3D Multilayer Solenoid Transformer Footprint Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional transformers, especially those with large metal spiral inductors, fail to meet the requirements of small form factor and high power specifications in modern electronic circuits, as they often have unsuitable coupling coefficients (k) and quality (Q) factors for applications in IC devices.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional solenoid transformer design with a multilayer interleaving scheme is implemented, where conductive pathways form inductively-coupled paths with interleaved axes, utilizing dielectric layers for insulation and reducing footprint, to achieve high k values and Q factors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If transformer size is reduced for small form factor, then footprint is improved, but electrical performance (k and Q) deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent exploits the vertical dimension by stacking multiple winding layers to achieve the required number of turns and coupling within a reduced horizontal footprint. The interleaved multilayer solenoid structure packs more effective magnetic coupling volume vertically, allowing the transformer to meet electrical performance specifications in a smaller planar area compared to traditional planar or single-layer solenoid designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The nested interleaved winding arrangement allows inner windings to be positioned within the magnetic field region of outer windings, maximizing the use of available space. This nesting achieves high coupling coefficients without requiring proportionally larger dimensions, as the nested structure creates efficient magnetic flux utilization within the compact volume.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The design achieves increased coupling coefficients and quality factors, reducing the transformer's footprint by approximately half while maintaining high electrical performance, making it suitable for modern electronic devices.
Implementation Method 1
A transformer can transfer electrical energy from one circuit to another through inductively-coupled coils or windings. For example, in a traditional design, a varying current, Ip, in a primary coil induces a voltage, Vs, in a secondary coil.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure provides implementations of inductors, transformers, and related processes. In one aspect, a device includes a substrate having first and second surfaces. A first inducting arrangement includes a first set of vias, a second set of vias, a first set of traces arranged over the first surface connecting the first and second vias, and a second set of traces arranged over the second surface connecting the first and second vias. A second inducting arrangement is inductively-coupled and interleaved with the first inducting arrangement and includes a third set of vias, a fourth set of vias, a third set of traces arranged over the first surface connecting the third and fourth vias, and a fourth set of traces arranged over the second surface connecting the third and fourth vias. One or more sets of dielectric layers insulate portions of the traces from one another.