Magnetic component and integrated magnetic assembly

Abstract

This invention relates to a magnetic element and an integrated magnetic element. The magnetic element comprises a core assembly, a primary winding, a first secondary winding, a second secondary winding, and a third secondary winding. The core assembly comprises a center post, a first side post, and a second side post. The first side post includes a first pin and a second pin. The second side post includes a third pin and a fourth pin. The first section of the third secondary winding is wound on one of the first pin and the second pin, and the second section of the third secondary winding is wound on one of the third pin and the fourth pin. The two side posts each have two pins, achieving partial coupling through the third secondary winding. Therefore, advantages such as adjustable and enhanced coupling coefficient, reduced losses, space saving, and improved performance can be achieved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This case relates to a magnetic element, and more particularly to a magnetic element with low loss and high performance. This case also relates to an integrated magnetic element using this magnetic element. Prior Technology

[0002] A current-doubler rectifier (CDR) is a power rectifier topology used in DC-DC converters. Its transformer secondary winding is center-tapped, and it uses two switches and inductors to rectify AC power into DC power. Compared to traditional rectifiers, the CDR topology can effectively double the output current while reducing transformer losses and improving efficiency, making it ideal for high-current, low-voltage applications.

[0003] Typically, a CDR topology employs multiple magnetic components, such as transformers and inductors. Transformers are used for isolation and voltage reduction. In traditional implementations, transformers and inductors are separate components, resulting in a bulky structure and reduced efficiency. However, integrated designs, such as combining inductors together, or in some cases integrating transformers and inductors, can significantly improve performance.

[0004] The study also shows that coupled magnetic elements help improve the dynamic performance of DC-DC converters. Coupled magnetic elements can achieve lower current ripple and faster transient response. However, traditional coupled magnetic elements require complex winding paths, resulting in longer wire lengths, higher losses, and larger space requirements. Furthermore, the coupling coefficient is difficult to adjust and improve during the design of magnetic elements.

[0005] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a magnetic element and an integrated magnetic element to solve the problems faced by the prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This invention provides a magnetic element and an integrated magnetic element. This magnetic element addresses the problems existing in the prior art and achieves advantages such as adjustable and / or enhanced coupling coefficients, reduced winding and core losses, smaller size, and improved performance. Furthermore, the magnetic element and integrated magnetic element of this invention are suitable for CDR topologies in DC-DC converters or multiphase buck converters. In some embodiments, the magnetic element is a fractional-winding planar transformer. The turns ratio of this magnetic element can be adjusted according to actual needs. Using a fractional-winding structure in the magnetic element achieves lower leakage inductance, lower winding and core losses, and improved power density and efficiency.

[0007] According to the concept of this invention, a magnetic element is provided. The magnetic element includes a core assembly, a primary winding, a first secondary winding, a second secondary winding, and a tertiary winding. The core assembly includes a center post, a first side post, and a second side post. A first winding channel is formed between the center post and the first side post. A second winding channel is formed between the center post and the second side post. The first side post includes a first pin, a second pin, and a first sub-winding channel. The first sub-winding channel is disposed between the first pin and the second pin. The second side post includes a third pin, a fourth pin, and a second sub-winding channel, which is disposed between the third pin and the fourth pin. Multiple portions of the primary winding are wound through the first winding channel and the second winding channel. A portion of the first secondary winding is wound through the first winding channel. A portion of the second secondary winding is wound through the second winding channel and is connected to the first secondary winding. The tertiary winding includes a first section and a second section. The first section is wound around one of the first and second pins. The second section is wound around one of the third and fourth pins.

[0008] According to another concept of this invention, a magnetic element is provided. The magnetic element includes a core assembly, a primary winding, a first secondary winding, a second secondary winding, and a tertiary winding. The core assembly includes a center post, a first side post, and a second side post. A first winding channel is formed between the center post and the first side post. A second winding channel is formed between the center post and the second side post. Multiple portions of the primary winding are wound through the first and second winding channels. A portion of the first secondary winding is wound through the first winding channel. A portion of the second secondary winding is wound through the second winding channel, and the second secondary winding is connected to the first secondary winding. The tertiary winding is wound on the center post or on the first and second side posts.

[0009] In one embodiment, the magnetic core assembly further includes a first plate and a second plate, wherein the central post, the first side post and the second side post are respectively connected between the first plate and the second plate, and the central post is disposed between the first side post and the second side post.

[0010] In one embodiment, the magnetic element further includes an auxiliary inductor configured to adjust a coupling coefficient of the magnetic element. The auxiliary inductor is a trace inductor electrically connected to the three-stage winding. Alternatively, the auxiliary inductor includes an inductor core having a channel through which a portion of the three-stage winding is wound through the channel of the inductor core. Or, the auxiliary inductor is a discrete inductor including an inductor core and an inductor winding. The inductor core includes an EE core, an EI core, or a PQ core. The inductor winding is electrically connected to the three-stage winding and is wound in one or more turns on a post of the inductor core.

[0011] In one embodiment, the primary winding is wound on the central post, or wound on the first side post and the second side post, the first primary winding is wound on the first side post, and the second primary winding is wound on the second side post.

[0012] In one embodiment, the three-stage winding includes a first section and a second section. The first section is wound on the first side post, and the second section is wound on the second side post. The current flowing through the first section of the three-stage winding flows in a first direction, and the current flowing through the second section of the three-stage winding flows in a second direction. The first direction and the second direction are opposite to each other.

[0013] In one embodiment, the primary winding is wound on the center post, the first secondary winding is wound on the first side post, the second secondary winding is wound on the second side post, a first section of the tertiary winding is wound on the first side post, and a second section of the tertiary winding is wound on the second side post.

[0014] In one embodiment, the primary winding is wound on the central post, the first secondary winding is wound on the first side post, the second secondary winding is wound on the second side post, and the tertiary winding is wound on the central post.

[0015] In one embodiment, the magnetic element further includes at least one printed circuit board, wherein at least one of the primary winding, the first secondary winding, the second secondary winding, and the third tertiary winding is disposed in the at least one printed circuit board.

[0016] In one embodiment, the primary winding, the first secondary winding, the second secondary winding, and the third secondary winding are each a conductive sheet.

[0017] In one embodiment, the magnetic element is a planar transformer based on a printed circuit board.

[0018] According to another concept of this invention, an integrated magnetic element is provided. The integrated magnetic element comprises at least two magnetic elements. Each magnetic element comprises the structure described above. A first side post of one of the at least two magnetic elements is connected to a second side post of an adjacent magnetic element to form a common post. The three-stage windings of the at least two magnetic elements are connected in series.

[0019] According to another concept of this invention, a magnetic element is provided. The magnetic element includes a core assembly, a primary winding, a first secondary winding, and a second secondary winding. The core assembly includes a center post, a first side post, and a second side post. A first winding channel is formed between the center post and the first side post. A second winding channel is formed between the center post and the second side post. The first side post includes a first pin, a second pin, and a first sub-winding channel. The first sub-winding channel is disposed between the first pin and the second pin. The second side post includes a third pin, a fourth pin, and a second sub-winding channel, which is disposed between the third pin and the fourth pin. The primary winding is wound on the center post and on one of the first pin and the second pin, and also on one of the third pin and the fourth pin. A portion of the first secondary winding is wound through the first winding channel. A portion of the second secondary winding is wound through the second winding channel, and the second secondary winding is connected to the first secondary winding.

[0020] According to another concept of this invention, a magnetic element is provided. The magnetic element includes a core assembly, a first inductor winding, a second inductor winding, and a three-stage winding. The core assembly includes a center post, a first side post, and a second side post. A first winding channel is formed between the center post and the first side post. A second winding channel is formed between the center post and the second side post. The first side post includes a first pin, a second pin, and a first sub-winding channel. The first sub-winding channel is disposed between the first pin and the second pin. The second side post includes a third pin, a fourth pin, and a second sub-winding channel, which is disposed between the third pin and the fourth pin. A portion of the first inductor winding is wound through ground in the first winding channel. A portion of the second inductor winding is wound through ground in the second winding channel, and the second inductor winding is connected to the first inductor winding. The three-stage winding includes a first section and a second section. The first section is wound around one of the first and second pins, and the second section is wound around one of the third and fourth pins. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0021] The above-described embodiments and other embodiments of this case will be further described and explained in the embodiments described below.

