 1425c. Node 1423c is the receiver voltage V. R3 The positive marking terminal, and node 1425c is the receiver voltage V. R3The negative-marked terminals. Node 1419c is a point terminal, while 1421c is a non-point terminal of the first communication winding 1420c. Node 1423c is a point terminal, while 1425c is a non-point terminal of the second communication winding 1422c. The first communication winding 1420c is coupled to the second communication winding 1422c such that the voltage from node 1419c to node 1421c has the same polarity as the voltage from node 1423c to node 1425c. However, it should be understood that the first communication winding 1420c can be coupled to the second communication winding 1422b such that the voltage from node 1419c to node 1421c has the opposite polarity to the voltage from node 1423c to node 1425c. Communication link COM5 can be referred to as the third communication link.

[0361] The tapped node on the second communication winding can be used to reduce common-mode noise. Node 1461 is coupled to reference VCC2. A capacitor is located within the control interface 1418. One end of this capacitor is coupled to reference VCC2, and the other end is coupled to reference GND. This capacitor can be used as a blocking capacitor. Reference VCC2 can be the power supply potential for the circuitry used in the control interface 1418. Reference GND refers to the lowest potential used in the control interface 1418.

[0362] As shown, the first communication winding 1420a of communication link COM3 is coupled to the control interface 1418. The second communication winding 1422a of communication link COM3 is coupled to the driver 1410. The first communication winding 1420b of communication link COM4 is coupled to the control interface 1418. The second communication winding 1422b of communication link COM4 is coupled to the driver 1410. The communication direction of communication links COM3 and COM4 is from the control interface to the driver 1410.

[0363] The first communication winding 1420c of communication link COM5 is coupled to driver 1410. The second communication winding 1422c of communication link COM5 is coupled to control interface 1418. The communication direction of communication link COM5 is from driver 1410 to control interface 1418. Thus, the communication between control interface 1418 and driver 1410 is bidirectional. However, it should be understood that this communication can be unidirectional.

[0364] Magnetic component 1424 provides current isolation between the interface side and the driver side of switch controller 1400. Communication links COM3, COM4, ​​and COM5, and power transfer element T2 provide current isolation between the interface side and the driver side of switch controller 1400. The interface side of switch controller 1400 includes control interface 1418. The driver side of switch controller 1400 includes driver 1410. This interface side is sometimes referred to as the primary side, while the driver side is sometimes referred to as the secondary side. Control interface 1418 references reference voltage GND, while driver 1410 references reference voltage VNEG.

[0365] Control interface 1418 is coupled to receive one or more control signals 1417. One or more control signals 1417 may be received from a system controller that determines whether power switch S2 should be turned on or off. One embodiment of control signal 1417 includes a command to turn power switch S2 on or off. Another embodiment includes an adjustment to the delay time used to turn the power switch on or off. It should be understood that switch controller 1400 can receive any number of different types of control signals characterizing how power switch S2 is controlled.

[0366] Control interface 1418 interprets one or more control signals 1417 to drive power switch S2 to turn on or off. Control interface 1418 transmits the interpreted one or more control signals 1417 to driver 1410. Control interface 1418 can transmit information as voltage and / or current signals, and driver 1410 can receive information as voltage and / or current signals.

[0367] Communication links COM3 and COM4 are used by control interface 1418 to transmit information to driver 1410. Control interface 1418 can utilize transmitter current I T1 and transmitter current I T2 To transmit information. Transmitter current I T1 I T2 The properties of the transmitter can be controlled to convey information. These properties can include the transmitter current I. T1 and transmitter current I T2 The amplitude and rate of change. The transmitted signal can be in the form of digital or analog information. In the case of digital information, the transmission can be in the form of binary signals or more complex encoded digital data, as will be known to those skilled in the art. It should be understood that other communication technologies can be used. Other communication technologies can be used that utilize transmitter current I. T1 I T2 The induced receiver voltage V received by the driver 1410 R1 and receiver voltage VR2 and / or induced receiver current I R1 I R2 The information sent from the control interface 1418 to the driver 1410 may include: clock signal frequency, a command to turn on the power switch S2, a command to turn off the power switch S2, or an adjustment time for turning the power switch S2 on or off. However, it should be understood that other information may be conveyed.

[0368] Driver 1410 receives information from control interface 1418 and outputs drive signals to control power switch S2. Furthermore, driver 1410 can output drive signals to control the on and off attributes of power switch S2. These attributes can include how quickly and / or frequently power switch S2 is turned on or off. Driver 1410 turns on the on switch Q1 to turn on power switch S2. When on switch Q1 is on, a reference VPOS is applied to the control terminal of power switch S2. The reference VPOS, referenced to the emitter of power switch S2, is selected such that power switch S2 conducts when reference VPOS is applied to the control terminal of power switch S2. Driver 1410 turns on the off switch S2 to turn off power switch S2. When off switch S2 is on, a reference VNEG is applied to the control terminal of power switch S2. The reference value of VNEG, which is referenced to the emitter of power switch S2, is selected such that power switch S2 does not conduct when reference VNEG is applied to the control terminal of power switch S2.

[0369] Driver 1410 is also coupled to communicate with control interface 1418. Driver 1410 communicates with control interface 1418 via communication link COM5. Driver 1410 can utilize transmitter current I T3 To transmit information. Transmitter current I T3 The properties of the transmitter can be controlled to convey information. These properties can include the transmitter current I. T3 The amplitude and rate of change. The transmitted signal can be in the form of digital or analog information. In the case of digital information, the transmission can be in the form of binary signals or more complex encoded digital data, as will be known to those skilled in the art. It should be understood that other communication technologies can be used. Other communication technologies can be utilized, such as those utilizing transmitter current I. T3 The induced receiver voltage V received by the control interface 1418 R3 and / or induced receiver current I R3 The information sent from driver 1410 to control interface 1418 may include, but is not limited to: fault detection, measured propagation delay, and handshakes between communication link COM5 and communication links COM3 and COM4. However, it should be understood that other information may be conveyed.

[0370] Furthermore, the control interface 1418 and the driver 1410 can use differential communication. Thus, the second communication windings 1422a, 1422b, and 1422c have a differential receiver structure.

[0371] although Figure 14 The switch controller 1400 is illustrated as including a control interface 1418 and a driver 1410. However, it should be understood that the switch controller 1400 may include any number of drivers or interfaces. For example, the control interface 1418 may be coupled to communicate with one or more drivers, wherein each driver controls its own power switch. The driver 1410 may be coupled to communicate with one or more control interfaces.

