Magnetic element, on-vehicle charger using the same, and mobile battery

Abstract

To provide a magnetic element which is available as a non-contact connector while suppressing a size or cost by reducing the number of components.SOLUTION: A magnetic element 100 comprises: a first magnetic component 102 including two or more coils 12 (12a, 12b); and a second magnetic component 104 which is paired with the first magnetic component 102 and separated from the first magnetic component 102. Two magnetic flux paths are switched by inverting magnetic flux generated from at least one of the coils 12 (12a, 12b), thereby switching between a non-contact connector mode in which the first magnetic component 102 and the second magnetic component 104 are magnetically coupled and operated as a non-contact connector which performs power transmission with no electrical contact in one magnetic flux path and a single body mode in which the first magnetic component 102 is operated as a single body in the other magnetic flux path.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a magnetic element and an on-board charger and a mobile battery using the same. [Background technology]

[0002] A transformer-reactor integrated magnetic element and a power conversion circuit system using the same have been disclosed, which not only reduces the dead space between magnetic elements and the heat sink size, but also enables a further reduction in the number of components and shortening of the winding length (Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2017-60285 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the above conventional technology, a transformer function and an inductor function are realized in one magnetic component, but the use of the core divided for a contactless connector is not taken into consideration. If the core is divided to apply this technology to a contactless connector, the function when operating alone is lost, so this technology cannot be applied to a contactless connector. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] One aspect of the present invention is a magnetic element comprising a first magnetic component having two or more windings, and a second magnetic component that is paired with the first magnetic component and separated from the first magnetic component, wherein the magnetic element is capable of switching between two magnetic flux paths by reversing the magnetic flux generated from at least one of the windings, between a contactless connector mode in which the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component are magnetically coupled to operate as a contactless connector that transmits power without electrical contact, on one of the magnetic flux paths, and a standalone mode in which the first magnetic component operates as a standalone component, on the other magnetic flux path.

[0006] Here, it is preferable that the first magnetic component has four teeth having one end connected to a common magnetic core, a common first winding is wound around two of the four teeth, the first tooth and the fourth tooth, and a common second winding is wound around the remaining two, the second tooth and the third tooth, and that the first tooth is magnetically coupled to the second tooth with a magnetic gap narrower than that between the third tooth and the fourth tooth, and that the third tooth is magnetically coupled to the fourth tooth with a magnetic gap narrower than that between the first tooth and the second tooth, and that in the standalone mode, the first magnetic component operates as a standalone unit by allowing magnetic flux to pass through the magnetic gap.

[0007] In addition, in the standalone mode, the first magnetic component preferably operates as an inductor.

[0008] Preferably, the first magnetic component further includes a secondary winding, and in the standalone mode, the first magnetic component operates as a transformer. Here, it is preferable that the first magnetic component includes a secondary winding that is magnetically coupled to the winding to function as a transformer.

[0009] Another aspect of the present invention is a power converter for an on-board charger having the above-mentioned magnetic element, characterized in that in the standalone mode, it functions as an on-board charger, and in the contactless connector mode, it functions as a contactless connector circuit on the vehicle side.

[0010] Another aspect of the present invention is a mobile battery comprising the above-described magnetic element, characterized in that the magnetic element functions as an output inverter or an output converter. Effect of the Invention

[0011] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a magnetic element that can be used as a contactless connector while reducing size and cost by reducing the number of parts, and an on-board charger and a mobile battery using the same. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 3 is a diagram showing a configuration of a magnetic element in an open magnetic circuit operating state according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. [Diagram 2] 2 is a diagram showing a configuration of a magnetic element in a closed magnetic circuit operating state according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a magnetic equivalent circuit of a magnetic element in an open magnetic circuit operating state according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a magnetic equivalent circuit of a magnetic element in a closed magnetic circuit operating state according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] 13 is a diagram showing a configuration of another example of a magnetic element according to an embodiment of the present invention in an open magnetic circuit operating state. FIG. [Figure 6] 13 is a diagram showing a configuration of another example of a magnetic element according to an embodiment of the present invention in a closed magnetic circuit operating state. FIG. [Figure 7] 11A and 11B are diagrams illustrating a configuration of another example of a magnetic element according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a magnetic element having a transformer function according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 9] 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a magnetic element having a transformer function according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 10] 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a magnetic element having a transformer function according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 11] 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a magnetic element having a transformer function according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a control circuit for a magnetic element according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a control circuit for a magnetic element according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a control circuit for a magnetic element according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a control circuit for a magnetic element according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a control circuit for a magnetic element to which an LLC converter is applied in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a control circuit for a magnetic element to which a forward converter is applied in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a control circuit for a magnetic element to which a dual active bridge is applied in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a control circuit for a magnetic element capable of bidirectional power transmission and unidirectional power output in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a control circuit for a magnetic element capable of bidirectional power transmission and unidirectional power output in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 21] 1 is a diagram showing a specific configuration example of a magnetic element according to an embodiment of the present invention; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the magnetic element 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention is configured by combining a first magnetic component 102 and a second magnetic component 104. Figures 1 and 2 are views of the magnetic element 100 as viewed from one side, and the components have a thickness in the direction into the page (Z direction). The first magnetic component 102 and the second magnetic component 104 are electromagnetically coupled in a non-contact state and used as a contactless connector.