[0022] Figure 1A is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the first embodiment of this case.

[0023] Figure 1B is a circuit diagram showing a DC-DC converter with a current multiplier rectifier using the magnetic element shown in Figure 1A.

[0024] Figure 1C is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic core assembly of the magnetic element shown in Figure 1A.

[0025] Figure 1D is a schematic diagram showing the direction of current flowing through the winding in the magnetic element shown in Figure 1A.

[0026] Figure 1E is a circuit diagram showing the partial coupling effect between the inductances generated by the windings in the magnetic element shown in Figure 1A.

[0027] Figure 1F is a schematic diagram showing the magnetoresistive model of the magnetic element shown in Figure 1A after partial coupling is achieved.

[0028] Figure 1G is a schematic diagram showing an auxiliary inductor coupled to a three-stage winding of the magnetic element shown in Figure 1A.

[0029] Figure 2A is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the second embodiment of this case.

[0030] Figure 2B is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the third embodiment of this case.

[0031] Figure 2C is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the fourth embodiment of this case.

[0032] Figure 2D is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the fifth embodiment of this case.

[0033] Figure 3 is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the sixth embodiment of this case.

[0034] Figure 4A is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the seventh embodiment of this case.

[0035] Figure 4B is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the eighth embodiment of this case.

[0036] Figure 5A is a circuit diagram showing a power converter containing multiple modules connected in parallel, wherein a three-stage winding with integrated magnetic components is used to connect all modules.

[0037] Figure 5B is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the integrated magnetic element of the first embodiment of this case.

[0038] Figure 5C is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the integrated magnetic element of the second embodiment of this case.

[0039] Figure 6A is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the ninth embodiment of this case.

[0040] Figure 6B is a schematic diagram showing the direction of current flowing through the winding and the distribution of magnetic flux in the magnetic element shown in Figure 6A.

[0041] Figure 6C is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the integrated magnetic element of the third embodiment of this case.

[0042] Figure 7A is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the tenth embodiment of this case.

[0043] Figure 7B is a schematic diagram showing the direction of current flowing through the winding and the distribution of magnetic flux in the magnetic element shown in Figure 7A.

[0044] Figure 7C is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the eleventh embodiment of this case.

[0045] Figure 7D is a schematic diagram showing the direction of current flowing through the winding and the distribution of magnetic flux in the magnetic element shown in Figure 7C.

[0046] Figure 7E is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the twelfth embodiment of this case.

[0047] Figure 7F is a schematic diagram showing the direction of current flowing through the winding and the distribution of magnetic flux in the magnetic element shown in Figure 7E.

[0048] Figure 8 is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the integrated magnetic element of the fourth embodiment of this case.

[0049] Figures 9A, 9B, 9C and 10 show the magnetic elements of the coupling inductors used in a two-phase buck converter.

[0050] Figure 11A is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the thirteenth embodiment of this case.

[0051] Figure 11B is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing the detailed structure of the magnetic element shown in Figure 11A.

[0052] Figure 11C is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the fourteenth embodiment of this case.

[0053] Figure 12A is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the fifteenth embodiment of this case.

[0054] Figure 12B is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the sixteenth embodiment of this case. Implementation

[0055] The following description will provide a more detailed account of the present invention with reference to the following embodiments. It should be noted that the following description of preferred embodiments is for illustrative and descriptive purposes only and is not intended to exhaustively cover all embodiments or limit the specific forms described. For example, the formation of the first feature on or above the second feature in the following description may include embodiments where the first and second features are in direct contact, or embodiments where an additional feature is formed between the first and second features, such that the first and second features are not in direct contact. Furthermore, reference numerals and / or letters may be repeated in various examples. This repetition is for clarity and does not, in itself, determine the relationship between the various embodiments and / or configurations discussed. Additionally, for ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "upper," "lower," "front," "back," "top," and "bottom" may be used herein to describe the relationship between the elements or features shown in the figures and other elements or features. These spatial relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device other than those shown in the figures during use or operation. The device may adopt other orientations (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptive terms used herein may be interpreted accordingly. When referring to a component being "connected" or "coupled" to another component, it can mean a direct connection or coupling to the other component, or it can mean the presence of an intermediate component. Although the numerical ranges and parameters in this document are approximate, the values ​​in the specific examples have been listed as precisely as possible. Furthermore, while terms such as "first," "second," etc., in the claims can be used to describe individual components, these components should not be limited by these terms. The components described in the various embodiments are used to denote different reference numerals, and these terms are used only to distinguish different components. For example, a first component can be referred to as a second component, and similarly, a second component can be referred to as a first component, without departing from the scope of the exemplary embodiments. Additionally, "and / or," etc., can be used herein to encompass any or all combinations of one or more related listed items.

[0056] Figure 1A is a cross-sectional view showing the magnetic element of the first embodiment of this invention. Figure 1B is a circuit diagram showing a DC-DC converter with a current multiplier rectifier using the magnetic element shown in Figure 1A. Figure 1C is a perspective view showing the core assembly of the magnetic element shown in Figure 1A. Figure 1D is a schematic diagram showing the direction of current flowing through the windings in the magnetic element shown in Figure 1A. As shown in Figures 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D, the magnetic element 1 of this invention is applicable to a DC-DC converter 100 with a current multiplier rectifier (CDR) or a multiphase buck converter with a current multiplier rectifier. The DC-DC converter 100 includes a primary circuit 101, a transformer TR, and a secondary circuit 102. The primary circuit 101 receives an input voltage Vin and includes at least one switch arm. The switch arm includes an upper switch Q1 and a lower switch Q2 connected in series. The transformer TR includes a primary winding 3 and two secondary windings (i.e., a first secondary winding 4 and a second secondary winding 5). The primary winding 3 of the transformer TR is electrically connected to the switch arm. The secondary circuit 102 outputs an output voltage Vo and includes two switches SR1 and SR2. The two secondary windings 4 and 5 of the transformer TR are connected to the two switches SR1 and SR2 respectively. The two secondary windings 4 and 5 of the transformer TR and the two switches SR1 and SR2 together form a current-doubling rectifier. It should be noted that the topology of the CDR is not limited to the above embodiment and can be varied according to actual needs.

[0057] In this embodiment, the magnetic element 1 includes the aforementioned transformer TR. The magnetic element 1 includes a core assembly 2, a primary winding 3, a first secondary winding 4, a second secondary winding 5, and a tertiary winding 6. The core assembly 2 includes a center post 21, a first side post 22, and a second side post 23. A first winding channel 26 is formed between the center post 21 and the first side post 22. A second winding channel 27 is formed between the center post 21 and the second side post 23. The first side post 22 includes a first pin 221, a second pin 222, and a first sub-winding channel 223, which is disposed between the first pin 221 and the second pin 222. The second side post 23 includes a third pin 231, a fourth pin 232, and a second sub-winding channel 233, which is disposed between the third pin 231 and the fourth pin 232. In other words, the first side post 22 and the second side post 23 are each divided into two pins by a sub-winding channel. Multiple portions of the primary winding 3 are wound through the ground in the first winding channel 26 and the second winding channel 27. A portion of the first primary winding 4 is wound through the ground in the first winding channel 26.

[0058] The second-stage winding 5 is partially wound through the second winding channel 27, and is connected to the first-stage winding 4. The third-stage winding 6 is structured to adjust the coupling coefficient of the magnetic element 1, and includes a first section 61 and a second section 62. The first section 61 is wound on one of the first pin 221 and the second pin 222, and the second section 62 is wound on one of the third pin 231 and the fourth pin 232. Since the two side posts 22 and 23 of the core assembly 2 are each divided into two pins and partially coupled through the third-stage winding 6, the coupling coefficient of the magnetic element 1 can be adjusted and / or enhanced.