[0372] Power transfer element T2 and communication links COM3, COM4, ​​and COM5 are included in the same magnetic assembly 1424. Magnetic assembly 1424 includes a multilayer circuit. In one embodiment, a single multilayer circuit board may be used for the multilayer circuit. In another embodiment, two or more multilayer circuit boards may be used for the multilayer circuit. Power transfer element T2 and communication links COM3, COM4, ​​and COM5 may be implemented in the multilayer circuit. The multilayer circuit may include openings to receive the core of power transfer element T2. A first power winding 1404 may be disposed on one or more layers of the multilayer circuit. A second power winding 1406 may be disposed on one or more layers of the multilayer circuit. First communication windings 1420a, 1420b, and 1420c may each be disposed on one or more layers of the multilayer circuit. Second communication windings 1422a, 1422b, and 1422c may each be disposed on one or more layers of the multilayer circuit. The first communication windings 1420a, 1420b, and 1420c overlap their respective second communication windings 1422a, 1422b, and 1422c. Furthermore, the first and second communication windings of each communication link can be disposed on different layers than the first and second communication windings of another communication link.

[0373] Communication links COM3, COM4, ​​and COM5 can be located close to the power transfer element T2. For example, communication links COM3, COM4, ​​and COM5 can be located in the layer of the multilayer circuit above the power transfer element T2. In another embodiment, communication links COM3, COM4, ​​and COM5 can be located in the layer of the multilayer circuit below the power transfer element T2.

[0374] Communication links COM3, COM4, ​​and COM5 can also be provided between the layers of the energy transfer element T2. For example, communication links COM3, COM4, ​​and COM5 can be provided between one or more layers of the first power winding 1404 and one or more layers of the second power winding 1406. If the first power winding 1404 is provided on two or more layers, then communication links COM3, COM4, ​​and COM5 can be provided between the layers of the first power winding 1404. Similarly, if the second power winding 1406 is provided on two or more layers, then communication links COM3, COM4, ​​and COM5 can be provided between the layers of the second power winding 1406. Although three communication links are illustrated in the magnetic assembly 1424, it should be understood that the magnetic assembly may include fewer or more communication links than shown.

[0375] Figure 15 An exploded view of example communication layers 1526a, 1526b, 1526c, 1526d, 1526e, and 1526f along axis G is shown as a portion of a multilayer circuit 1526. Communication layers 1526a, 1526b, 1526c, 1526d, 1526e, and 1526f include communication links COM3, COM4, ​​and COM5. It should be understood that communication layers 1526a, 1526b, 1526c, 1526d, 1526e, and 1526f are... Figure 3 An alternative implementation of communication layers 326b and 326c.

[0376] Figure 15 The communication layers 1526a, 1526b, 1526c, 1526d, 1526e, and 1526f are based on... Figures 2A-2B and Figure 3 Shown from the same perspective, communication layers 1526a, 1526b, 1526c, 1526d, 1526e, and 1526f are positioned along planes in the first lateral direction (x-axis) and the second lateral direction (y-axis). In other words, communication layers 1526a, 1526b, 1526c, 1526d, 1526e, and 1526f each span a plane perpendicular to the first vertical direction (z-axis). Thus, conductive paths or traces disposed on communication layers 1526a, 1526b, 1526c, 1526d, 1526e, and 1526f traverse the planes defined by the first lateral direction (x-axis) and the second lateral direction (y-axis). Axis G is shown as parallel to the first vertical direction (z-axis).

[0377] Interface-side communication layers 1526a, 1526b, and 1526c: Communication layers 1526a, 1526b, and 1526c are located on the interface side of the switch controller 1400. The conductive paths on communication layers 1526a, 1526b, and 1526c correspond to the communication windings of each communication link COM3, COM4, ​​and COM5 on the interface side of the switch controller 1400. In the illustrated embodiment, the conductive paths on communication layers 1526a, 1526b, and 1526c correspond to the first communication winding 1420a, the first communication winding 1420b, and the second communication winding 1422c.

[0378] First communication winding 1520a The first communication winding 1520a is disposed on communication layers 1526a and 1526b. The first communication winding 1520a is... Figure 14 This illustrates one embodiment of the first communication winding 1420a of the communication link COM3. As will be discussed further, the first communication winding 1520a is formed by conductive paths on communication layer 1526a and communication layer 1526b. Openings 234 on communication layers 1526a and 1526b are located outside the turns formed by the first communication winding 1520a. Axis G is located outside the turns formed by the first communication winding 1520a.

[0379] First communication winding 1520b The first communication winding 1520b is disposed on communication layers 1526a and 1526b. Figure 14 This illustrates one embodiment of the first communication winding 1420b of the communication link COM4. As will be discussed further, the first communication winding 1520b is formed by conductive paths on communication layer 1526a and communication layer 1526b. Openings 234 on communication layers 1526a and 1526b are located outside the turns formed by the first communication winding 1520b. Axis G is located outside the turns formed by the first communication winding 1520b.

[0380] When viewed in the first lateral direction (x-axis), communication layers 1526a and 1526b are positioned to the right of opening 234. When viewed in the second lateral direction (y-axis), communication layers 1526a and 1526b are positioned to the right of first communication winding 1520b.

[0381] Second communication winding 1522c The second communication winding 1522c is disposed on communication layers 1526a, 1526b, and 1526c. The second communication winding 1522c is... Figure 14This illustrates one embodiment of the second communication winding 1422c of the communication link COM5. As will be discussed further, the second communication winding 1522c is formed by several conductive paths on communication layer 1526a, several conductive paths on communication layer 1526b, and one conductive path on communication layer 1526c. Each conductive path on communication layers 1526a and 1526b forms one turn of the second communication winding 1522c.

[0382] The opening 234 on communication layers 1526a, 1526b, and 1526c is located outside the turn formed by the second communication winding 1522c. Axis G is located outside the turn formed by the second communication winding 1522c. When viewed in the first lateral direction (x-axis), communication layers 1526a, 1526b, and 1526c are positioned to the left of the opening 234. As shown, the second communication winding 1522c is located on the side of the opening 234 opposite to the first communication windings 1520a and 1520b. However, it should be understood that the first communication windings 1520a and 1520b and the second communication winding 1522c can be located at other positions within communication layers 1526a, 1526b, and 1526c.

[0383] The first communication windings 1520a and 1520b are shown on the same communication layer. A portion of the second communication winding 1522c is shown on the same communication layer as the first communication windings 1520a and 1520b. However, it should be understood that these communication windings may be on different layers, or on a mixture of the same and different layers.

[0384] The second communication winding 1522c is an interleaved winding. For an interleaved winding, the conductive paths forming the interleaved winding are wound in alternating layers of the magnetic components. As will be discussed further, the conductive paths of the turns forming the second communication winding 1522c are alternately arranged between communication layers 1526a and 1526b. For example, the conductive path of the first turn forming the second communication winding may be located on the first communication layer. The next conductive path forming the second turn is located on the second communication layer. Another conductive path forming the third turn is located on the first communication layer, and so on. The second communication winding 1522c can be interleaved to balance capacitive coupling between the windings. In one embodiment, the second communication winding 1522c can be interleaved to balance capacitive coupling between the second communication winding 1522c and its corresponding first communication winding 1520c. Furthermore, for an interleaved winding, capacitive coupling noise may not be converted into a differential signal. The turns of the second communication winding 1522c are substantially symmetrical. Although the embodiments described illustrate that the second communication winding is an interleaved winding, it should be understood that the first communication winding can also be an interleaved winding.