[0014] The first magnetic component 102 includes a first magnetic core 10 (10a to 10e) and a winding 12 (12a, 12b). The first magnetic core 10 functions as a magnetic core in the first magnetic component 102. The first magnetic core 10 is made of a magnetic material such as ferrite or silicon steel. The winding 12 is wound around the first magnetic core 10. By passing a current through the winding 12, a magnetic flux φ can be generated inside and outside the first magnetic core 10. In this embodiment, the winding 12 is made up of two windings, 12a and 12b.

[0015] The first magnetic core 10 includes a first teeth portion 10a, a second teeth portion 10b, a third teeth portion 10c, a fourth teeth portion 10d, and a core portion 10e. The first teeth portion 10a, the second teeth portion 10b, the third teeth portion 10c, and the fourth teeth portion 10d are columnar portions extending along the X direction and having a thickness in the Z direction. The first teeth portion 10a, the second teeth portion 10b, the third teeth portion 10c, and the fourth teeth portion 10d are arranged in the Y direction in the order of the third teeth portion 10c, the first teeth portion 10a, the second teeth portion 10b, and the fourth teeth portion 10d. The core portion 10e is a portion extending in the Y direction and having a thickness in the Z direction. The core portion 10e constitutes a bridge portion connecting the first teeth portion 10a, the second teeth portion 10b, the third teeth portion 10c, and the fourth teeth portion 10d. The first teeth portion 10a and the second teeth portion 10b are disposed adjacent to each other, and protrusions A1 and A2 are provided on each of them so that the gap G between them is narrow. It is preferable that the gap G is narrower than the gap between the first teeth portion 10a and the third teeth portion 10c and the gap between the second teeth portion 10b and the fourth teeth portion 10d.

[0016] The winding 12a is wound around the first teeth 10a, and the winding 12b is wound around the second teeth 10b. A current i m1 and current i m2 The direction and magnitude of is controllable as described below.

[0017] In this way, the first magnetic component 102 uses two windings, winding 12a and winding 12b, as the primary side windings, and is designed to switch the magnetic flux path depending on whether the currents flowing through the two windings 12a and 12b are in phase or out of phase.

[0018] The second magnetic component 104 includes a second magnetic core 14 (14a to 14d) and a winding 16.

[0019] The second magnetic core 14 functions as a magnetic core in the second magnetic component 104. The second magnetic core 14 is made of a magnetic material such as ferrite or silicon steel. The winding 16 is wound around the second magnetic core 14. A magnetic flux φ generated by passing a current through the winding 12 interlinks with the winding 16, and a voltage is induced in the winding 16 by electromagnetic action.

[0020] The second magnetic core 14 includes a first teeth portion 14a, a second teeth portion 14b, a third teeth portion 14c, and a core portion 14d. The first teeth portion 14a, the second teeth portion 14b, and the third teeth portion 14c are columnar portions that extend in the X direction and have a thickness in the Z direction. The first teeth portion 14a, the second teeth portion 14b, and the third teeth portion 14c are arranged in the Y direction in the order of the second teeth portion 14b, the first teeth portion 14a, and the third teeth portion 14c. As shown in FIG. 1, in a state where the first magnetic component 102 and the second magnetic component 104 are arranged facing each other, the end of the second teeth 14b faces the end of the third teeth 10c, the end of the first teeth 14a faces the ends of the first teeth 10a and the second teeth 10b, and the end of the third teeth 14c faces the end of the fourth teeth 10d. Here, the end means the part that is closest to each other in a state where the first magnetic component 102 and the second magnetic component 104 are arranged facing each other. The core portion 14d is a part that extends in the Y direction and has a thickness in the Z direction. The core portion 14d constitutes a bridge portion that connects the first teeth 14a, the second teeth 14b, and the third teeth 14c. The winding 16 is wound around the first teeth 14a.

[0021] The first teeth 10a and the second teeth 10b are provided with protrusions A1 and A2, respectively, that protrude in the Y direction, which is the direction in which they face each other. The protrusions A1 and A2 are provided to adjust the gap G between the first teeth 10a and the second teeth 10b.

[0022] Fig. 3 shows a magnetic equivalent circuit in a state where the magnetic element 100 operates as an open magnetic circuit, and Fig. 4 shows a magnetic equivalent circuit in a state where the magnetic element 100 operates as a closed magnetic circuit.

[0023] When the magnetic element 100 is operated as an open magnetic circuit, current is passed through the windings 12a and 12b of the first magnetic component 102 so that in-phase magnetic flux is generated, as shown in Figures 1 and 3. In this case, in-phase magnetic flux means a magnetic flux that magnetically couples the first magnetic component 102 and the second magnetic component 104. As shown in Equation 1, in the open magnetic circuit operation, the generated magnetic flux φ is calculated by multiplying the magnetic resistance R by the gap distance between the contactless connectors. oc1 ,R oc2 It depends on the magnetic resistance R oc1 includes the magnetic resistance of the magnetic flux path consisting of the first teeth 10a, the first teeth 14a, a part of the core 10e, and a part of the core 14d, and the magnetic resistance of the magnetic flux path consisting of the second teeth 10b, the first teeth 14a, a part of the core 10e, and a part of the core 14d. oc2 includes the magnetic resistance of the magnetic flux path consisting of the third teeth 10c, the second teeth 14b, a part of the core 10e, and a part of the core 14d, and the magnetic resistance of the magnetic flux path consisting of the fourth teeth 10d, the third teeth 14c, a part of the core 10e, and a part of the core 14d. The magnetomotive force F depends on the shapes, sizes, and number of turns of the windings 12a and 12b, as well as the currents flowing therethrough.