[0059] In some embodiments, the primary winding 3 is wound on the center post 21, or on the first side post 22 and the second side post 23, or on one of the first terminal 221 and the second terminal 222, and one of the third terminal 231 and the fourth terminal 232. The first primary winding 4 is wound on the center post 21 or the first side post 22. The second primary winding 5 is wound on the center post 21 or the second side post 23.

[0060] In some embodiments, the magnetic element 1 further includes an auxiliary inductor Lc, which is configured to adjust the coupling coefficient of the magnetic element 1. The auxiliary inductor Lc is a trace inductor or a discrete inductor. In one embodiment, the auxiliary inductor Lc is an additional winding electrically connected to the tertiary winding 6 to form a trace inductor (see FIG. 1D). In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1G, the auxiliary inductor Lc is a discrete inductor and includes an inductor core 7, which includes a channel 71 passing through it. A portion of the tertiary winding 6 is wound through the channel 71 of the inductor core 7. In some embodiments, the auxiliary inductor Lc is a discrete inductor and includes an inductor core and an inductor winding. Preferably, but not limited to, the inductor core includes an EE core, an EI core, or a PQ core. The inductor winding is electrically connected to the three-stage winding 6 and is wound on a magnetic post of the inductor core with one or more turns. It should be noted that the structure of the auxiliary inductor Lc is not limited to the above embodiment and can be varied according to actual needs.

[0061] In some embodiments, the magnetic core assembly 2 includes a first plate 24 and a second plate 25. A center post 21, a first side post 22, and a second side post 23 are respectively connected between the first plate 24 and the second plate 25. The center post 21 is disposed between the first side post 22 and the second side post 23. The magnetic core assembly 2 includes a first side 201, a second side 202, a third side 203, and a fourth side 204. The first side 201 and the second side 202 are opposite to each other. The third side 203 and the fourth side 204 are opposite to each other. The third side 203 and the fourth side 204 are preferably, but not limited to, parallel to the extending directions of the first winding channel 26 and the second winding channel 27. The first sub-winding channel 223 and the second sub-winding channel 233 are adjacent to and parallel to the third side 203 and the fourth side 204, respectively.

[0062] Alternatively, the first sub-winding channel 223 and the second sub-winding channel 233 are perpendicular to the third side 203 and the fourth side 204, respectively. In one embodiment, the core assembly 2 includes a first core component and a second core component. The first core component and the second core component are preferably, but not limited to, EE cores or EI cores. In one embodiment, the center post 21, the first side post 22, the second side post 23, and the first plate 24 are integrally formed and serve as the first core component, and the second plate 25 serves as the second core component. Alternatively, the center post 21, the first side post 22, the second side post 23, and the second plate 25 are integrally formed and serve as the first core component, and the first plate 24 serves as the second core component. It should be noted that the structure of the core assembly 2 is not limited to the above embodiments and can be varied according to actual needs.

[0063] As shown in Figures 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D, in this embodiment, the primary winding 3 is wound on the center post 21, and multiple portions of the primary winding 3 are wound through the first winding channel 26 and the second winding channel 27. A portion of the first secondary winding 4 is wound through the first winding channel 26. A portion of the second secondary winding 5 is wound through the second winding channel 27. The first secondary winding 4 and the second secondary winding 5 are connected to each other. The first section 61 of the tertiary winding 6 is wound on the first terminal 221, and multiple portions of the first section 61 are wound through the first sub-winding channel 223 and the first winding channel 26. The second section 62 of the tertiary winding 6 is wound on the third terminal 231, and multiple portions of the second section 62 are wound through the second sub-winding channel 233 and the second winding channel 27. The first section 61 and the second section 62 are connected in series. In one embodiment, the primary winding 3 is wound around the central post 21 with at least two turns, and the first primary winding 4 and the second primary winding 5 each contain one or more turns.

[0064] In some embodiments, a portion of the primary winding 4 is wound through the first winding channel 26, and the primary winding 4 is connected to the secondary winding 5. In other embodiments, the primary winding 4 is wound with at least one turn on the first side post 22, and the primary winding 4 is connected to the secondary winding 5. Similarly, the winding method of the primary winding 4 described above also applies to the secondary winding 5. The tertiary winding 6 includes at least one turn. It should be noted that the number of turns of the primary winding 3, the primary winding 4, the secondary winding 5, and the tertiary winding 6, and their interleaving structure, are not limited to the structures shown in Figures 1A and 1D, and the interleaving pattern of the windings can be arranged according to the actual required number of turns.

[0065] In one embodiment, the current flowing through the first segment 61 of the three-stage winding 6 flows in a first direction D1, and the current flowing through the second segment 62 of the three-stage winding 6 flows in a second direction D2. The first direction D1 and the second direction D2 are opposite to each other. For example, if the current flowing through the first segment 61 of the three-stage winding 6 at the first pin 221 flows clockwise, then the current flowing through the second segment 62 of the three-stage winding 6 at the third pin 231 flows counterclockwise, and vice versa.

[0066] In some embodiments, the magnetic element 1 is a planar transformer based on a printed circuit board, but is not limited thereto. The magnetic element 1 includes at least one printed circuit board (not shown). At least one of the primary winding 3, the first secondary winding 4, the second secondary winding 5, and the tertiary winding 6 is disposed in at least one printed circuit board. The printed circuit board has a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure. Therefore, a PCB-based planar magnetic element employing PCB windings is provided. In some embodiments, the primary winding 3, the first secondary winding 4, the second secondary winding 5, and the tertiary winding 6 are each a conductive sheet. In some embodiments, the first pin 221 includes a first cross-sectional area A1 in a direction parallel to the first plate 24, and the second pin 222 includes a second cross-sectional area A2 in a direction parallel to the first plate 24. The first cross-sectional area A1 is preferably, but not limited to, equal to the second cross-sectional area A2. The third pin 231 includes a third cross-sectional area A3 in a direction parallel to the first plate 24, and the fourth pin 232 includes a fourth cross-sectional area A4 in a direction parallel to the first plate 24. The third cross-sectional area A3 is preferably, but not limited to, equal to the fourth cross-sectional area A4.

[0067] Figure 1E is a circuit diagram showing the partial coupling effect between the inductances generated by the windings in the magnetic element shown in Figure 1A. Figure 1E shows the primary winding, the multiple branches of the first secondary winding and the second secondary winding, and the branches of the tertiary winding. The primary winding 3 and the two secondary windings 4 and 5 are tightly coupled, and the two secondary windings 4 and 5 are also coupled to the tertiary winding 6. The coupling coefficient is determined by the reluctance and the proportion of the tertiary winding 6 in the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic core surrounding the first side post 22 and the second side post 23. Figure 1F is a schematic diagram showing the reluctance model of the magnetic element shown in Figure 1A after partial coupling is achieved. As shown in Figure 1F, the pins 221, 222, 231, and 232 of the two side posts 22 and 23 are considered to be the same and are represented by pin impedances Rleg1 and Rleg2. Rbase represents the pin impedance of the first plate 24 and the second plate 25. Furthermore, ip represents the current flowing through the primary winding 3, iL1 represents the current flowing through the first primary winding 4, iL2 represents the current flowing through the second secondary winding 5, and ic represents the current flowing through the tertiary winding 6. The magnetoresistance model shows that partial coupling affects the overall magnetic flux distribution and the coupling coefficient within magnetic element 1.

