Magnetic element and on-board charger and mobile battery using the same

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 further reductions in the number of components and shortening of winding length (Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-60285 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the above-mentioned conventional technology, the transformer function and the inductor function are realized in a single magnetic component, but the use of a divided core 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 will be lost, and therefore 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 separate 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, and 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 side of the magnetic flux path, and a standalone mode in which the first magnetic component operates as a standalone component on the other side of the magnetic flux path.

[0006] Here, it is preferable that the first magnetic component has four teeth, one end of which is connected to a common magnetic core, and that 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 component 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, the first magnetic component preferably 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 that is equipped with the above-mentioned magnetic element, and that functions as an on-board charger in the standalone mode and as a contactless connector circuit on the vehicle side in the contactless connector mode.

[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. [Effects 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 using a small number of parts, and an on-board charger and a mobile battery that use the same. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 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; [Figure 2] 1 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; [Figure 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. [Figure 5] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating a configuration of another example of a magnetic element according to an embodiment of the present invention in an open magnetic circuit operating state. [Figure 6] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating a configuration of another example of a magnetic element according to an embodiment of the present invention in a closed magnetic circuit operating state. [Figure 7] 10A and 10B 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 illustrating 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 illustrating 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 illustrating 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 illustrating 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 according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied; [Figure 17] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a control circuit for a magnetic element to which a forward converter is applied according to 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 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a control circuit for a magnetic element capable of bidirectional power transmission and unidirectional power output according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a control circuit for a magnetic element capable of bidirectional power transmission and unidirectional power output according to 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 INVENTION

[0013] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, a magnetic element 100 according to an 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 seen 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 windings 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 windings 12 are wound around the first magnetic core 10. By passing a current through the windings 12, a magnetic flux φ can be generated inside and outside the first magnetic core 10. In this embodiment, the windings 12 are made up of two windings, 12a and 12b.

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

[0016] The winding 12a is wound around the first tooth 10a, and the winding 12b is wound around the second tooth 10b. The current i m1 and current i m2 The direction and magnitude of the force can be controlled as described below.

[0017] In this way, the first magnetic component 102 uses two windings, winding 12a and winding 12b, as primary 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 opposite 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 first teeth 14a, second teeth 14b, third teeth 14c, and a core portion 14d. The first teeth 14a, second teeth 14b, and third teeth 14c are columnar portions that extend in the X direction and have a thickness in the Z direction. The first teeth 14a, second teeth 14b, and third teeth 14c are arranged in the Y direction in the following order: second teeth 14b, first teeth 14a, third teeth 14c. As shown in FIG. 1, when 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, "ends" refers to the portions that are closest to each other when the first magnetic component 102 and the second magnetic component 104 are arranged facing each other. The core portion 14d extends in the Y direction and has a thickness in the Z direction. The core portion 14d forms a bridge portion connecting 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 magnetic fluxes of the same phase are generated, as shown in Figures 1 and 3. Here, magnetic fluxes of the same phase refer to magnetic fluxes that magnetically couple the first magnetic component 102 and the second magnetic component 104. As shown in Equation 1, in open magnetic circuit operation, the generated magnetic flux φ is calculated by multiplying the magnetic resistance R due to the gap distance between the contactless connectors by 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, as well as 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, part of the core 10e, and part of the core 14d, as well as the magnetic resistance of the magnetic flux path consisting of the fourth teeth 10d, the third teeth 14c, part of the core 10e, and part of the core 14d. The magnetomotive force F depends on the shape, size, number of turns of the windings 12a and 12b, and the current 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, as shown in Figures 2 and 4. Here, the magnetic flux of opposite phases means that the magnetic flux remains within the first magnetic component 102 and the first magnetic component 102 and the second magnetic component 104 are not substantially magnetically coupled. 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 the gap provided in the magnetic flux path by cc It depends on the magnetic resistance R cc The magnetomotive force F also includes the magnetic resistance of the magnetic flux path consisting of the first teeth 10a, the second teeth 10b, and part of the core 10e. The magnetomotive force F depends on the shape, size, 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 a first magnetic component 102 having windings 12a and 12b, and a second magnetic component 104 paired with the first magnetic component 102. Two magnetic flux paths can be switched by reversing the magnetic flux generated from at least one of the windings 12a and 12b. One of the magnetic flux paths functions as a contactless connector mode in which the first magnetic component 102 and the second magnetic component 104 are magnetically coupled to operate as a contactless connector that transmits power without electrical contact. The other magnetic flux path functions as a standalone mode in which the first magnetic component 102 operates as a standalone component. That is, the magnetic element 100 can be switched between the contactless connector mode and the standalone mode. Furthermore, the magnetic element 100 can independently design its characteristics for open magnetic circuit operation and closed magnetic circuit operation, making it easy to achieve both modes of operation.