number

[0024] When the magnetic element 100 is operated as a closed magnetic circuit, current is passed through the windings 12a and 12b of the first magnetic component 102 so that magnetic fluxes of opposite phases are generated in the windings 12a and 12b of the first magnetic component 102, as shown in Figures 2 and 4. Here, magnetic fluxes of opposite phases refer to magnetic fluxes that remain within the first magnetic component 102 and do not substantially magnetically couple the first magnetic component 102 and the second magnetic component 104. As shown in Equation 2, in the closed magnetic circuit operation, the generated magnetic flux φ is calculated by multiplying the magnetic resistance R of a gap provided in the magnetic flux path by cc It depends on the magnetic resistance R cc also includes the magnetic resistance of the magnetic flux path consisting of the first teeth 10a, the second teeth 10b, and a part of the core portion 10e. The magnetomotive force F depends on the shape, size, and number of turns of the windings 12a and 12b, as well as the current flowing therethrough.

number

[0025] As described above, the magnetic element 100 includes the first magnetic component 102 having the winding 12a and the winding 12b, and the second magnetic component 104 that is paired with the first magnetic component 102. The magnetic flux path can be switched between two paths by reversing the magnetic flux generated from at least one of the winding 12a and the winding 12b. On one side of the magnetic flux path, the first magnetic component 102 and the second magnetic component 104 are magnetically coupled to function as a contactless connector mode that operates as a contactless connector that transmits power without electrical contact. On the other side of the magnetic flux path, the first magnetic component 102 functions as a standalone mode that operates as a standalone unit. That is, the magnetic element 100 can switch between the contactless connector mode and the standalone mode. In addition, the magnetic element 100 can design the characteristics during open magnetic circuit operation and closed magnetic circuit operation independently, and it is easy to achieve both operations.

[0026] The direction and magnitude of the current flowing through the windings 12a and 12b can be appropriately set according to the winding direction, number of turns, coil diameter, etc. of the windings 12a and 12b.

[0027] 5 and 6 are diagrams showing the configuration of a magnetic element 110 according to another example of this embodiment. The magnetic element 110 has a structure capable of switching magnetic paths, which is more suitable for miniaturization than the magnetic element 100 described above.

[0028] As shown in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, the magnetic element 110 is configured by combining a first magnetic component 112 and a second magnetic component 114. Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 are views of the magnetic element 110 seen from one side, and the components have a thickness in the direction into the page (Z direction). The first magnetic component 112 and the second magnetic component 114 are electromagnetically coupled in a non-contact state and used as a contactless connector.

[0029] The first magnetic component 112 includes a first magnetic core 20 (20a to 20e) and a winding 22 (22a, 22b). The first magnetic core 20 functions as a magnetic core in the first magnetic component 112. The first magnetic core 20 is made of a magnetic material such as ferrite or silicon steel. The winding 22 is wound around the first magnetic core 20. By passing a current through the winding 22, a magnetic flux φ can be generated inside and outside the first magnetic core 20. In this embodiment, the winding 22 is made up of two windings, 22a and 22b.

[0030] The first magnetic core 20 includes a first teeth portion 20a, a second teeth portion 20b, a third teeth portion 20c, a fourth teeth portion 20d, and a core portion 20e. The first teeth portion 20a, the second teeth portion 20b, the third teeth portion 20c, and the fourth teeth portion 20d are columnar portions that extend along the X direction and have a thickness in the Z direction. The first teeth portion 20a, the second teeth portion 20b, the third teeth portion 20c, and the fourth teeth portion 20d are arranged in the Y direction in the order of the second teeth portion 20b, the first teeth portion 20a, the third teeth portion 20c, and the fourth teeth portion 20d. The core portion 20e is a portion that extends in the Y direction and has a thickness in the Z direction. The core portion 20e constitutes a bridge portion that connects the first teeth portion 20a, the second teeth portion 20b, the third teeth portion 20c, and the fourth teeth portion 20d.

[0031] The first teeth 20a and the second teeth 20b are disposed adjacent to each other, and protrusions B1 and B2 are provided on each of them to narrow the gap G1 between them. The third teeth 20c and the fourth teeth 20d are disposed adjacent to each other, and protrusions B3 and B4 are provided on each of them to narrow the gap G2 between them. The protrusions B1 and B2 are provided to adjust the gap G1 between the first teeth 20a and the second teeth 20b. The protrusions B3 and B4 are provided to adjust the gap G2 between the third teeth 20c and the fourth teeth 20d. It is preferable that the gap G1 and the gap G2 are narrower than the gap between the first teeth 20a and the third teeth 20c.

[0032] The winding 22a is wound commonly around the second teeth 20b and the third teeth 20c. The winding 22a is wound so that magnetic fluxes in opposite directions are generated in the second teeth 20b and the third teeth 20c when a current flows. In Figs. 5 and 6, the winding 22a is wound so that magnetic fluxes in opposite directions are generated in the X direction. In addition, the winding 22b is wound commonly around the first teeth 20a and the fourth teeth 20d. The winding 22b is wound so that magnetic fluxes in opposite directions are generated in the first teeth 20a and the fourth teeth 20d when a current flows. In Figs. 5 and 6, the winding 22b is wound so that magnetic fluxes in opposite directions are generated in the X direction. The current i flowing through the windings 22a and 22b, respectively, is m1 and current i m2 The direction and magnitude of is controllable as described below.

[0033] The first magnetic component 112 uses two windings, winding 22a and winding 22b, as the primary windings, and is designed to switch the magnetic flux path depending on whether the currents flowing through the two windings 22a and 22b are in phase or out of phase.