[0068] Figure 2A is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the second embodiment of this invention. In this embodiment, the structure, components, and functions of the magnetic element 1a are similar to those of the magnetic element 1 shown in Figures 1A to 1G. The same reference numerals represent the same components, and will not be described again here. In this embodiment, the magnetic element 1a includes a core assembly 2, a primary winding 3, a first-stage winding 4, a second-stage winding 5, and a tertiary winding 6. The primary winding 3 is wound with at least one turn on the center post 21 (i.e., multiple portions of the primary winding 3 are wound through the first winding channel 26 and the second winding channel 27). The first-stage winding 4 is wound with at least one turn on the first side post 22 (i.e., a portion of the first-stage winding 4 is wound through the first winding channel 26). The second-stage winding 5 is wound with at least one turn on the second side post 23 (i.e., a portion of the second-stage winding 5 is wound through the second winding channel 27). The second-stage winding 5 is connected to the first-stage winding 4. The three-stage winding 6 is structured to adjust the coupling coefficient of the magnetic element 1a and includes a first section 61 and a second section 62. The first section 61 is wound around the first pin 221, and the second section 62 is wound around the third pin 231. In other words, the first section 61 and the second section 62 of the three-stage winding 6 are arranged across the first pin 221 and the third pin 231 near the central post 21.

[0069] Compared to the magnetic element 1 of the first embodiment shown in Figure 1A, the magnetic element 1a of this embodiment further includes two switches SR1 and SR2 connected to the primary winding 4 and the secondary winding 5, respectively. Furthermore, the two secondary windings 4 and 5 are not limited to a single half-turn winding, but rather include multiple turns. Therefore, the losses caused by winding only half a turn are reduced through this structure. The two side posts 22 and 23 of the core assembly 2 are respectively divided into two pins 221, 222, 231, and 232 to achieve partial coupling through the tertiary winding 6. This allows for adjustment and / or enhancement of the coupling coefficient of the magnetic element 1a.

[0070] Figure 2B is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the third embodiment of this invention. In this embodiment, the structure, components, and functions of the magnetic element 1b are similar to those of the magnetic element 1a shown in Figure 2A. The same reference numerals represent the same components, and will not be described again here. In this embodiment, the magnetic element 1b includes a core assembly 2, a primary winding 3, a first-stage winding 4, a second-stage winding 5, and a tertiary winding 6. The primary winding 3 includes a first segment 31 and a second segment 32. The first segment 31 is wound on the first side post 22, and the second segment 32 is wound on the second side post 23. In other words, the primary winding 3 is divided into two segments 31 and 32 and is wound across the side posts 22 and 23. The first-stage winding 4 is wound on the first side post 22. The second-stage winding 5 is wound on the second side post 23 and connected to the first-stage winding 4. The tertiary winding 6 is structured to adjust the coupling coefficient of the magnetic element 1b and includes the first segment 61 and the second segment 62. The first section 61 is wound around the first pin 221, and the second section 62 is wound around the third pin 231. The two side posts 21 and 22 of the magnetic core assembly 2 are respectively divided into two pins 221, 222, 231, and 232 to achieve partial coupling through the three-stage winding 6 and the primary winding 3. In this way, the coupling coefficient of the magnetic element 1b can be adjusted and / or enhanced.

[0071] Figure 2C is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the fourth embodiment of this invention. In this embodiment, the structure, components, and functions of the magnetic element 1c are similar to those of the magnetic element 1a shown in Figure 2A. The same reference numerals represent the same components, which will not be described again here. In this embodiment, the magnetic element 1c includes a core assembly 2, a primary winding 3, a first-stage winding 4, a second-stage winding 5, and a tertiary winding 6. The primary winding 3 is wound on the center post 21. The first-stage winding 4 is wound on the first side post 22. The second-stage winding 5 is wound on the second side post 23 and connected to the first-stage winding 4. The tertiary winding 6 is structured to adjust the coupling coefficient of the magnetic element 1c and includes a first segment 61 and a second segment 62. The first segment 61 is wound on the second pin 222, and the second segment 62 is wound on the fourth pin 232. In other words, the first section 61 and the second section 62 of the three-stage winding 6 span across the second terminal 222 and the fourth terminal 232, which are located away from the central post 21. The two side posts 22 and 23 of the core assembly 2 are respectively divided into two terminals 221, 222, 231, and 232 to achieve partial coupling through the three-stage winding 6. This allows for adjustment and / or enhancement of the coupling coefficient of the magnetic element 1c.

[0072] Figure 2D is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the fifth embodiment of this invention. In this embodiment, the structure, components, and functions of the magnetic element 1d are similar to those of the magnetic element 1a shown in Figure 2A. The same reference numerals represent the same components, which will not be described again here. Compared with the magnetic element 1a of the first embodiment shown in Figure 2A, the auxiliary inductor is omitted. Therefore, the magnetic element 1d occupies less space and has lower losses.

[0073] Figure 3 is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the sixth embodiment of this invention. In this embodiment, the structure, components, and functions of the magnetic element 1e are similar to those of the magnetic element 1a shown in Figure 2A. The same reference numerals represent the same components, which will not be described again here. In this embodiment, the magnetic element 1e includes a core assembly 2, a primary winding 3, a first-stage winding 4, a second-stage winding 5, and a tertiary winding 6. The first sub-winding channel 223 of the first side post 22 is connected to the first winding channel 26, and the second sub-winding channel 233 of the second side post 23 is connected to the second winding channel 27. Furthermore, the first sub-winding channel 223 and the second sub-winding channel 233 are perpendicular to the first winding channel 26 and the second winding channel 27. The primary winding 3 is wound on the center post 21. The first-stage winding 4 is wound on the first side post 22. The second-stage winding 5 is wound on the second side post 23 and connected to the first-stage winding 4. The three-stage winding 6 is structured to adjust the coupling coefficient of the magnetic element 1e and includes a first section 61 and a second section 62. The first section 61 is wound around the first pin 221, and the second section 62 is wound around the third pin 231. The two side posts 22 and 23 of the core assembly 2 are respectively divided into two pins 221, 222, 231, and 232 to achieve partial coupling through the three-stage winding 6. This allows for adjustment and / or enhancement of the coupling coefficient of the magnetic element 1b.

[0074] It should be noted that the winding position and winding method of magnetic element 1e are not limited and can be changed according to actual needs. For example, magnetic element 1e can adopt the winding position and winding method shown in Figures 2B, 2C and 2D.

[0075] Figure 4A is a perspective schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the seventh embodiment of this invention. The structure, components, and functions of the magnetic element 1f are similar to those of the magnetic element 1a shown in Figure 2A. The same reference numerals represent the same components, and will not be described again here. In this embodiment, the magnetic element 1f includes a core assembly 2, a primary winding 3, a first-stage winding 4, a second-stage winding 5, and a tertiary winding 6. The primary winding 3 is wound with at least two turns on the central post 21. A portion of the first-stage winding 4 is wound with at least half a turn through the first winding channel 26. A portion of the second-stage winding 5 is wound with at least half a turn through the second winding channel 27. The tertiary winding 6 is configured to adjust the coupling coefficient of the magnetic element 1f and includes a first segment 61 and a second segment 62. The first segment 61 is wound on the first pin 221, and the second segment 62 is wound on the third pin 231. In this embodiment, the tertiary winding 6 is perpendicular to the first plate 24 and / or the second plate 25. The two side posts 22 and 23 of the magnetic core assembly 2 are respectively divided into two terminals 221, 222, 231, and 232 to achieve partial coupling through the tertiary winding 6. Furthermore, negative coupling can be achieved according to the arrangement of the secondary windings 4 and 5 and the tertiary winding 6. This allows for adjustment and / or enhancement of the coupling coefficient of the magnetic element 1f. In some embodiments, the auxiliary inductor can be omitted, thereby achieving the advantages of reduced size and lower winding and core losses. In other embodiments, the auxiliary inductor Lc, for example, is a stand-alone inductor or a trace inductor, coupled to the tertiary winding 6 and configured to fine-tune the coupling between the secondary inductors.

[0076] Figure 4B is a perspective view showing the magnetic element of the eighth embodiment of this invention. In this embodiment, the structure, components, and functions of the magnetic element 1g are similar to those of the magnetic element 1f shown in Figure 4A. The same reference numerals represent the same components, which will not be described again here. Compared with the magnetic element 1f shown in Figure 4A, the three-stage winding 6 of the magnetic element 1g is parallel to the first plate 24 and / or the second plate 25. In other words, all windings are planar, and the magnetic element 1g has a planar structure. The magnetic element 1g is preferably, but not limited to, a planar magnetic element based on a printed circuit board containing PCB windings.