[0385] Driver-side communication layers 1526d, 1526e, 1526f Communication layers 1526d, 1526e, and 1526f are located on the driver side of the switch controller 1400. The conductive paths on communication layers 1526d, 1526e, and 1526f correspond to the communication windings of each communication link COM3, COM4, ​​and COM5 on the driver side of the switch controller 1400. In the illustrated embodiment, the conductive paths on communication layers 1526d, 1526e, and 1526f correspond to the second communication winding 1422a, the second communication winding 1422b, and the first communication winding 1420c.

[0386] Second communication winding 1522a: The second communication winding 1522a is disposed on communication layers 1526d, 1526e, and 1526f. The second communication winding 1522a is... Figure 14 This illustrates one embodiment of the second communication winding 1422a of the communication link COM3. As will be discussed further, the second communication winding 1522a is formed by communication layers 1526d and 1526e, and a conductive path on communication layer 1526f. Openings 234 on communication layers 1526d, 1526e, and 1526f are located outside the turns formed by the second communication winding 1522a. Axis G is located outside the turns formed by the second communication winding 1522a.

[0387] The second communication winding 1522a is an interleaved winding. As will be discussed further, the conductive paths of the turns forming the second communication winding 1522a are alternately arranged between communication layers 1526d and 1526e. The second communication winding 1522a can be interleaved to balance the capacitive coupling between the second communication winding 1522a and its corresponding first communication winding 1520a. Furthermore, the turns of the second communication winding 1522a are generally symmetrical.

[0388] Second communication winding 1522b: The second communication winding 1522b is disposed on communication layers 1526d, 1526e, and 1526f. The second communication winding 1522b is... Figure 14 This illustrates one embodiment of the second communication winding 1422b of the communication link COM4. As will be discussed further, the second communication winding 1522b is formed by several conductive paths on communication layers 1526d and 1526e, and one conductive path on communication layer 1526f. Openings 234 on communication layers 1526d, 1526e, and 1526f are located outside the turns formed by the second communication winding 1522b. Axis G is located outside the turns formed by the second communication winding 1522b.

[0389] The second communication winding 1522b is an interleaved winding. As will be discussed further, the conductive paths of the turns forming the second communication winding 1522b are alternately arranged between communication layers 1526d and 1526e. Furthermore, the turns of the second communication winding 1522b are generally symmetrical. The second communication winding 1522b can be interleaved to balance the capacitive coupling between the second communication winding 1522b and its corresponding first communication winding 1520b.

[0390] When viewed in the first lateral direction (x-axis), communication layers 1526d, 1526e, and 1526f are positioned to the right of opening 234. When viewed in the second lateral direction (y-axis), communication layers 1526d, 1526e, and 1526f are positioned to the right of second communication winding 1522b. First communication winding 1520a substantially overlaps second communication winding 1522a in the first vertical direction (z-axis). First communication winding 1520b substantially overlaps second communication winding 1522b in the first vertical direction (z-axis).

[0391] First communication winding 1520c: The first communication winding 1520c is disposed on communication layers 1526d and 1526e. The first communication winding 1520c is... Figure 14 An embodiment of the first communication winding 1420c of the communication link COM5 shown is illustrated. As will be discussed further, the first communication winding 1520c is formed by conductive paths on communication layer 1526d and communication layer 1526e.

[0392] The opening 234 on communication layers 1526d and 1526e is located outside the turn formed by the first communication winding 1520c. Axis G is located outside the turn formed by the first communication winding 1520c. When viewed towards the first lateral direction (x-axis), the first communication winding 1520c is positioned to the left of the opening 234. The second communication winding 1522c substantially overlaps the first communication winding 1520c in the first vertical direction (z-axis). As shown, the first communication winding 1520c is located on the side of the opening 234 opposite to the second communication windings 1522a and 1522b. However, it should be understood that the second communication windings 1522a and 1522b and the first communication winding 1520c can be located at other positions within communication layers 1526d, 1526e, and 1526f.

[0393] The second communication windings 1522a and 1522b are shown on the same communication layer. The first communication winding 1520c is shown on the same communication layer as portions of the second communication windings 1522a and 1522b. However, it should be understood that these communication windings may be on different layers, or on a mixture of the same and different layers.

[0394] Communication layers 1526a, 1526b, 1526c, 1526d, 1526e, and 1526f are portions 1526 of a multilayer circuit. In one embodiment, communication layers 1526a, 1526b, 1526c, 1526d, 1526e, and 1526f are layers in the same printed multilayer circuit board. In another embodiment, interface-side communication layers (e.g., communication layers 1526a, 1526b, and 1526c) are layers of a first printed multilayer circuit board. Driver-side communication layers (e.g., communication layers 1526d, 1526e, and 1526f) are layers of a second printed multilayer circuit board. The first and second printed multilayer circuit boards can be adhered together to form the multilayer circuit. An insulating layer can be placed between the first and second printed multilayer circuit boards.

[0395] for Figure 16 The communication layers 1526a, 1526b, and 1526c are based on... Figures 5A-5D , Figures 8A-8D , Figures 12A-12D and Figures 13A-13B Viewed from the same perspective. Thin solid lines represent the outline of each layer, and thin dotted lines indicate projection 335.

[0396] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 An exemplary top view of communication layers 1526a, 1526b, and 1526c. Communication layers 1526a and 1526b include portions of first communication windings 1520a and 1520b and a second communication winding 1522c. Communication layer 1526c includes a portion of the second communication winding 1522c. Figure 16 The placement of the first communication winding 1520a, 1520b and the second communication winding 1522c relative to the projection 335 is illustrated.

[0397] First communication winding 1520a: The first communication winding 1520a is disposed within communication layers 1526a and 1526b. For both communication layers 1526a and 1526b, the first communication winding 1520a is generally within projection 335. For both communication layers 1526a and 1526b, the first communication winding 1520a is generally below opening 234 in the second lateral direction (y-axis). For both communication layers 1526a and 1526b, the first communication winding 1520a is disposed to the right of the first communication winding 1520b.

[0398] The solid lines illustrating the first communication winding 1520a on the two communication layers 1526a and 1526b also represent the conductive paths forming the first communication winding 1520a. Circles indicate the ends of the conductive paths, which can be coupled to other layers via vias. On communication layer 1526a, the first communication winding 1520a extends inward in a spiral manner from the outer end to the inner end. On communication layer 1526a, the first communication winding 1520a extends in a clockwise spiral manner from the outer end to the inner end. The portion of the first communication winding 1520a disposed on communication layer 1526a is coupled to the portion of the first communication winding 1520a disposed on communication layer 1526b. As shown, the inner end of the first communication winding 1520a disposed on communication layer 1526a is coupled to the inner end of the first communication winding 1520a disposed on communication layer 1526b. On the communication layer 1526b, the first communication winding 1520a extends outward in a clockwise spiral direction from the inner end to the outer end. It should be understood that the first communication winding 1520a can also extend in a counterclockwise spiral direction.