[0034] The second magnetic component 114 includes a second magnetic core 24 (24a to 24c) and a winding .

[0035] The second magnetic core 24 functions as a magnetic core in the second magnetic component 114. The second magnetic core 24 is made of a magnetic material such as ferrite or silicon steel. The winding 26 is wound around the second magnetic core 24. A magnetic flux φ generated by passing a current through the winding 22 interlinks with the winding 26, and a voltage is induced in the winding 26 by electromagnetic action.

[0036] The second magnetic core 24 includes a first tooth portion 24a, a second tooth portion 24b, and a core portion 24c. The first tooth portion 24a and the second tooth portion 24b are columnar portions extending in the X direction and having a thickness in the Z direction. The first tooth portion 24a and the second tooth portion 24b are arranged in the Y direction in this order. As shown in FIG. 5, when the first magnetic component 112 and the second magnetic component 114 are arranged facing each other, the end of the first tooth portion 24a faces the end of the first tooth portion 20a and the end of the second tooth portion 20b, and the end of the second tooth portion 24b faces the end of the third tooth portion 20c and the fourth tooth portion 20d. The end portion here means the portion closest to each other when the first magnetic component 112 and the second magnetic component 114 are arranged facing each other. The core portion 24c is a portion that extends in the Y direction and has a thickness in the Z direction. The core portion 24c configures a bridge portion that connects the first teeth portion 24a and the second teeth portion 24b.

[0037] The winding 26 is wound around the second magnetic core 24. In the second magnetic component 114, the winding 26 is wound around each of the first teeth 24a and the second teeth 24b. The winding 26 is wound around the first teeth 24a and the second teeth 24b so that, when the winding 26 is linked with the magnetic flux generated by the first magnetic component 112, an induced voltage is generated in the wound portion.

[0038] 5, when the magnetic element 110 is operated as an open magnetic circuit, a current is passed so that a magnetic flux of the same phase (negative direction in the X direction) is generated in the winding 22a wound around the second teeth 20b and the winding 22b wound around the first teeth 20a, and a magnetic flux of the same phase (positive direction in the X direction) is generated in the winding 22a wound around the third teeth 20c and the winding 22b wound around the fourth teeth 20d. Note that the magnetic flux generated in the winding 22a wound around the second teeth 20b and the winding 22b wound around the first teeth 20a and the magnetic flux generated in the winding 22a wound around the third teeth 20c and the winding 22b wound around the fourth teeth 20d are of opposite phases.

[0039] The magnetic flux generated in the first magnetic component 112 forms a closed magnetic flux path that circulates through the third teeth portion 20c and the fourth teeth portion 20d, the gap between the first magnetic component 112 and the second magnetic component 114, the second teeth portion 24b, the core portion 24c, the first teeth portion 24a, the gap between the first magnetic component 112 and the second magnetic component 114, the first teeth portion 20a and the second teeth portion 20b, and the core portion 20e.

[0040] As in Equation 1, the generated magnetic flux φ is calculated by the magnetic resistance R due to the gap distance between the non-contact connectors during open magnetic circuit operation. oc1 ,R oc2 The magnetomotive force F also depends on the shapes, sizes, and numbers of turns of the windings 22a and 22b, as well as the currents flowing therethrough.

[0041] In addition, a current may be passed so that a magnetic flux in the positive X-direction is generated in the winding 22a wound around the second teeth portion 20b and the winding 22b wound around the first teeth portion 20a, and a magnetic flux in the negative X-direction is generated in the winding 22a wound around the third teeth portion 20c and the winding 22b wound around the fourth teeth portion 20d.

[0042] When the magnetic element 110 is operated as a closed magnetic circuit, as shown in FIG. 6, a current is passed so that magnetic flux of the same phase (positive direction in the X direction) is generated in the winding 22b wound around the first teeth 20a and the winding 22a wound around the third teeth 20c, and a magnetic flux of the same phase (negative direction in the X direction) is generated in the winding 22a wound around the second teeth 20b and the winding 22b wound around the fourth teeth 20d.

[0043] The magnetic flux generated in the first magnetic component 112 forms a closed magnetic flux path that circulates around the first teeth 20a, the second teeth 20b, and the core 20e, and a closed magnetic flux path that circulates around the third teeth 20c, the fourth teeth 20d, and the core 20e. As in Equation 2, the generated magnetic flux φ is calculated by multiplying the magnetic resistance R of the gaps G1 and G2 provided in the magnetic flux path in the closed magnetic circuit operation. cc The magnetomotive force F depends on the shapes, sizes, and numbers of turns of the windings 22a and 22b, as well as the currents flowing therethrough.

[0044] As described above, the magnetic element 110 includes the first magnetic component 112 having the winding 22a and the winding 22b, and the second magnetic component 114 that is paired with the first magnetic component 112. By reversing the magnetic flux generated from at least one of the winding 22a and the winding 22b, two magnetic flux paths can be switched. On one side of the magnetic flux path, the first magnetic component 112 and the second magnetic component 114 are magnetically coupled to function as a contactless connector mode that operates as a contactless connector that transmits power without electrical contact. On the other side of the magnetic flux path, the first magnetic component 112 functions as a standalone mode that operates as a standalone unit. That is, the magnetic element 110 can switch between the contactless connector mode and the standalone mode. In addition, the magnetic element 110 can design the characteristics during open magnetic circuit operation and closed magnetic circuit operation independently, and it is easy to achieve both operations.