[0026] The direction and magnitude of the current flowing through the windings 12a and 12b can be set appropriately depending on the winding direction, number of turns, diameter of the coil, 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 Figures 5 and 6, magnetic element 110 is configured by combining first magnetic component 112 and second magnetic component 114. Figures 5 and 6 are views of magnetic element 110 viewed from one side, and the components have a thickness in the direction into the paper (Z direction). First magnetic component 112 and second magnetic component 114 are electromagnetically coupled in a non-contact state and used as a contactless connector.

[0029] The first magnetic component 112 is configured to include a first magnetic core 20 (20a to 20e) and windings 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 windings 22 are wound around the first magnetic core 20. By passing a current through the windings 22, a magnetic flux φ can be generated inside and outside the first magnetic core 20. In this embodiment, the windings 22 are configured from two windings, 22a and 22b.

[0030] The first magnetic core 20 includes first teeth 20a, second teeth 20b, third teeth 20c, fourth teeth 20d, and a core portion 20e. The first teeth 20a, second teeth 20b, third teeth 20c, and fourth teeth 20d are columnar portions that extend along the X direction and have a thickness in the Z direction. The first teeth 20a, second teeth 20b, third teeth 20c, and fourth teeth 20d are arranged in the Y direction in this order: second teeth 20b, first teeth 20a, third teeth 20c, fourth teeth 20d. The core portion 20e extends in the Y direction and has a thickness in the Z direction. The core portion 20e forms 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 arranged 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 arranged 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 when a current flows, magnetic fluxes are generated in opposite directions in the second teeth 20b and the third teeth 20c. In Figs. 5 and 6, the winding 22a is wound so that magnetic fluxes are generated in opposite directions 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 when a current flows, magnetic fluxes are generated in opposite directions in the first teeth 20a and the fourth teeth 20d. In Figs. 5 and 6, the winding 22b is wound so that magnetic fluxes are generated in opposite directions in the X direction. The current i flowing through the windings 22a and 22b m1 and current i m2 The direction and magnitude of the force can be controlled as described below.

[0033] The first magnetic component 112 uses two windings, winding 22a and winding 22b, as 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 opposite 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 first teeth 24a, second teeth 24b, and a core portion 24c. The first teeth 24a and second teeth 24b are columnar portions extending in the X direction and having a thickness in the Z direction. The first teeth 24a and second teeth 24b are arranged in this order along the Y direction. 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 teeth 24a faces the end of the first teeth 20a and the second teeth 20b, and the end of the second teeth 24b faces the end of the third teeth 20c and the fourth teeth 20d. Here, the term "end" refers to the portions of the first magnetic component 112 and the second magnetic component 114 that are closest to each other when they 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 forms a bridge portion that connects the first teeth portion 24a and the second teeth portion 24b.

[0037] The windings 26 are wound around the second magnetic core 24. In the second magnetic component 114, the windings 26 are wound around the first teeth 24a and the second teeth 24b. The windings 26 are wound around the first teeth 24a and the second teeth 24b so that, when the windings 26 interlink 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, current is passed so that 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 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 opposite in phase to each other.

[0039] The magnetic flux generated in the first magnetic component 112 forms a closed magnetic flux path that circulates through the third tooth portion 20c and the fourth tooth portion 20d, the gap between the first magnetic component 112 and the second magnetic component 114, the second tooth portion 24b, the core portion 24c, the first tooth portion 24a, the gap between the first magnetic component 112 and the second magnetic component 114, the first tooth portion 20a and the second tooth 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 contactless connectors during open magnetic circuit operation. oc1 ,R oc2 Furthermore, the magnetomotive force F depends on the shape, size, number of turns of the windings 22a and 22b, and the current flowing therethrough.

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

[0042] When the magnetic element 110 is operated as a closed magnetic circuit, as shown in FIG. 6, 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 tooth portion 20a and the winding 22a wound around the third tooth portion 20c, and magnetic flux of the same phase (negative direction in the X direction) is generated in the winding 22a wound around the second tooth portion 20b and the winding 22b wound around the fourth tooth portion 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 shape, size, and number of turns of the windings 22a and 22b, as well as the current 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 paired with the first magnetic component 112. Two magnetic flux paths can be switched by reversing the magnetic flux generated from at least one of the winding 22a and the winding 22b. One of the magnetic flux paths functions as a contactless connector mode, in which the first magnetic component 112 and the second magnetic component 114 are magnetically coupled to operate as a contactless connector that transmits power without electrical contact. The other of the magnetic flux paths functions as a standalone mode, in which the first magnetic component 112 operates as a standalone component. That is, the magnetic element 110 can be switched between the contactless connector mode and the standalone mode. Furthermore, the magnetic element 110 can independently design its characteristics for open magnetic circuit operation and closed magnetic circuit operation, making it easy to achieve both modes of operation.