[0399] The first communication winding 1520a has approximately three turns on communication layer 1526a and three turns on communication layer 1526b. Thus, the first communication winding 1520a has a total of six turns across the two communication layers. However, it should be understood that the first communication winding 1520a can have any number of turns. Furthermore, although the first communication winding 1520a has the same number of turns in each communication layer, it should be understood that the number of turns in each communication layer can be different.

[0400] The turns of the first communication winding 1520a are generally square in shape. The overall shape of the first communication winding 1520a is shown as a square helix. However, it should be understood that the first communication winding 1520a can be formed into other shapes, such as rectangular or circular. The first communication winding 1520a may also include, as described above... Figure 6B - Figure 9 shows and discusses the deflection.

[0401] The conductive path of the first communication winding 1520a on the communication layer 1526a substantially overlaps the conductive path of the first communication winding 1520a on the communication layer 1526b in the first vertical direction (z-axis). Thus, each turn of the first communication winding 1520a on the communication layer 1526a substantially overlaps the corresponding turn of the first communication winding 1520a on the communication layer 1526b.

[0402] First communication winding 1520b: The first communication winding 1520b is disposed within communication layers 1526a and 1526b. For both communication layers 1526a and 1526b, the first communication winding 1520b is generally within projection 335. For both communication layers 1526a and 1526b, the first communication winding 1520b is generally below opening 234 in the second lateral direction (y-axis). For both communication layers 1526a and 1526b, the first communication winding 1520b is disposed to the left of the first communication winding 1520a.

[0403] The solid lines illustrating the first communication winding 1520b on the two communication layers 1526a and 1526b also represent the conductive paths forming the first communication winding 1520b. Circles indicate the ends of the conductive paths, which can be coupled to other layers via vias. On communication layer 1526a, the first communication winding 1520b extends inward in a spiral manner from the outer end to the inner end. On communication layer 1526a, the first communication winding 1520b extends inward in a clockwise spiral direction from the outer end to the inner end. The portion of the first communication winding 1520b disposed on communication layer 1526b is coupled to the portion of the first communication winding 1520b disposed on communication layer 1526b. As shown, the inner end of the first communication winding 1520b disposed on communication layer 1526a is coupled to the inner end of the first communication winding 1520b disposed on communication layer 1526b. On the communication layer 1526b, the first communication winding 1520b extends outward in a clockwise spiral direction from the inner end to the outer end. It should be understood that the first communication winding 1520b can also extend in a counterclockwise spiral direction.

[0404] The first communication winding 1520b has approximately three turns on communication layer 1526a and three turns on communication layer 1526b. Thus, the first communication winding 1520b has a total of six turns across the two communication layers. However, it should be understood that the first communication winding 1520b can have any number of turns. Furthermore, although the first communication winding 1520b has the same number of turns in each communication layer, it should be understood that the number of turns in each communication layer can be different.

[0405] The turns of the first communication winding 1520b are generally square in shape. The overall shape of the first communication winding 1520b is shown as a square helix. However, it should be understood that the first communication winding 1520b can be formed into other shapes, such as rectangular or circular. The first communication winding 1520b may also include, as described above... Figure 6B - Figure 9 shows and discusses the deflection.

[0406] The conductive path of the first communication winding 1520b on the communication layer 1526a substantially overlaps the conductive path of the first communication winding 1520b on the communication layer 1526b in the first vertical direction (z-axis). Thus, each turn of the first communication winding 1520b on the communication layer 1526a substantially overlaps the corresponding turn of the first communication winding 1520b on the communication layer 1526b.

[0407] Second communication winding 1522c: The second communication winding 1522c is disposed within communication layers 1526a, 1526b, and 1526c. For communication layers 1526a, 1526b, and 1526c, the second communication winding 1522c is generally within projection 335. For communication layers 1526a, 1526b, and 1526c, the second communication winding 1522c is generally within projection 335 and above opening 234 in the second lateral direction (y-axis).

[0408] The solid lines illustrating the second communication winding 1522c on communication layers 1526a, 1526b, and 1526c also represent the conductive paths forming the second communication winding 1522c. Circles indicate the ends of the conductive paths, which can be coupled to other layers via vias.

[0409] The conductive paths forming the second communication winding 1522c are interleaved between communication layers 1526a and 1526b. An outer conductive path is a conductive path that generally surrounds another conductive path. An inner conductive path is a conductive path that is generally surrounded by another conductive path. On communication layer 1526b, the outer conductive path of the second communication winding 1522c is wound clockwise. The outer conductive path of the second communication winding 1522c on communication layer 1526b is coupled to the inner conductive path on communication layer 1526a. On communication layer 1526a, the inner conductive path of the second communication winding 1522c is wound clockwise. The inner conductive path of the second communication winding 1522c on communication layer 1526a is coupled to the conductive path of the second communication winding 1522c on communication layer 1526c. The conductive path of the second communication winding 1522c on communication layer 1526c is coupled to the outer conductive path of the second communication winding 1522c on communication layer 1526a. The outer conductive path of the second communication winding 1522c on communication layer 1526a is wound in a clockwise direction. The outer conductive path of the second communication winding 1522c on communication layer 1526a is coupled to the inner conductive path of the second communication winding 1522c on communication layer 1526b. On communication layer 1526b, the inner conductive path of the second communication winding 1522c is wound in a clockwise direction. It should be understood that the second communication winding 1522c can be wound in a counterclockwise direction.

[0410] The second communication winding 1522c has approximately two turns on communication layer 1526a and two turns on communication layer 1526b. Thus, the second communication winding 1522c has a total of four turns across the three communication layers. However, it should be understood that the second communication winding 1522c can have any number of turns. Furthermore, although the second communication winding 1522c has the same number of turns in each communication layer, it should be understood that the number of turns in each communication layer can be different.

[0411] The turns of the second communication winding 1522c are generally square in shape. The overall shape of the second communication winding 1522c is shown as square. However, it should be understood that the second communication winding 1522c can be formed into other shapes, such as rectangular or circular. The second communication winding 1522c may also include, as described above... Figure 6B - Figure 9 shows and discusses the deflection.

[0412] The conductive path of the second communication winding 1522c on the communication layer 1526a substantially overlaps the conductive path of the second communication winding 1522c on the communication layer 1526b in the first vertical direction (z-axis). Thus, each turn of the second communication winding 1522c on the communication layer 1526a substantially overlaps the corresponding turn of the second communication winding 1522c on the communication layer 1526b. For the illustrated embodiment, the outer conductive path on the communication layer 1526a substantially overlaps the outer conductive path on the communication layer 1526b. Similarly, the inner conductive path on the communication layer 1526a substantially overlaps the inner conductive path on the communication layer 1526b.

[0413] The first communication windings 1520a and 1520b and the second communication winding 1522c are shown wound in a clockwise direction. However, it should be understood that these windings may be wound in a counterclockwise direction. Furthermore, these windings do not necessarily all need to be wound in the same direction. For example, the first communication winding 1520a may be wound clockwise, while the first communication winding 1520b and the second communication winding 1522c may be wound counterclockwise.