[0045] In addition, in the magnetic element 100, the magnetic flux is not distributed to the two third teeth 10c and fourth teeth 10d provided on the left and right sides and the second teeth 14b and third teeth 14c, and these are not utilized during closed magnetic circuit operation. In contrast, in the magnetic element 110, all four teeth, the first teeth 20a, the second teeth 20b, the third teeth 20c, and the fourth teeth 20d, are utilized during both open magnetic circuit operation and closed magnetic circuit operation, so that the magnetic performance can be improved with a smaller core and a smaller number of winding turns.

[0046] The direction and magnitude of the current flowing through the windings 22a and 22b may be appropriately set depending on the winding direction, number of turns, coil diameter, etc. of the windings 22a and 22b.

[0047] Fig. 7 is a diagram showing the configuration of a magnetic element 120 in another example of this embodiment. In the magnetic element 120, a winding 28 is further provided on a first magnetic component 122 corresponding to the first magnetic component 112 of the magnetic element 110, so that the magnetic element 120 functions as a transformer. Note that in Fig. 7, the second magnetic component 114 constituting a part of the contactless connector is omitted.

[0048] By winding the winding 28 around the first teeth portion 20a, the second teeth portion 20b, the third teeth portion 20c, the fourth teeth portion 20d, and the core portion 20e as in the first magnetic component 122, the first magnetic component 122 can function as a transformer during closed magnetic circuit operation.

[0049] In addition, the winding 28 may be wound so as to interlink with the magnetic flux generated by the winding 22, and various configurations are possible other than the configuration in which the winding is wound around the first teeth 20a and the third teeth 20c as shown in Figure 7.

[0050] 8 to 11 show an example of the configuration of first magnetic component 122 including winding 28. In Figs. 8 to 11, winding 22 is omitted for clarity of explanation. The winding manner of winding 28 is not particularly limited and may take various forms as long as it is a form that interlinks with the magnetic flux generated by winding 22. The shape, size, number of turns, and winding direction of winding 28 may be appropriately set according to the specifications required when first magnetic component 122 is used as a transformer.

[0051] Considering the symmetry with the winding 22, it is preferable to mount an equal amount of winding on the four teeth, the first teeth 20a, the second teeth 20b, the third teeth 20c, and the fourth teeth 20d. In other words, it is considered preferable to have a configuration in which the winding 28 is wound in a composite manner, as shown in Figures 10 and 11.

[0052] [Control circuit for magnetic elements] In the magnetic elements 100, 110, and 120, it is necessary to switch between a contactless connector mode in which the magnetic elements operate as an open magnetic circuit and function as a contactless connector, and a standalone mode in which the magnetic elements operate as a closed magnetic circuit and function as a standalone unit or a transformer. That is, it is necessary to switch the currents flowing through the two windings 12a and 12b of the winding 12, or the windings 22a and 22b of the winding 22, between the same phase and the opposite phase.

[0053] Fig. 12 shows an example of a control circuit 200 that switches between a closed magnetic circuit operation and an open magnetic circuit operation using a switch. Fig. 12(a) shows a state of a contactless connector mode by an open magnetic circuit operation. Fig. 12(b) shows a state of a standalone mode by a closed magnetic circuit operation.

[0054] In the non-contact connector mode, the switches SW1 and SW2 are turned on and the switches SW3 and SW4 are turned off to operate the first magnetic component 122 as an open magnetic circuit. This causes the magnetic flux generated from the windings 22a and 22b in the first magnetic component 122 to be magnetically linked and coupled to the winding 26 in the second magnetic component 114, causing the component to function as a non-contact connector. In the standalone mode, the switches SW1 and SW2 are turned off and the switches SW3 and SW4 are turned on to operate the first magnetic component 122 as a closed magnetic circuit. This causes the magnetic flux generated from the windings 22a and 22b in the first magnetic component 122 to be magnetically linked and coupled to the winding 28, causing the component to function as a transformer.

[0055] FIG. 13 shows an example of a control circuit 202 that switches between in-phase and reverse phase by inverter control. In the control circuit 202, the switches SW1 to SW4 in the control circuit 200 are replaced with an inverter circuit 30. The inverter circuit 30 converts the output voltage from a direct current power supply into an alternating current voltage by DC / AC conversion and supplies the voltage to the windings 22a and 22b. In the non-contact connector mode, the inverter circuit 30 controls the voltages supplied to the windings 22a and 22b to be in-phase, and causes the first magnetic component 122 to operate as an open magnetic circuit. As a result, the magnetic flux generated from the windings 22a and 22b in the first magnetic component 122 is magnetically linked and coupled with the winding 26 in the second magnetic component 114, and functions as a non-contact connector. In the standalone mode, the inverter circuit 30 controls the voltages supplied to the windings 22a and 22b to be in reverse phase, and causes the first magnetic component 122 to operate as a closed magnetic circuit. This causes the magnetic flux generated from the windings 22a and 22b in the first magnetic component 122 to be magnetically linked and coupled with the winding 28, causing it to function as a transformer.

[0056] Also, the magnetic element can be used on the power transmitting side of the contactless connector, but can also be used on the power receiving side. Figures 14 and 15 show a control circuit 204 in which the second magnetic component 114 is applied to the power transmitting side and the first magnetic component 122 is applied to the power receiving side. Figure 14 shows the contactless connector mode state (Figure 14(a)) and its equivalent circuit (Figure 14(b)). Figure 15 shows the standalone mode state (Figure 15(a)) and its equivalent circuit (Figure 15(b)).