[0045] Furthermore, in the magnetic element 100, the magnetic flux is not distributed to the two left and right teeth (third teeth 10c and fourth teeth 10d) and the second teeth 14b and third teeth 14c) and are not utilized during closed magnetic circuit operation. In contrast, in the magnetic element 110, all four teeth (first teeth 20a, second teeth 20b, third teeth 20c, and fourth teeth 20d) are utilized during both open and closed magnetic circuit operation, enabling improved magnetic performance with a smaller core and fewer 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, diameter of the coil, 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, thereby providing the magnetic element 120 with a function as a transformer. Note that in Fig. 7, the second magnetic component 114 that constitutes a part of the contactless connector is omitted.

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

[0049] 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 examples of the configuration of first magnetic component 122 including winding 28. For clarity of explanation, winding 22 is omitted from FIGS. 8 to 11. The winding pattern of winding 28 is not particularly limited and various patterns are possible as long as it is a pattern that interlinks with the magnetic flux generated by winding 22. The shape, size, number of turns, and winding direction of winding 28 may be set appropriately 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 of magnetic element] The magnetic elements 100, 110, and 120 must be switched between a contactless connector mode in which they operate as an open magnetic circuit and function as a contactless connector, and a standalone mode in which they 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 opposite phase.

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

[0054] In the contactless connector mode, switches SW1 and SW2 are turned on and switches SW3 and SW4 are turned off, causing the first magnetic component 122 to operate as an open magnetic circuit. This causes the magnetic flux generated from the windings 22a and 22b of the first magnetic component 122 to magnetically link and couple with the winding 26 of the second magnetic component 114, causing the component to function as a contactless connector. In the standalone mode, switches SW1 and SW2 are turned off and switches SW3 and SW4 are turned on, causing the first magnetic component 122 to operate as a closed magnetic circuit. This causes the magnetic flux generated from the windings 22a and 22b of the first magnetic component 122 to magnetically link and couple with 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 out-of-phase voltages using 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 DC power supply into an AC voltage and supplies the converted voltage to the windings 22a and 22b. In the contactless connector mode, the inverter circuit 30 controls the voltages supplied to the windings 22a and 22b to be in-phase, causing the first magnetic component 122 to operate as an open magnetic circuit. This magnetic flux is thereby magnetically linked and coupled to the winding 26 of the second magnetic component 114, allowing the first magnetic component 122 to function as a contactless connector. In the standalone mode, the inverter circuit 30 controls the voltages supplied to the windings 22a and 22b to be out-of-phase, causing 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 the first magnetic component 122 to function as a transformer.

[0056] Furthermore, 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, the second magnetic component 114 is brought close to the first magnetic component 122 with no voltage applied to the winding 28 of the first magnetic component 122 and voltage v1 applied to the winding 26 of the second magnetic component 114. This automatically electromagnetically couples the winding 26 of the second magnetic component 114 with the windings 22a and 22b of the first magnetic component 122, generating voltage v2 across the windings 22a and 22b. The rectifier 32 rectifies voltage v2 and supplies power to the load.

[0059] In the standalone mode, the second magnetic component 114 is separated from the first magnetic component 122, and a voltage v1 is applied to the winding 28 of the first magnetic component 122. This generates a voltage 2v2 across 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 paired 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 applies an LLC converter and is capable of supplying power in two modes using a contact connector and a contactless connector.

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

[0063] On the other hand, when power is supplied via the contactless connector of the second magnetic component 114, the voltage V in2 The inverter 44 converts the AC current from the second magnetic component 114 to an AC current 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 contactless power supply interface, and can achieve both operations with a single control circuit, thereby reducing the number of parts and size of the control circuit 210.

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

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

[0067] On the other hand, when power is supplied via the contactless connector of the second magnetic component 114, the voltage V in2 The inverter 50 converts the AC current from the second magnetic component 114 to AC 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 that can supply 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 supply is connected to the inverter 52 connected to the winding 28 via the contact connector. in1 The inverter 52 converts the AC current from the AC power to AC current and applies it to the winding 28 to generate a magnetic field. The winding 28 is magnetically coupled to the winding 22a and the winding 22b of the first magnetic component 112, and the magnetic flux from the winding 28 magnetically links the winding 22a and the winding 22b, generating an AC voltage in the winding 22a and the winding 22b. The active bridge circuit 54 converts the AC voltage generated in the winding 22a and the winding 22b into a DC voltage and supplies it to the load.