[0077] Figure 5A is a circuit diagram showing a power converter comprising multiple modules connected in parallel, wherein a three-stage winding of an integrated magnetic element is used to connect all modules. Figure 5B is a perspective view showing the integrated magnetic element of the first embodiment of this invention. As shown in Figures 5A and 5B, in this embodiment, an integrated magnetic element 8 is provided, which can be applied to a power converter 200 comprising at least two parallel modules 20. For example, the power converter 200 comprises two modules 20 or three parallel modules 20. The circuit topology of each module 20 is similar to that of the DC-DC converter 100 shown in Figure 1B, and will not be described again here. The integrated magnetic element 8 comprises at least two magnetic elements 81 connected to each other. Each magnetic element 81 is preferably, but not limited to, implemented with the structure of magnetic elements 1, 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f, and 1g. A plurality of three-stage windings 6 of the magnetic element 81 are connected in series and are used to connect all modules 201 together. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG5B, the magnetic elements 81 of the integrated magnetic element 8 are separate from each other. Each magnetic element 81 includes an independent inductor or trace inductor to manage magnetic coupling. In some embodiments, the magnetic elements 81 of the integrated magnetic element 8 are connected to each other (not shown). The first side post 22 of one of the plurality of magnetic elements 81 is connected to the second side post 23 of the adjacent magnetic element 81 to form a common post (not shown). The plurality of ternary windings 6 of the magnetic element 81 are connected in series.

[0078] Figure 5C is a perspective view showing the integrated magnetic element of the second embodiment of this invention. The structure, components, and functions of the integrated magnetic element 8a are similar to those of the integrated magnetic element 8 shown in Figure 5B. The same reference numerals represent the same components, and will not be described again here. Compared with the integrated magnetic element 8 shown in Figure 5B, the integrated magnetic element 8a includes three magnetic elements 81. The magnetic elements 81 are preferably, but not limited to, implemented with the structure of magnetic elements 1, 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f, and 1g. The three magnetic elements 81 are integrated into a single unit. The second pin 222 of the magnetic element 81 and the fourth pin 232 of the adjacent magnetic element 81 are connected to each other to form a common post 82. The common post 82 is integrally formed. A plurality of three-stage windings 6 of the magnetic element 81 are connected in series. A plurality of independent inductors or wiring inductors are combined to form an auxiliary inductor Lc to optimize magnetic coupling. The auxiliary inductor Lc is used to fine-tune the coupling between the output inductors.

[0079] Figure 6A is a perspective view showing the magnetic element of the ninth embodiment of this invention. Figure 6B is a schematic diagram showing the direction of current flowing through the windings and the magnetic flux distribution in the magnetic element shown in Figure 6A. The magnetic element 9 includes a core assembly 2, a primary winding 3, a first-stage winding 4, a second-stage winding 5, and a tertiary winding 6. The core assembly 2 includes a center post 21, a first side post 22, and a second side post 23. Compared with magnetic elements 1, 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f, and 1g, the first side post 22 and the second side post 23 of the magnetic element 9 are not divided into two terminals respectively. The primary winding 3 is wound with at least two turns on the center post 21 (i.e., multiple portions of the primary winding 3 are wound through the first winding channel 26 and the second winding channel 27). A portion of the first-stage winding 4 is wound through the first winding channel 26 with at least half a turn. A portion of the second-stage winding 5 is wound through the second winding channel 27 with at least half a turn. The primary winding 4 is connected to the secondary winding 5. The tertiary winding 6 is configured to adjust the coupling coefficient of the magnetic element 9. The tertiary winding 6 is wound with at least one turn on the central post 21. The direction of the current flowing through the windings and the magnetic flux distribution of the core assembly 2 are shown in Figure 6B. Due to the multiple parts of the primary winding 3, the two secondary windings 4 and 5, and the tertiary winding 6 being interleaved and aligned with each other in the first winding channel 26 and the second winding channel 27, a positive coupling effect is generated.

[0080] In some embodiments, the magnetic element 9 further includes an auxiliary inductor Lc, configured to fine-tune the coupling coefficient of the magnetic element 9. The auxiliary inductor Lc is a wire inductor or a discrete inductor, and is configured to fine-tune the coupling between secondary inductors, thereby enhancing the positive coupling effect.

[0081] Figure 6C is a perspective view showing the integrated magnetic element of the third embodiment of this invention. In this embodiment, an integrated magnetic element 8b is provided that can be applied to the power converter 200 shown in Figure 5A. The integrated magnetic element 8b includes at least two magnetic elements connected to each other. Each magnetic element is preferably, but not limited to, implemented as a magnetic element 9. A plurality of three-stage windings 6 of the magnetic elements 9 are connected in series and are used to connect all modules 20 (as shown in Figure 5A) together. In one embodiment, the plurality of magnetic elements 9 of the integrated magnetic element 8b are separate from each other. Each magnetic element 9 includes an independent inductor or a trace inductor to manage magnetic coupling. In other embodiments, the magnetic elements 9 of the integrated magnetic element 8b are connected to each other to form an integrated structure. The independent inductors or trace inductors are combined to form an auxiliary inductor Lc to minimize magnetic coupling. The auxiliary inductor Lc is used to fine-tune the coupling between the output inductors.

[0082] Figure 7A is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the tenth embodiment of this invention. Figure 7B is a schematic diagram showing the direction of current flowing through the windings and the magnetic flux distribution in the magnetic element shown in Figure 7A. In this embodiment, the structure, components, and functions of the magnetic element 9a are similar to those of the magnetic element 9 shown in Figure 6A. The same reference numerals represent the same components, and will not be described again here. Compared to the magnetic element 9 shown in Figure 6A, the first-stage winding 4 is wound on the first side post 22. The second-stage winding 5 is wound on the second side post 23. The first-stage winding 4 is connected to the second-stage winding 5. The third-stage winding 6 is configured to adjust the coupling coefficient of the magnetic element 9a. The third-stage winding 6 is wound with at least one turn on the center post 21. The direction of current flowing through the windings and the magnetic flux distribution of the magnetic element are shown in Figure 7B. A negative coupling effect can be generated by the position and winding method of the windings of the magnetic element 9a.

[0083] Figure 7C is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the eleventh embodiment of this invention. Figure 7D is a schematic diagram showing the direction of current flowing through the winding and the magnetic flux distribution in the magnetic element shown in Figure 7C. In this embodiment, the structure, components, and functions of the magnetic element 9b are similar to those of the magnetic element 9 shown in Figure 7A. The same reference numerals represent the same components, and will not be described again here. Compared with the magnetic element 9a in Figure 7A, the three-stage winding 6 includes a first section 61 and a second section 62. The first section 61 is wound on the first side post 22. The second section 62 is wound on the second side post 23. The current flowing through the first section 61 flows in the second direction D2, and the current flowing through the second section 62 flows in the first direction D1. The first direction D1 and the second direction D2 are opposite to each other. The three-stage winding 6 is structured to adjust the coupling coefficient of the magnetic element 9b. The auxiliary inductor Lc is used to fine-tune the coupling between the output inductors.

[0084] The direction of the current flowing through the winding and the magnetic flux distribution of the magnetic element 9b are shown in Figure 7D. By adjusting the position and winding method of the magnetic element 9b winding, and utilizing a negatively coupled inductor based on a PCB magnetic element, the advantage of adjusting negative coupling to positive coupling through the three-stage winding 6 can be achieved.