[0057] In the control circuit 204, the first magnetic component 122 and the load are connected via a full-bridge rectifier 32. By using the rectifier 32, it is possible to passively switch between the contactless connector mode and the standalone operation mode without any operation.

[0058] In the contactless connector mode, no voltage is applied to the winding 28 of the first magnetic component 122, and a voltage v1 is applied to the winding 26 of the second magnetic component 114, which is then brought close to the first magnetic component 122. This causes the winding 26 of the second magnetic component 114 to automatically electromagnetically couple with the windings 22a and 22b of the first magnetic component 122, generating a voltage v2 in the windings 22a and 22b. The rectifier 32 rectifies the voltage v2 and supplies power to the load.

[0059] In the standalone mode, a voltage v1 is applied to the winding 28 of the first magnetic component 122 while the second magnetic component 114 is separated from the first magnetic component 122. This generates a voltage 2v2 in the windings 22a and 22b of the first magnetic component 122 which are magnetically coupled to the winding 28. The rectifier 32 rectifies the voltage 2v2 and supplies power to a load.

[0060] In this way, when operating in stand-alone mode, a voltage is applied to winding 28, and when operating in contactless connector mode, a voltage is applied to winding 26 of the mating second magnetic component 114 and brought close to the first magnetic component 122, thereby supplying power to the load.

[0061] FIG. 16 shows an example of a control circuit 210 that is capable of supplying power in two modes using a contact connector and a contactless connector by applying an LLC converter.

[0062] When power is supplied via a contact connector using the winding 28 provided on the first magnetic component 122, a power source is connected to the inverter 40 connected to the winding 28 via a contact connector. in1 The inverter 40 converts the AC current into DC and applies it to the winding 28 to generate a magnetic field. The winding 28 is magnetically coupled to the windings 22a and 22b of the first magnetic component 112, and the magnetic flux from the winding 28 magnetically links with the windings 22a and 22b, generating an AC voltage in the windings 22a and 22b. The rectifier 42 converts the AC voltage generated in the windings 22a and 22b into a DC voltage and supplies it to a load.

[0063] On the other hand, when power is supplied via a non-contact connector using the second magnetic component 114, the voltage V in2 The inverter 44 converts the AC current into DC and applies it to the winding 26 to generate a magnetic field. In an open magnetic circuit operation state in which the winding 26 of the second magnetic component 114 is magnetically coupled to the windings 22a and 22b of the first magnetic component 122, the magnetic flux from the winding 26 magnetically interlinks with the windings 22a and 22b, generating an AC voltage in the windings 22a and 22b. The rectifier 42 converts the AC voltage generated in the windings 22a and 22b into a DC voltage and supplies it to a load.

[0064] The control circuit 210 is equipped with both a contact type power supply interface and a non-contact type power supply interface, and can realize both operations with a single control circuit. Therefore, the number of parts and size of the control circuit 210 can be reduced.

[0065] FIG. 17 shows an example of a control circuit 212 that is capable of supplying power in two modes using a contact connector and a contactless connector by applying a forward converter.

[0066] When power is supplied via a contact connector using the winding 28 provided on the first magnetic component 122, a power source is connected to the inverter 46 connected to the winding 28 via a contact connector. in1The inverter 46 converts the AC current into DC and applies it to the winding 28 to generate a magnetic field. The winding 28 is magnetically coupled to the windings 22a and 22b of the first magnetic component 112, and the magnetic flux from the winding 28 magnetically links with the windings 22a and 22b, generating an AC voltage in the windings 22a and 22b. The forward converter 48 converts the AC voltage generated in the windings 22a and 22b into a DC voltage and supplies it to a load.

[0067] On the other hand, when power is supplied via a non-contact connector using the second magnetic component 114, the voltage V in2 The inverter 50 converts the AC current into DC and applies it to the winding 26 to generate a magnetic field. In an open magnetic circuit operation state in which the winding 26 of the second magnetic component 114 is magnetically coupled to the windings 22a and 22b of the first magnetic component 122, the magnetic flux from the winding 26 magnetically interlinks with the windings 22a and 22b, generating an AC voltage in the windings 22a and 22b. The forward converter 48 converts the AC voltage generated in the windings 22a and 22b into a DC voltage and supplies it to a load.

[0068] FIG. 18 shows an example of a control circuit 214 capable of supplying power in two modes using a contact connector and a contactless connector by applying a dual active bridge.

[0069] When power is supplied via a contact connector using the winding 28 provided on the first magnetic component 122, a power source is connected to the inverter 52 connected to the winding 28 via a contact connector. in1 The inverter 52 converts the AC current into DC and applies it to the winding 28 to generate a magnetic field. The winding 28 is magnetically coupled to the windings 22a and 22b of the first magnetic component 112, and the magnetic flux from the winding 28 magnetically links with the windings 22a and 22b, generating an AC voltage in the windings 22a and 22b. The active bridge circuit 54 converts the AC voltage generated in the windings 22a and 22b into a DC voltage and supplies it to a load.

[0070] On the other hand, when power is supplied via a non-contact connector using the second magnetic component 114, the voltage V in2The inverter 56 converts the AC current into DC and applies it to the winding 26 to generate a magnetic field. In an open magnetic circuit operation state in which the winding 26 of the second magnetic component 114 is magnetically coupled to the windings 22a and 22b of the first magnetic component 122, the magnetic flux from the winding 26 magnetically interlinks with the windings 22a and 22b, generating an AC voltage in the windings 22a and 22b. The active bridge circuit 54 converts the AC voltage generated in the windings 22a and 22b into a DC voltage and supplies it to the load.