[0414] exist Figure 17 In the middle, communication layers 1526a, 1526b, and 1526c are Figure 16 The diagram shows an enlarged view of the layers. Communication layers 1526a, 1526b, and 1526c are viewed in a plane defined by a first lateral direction (x-axis) and a second lateral direction (y-axis). The first lateral direction (x-axis) is shown traversing the page from left to right, while the second lateral direction (y-axis) is shown traversing the page from bottom to top. The first vertical direction (z-axis) points out of the page.

[0415] also, Figure 17 An example coupling is used to illustrate the conductive paths of the first communication winding 1520a, the first communication winding 1520b, and the second communication winding 1522c. In Figure 17 In the diagram, solid lines represent conductive paths. Circles, triangles, and squares represent the ends of conductive paths. In some cases, one end is coupled to another end on another communication layer via an interconnect (such as a via). A square represents a downward coupling to the next layer in the first vertical direction (z-axis). A triangle represents an upward coupling to the next layer in the first vertical direction (z-axis). A hashed circle (1777c) is an end that does not traverse its corresponding layer. It should be understood that hashed circles can be coupled to ends in other communication layers via interconnects.

[0416] For the purposes of this disclosure, the winding direction is determined by the direction in which the winding travels through its respective layers from the positive marked terminal to the negative marked terminal, such as... Figure 14This is shown and viewed from the perspective of the page. However, it should be understood that different conventions can be used. For example, the direction of the winding can also be determined by the direction in which the winding travels through its respective layers from the negative mark terminal to the positive mark terminal. In another embodiment, the direction of the winding can be from the inner end of the winding to the outer end, and vice versa.

[0417] First communication winding 1520a: The first communication winding 1520a includes a conductive path 1762 and a conductive path 1764. Conductive path 1762 is disposed on the communication layer 1526a. Conductive path 1764 is disposed on the communication layer 1526b. Conductive path 1762 includes terminals 1719a and 1763a. Conductive path 1764 includes terminals 1763b and 1721a. Terminal 1719a corresponds to... Figure 14 The electrical node 1419a of the first communication winding 1420a of the communication link COM3 shown is corresponding to terminal 1721a. Figure 14 The electrical node 1421a of the first communication winding 1420a of the communication link COM3 shown is shown. Terminal 1719a is the transmitter voltage V. T1 The positive marking terminal, and terminal 1721a is the transmitter voltage V. T1 The negative marking terminal.

[0418] In the illustrated embodiment of the first communication winding 1520a, communication layer 1526a may be referred to as the first communication layer, and communication layer 1526b may be referred to as the third communication layer. Any one of communication layers 1526d, 1526e, or 1526f may be referred to as the second communication layer. Furthermore, conductive path 1762 may be referred to as the first conductive path, and conductive path 1764 may be referred to as the third conductive path.

[0419] On communication layer 1526a, starting at end 1719a, conductive path 1762 extends inwardly spirally from end 1719a to end 1763a. End 1719a is the outer end, and end 1763a is the inner end. From end 1719a, conductive path 1762 extends inwardly spirally in a clockwise direction to end 1763a. Each turn of conductive path 1762 is generally square in shape. As shown, conductive path 1762 forms three turns of the first communication winding 1520a on communication layer 1526a.

[0420] End 1763a is shown as a square, indicating that the first communication winding 1520a continues downward (e.g., inward) along a first vertical direction (z-axis) to communication layer 1526b. Conductive path 1762 is coupled to conductive path 1764. As shown, end 1763a of conductive path 1762 is coupled to end 1763b of conductive path 1764. Ends 1763a and 1763b can be coupled via an interconnect. Interconnects are commonly referred to as vias. Embodiments of interconnects include plated through-holes or micro-vias. The interconnect travels along the first vertical direction (z-axis) between communication layers 1526a and 1526b.

[0421] On communication layer 1526b, conductive path 1764 extends outward in a spiral manner from end 1763b toward end 1721a. End 1763b is the inner end, and end 1721a is the outer end. Conductive path 1764 extends outward in a clockwise spiral direction from end 1763b to end 1721a. Each turn of conductive path 1764 is generally square in shape. As shown, conductive path 1764 forms three turns of the first communication winding 1520a on communication layer 1526b. In total, the first communication winding 1520a is shown as having six turns.

[0422] First communication winding 1520b: The first communication winding 1520b includes a conductive path 1765 and a conductive path 1767. Conductive path 1765 is disposed on the communication layer 1526a. Conductive path 1767 is disposed on the communication layer 1526b. Conductive path 1765 includes a terminal 1719b and a terminal 1766a. Conductive path 1767 includes a terminal 1766b and a terminal 1721b. Terminal 1719b corresponds to... Figure 14 The electrical node 1419b of the first communication winding 1420b of the communication link COM4 shown is corresponding to terminal 1721b. Figure 14 The electrical node 1421b of the first communication winding 1420b of the communication link COM4 shown is 1421b. Terminal 1719b is the transmitter voltage V. T2 The positive marking terminal, and terminal 1721b is the transmitter voltage V. T2 The negative marking terminal.

[0423] In the illustrated embodiment of the first communication winding 1520b, communication layer 1526a may be referred to as the first communication layer, and communication layer 1526b may be referred to as the third communication layer. Any one of communication layers 1526d, 1526e, or 1526f may be referred to as the second communication layer. Furthermore, conductive path 1765 may be referred to as the first conductive path, and conductive path 1767 may be referred to as the third conductive path.

[0424] Starting at end 1719b on communication layer 1526a, conductive path 1765 extends inwardly spirally from end 1719b to end 1766a. End 1719b is the outer end, and end 1766a is the inner end. From end 1719b, conductive path 1765 extends inwardly spirally in a clockwise direction to end 1766a. Each turn of conductive path 1765 is generally square in shape. As shown, conductive path 1765 forms three turns of the first communication winding 1520b on communication layer 1526a.

[0425] End 1766a is shown as a square, indicating that the first communication winding 1520b continues downward (e.g., inward) along a first vertical direction (z-axis) to the communication layer 1526b. Conductive path 1765 is coupled to conductive path 1767. As shown, end 1766a of conductive path 1765 is coupled to end 1766b of conductive path 1767. Ends 1766a and 1766b can be coupled via an interconnect. Interconnects are commonly referred to as vias. Embodiments of interconnects include plated through-holes or micro-vias. The interconnect travels along the first vertical direction (z-axis) between communication layers 1526a and 1526b.

[0426] On communication layer 1526b, conductive path 1767 extends outward in a spiral manner from end 1766b toward end 1721b. End 1766b is the inner end, and end 1721b is the outer end. Conductive path 1767 extends outward in a clockwise spiral direction from end 1766b to end 1721b. Each turn of conductive path 1767 is generally square in shape. As shown, conductive path 1767 forms three turns of the first communication winding 1520b on communication layer 1526b. In total, the first communication winding 1520b is shown as having six turns.