[0085] Figure 7E is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the twelfth embodiment of this invention. Figure 7F is a schematic diagram showing the direction of current flowing through the winding and the magnetic flux distribution in the magnetic element shown in Figure 7E. In this embodiment, the structure, components, and functions of the magnetic element 9c are similar to those of the magnetic element 9b shown in Figure 7C, and will not be described again here. Compared with the magnetic element 9b in Figure 7C, the first side post 22 is divided into a first contact 221 and a second contact 222. The second side post 23 is divided into a third contact 231 and a fourth contact 232. The three-stage winding 6 includes a first section 61 and a second section 62. The first section 61 is wound on one of the first contact 221 and the second contact 222, and the second section 62 is wound on one of the third contact 231 and the fourth contact 232. The current flowing through the first section 61 flows in the second direction D2, and the current flowing through the second section 62 flows in the first direction D1. The first direction D1 and the second direction D2 are opposite to each other. The three-stage winding 6 is configured to adjust the coupling coefficient of the magnetic element 9c. The auxiliary inductor Lc is configured to assist in the fine adjustment of the coupling coefficient. The direction of the current flowing through the winding and the magnetic flux distribution of the magnetic element are shown in Figure 7F. By adjusting the position and winding method of the magnetic element 9c, and using a negative-coupled inductor based on a PCB magnetic element, the advantage of adjusting negative coupling to positive coupling can be achieved through the three-stage winding 6. Furthermore, the three-stage winding 6 only couples the side posts 22 and 23, thereby allowing selective coupling adjustment.

[0086] Figure 8 is a perspective view showing the integrated magnetic element of the fourth embodiment of this invention. In this embodiment, an integrated magnetic element 8c is provided, which can be applied to a power converter similar to the power converter 200 shown in Figure 5A. The integrated magnetic element 8c includes at least two magnetic elements 9b connected to each other. Each magnetic element 9b is preferably, but not limited to, implemented with the structure of magnetic elements 9, 9a, and 9c. A plurality of ternary windings 6 of magnetic element 9a are connected in series and are used to connect all modules 20 (as shown in Figure 5A) together. The plurality of magnetic elements 9b are connected to each other to form an integral structure. The plurality of ternary windings 6 of magnetic element 9b are connected in series. A plurality of individual inductors or wiring inductors are combined to form an auxiliary inductor Lc to optimize magnetic coupling. The auxiliary inductor Lc is used to fine-tune the coupling between the output inductors. This integration utilizes the architecture of the core group 2, primary winding 3, secondary windings 4 and 5, and tertiary winding 6 described above, achieving enhanced coupling and performance between multiple modules, and further optimizing the overall efficiency and scalability of the system.

[0087] Figures 9A, 9B, and 9C show the magnetic elements of the coupling inductors used in a two-phase buck converter. In these embodiments, the secondary circuit of the two-phase buck converter includes four switches SR1, SR2, SR3, and SR4. Magnetic elements 1h, 1i, and 1j are modified from the structures shown in Figures 2A, 2B, or 2C. The embodiment architecture shown in Figures 9A, 9B, and 9C includes a positively coupled structure with minimized winding length for the two inductor windings to reduce winding losses. The combination of multiple tertiary windings 6 and the auxiliary inductor Lc allows for fine adjustment of the coupling, enabling a transition from positive to negative coupling as needed. The winding connection on the pins can be configured according to the architecture shown in Figures 9A or 9B. Furthermore, by employing the partial coupling structure shown in Figure 9C, the auxiliary inductor can be omitted, further optimizing the design, reducing size and losses, and improving overall efficiency.

[0088] Figure 10 shows the magnetic element of the coupled inductor used in a two-phase buck converter. In this embodiment, the magnetic element 1k is a modified version of the structure shown in Figure 3. This architecture includes two inductor windings in a positively coupled structure, minimizing winding length to reduce winding losses. The three-stage winding 6, the auxiliary inductor Lc, and the pins 221, 222, 231, and 232 of the partially coupled side posts 22 and 23 are paired to fine-tune the coupling, thereby enabling a transition from positive to negative coupling as needed.

[0089] Figure 11A is a perspective view showing the magnetic element of the thirteenth embodiment of this invention. Figure 11B is a cross-sectional view showing the detailed structure of the magnetic element shown in Figure 11A. In this embodiment, the structure, components, and functions of the magnetic element 10 are similar to those of the magnetic element 1e shown in Figure 3. The same reference numerals represent the same components, which will not be described again here. In this embodiment, the magnetic element 10 includes a core assembly 2, a primary winding 3, a first-stage winding 4, and a second-stage winding 5. The two side posts 22 and 23 of the core assembly 2 are respectively divided into two terminals 221, 222, 231, and 232. Compared with the magnetic element 1e shown in Figure 3, the three-stage winding is omitted. In addition, the primary winding 3 includes a first segment 31, a second segment 32, and a third segment 33. The first segment 31 is wound on one of the first terminal 221 and the second terminal 222. The second segment 32 is wound on one of the third terminal 231 and the fourth terminal 232. The third section 33 is wound around the center post 21 (i.e., multiple portions of the primary winding 3 are wound through the first winding channel 26 and the second winding channel 27). A portion of the first primary winding 4 is wound through the first winding channel 26 with at least half a turn. A portion of the second primary winding 5 is wound through the second winding channel 27 with at least half a turn. In some embodiments, the first primary winding 4 is wound with at least one turn on one of the first side post 22 and the center post 21, and the second primary winding 5 is wound with at least one turn on one of the center post 21 and the second side post 23.

[0090] In this embodiment, preferably but not limited, the first cross-sectional area A1 of the first pin 221 is not equal to the second cross-sectional area A2 of the second pin 222, and the third cross-sectional area A3 of the third pin 231 is not equal to the fourth cross-sectional area A4 of the fourth pin 232. In this embodiment, the magnetic element 10 is a fractional-winding planar transformer. Preferably but not limited, the turns ratio of the magnetic element 10 is 2.5:1. By using the magnetic element 10 with a fractional-winding structure, lower leakage inductance, lower winding and core losses are achieved, improving power density and efficiency. Since the two side posts 22 and 23 of the core assembly 2 are each divided into two pins to achieve partial coupling through the primary winding 3, the turns ratio of the magnetic element 10 can be adjusted as needed.

[0091] Figure 11C is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the fourteenth embodiment of this invention. In this embodiment, the structure, components, and functions of the magnetic element 10a are similar to those of the magnetic element 10 shown in Figures 11A and 11B, and will not be described again here. In this embodiment, the magnetic element 10a includes a core assembly 2, a primary winding 3, a first-stage winding 4, and a second-stage winding 5. The two side posts 22 and 23 of the core assembly 2 are respectively divided into two terminals 221, 222, 231, and 232. Compared with the magnetic element 10 shown in Figure 11A, the winding method of the primary winding 3 is different. In this embodiment, the current flowing through the first section 31 and the third section 33 flows in the second direction D2. The current flowing through the second section 32 flows in the first direction D1. The first direction D1 and the second direction D2 are opposite to each other. In this embodiment, the magnetic element 10a is a fractional-winding planar transformer. The turns ratio of the magnetic element 10a is preferably, but not limited to, 2.5:1. By using a magnetic element 10a with a fractional winding structure, lower leakage inductance, lower winding and core losses are achieved, thereby improving power density and efficiency. Since the two side posts 22 and 23 of the core assembly 2 are each divided into two pins to achieve partial coupling through the primary winding 3, the turns ratio of the magnetic element 10a can be adjusted as needed.