[0071] In addition, in the control circuit 214, by using a battery as the load connected to the active bridge circuit 54, it is possible to supply power to the battery for charging, and conversely, it is also possible to supply power from the battery to a power source connected to a contact connector or a contactless connector.

[0072] When power is supplied via a contact connector, the output voltage from a power source connected to the active bridge circuit 54 is converted from a DC voltage to an AC voltage by the active bridge circuit 54 and supplied to the windings 22a and 22b. At this time, a voltage is applied so that the first magnetic component 122 is in a single mode, i.e., the currents flowing through the windings 22a and 22b are in opposite phases. The winding 28 is magnetically coupled to the windings 22a and 22b of the first magnetic component 112, and the magnetic fluxes of the windings 22a and 22b magnetically link with the winding 28, generating an AC voltage in the winding 28. The AC voltage generated in the winding 28 is converted from an AC voltage to a DC voltage by the inverter 52 and supplied to the power source connected to the inverter 52 via a contact connector.

[0073] On the other hand, when power is supplied via a contactless connector, the output voltage from the power source connected to the active bridge circuit 54 is converted from DC voltage to AC voltage by the active bridge circuit 54 and supplied to the windings 22a and 22b. At this time, a voltage is applied so that the first magnetic component 122 is in the contactless connector mode, i.e., the currents flowing through the windings 22a and 22b are in phase. If the winding 26 of the second magnetic component 114 is magnetically coupled to the windings 22a and 22b of the first magnetic component 112, the magnetic fluxes of the windings 22a and 22b are magnetically linked with the winding 26, and an AC voltage is generated in the winding 26. The AC voltage generated in the winding 26 is converted from AC voltage to DC voltage by the inverter 56 and supplied to the power source connected to the inverter 56.

[0074] FIG. 19 shows an example of a control circuit 220 having a composite configuration that enables bidirectional power transmission by a contactless connector and unidirectional power output by a contact connector.

[0075] Bidirectional power transmission by the contactless connector is performed in the same manner as the control in the control circuit 214. This allows power to be exchanged bidirectionally between the power source connected to the inverter 56 and the power source connected to the active bridge circuit 54.

[0076] In the unidirectional power output by the contact connector, the output voltage from the power source connected to the active bridge circuit 54 is converted from DC voltage to AC voltage by the active bridge circuit 54 and supplied to the windings 22a and 22b. At this time, a voltage is applied so that the first magnetic component 122 is in the single mode, that is, the currents flowing through the windings 22a and 22b are in opposite phase. The winding 28 is magnetically coupled to the windings 22a and 22b of the first magnetic component 112, and the magnetic fluxes from the windings 22a and 22b magnetically link with the winding 28, generating an AC voltage in the winding 28. The AC voltage generated in the winding 28 is converted from AC voltage to DC voltage by the rectifier 58 and supplied to the load via the contact connector.

[0077] In the control circuit 220, the windings 22a and 22b of the first magnetic component 122 and the winding 28 are electrically insulated from each other, and a unidirectional output is realized by magnetic coupling.

[0078] FIG. 20 shows an example of a control circuit 222 having a composite configuration that enables bidirectional power transmission by a contactless connector and unidirectional power output by a contact connector.

[0079] Bidirectional power transmission by the contactless connector is performed in the same manner as the control by the control circuit 214. In unidirectional power output by the contact connector, the output voltage from the power source connected to the active bridge circuit 54 is converted from DC voltage to AC voltage by the active bridge circuit 54 and supplied to the windings 22a and 22b. At this time, a voltage is applied so that the first magnetic component 122 is in the single mode, that is, the currents flowing through the windings 22a and 22b are in opposite phases. The contact connector is connected in an electrically non-insulated state to the windings 22a and 22b via a capacitor C connected in parallel. The windings 22a and 22b and the capacitor C constitute a step-down converter, and power is supplied to a load by using the windings 22a and 22b as inductors.

[0080] Fig. 21 shows an example of a specific structure of the magnetic element. Fig. 21(a) shows the overall configuration of the magnetic element. Fig. 21(b) shows the configuration of the first magnetic component 122. Fig. 21(c) shows the configuration of the second magnetic component 114. Note that the first magnetic component 102, the first magnetic component 112, and the second magnetic component 104 can also be configured in a similar manner.

[0081] The four teeth (first teeth portion 20a, second teeth portion 20b, third teeth portion 20c, fourth teeth portion 20d) of the first magnetic component 122 are arranged in pairs, and two windings are wound around each of the teeth. The four windings on the core portion (core portion 20e) side are connected in series or parallel to form winding 28. The four windings on the upper side are connected in series or parallel to form windings 22a and 22b. In addition, a winding is wound around each of the two teeth (first teeth portion 24a and second teeth portion 24b) of the second magnetic component 114, and the two windings are connected in series or parallel to form winding 26.

[0082] [Applications of magnetic elements and their control circuits] An example of an application to which the magnetic element of this embodiment is applied is a charger for an electric vehicle. A single magnetic element can realize normal charging using an electric contact plug and non-contact charging using a non-contact connector. For this, a unidirectional circuit as shown in Figs. 16 and 17 can be applied. Also, a bidirectional circuit as shown in Fig. 18 can be provided with a function of supplying power from the electric vehicle to the outside.

[0083] Another example of an application to which the magnetic element is applied is a mobile battery. By applying the circuits shown in Figs. 19 and 20, a circuit can be configured that can charge without contacts and can supply power externally via a contact connector. For example, an additional power converter such as an AC 100V inverter can be connected to the contact output terminal to form a power supply circuit from the battery to the additional power converter. In addition, it can function as a utility output circuit such as a DC 12V or DC 5V output converter.