[0427] Second communication winding 1522c: The second communication winding 1522c includes conductive paths 1768, 1770, 1772, 1774, and 1776. Conductive paths 1768 and 1776 are disposed on the communication layer 1526b. Conductive path 1768 includes end 1723c and end 1769b. End 1723c corresponds to... Figure 14 The electrical node 1423c of the second communication winding 1422c of the communication link COM5 shown is shown. Terminal 1723c corresponds to the receiver voltage V. R3 The positively marked terminal. Conductive path 1776 includes terminal 1775b and terminal 1777b. As will be discussed further, terminal 1777b corresponds to... Figure 14 The electrical node 1425c of the second communication winding 1422c of the communication link COM5 shown is shown. Terminal 1777b corresponds to the receiver voltage V. R3 The negative marking terminal.

[0428] Conductive paths 1770 and 1774 are disposed on communication layer 1526a. Conductive path 1770 includes terminals 1769a and 1771a. Conductive path 1774 includes terminals 1773a and 1775a.

[0429] A conductive path 1772 is disposed on the communication layer 1526c. The conductive path 1772 includes ends 1771c and 1773c. Furthermore, a portion of the conductive path 1772 forms a tap for the second communication winding 1522c. As shown, the conductive path 1772 is coupled to end 1761. End 1761 corresponds to... Figure 14 Electrical node 1461 of the second communication winding 1422c of the communication link COM5 shown.

[0430] Conductive path 1778 is disposed on communication layer 1526a. Conductive path 1778 includes end 1777a and end 1725c. End 1725c corresponds to Figure 14 The electrical node 1425c of the second communication winding 1422c of the communication link COM5 shown is shown. Terminal 1725c corresponds to the receiver voltage V. R3 The negative terminal. Terminal 1777b is coupled to terminal 1777a of conductive path 1776. Thus, terminals 1777a, 1777b, and 1725c correspond to Figure 14 Electrical node 1425c is shown. Terminals 1777a, 1777b, and 1725c correspond to the receiver voltage V. R3 The negative-marked terminal. The conductive path 1778 runs through the communication layer 1526a toward the edge of the communication layer 1526a. Additional terminals and conductive paths 1778 can be utilized so that the second communication winding 1522c can terminate at a desired location on the communication layer 1526a or any other layer.

[0431] In the illustrated embodiment, communication layer 1526b can be referred to as the second communication layer, communication layer 1526a as the third communication layer, and communication layer 1526c as the fourth communication layer. Either communication layer 1526d or 1526e can be referred to as the first communication layer. Conductive path 1768 can be referred to as the second conductive path, conductive path 1770 as the third conductive path, conductive path 1772 as the fourth conductive path, conductive path 1774 as the fifth conductive path, and conductive path 1776 as the sixth conductive path.

[0432] The second communication winding 1522c is an interleaved winding. As will be discussed, the conductive paths forming the second communication winding 1522c are wound on alternating communication layers. An outer conductive path refers to a conductive path that substantially surrounds another conductive path. An inner conductive path refers to a conductive path that is substantially surrounded by another conductive path.

[0433] Starting at end 1723c on communication layer 1526b, conductive path 1768 extends from end 1723c through communication layer 1526b and winds clockwise toward end 1769b. Conductive path 1768 is an outer conductive path and generally surrounds conductive path 1776. Conductive path 1768 generally forms a square with an additional tail that extends to the edge of communication layer 1526b. The square portion of conductive path 1768 generally surrounds conductive path 1776. Conductive path 1768 forms one turn of the second communication winding 1522c.

[0434] End 1769b is shown as a triangle, indicating that the second communication winding 1522c continues upward (e.g., outward) to the next communication layer 1526a. Conductive path 1768 is coupled to conductive path 1770 on communication layer 1526a. End 1769b is coupled to end 1769a. Ends 1769b and 1769a are coupled via an interconnect that runs along a first vertical direction (z-axis) between communication layers 1526b and 1526a.

[0435] On communication layer 1526a, conductive path 1770 is wound clockwise from end 1769a to end 1771a. Conductive path 1770 is an inner conductive path and is generally inside conductive path 1774. Conductive path 1770 is generally square. Conductive path 1770 forms one turn of the second communication winding 1522c.

[0436] Conductive path 1770 is coupled to conductive path 1772. End 1771a of conductive path 1770 is shown as a square, indicating that the second communication winding 1522c continues downward (inward) to the next communication layer 1526b. End 1771a is coupled to end 1771b on communication layer 1526b. Ends 1771a and 1771b are coupled by an interconnect that passes between communication layers 1526a and 1526b. End 1771b is further shown as a square, indicating that the second communication winding 1522c continues downward (inward) to the next communication layer 1526c. End 1771b is coupled to end 1771c on communication layer 1526c. Ends 1771b and 1771c are coupled by an interconnect that passes between communication layers 1526b and 1526c.

[0437] On communication layer 1526c, conductive path 1772 runs diagonally from end 1771c to end 1773c. Conductive path 1772 is coupled to conductive path 1774 on communication layer 1526a. End 1773c is shown as a triangle, indicating that the second communication winding 1522c continues upward (outside the page) to the next communication layer 1526b. End 1773c is coupled to end 1773b on communication layer 1526b. Ends 1773c and 1773b are coupled by an interconnect that runs between communication layers 1526c and 1526b. End 1773b is also shown as a triangle, indicating that the second communication winding 1522c continues upward (outside the page) to the next communication layer 1526a. End 1773b is coupled to end 1773a on communication layer 1526a. Terminals 1773b and 1773a are coupled by an interconnect that runs between communication layer 1526b and communication layer 1526a.

[0438] Returning to communication layer 1526a, conductive path 1774 is wound clockwise from end 1773a to end 1775a. Conductive path 1774 is an external conductive path and is generally outside of conductive path 1770. Conductive path 1774 is generally square. Conductive path 1774 forms one turn of the second communication winding 1522c.

[0439] Terminal 1775a is shown as a square, indicating that the second communication winding 1522c continues downward (inward) to the next communication layer 1526b. Conductive path 1774 is coupled to conductive path 1776. Terminal 1775a is coupled to terminal 1775b on communication layer 1526b. Terminals 1775a and 1775b are coupled by an interconnect that runs between communication layers 1526a and 1526b.

[0440] Returning to communication layer 1526b, conductive path 1776 is wound clockwise from end 1775b to end 1777b. Conductive path 1776 is an inner conductive path and is generally inside conductive path 1768. Conductive path 1776 is generally square. Conductive path 1776 forms one turn of the second communication winding 1522c. As shown, there are two turns on communication layer 1526a and two turns on communication layer 1526b. Thus, the second communication winding 1522c is shown as having four turns.

[0441] End 1777b is shown as a triangle, indicating that the second communication winding 1522c continues upward (outside the page) to the next communication layer 1526a. As discussed above, conductive path 1776 is coupled to conductive path 1778. End 1777b is coupled to end 1776a on communication layer 1526a. Ends 1777b and 1777a are coupled by an interconnect that runs between communication layers 1526b and 1526a. Conductive path 1778 runs through communication layer 1526a toward the edge of communication layer 1526a. Additional ends and conductive paths 1778 can be used to allow the second communication winding 1522c to terminate at a desired location on communication layer 1526a. It should be understood that ends and conductive paths can be added or removed to allow the second communication winding 1522c to terminate on another communication layer. Conductive path 1778 can also be positioned to increase noise immunity and reduce capacitive coupling.