[0092] Figure 12A is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the fifteenth embodiment of this invention. The structure, components, and functions of the magnetic element 10b are similar to those of the magnetic element 10a shown in Figure 11C. The same reference numerals represent the same components, and will not be described again here. In this embodiment, the magnetic element 10a includes a core assembly 2, a primary winding 3, a first secondary winding 4, a second secondary winding 5, and a tertiary winding 6. The two side posts 22 and 23 of the core assembly 2 are respectively divided into two terminals 221, 222, 231, and 232. Compared with the magnetic element 10a shown in Figure 11C, the magnetic element 10b also includes a tertiary winding 6. The primary winding 3 includes a first segment 31, a second segment 32, and a third segment 33. The first segment 31 is wound on the first terminal 221. The second segment 32 is wound on the third terminal 231. The third segment 33 is wound around the center post 21 (i.e., multiple portions of the primary winding 3 are wound through the first winding channel 26 and the second winding channel 27). A portion of the first primary winding 4 is wound through the first winding channel 26 with at least half a turn. A portion of the second primary winding 5 is wound through the second winding channel 27 with at least half a turn. In some embodiments, the first primary winding 4 is wound with at least one turn on one of the first side post 22 and the center post 21, and the second primary winding 5 is wound with at least one turn on one of the center post 21 and the second side post 23. The three-stage winding 6 includes a first segment 61 and a second segment 62. The first segment 61 is wound around the first terminal 221. The second segment 62 is wound around the third terminal 231. The two side posts 22 and 23 of the magnetic core assembly 2 are respectively divided into two pins 221, 222, 231 and 232 to achieve partial coupling through the three-stage winding 6, thus adjusting and / or enhancing the coupling coefficient of the magnetic element 10b.

[0093] Furthermore, the magnetic element 10b is a fractional-winding planar transformer. Preferably, but not limited to, the turns ratio of the magnetic element 10b is 2.5:1. By using the magnetic element 10b with a fractional-winding structure, lower leakage inductance, lower winding and core losses are achieved, thereby improving power density and efficiency. Since the two side posts 22 and 23 of the core assembly 2 are each divided into two terminals to achieve partial coupling through the primary winding 3, the turns ratio of the magnetic element 10b can be adjusted as needed.

[0094] Figure 12B is a three-dimensional schematic diagram showing the magnetic element of the sixteenth embodiment of this invention. In this embodiment, the structure, components, and functions of the magnetic element 10c are similar to those of the magnetic element 10b shown in Figure 12A, and will not be described again here. Compared with the magnetic element 10b in Figure 12A, the positions of the first segment 61 and the second segment 62 of the three-stage winding 6 are different. The first segment 31 of the primary winding 3 is wound on the first pin 221. The second segment 32 of the primary winding 3 is wound on the third pin 231. The third segment 33 of the primary winding 3 is wound on the center post 21. The first segment 61 of the three-stage winding 6 is wound on the second pin 222. The second segment 62 of the three-stage winding 6 is wound on the fourth pin 232. The two side posts 22 and 23 of the core assembly 2 are respectively divided into two terminals 221, 222, 231, and 232 to achieve partial coupling through the three-stage winding 6, thus allowing adjustment and / or enhancement of the coupling coefficient of the magnetic element 10c. Furthermore, the magnetic element 10c is a fractional-winding planar transformer. Preferably, but not limited to, the turns ratio of the magnetic element 10c is 2.5:1. By using the magnetic element 10c with a fractional-winding structure, lower leakage inductance, lower winding and core losses are achieved, improving power density and efficiency. Since the two side posts 22 and 23 of the core assembly 2 are respectively divided into two terminals to achieve partial coupling through the primary winding 3, the turns ratio of the magnetic element 10c can be adjusted as needed.

[0095] Based on the above, this invention provides a magnetic element and an integrated magnetic element. The magnetic element and integrated magnetic element utilize a direct winding and direct core structure to achieve adjustable and / or enhanced coupling between coupled inductors within the magnetic element. Furthermore, the magnetic element and integrated magnetic element of this invention can achieve negative coupling while ensuring the shortest winding path, and minimize winding losses in the CDR topology using the direct winding and direct core structure, while allowing fine-tuning of the coupling coefficient by adding additional windings or inductors. This adjustment enables a transition from positive to negative coupling, thereby improving the transient response of the DC-DC converter. Conversely, the magnetic element and integrated magnetic element of this invention also allow for the conversion of negative coupling to positive coupling to reduce output current ripple. The magnetic element and integrated magnetic element of this invention can also achieve the above objectives without adding additional inductors, thereby reducing total losses and minimizing footprint and size.

[0096] Furthermore, the magnetic element and integrated magnetic element of this invention can be applied to multi-module architectures, improving performance by optimizing the inductive coupling between multiple modules, thereby increasing efficiency and enabling a compact system design. In some embodiments, the magnetic element is a fractional-winding planar transformer. Since the two columns of this magnetic element are each divided into two terminals, partial coupling is achieved through the primary winding, thus the turns ratio of this magnetic element can be adjusted as needed. By using a magnetic element with a fractional-winding structure, lower leakage inductance, lower winding and core losses can be achieved, and power density and efficiency can be improved.

[0097] This case can be modified in various ways by those who are familiar with this technology, but all of them are still subject to the protection sought by the attached patent application.

[0098] 1, 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f, 1g, 1h, 1i, 1j, 1k, 9, 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 81, 9a, 9b, 9c: Magnetic components 100: DC-DC converter 101: Primary Circuit 102: Secondary circuit 2: Magnetic core assembly 200: Power Converter 20: Module 201: First side 202: Second side 203: Third side 204: Fourth side 21: Central Column 22: First side pillar 221: First foot 222: Second foot 223: First sub-winding channel 23: Second side post 231: Third pin 232: Fourth foot 233: Second sub-winding channel 24: First Slab 25: Second plate 26: First winding channel 27: Second winding channel 3: Primary winding 31, 61: First section 32, 62: Second section 33: Third Section 4: First stage winding 5: Secondary winding 6: Three-stage winding 7: Inductor core 71: Channel 8, 8a, 8b, 8c: Integrated magnetic components 82: Common Column A1: First cross-sectional area A2: Second cross-sectional area A3: Third cross-sectional area A4: Fourth cross-sectional area D1: First Direction D2: Second Direction Ic, iL1, iL2, ip, isec1, isec2: Current Lc: Auxiliary inductor Q1: Switch Q2: Down switch Rleg1, Rleg2, Rbase: Impedance SR1, SR2, SR3, SR4: Switches TR: Transformer Vin: Input voltage Vo: Output voltage

Claims

1. A magnetic element comprising: a core assembly including a central post, a first side post, and a second side post, wherein a first winding channel is formed between the central post and the first side post, and a second winding channel is formed between the central post and the second side post, wherein the first side post includes a first pin, a second pin, and a first sub-winding channel, the first sub-winding channel being disposed between the first pin and the second pin, and the second side post includes a third pin, a fourth pin, and a second sub-winding channel, the second sub-winding channel being disposed between the third pin and the fourth pin; a primary winding including a plurality of portions partially wound through the first winding channel and the second winding channel; and a first secondary winding including a portion partially wound through the first winding channel; A second-stage winding, including a portion wound through the second winding channel and connected to the first-stage winding; and a third-stage winding, including a first section and a second section, the first section being wound on one of the first pin and the second pin, and the second section being wound on one of the third pin and the fourth pin.

2. The magnetic element as claimed in claim 1 further includes an auxiliary inductor configured to adjust a coupling coefficient of the magnetic element, wherein the auxiliary inductor is a trace inductor and the trace inductor is electrically connected to the three-stage winding, or wherein the auxiliary inductor includes an inductor core having a channel through it, and a portion of the three-stage winding is wound through the channel of the inductor core, or wherein the auxiliary inductor is a discrete inductor and includes an inductor core and an inductor winding.

3. The magnetic element as claimed in claim 1, wherein the current flowing through the first section of the three-stage winding flows in a first direction, and the current flowing through the second section of the three-stage winding flows in a second direction, wherein the first direction and the second direction are opposite to each other.

4. The magnetic element as claimed in claim 1, wherein the primary winding is wound on the central post, or on the first side post and the second side post, or on one of the first pin and the second pin and one of the third pin and the fourth pin, wherein the first primary winding is wound on the central post or the first side post, and the second primary winding is wound on the central post or the second side post.

5. The magnetic element as claimed in claim 4, wherein the primary winding is wound on the center post, the first secondary winding is wound on the first side post, the second secondary winding is wound on the second side post, the first section of the tertiary winding is wound on the first pin, and the second section of the tertiary winding is wound on the third pin.