[0070] On the other hand, when power is supplied via the contactless connector of the second magnetic component 114, the voltage V in2The inverter 56 converts the AC current from the second magnetic component 114 to AC 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 to charge it, 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 supply connected to the active bridge circuit 54 is converted from DC to AC 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 single mode, i.e., so that 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 flux from the windings 22a and 22b magnetically links with the winding 28, generating an AC voltage in the winding 28. The AC voltage generated in the winding 28 is converted from AC to DC by the inverter 52 and supplied to the power supply 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 a power source connected to the active bridge circuit 54 is converted from DC to AC by the active bridge circuit 54 and supplied to the windings 22a and 22b. At this time, the first magnetic component 122 is in the contactless connector mode, i.e., a voltage is applied so that 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 flux from the windings 22a and 22b magnetically interlinks with the winding 26, generating an AC voltage in the winding 26. The AC voltage generated in the winding 26 is converted from AC to DC 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 using a contactless connector and unidirectional power output using a contact type connector.

[0075] The 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 supply connected to the inverter 56 and the power supply connected to the active bridge circuit 54.

[0076] In unidirectional power output using a contact-type connector, the output voltage from a power supply connected to the active bridge circuit 54 is converted from DC to AC 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 single mode, i.e., so that 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 flux from the windings 22a and 22b magnetically links with the winding 28, generating an AC voltage in the winding 28. The AC voltage generated in the winding 28 is converted from AC to DC by the rectifier 58 and supplied to the load via the contact-type connector.

[0077] In the control circuit 220, the windings 22a and 22b of the first magnetic component 122 are electrically insulated from the winding 28, 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 using a contactless connector and unidirectional power output using a contact-type connector.

[0079] Bidirectional power transmission using the contactless connector is performed in the same manner as in the control circuit 214. For unidirectional power output using the contact-type connector, the output voltage from a power source connected to the active bridge circuit 54 is converted from DC to AC 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 single mode, i.e., so that the currents flowing through the windings 22a and 22b are of opposite phases. The contact-type connector is connected to the windings 22a and 22b in an electrically non-insulated state via a capacitor C connected in parallel. The windings 22a and 22b and the capacitor C form a step-down converter, and power is supplied to a load 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 20a, second teeth 20b, third teeth 20c, and fourth teeth 20d) of the first magnetic component 122 are arranged in pairs, with two windings wound around each tooth. 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 24a and second teeth 24b) of the second magnetic component 114, with two windings 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 can be applied is a charger for an electric vehicle. A single magnetic element can achieve both normal charging using an electrical contact plug and contactless charging using a contactless connector. For this, unidirectional operating circuits such as those shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 can be applied. Furthermore, a bidirectional operating circuit such as that shown in FIG. 18 can also be provided with a power supply function from the electric vehicle to an external device.

[0083] Another example of an application for a magnetic element is a mobile battery. By applying the circuits shown in Figures 19 and 20, it is possible to configure a circuit that can charge without contacts and also supply external power via a contact connector. For example, an additional power converter such as an AC 100V inverter can be connected to the contact output terminal, creating a power supply circuit from the battery to the additional power converter. It can also 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 of the magnetic flux paths. [Configuration 2] 10. The magnetic element according to claim 1, the first magnetic component has four teeth connected at one end to a common magnetic core; a first winding is wound in common around two of the four teeth, that is, the first tooth and the fourth tooth, and a second winding is wound in common around the remaining two, that is, the second tooth and the third tooth; 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 that between the first teeth and the second teeth, The magnetic element is characterized in that in the standalone mode, the first magnetic component operates as a standalone component by passing a magnetic flux through the magnetic gap. [Configuration 3] 3. The magnetic element according to claim 1, In the standalone mode, the first magnetic component operates as an inductor. [Configuration 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. [Configuration 5] 5. The magnetic element according to claim 4, The magnetic element is characterized in that the first magnetic component includes 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 contactless connector mode, the circuit functions as a contactless connector circuit on the vehicle side. A power converter for an on-board charger, comprising: [Configuration 7] A mobile battery including 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 component, 104, 114 Second magnetic component, 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 of the magnetic flux paths.

2. 2. The magnetic element according to claim 1, the first magnetic component has four teeth connected at one end to a common magnetic core; a first winding is wound commonly around two of the four teeth, i.e., the first tooth and the fourth tooth, and a second winding is wound commonly around the remaining two, i.e., the second tooth and the third tooth; 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 magnetic gaps between the first teeth and the second teeth, In the standalone mode, the first magnetic component operates as a standalone component 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, The magnetic element, wherein 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 first magnetic component according to claim 1, In the standalone mode, it functions as an on-board charger, In the contactless connector mode, the circuit functions as a contactless connector circuit on the vehicle side. A power converter for an on-board charger, comprising:

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

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