[0084] [Configuration of the present invention] [Configuration 1] A magnetic element comprising a first magnetic component having two or more windings and a second magnetic component paired with the first magnetic component and separated from the first magnetic component, A magnetic element characterized in that, by switching between two magnetic flux paths by reversing the magnetic flux generated from at least one of the windings, it is possible to switch between a contactless connector mode in which the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component are magnetically coupled to operate as a contactless connector that transmits power without electrical contact, on one of the magnetic flux paths, and a standalone mode in which the first magnetic component operates as a standalone component, on the other magnetic flux path. [Configuration 2] 2. The magnetic element according to claim 1, The first magnetic component has four teeth, one end of which is connected to a common magnetic core, A common first winding is wound around two of the four teeth, i.e., the first tooth and the fourth tooth, and a common second winding is wound around the remaining two, i.e., the second tooth and the third tooth, and the first teeth are magnetically coupled to the second teeth with a magnetic gap narrower than the magnetic gaps between the third teeth and the fourth teeth; the third teeth are magnetically coupled to the fourth teeth with a magnetic gap narrower than the first teeth and the second teeth, The magnetic element, characterized in that in the standalone mode, the first magnetic component operates as a standalone unit by passing a magnetic flux through the magnetic gap. [Configuration 3] 3. A magnetic element according to claim 1, A magnetic element, characterized in that in the standalone mode, the first magnetic component operates as an inductor. [Configuration 4] 3. A magnetic element according to claim 1, the first magnetic component further comprises a secondary winding; A magnetic element, characterized in that in the standalone mode, the first magnetic component operates as a transformer. [Configuration 5] 5. The magnetic element according to claim 4, A magnetic element, characterized in that the first magnetic component has a secondary winding that is magnetically coupled to the winding to function as a transformer. [Configuration 6] A power converter for an on-board charger including the magnetic element according to configuration 1, In the standalone mode, it functions as an on-board charger, In the non-contact connector mode, the circuit functions as a non-contact connector circuit on the vehicle side. 2. A power converter for an on-board charger comprising: [Configuration 7] A mobile battery comprising the magnetic element according to configuration 1, A mobile battery characterized in that the magnetic element functions as an output inverter or an output converter. [Explanation of symbols]

[0085] 10 first magnetic core, 10a first teeth portion, 10b second teeth portion, 10c third teeth portion, 10d fourth teeth portion, 10e core portion, 12 (12a, 12b) winding, 14 second magnetic core, 14a first teeth portion, 14b second teeth portion, 14c third teeth portion, 14d core portion, 16 winding, 20 first magnetic core, 20a first teeth portion, 20b second teeth portion, 20c third teeth portion, 20d fourth teeth portion, 20e core portion, 22 (22a, 22b) winding, 24 second magnetic core, 24a first teeth portion, 24b second teeth portion, 24c core portion, 26 winding, 28 winding, 30 inverter circuit, 32 rectifier, 40 inverter, 42 Rectifier, 44 Inverter, 46 Inverter, 48 Forward converter, 50 Inverter, 52 Inverter, 54 Active bridge circuit, 56 Inverter, 58 Rectifier, 100, 110, 120 Magnetic element, 102, 112, 122 First magnetic part, 104, 114 Second magnetic part, 200, 202, 204, 210, 212, 214, 220, 222 Control circuit.

Claims

1. A magnetic element comprising: a first magnetic component having two or more windings; and a second magnetic component paired with the first magnetic component and separated from the first magnetic component, A magnetic element characterized in that, by switching between two magnetic flux paths by reversing the magnetic flux generated from at least one of the windings, it is possible to switch between a contactless connector mode in which the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component are magnetically coupled to operate as a contactless connector that transmits power without electrical contact, on one of the magnetic flux paths, and a standalone mode in which the first magnetic component operates as a standalone component, on the other magnetic flux path.

2. 2. The magnetic element according to claim 1 , The first magnetic component has four teeth, one end of which is connected to a common magnetic core, A common first winding is wound around two of the four teeth, i.e., a first tooth and a fourth tooth, and a common second winding is wound around the remaining two, i.e., a second tooth and a third tooth, the first teeth are magnetically coupled to the second teeth with a magnetic gap narrower than the third teeth and the fourth teeth; the third teeth are magnetically coupled to the fourth teeth with a magnetic gap narrower than the first teeth and the second teeth, The magnetic element, characterized in that in the standalone mode, the first magnetic component operates as a standalone unit by passing a magnetic flux through the magnetic gap.

3. 3. The magnetic element according to claim 1, In the standalone mode, the first magnetic component operates as an inductor.

4. 3. The magnetic element according to claim 1, The first magnetic component further includes a secondary winding. In the standalone mode, the first magnetic component operates as a transformer.

5. 5. The magnetic element according to claim 4, A magnetic element, characterized in that the first magnetic component includes a secondary winding that is magnetically coupled to the winding to function as a transformer.

6. A power converter for an on-board charger, comprising the magnetic element according to claim 1, In the standalone mode, it functions as an on-board charger, In the non-contact connector mode, the circuit functions as a non-contact connector circuit on the vehicle side.

2. A power converter for an on-board charger comprising:

7. A mobile battery comprising the magnetic element according to claim 1, A mobile battery characterized in that the magnetic element functions as an output inverter or an output converter.

Images