[0442] As discussed, the coupling direction is shown to begin at end 1723c and end at end 1725c. It should be understood that the description of the coupling direction can also begin at end 1725c and end at end 1723c.

[0443] Conductive path 1774 substantially overlaps the square portion of conductive path 1768. Conductive path 1770 substantially overlaps conductive path 1776. Terminal 1769a substantially overlaps terminal 1769b. Terminal 1771a substantially overlaps terminals 1771b and 1771c. Terminal 1773a substantially overlaps terminals 1773b and 1773c. Terminal 1775a substantially overlaps terminal 1775b. Terminal 1777a substantially overlaps terminal 1777b.

[0444] As mentioned above, the second communication winding 1522c is a receiver winding and can utilize a differential receiver structure. Thus, the noise experienced by the receiver windings (e.g., the second communication windings 1522a, 1522b, and 1522c) may be common-mode noise. This common-mode noise can be magnetic or electrical. Example magnetic noise could originate from power windings 1404 and 1406. Electrical noise could include noise caused by voltage variations (dv / dt) on the driver side of the power windings and the switching controller. Noise could also originate from outside the system controller. An interleaved structure can balance parasitic coupling capacitance between the windings. In one embodiment, an interleaved structure can balance the parasitic coupling capacitance between the second communication winding 1522c and its corresponding first communication winding 1520c. Interleaved windings in multilayer circuits may be difficult to implement due to the physical dimensions of the interconnects.

[0445] for Figure 18 The communication layers 1526d, 1526e, and 1526f are based on... Figures 5A-5D, Figures 8A-8D , Figures 12A-12D , Figures 13A-13B and Figure 16 Viewed from the same perspective. Thin solid lines represent the outline of each layer, and thin dotted lines represent the projection 335.

[0446] Figure 18 yes Figure 15 An exemplary top view of communication layers 1526d, 1526e, and 1526f. Communication layers 1526d and 1526e include portions of a first communication winding 1520c and second communication windings 1522a and 1522b. Communication layer 1526f includes portions of the second communication windings 1522a and 1522b. Figure 18 The placement of the second communication winding 1522a, 1522b and the first communication winding 1520c relative to the projection 335 is illustrated.

[0447] First communication winding 1520c: The first communication winding 1520c is disposed in communication layers 1526d and 1526e. For both communication layers 1526d and 1526e, the first communication winding 1520c is generally within the projection 335. For both communication layers 1526d and 1526e, the first communication winding 1520c is generally within the projection 335 and above the opening 234 in the second lateral direction (y-axis).

[0448] The solid lines illustrating the first communication winding 1520c on the two communication layers 1526d and 1526e also represent the conductive paths forming the first communication winding 1520c. Circles indicate the ends of the conductive paths, which can be coupled to other layers via interconnects. On communication layer 1526d, the first communication winding 1520c extends inward in a spiral manner from the outer end to the inner end. On communication layer 1526d, the first communication winding 1520c extends inward in a clockwise spiral direction from the outer end to the inner end. The portion of the first communication winding 1520c disposed on communication layer 1526d is coupled to the portion of the first communication winding 1520c disposed on communication layer 1526e. As shown, the inner end of the first communication winding 1520c disposed on communication layer 1526d is coupled to the inner...

Claims

1. A multilayer circuit for a magnetic component, comprising: An opening configured to receive the core of the magnetic component; A first power layer, the first power layer including at least a portion of a first power winding, wherein the portion of the first power winding spans a winding region, and the opening is located inside the portion of the first power winding; A second power layer, the second power layer including at least a portion of a second power winding, the portion of the second power winding being magnetically coupled to the portion of the first power winding, wherein the opening is located inside the portion of the second power winding; A first communication layer, comprising a first conductive path generally disposed within the projection of the winding region, wherein the opening is located outside the first conductive path; and A second communication layer is disposed close to the first communication layer and includes a second conductive path, the second conductive path being generally arranged within the projection of the winding region, wherein the opening is located outside the second conductive path, and the first conductive path and the second conductive path are magnetically coupled to provide a communication link.

2. The multilayer circuit according to claim 1, wherein: The portions of the first power winding and the second power winding are configured to be magnetically coupled, such that the core enhances the magnetic coupling; and The first conductive path and the second conductive path are configured to be magnetically coupled substantially independently of the core.

3. The multilayer circuit according to claim 1, wherein, The portion of the first power winding is the input winding of the energy transfer element, and the portion of the second power winding is the output winding of the energy transfer element.

4. The multilayer circuit according to claim 1, wherein: The opening is located inside the first turn formed by the portion of the first power winding; The opening is located inside the second turn formed by the portion of the second power winding; and The first conductive path and the second conductive path do not surround the opening.

5. The multilayer circuit according to claim 1, wherein, The first conductive path and the second conductive path substantially overlap each other.

6. The multilayer circuit according to claim 1, wherein, The first conductive path and the second conductive path are generally arranged in the first core window.

7. The multilayer circuit according to claim 1, wherein, The second conductive path is coupled relative to the second power winding such that the voltage from the non-point end to the point end of the second conductive path has the opposite polarity to the voltage from the point end to the non-point end of the second power winding.

8. The multilayer circuit according to claim 1, wherein, The first conductive path includes: A first partial loop, wherein the first partial loop is disposed on one side of the reference line; and The second partial loop is located on the opposite side of the reference line.

9. The multilayer circuit according to claim 8, wherein, The first area enclosed by the first local loop and the reference line is approximately equal to the second area enclosed by the second local loop and the reference line.

10. The multilayer circuit according to claim 8, wherein, The voltage induced in the first partial loop on one side of the reference line is substantially canceled out by the voltage induced in the second partial loop on the opposite side of the reference line.

11. The multilayer circuit according to claim 8, wherein, The reference line is generally located midway between the inner and outer conductors of the portion of the first power winding.

12. The multilayer circuit according to claim 8, wherein, The first local ring includes at least one deflection.

13. The multilayer circuit according to claim 1, wherein the second communication layer further comprises: A third conductive path is wound in the opposite direction to the second conductive path to form a first reinforcing winding.

14. The multilayer circuit according to claim 13, wherein, The second conductive path and the third conductive path form the first trace.

15. The multilayer circuit according to claim 13, wherein, The second communication winding is generally arranged within the first core window, and the first reinforcing winding is generally arranged within the second core window.

16. The multilayer circuit according to claim 13, wherein the first communication layer further comprises: A fourth conductive path is wound in the opposite direction to the first conductive path to form a second reinforcing winding, wherein the third conductive path and the fourth conductive path substantially overlap each other.

17. The multilayer circuit according to claim 16, wherein, The first conductive path and the fourth conductive path form the second trace.

18. The multilayer circuit according to claim 16, wherein, The first communication winding is generally arranged within the first core window, and the second reinforcing winding is generally arranged within the second core window.