6. The magnetic element as claimed in claim 4, wherein the primary winding includes a first section and a second section, the first section being wound on the first side post, the second section being wound on the second side post, the first primary winding being wound on the first side post, the second primary winding being wound on the second side post, the first section of the tertiary winding being wound on the first terminal, and the second section of the tertiary winding being wound on the third terminal.

7. The magnetic element as claimed in claim 4, wherein the primary winding is wound on the center post, the first secondary winding is wound on the first side post, the second secondary winding is wound on the second side post, the first section of the tertiary winding is wound on the second pin, and the second section of the tertiary winding is wound on the fourth pin.

8. The magnetic element as claimed in claim 4, wherein the primary winding comprises: A first section is provided around one of the first pin and the second pin; A second section is wound on one of the third and fourth terminals; and a third section is wound on the center post, wherein the first-stage winding is wound with at least one turn on the first side post, or a portion of the first-stage winding is wound through the first winding channel between the first side post and the center post, wherein the second-stage winding is wound with at least one turn on one of the second side post and the center post, or a portion of the second-stage winding is wound through the second winding channel between the second side post and the center post; wherein the first section of the third-stage winding is wound on one of the first and second terminals, and the second section of the third-stage winding is wound on one of the third and fourth terminals.

9. The magnetic element as claimed in claim 1 further comprises at least one printed circuit board, wherein at least one of the primary winding, the first secondary winding, the second secondary winding, and the third tertiary winding is disposed in the at least one printed circuit board.

10. The magnetic element as claimed in claim 1, wherein the core assembly includes a first plate and a second plate, wherein the central post, the first side post and the second side post are respectively connected between the first plate and the second plate, and the central post is disposed between the first side post and the second side post, wherein the core assembly has a first side, a second side, a third side and a fourth side, the first side and the second side being opposite to each other, and the third side and the fourth side being opposite to each other, wherein the first sub-winding channel and the second sub-winding channel are parallel to the third side and the fourth side, or the first sub-winding channel and the second sub-winding channel are perpendicular to the third side and the fourth side.

11. An integrated magnetic element comprising: at least two magnetic elements interconnected, wherein each of the at least two magnetic elements comprises: a core assembly comprising a central post, a first side post, and a second side post, wherein a first winding channel is formed between the central post and the first side post, and a second winding channel is formed between the central post and the second side post, wherein the first side post comprises a first pin, a second pin, and a first sub-winding channel, the first sub-winding channel being disposed between the first pin and the second pin, and the second side post comprises a third pin, a fourth pin, and a second sub-winding channel, the second sub-winding channel being disposed between the third pin and the fourth pin; a primary winding comprising a plurality of portions partially wound through the first winding channel and the second winding channel; and a first secondary winding comprising a portion partially wound through the first winding channel; A second-stage winding, including a portion wound through the second winding channel and connected to the first-stage winding; and a third-stage winding, including a first segment and a second segment, the first segment being wound on one of the first and second terminals, and the second segment being wound on one of the third and fourth terminals; wherein, The first side post of one of the at least two magnetic elements is connected to the second side post of the adjacent magnetic element to form a common post; and the three-stage windings of the at least two magnetic elements are connected in series.

12. A magnetic element comprising: a core assembly including a central post, a first side post, and a second side post, wherein a first winding channel is formed between the central post and the first side post, and a second winding channel is formed between the central post and the second side post; a primary winding including a plurality of portions partially wound through the first winding channel and the second winding channel; a first secondary winding including a portion partially wound through the first winding channel; a second secondary winding including a portion partially wound through the second winding channel and connected to the first secondary winding; and a tertiary winding wound on the central post, or wound on the first side post and the second side post.

13. An integrated magnetic element comprising: at least two magnetic elements interconnected, wherein each of the at least two magnetic elements comprises: a core assembly including a central post, a first side post, and a second side post, wherein a first winding channel is formed between the central post and the first side post, and a second winding channel is formed between the central post and the second side post; a primary winding including a plurality of portions partially wound through the first winding channel and the second winding channel; a first secondary winding including a portion partially wound through the first winding channel; a second secondary winding including a portion partially wound through the second winding channel and connected to the first secondary winding; and a tertiary winding wound on the central post, or wound on the first side post and the second side post; wherein... One of the at least two magnetic elements has its first side post connected to the second side post of the adjacent magnetic element to form a common post; and the three-stage windings of the at least two magnetic elements are connected in series.

14. A magnetic element comprising: a core assembly including a center post, a first side post, and a second side post, wherein a first winding channel is formed between the center post and the first side post, and a second winding channel is formed between the center post and the second side post, wherein the first side post includes a first pin, a second pin, and a first sub-winding channel, the first sub-winding channel being disposed between the first pin and the second pin, and the second side post includes a third pin, a fourth pin, and a second sub-winding channel, the second sub-winding channel being disposed between the third pin and the fourth pin; a primary winding wound on the center post, and wound on one of the first pin and the second pin, and wound on one of the third pin and the fourth pin; a first primary winding including a portion wound through the first winding channel; and a second primary winding including a portion wound through the second winding channel and connected to the first primary winding.

15. The magnetic element as claimed in claim 14, wherein the primary winding is wound on the central post or the first side post, and the secondary winding is wound on the central post or the second side post.

16. The magnetic element of claim 15 further comprises a three-stage winding, wherein the three-stage winding comprises a first segment and a second segment, the first segment being wound on one of the first pin and the second pin, and the second segment being wound on one of the third pin and the fourth pin.

17. The magnetic element of claim 16 further includes an auxiliary inductor configured to adjust a coupling coefficient of the magnetic element, wherein the auxiliary inductor is a trace inductor and is electrically connected to the three-stage winding, or wherein the auxiliary inductor includes an inductor core having a channel passing through it, and a portion of the three-stage winding is wound around the channel passing through the inductor core, or wherein the auxiliary inductor is a discrete inductor and includes an inductor core and an inductor winding.

18. The magnetic element as claimed in claim 16, wherein the current flowing through the first section of the three-stage winding flows in a first direction, and the current flowing through the second section of the three-stage winding flows in a second direction, wherein the first direction and the second direction are opposite to each other.

19. The magnetic element of claim 14, wherein the primary winding comprises: a first section wound on one of the first pin and the second pin; a second section wound on one of the third pin and the fourth pin; and a third section wound on the center post; wherein the primary primary winding is wound on the first side post or the center post, or a portion of the primary primary winding is wound through the first winding channel between the first side post and the center post; and wherein the secondary primary winding is wound on the second side post or the center post, or a portion of the secondary primary winding is wound through the second winding channel between the second side post and the center post.

20. The magnetic element as claimed in claim 14 further comprises at least one printed circuit board, wherein at least one of the primary winding, the first secondary winding, and the second secondary winding is disposed in the at least one printed circuit board.

21. The magnetic element as claimed in claim 14, wherein the core assembly further comprises a first plate and a second plate, wherein the central post, the first side post and the second side post are respectively connected between the first plate and the second plate, and the central post is disposed between the first side post and the second side post, wherein the core assembly has a first side, a second side, a third side and a fourth side, the first side and the second side being opposite to each other, and the third side and the fourth side being opposite to each other, wherein the first sub-winding channel and the second sub-winding channel are parallel to the third side and the fourth side, or the first sub-winding channel and the second sub-winding channel are perpendicular to the third side and the fourth side.

22. A magnetic element comprising: a core assembly including a central post, a first side post, and a second side post, wherein a first winding channel is formed between the central post and the first side post, and a second winding channel is formed between the central post and the second side post, wherein the first side post includes a first pin, a second pin, and a first sub-winding channel, the first sub-winding channel being disposed between the first pin and the second pin, and the second side post includes a third pin, a fourth pin, and a second sub-winding channel, the second sub-winding channel being disposed between the third pin and the fourth pin; and a first inductor winding including a portion passing through ground wound within the first winding channel; A second inductor winding, including a portion passing through ground and wound in the second winding channel and connected to the first inductor winding; and a tertiary winding, including a first section and a second section, the first section being wound on one of the first pin and the second pin, and the second section being wound on one of the third pin and the fourth pin.

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