19. The multilayer circuit according to claim 1, wherein: The first communication layer further includes: A third conductive path, which is generally arranged within the projection of the winding region, is used to form a third communication winding; and The second communication layer also includes: A fourth conductive path, generally arranged within the projection of the winding region, is used to form a fourth communication winding, wherein the third conductive path and the fourth conductive path are magnetically coupled to provide a second communication link.

20. The multilayer circuit according to claim 19, wherein, The third conductive path and the fourth conductive path substantially overlap each other.

21. The multilayer circuit according to claim 1, further comprising: A third communication layer, comprising a third conductive path generally disposed within the projection of the winding region, wherein the third conductive path is coupled to the first conductive path to form the first communication winding.

22. The multilayer circuit according to claim 21, wherein, The first conductive path and the third conductive path substantially overlap each other.

23. The multilayer circuit according to claim 1, further comprising: A third communication layer, the third communication layer including a third conductive path, the third conductive path being generally arranged within the projection of the winding region, and the second conductive path being coupled to the third conductive path; as well as A fourth communication layer, comprising a fourth conductive path generally disposed within the projection of the winding region, wherein the third conductive path is coupled to the fourth conductive path, wherein... The third communication layer further includes a fifth conductive path, which is generally arranged within the projection of the winding region, and the fourth conductive path is coupled to the fifth conductive path; and The second communication layer further includes a sixth conductive path, which is generally arranged within the projection of the winding region, and the fifth conductive path is coupled to the sixth conductive path.

24. The multilayer circuit according to claim 23, wherein: The second conductive path substantially overlaps the fifth conductive path; and The third conductive path substantially overlaps the sixth conductive path.

25. The multilayer circuit according to claim 23, wherein: The second conductive path generally surrounds the sixth conductive path; and The fifth conductive path generally surrounds the third conductive path.

26. The multilayer circuit according to claim 1, wherein, The core comprises a material with relatively high magnetic permeability.

27. A planar energy transfer element, comprising: magnetic core; Multilayer circuits, including: An opening configured to receive the magnetic core; A first power winding, wherein the first power winding spans a winding region, and the opening is located inside the first power winding; A second power winding, magnetically coupled to the first power winding, and the opening located inside the second power winding; and A first communication link, which is generally arranged within the projection of the winding region of the first power winding, wherein the first communication link includes: A first communication winding, generally arranged within the projection of the winding region, wherein the opening is located outside the first communication winding; and A second communication winding is generally arranged within the projection of the winding region, wherein the first communication winding and the second communication winding are magnetically coupled, and the opening is located outside the second communication winding.

28. The planar energy transfer element according to claim 27, wherein, The first power winding and the second power winding are magnetically coupled, such that the magnetic core enhances the magnetic coupling, and the first communication winding and the second communication winding are magnetically coupled substantially independently of the magnetic core.

29. The planar energy transfer element according to claim 27, wherein, The first power winding is the input winding of the planar energy transfer element, and the second power winding is the output winding of the planar energy transfer element.

30. The planar energy transfer element according to claim 27, wherein: The opening is located inside the first turn formed by the first power winding; The opening is located inside the second turn formed by the second power winding; and The first communication winding and the second communication winding do not surround the opening.

31. The planar energy transfer element according to claim 27, wherein, The first communication winding and the second communication winding substantially overlap each other.

32. The planar energy transfer element according to claim 27, wherein, The first communication winding and the second communication winding are generally arranged in the first core window.

33. The planar energy transfer element according to claim 27, wherein, The second communication winding is coupled relative to the second power winding such that the voltage from the non-point end to the point end of the second communication winding has the opposite polarity to the voltage from the point end to the non-point end of the second power winding.

34. The planar energy transfer element according to claim 27, wherein, The first communication winding includes a plurality of partial loops, wherein a first partial loop is located on one side of the reference line and a second partial loop is located on the opposite side of the reference line.

35. The planar energy transfer element according to claim 34, wherein, The first area enclosed by the first partial ring and the reference line is approximately equal to the second area enclosed by the second partial ring and the reference line.

36. The planar energy transfer element according to claim 34, wherein, The voltage induced in the first partial loop on one side of the reference line is substantially canceled out by the voltage induced in the second partial loop on the opposite side of the reference line.

37. The planar energy transfer element according to claim 34, wherein, The reference line is generally located midway between the inner and outer conductors of the first power winding.

38. The planar energy transfer element according to claim 27, further comprising: A first reinforcing winding is coupled to the second communication winding, wherein the first reinforcing winding is wound in the opposite direction to the second communication winding.

39. The planar energy transfer element according to claim 38, wherein, The second communication winding is generally arranged within the first core window, and the first reinforcing winding is generally arranged within the second core window.

40. The planar energy transfer element according to claim 38, further comprising: A second reinforcing winding is coupled to the first communication winding, wherein the second reinforcing winding is wound in the opposite direction to the first communication winding, and the second reinforcing winding and the first reinforcing winding substantially overlap each other.

41. The planar energy transfer element according to claim 40, wherein, The first communication winding is generally arranged in the first core window, and the second reinforcing winding is generally arranged in the second core window.

42. The planar energy transfer element according to claim 27, further comprising: A second communication link, which is generally arranged within the projection of the winding region of the first power winding, wherein the second communication link includes: A third communication winding, generally arranged within the projection of the winding region, wherein the opening is located outside the third communication winding; and A fourth communication winding is generally arranged within the projection of the winding region, wherein the third communication winding and the fourth communication winding are magnetically coupled, and the opening is located outside the fourth communication winding.

43. The planar energy transfer element according to claim 27, wherein, The second communication winding is disposed on at least two layers of the multilayer circuit board, and the turns of the second communication winding are generally symmetrical and staggered between the at least two layers of the multilayer circuit board.

44. The planar energy transfer element according to claim 27, wherein: The first communication winding includes a first conductive path disposed on the first layer of the multilayer circuit; and The second communication winding includes a second conductive path disposed on the second layer of the multilayer circuit.

45. The planar energy transfer element according to claim 44, wherein, The first communication winding also includes: A third conductive path is disposed on the third layer of the multilayer circuit, wherein the first conductive path is coupled to the third conductive path.

46. ​​The planar energy transfer element according to claim 45, wherein, The first conductive path and the third conductive path substantially overlap each other.

47. The planar energy transfer element according to claim 44, wherein, The second communication winding also includes: A third conductive path is disposed on the third layer of the multilayer circuit and coupled to the second conductive path; A fourth conductive path is disposed on the fourth layer of the multilayer circuit and coupled to the third conductive path; A fifth conductive path, wherein the fifth conductive path is disposed on the third layer and coupled to the fourth conductive path; and A sixth conductive path is disposed on the second layer and coupled to the fifth conductive path.

48. The planar energy transfer element according to claim 47, wherein: The second conductive path substantially overlaps the fifth conductive path; and The third conductive path substantially overlaps the sixth conductive path.

49. The planar energy transfer element according to claim 47, wherein: The second conductive path generally surrounds the sixth conductive path; and The fifth conductive path generally surrounds the third conductive path.

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