Asymmetric Inductor Array Structure for Compact Low-Coupling Layouts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional inductor arrays face challenges in reducing size along the mounting surface while minimizing magnetic coupling between inductors, leading to increased interference and reduced performance.
Innovation Solution
The inductor array design includes internal conductors with aspect ratios greater than one, spaced apart by 0.3 mm or less, and a base body with relative magnetic permeability of 100 or less, reducing magnetic coupling and allowing for a smaller footprint.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If internal conductors are arranged closer to each other to reduce the size of the inductor array, then the size in the direction extending along the mounting surface is reduced, but the magnetic coupling between the inductors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The internal conductors are designed with asymmetric cross-sectional dimensions where the dimension in the direction perpendicular to the reference direction is larger than the dimension in the reference direction (aspect ratio greater than one). This asymmetric configuration reduces magnetic coupling between adjacent inductors while enabling closer spacing in the reference direction, thus reducing the overall array size along the mounting surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the vertical dimension (direction perpendicular to the mounting surface) by having internal conductors extend in the reference direction with asymmetric cross-sections. This dimensional approach allows the conductors to be spaced apart vertically while maintaining close horizontal spacing, effectively reducing the footprint on the mounting surface without increasing magnetic coupling.
2Area of stationary object
If the inductor array size is reduced along the mounting surface, then the footprint is smaller, but the magnetic coupling between inductors increases making it difficult for inductors to exhibit their own characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
By configuring internal conductors with asymmetric cross-sections (aspect ratio greater than one), the magnetic field distribution is optimized to reduce coupling between adjacent inductors. This allows the inductors to maintain their individual electrical characteristics even when closely spaced, ensuring reliable performance while achieving a compact footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the internal conductors by specifying that the dimension perpendicular to the reference direction be larger than the dimension in the reference direction. This parameter change in the conductor geometry directly affects the magnetic coupling characteristics, enabling close spacing without compromising inductor performance and individuality.
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 reduced magnetic coupling and a smaller size along the mounting surface, enabling stable inductor performance and high energy density in electronic devices.
Implementation Method 1
the base body has a relative magnetic permeability of 100 or less
Data Source
AI summary
An inductor array includes a base body having a first surface, first to fourth external electrodes touching the first surface, a first internal conductor provided in the base body and connected at the ends thereof to the first and second external electrodes, and a second internal conductor provided in the base body and connected at the ends thereof to the third and fourth external electrodes. The first and second internal conductors are spaced away from each other in a reference direction. The first internal conductor has a first aspect ratio of greater than one, where the first aspect ratio denotes a ratio of (i) a dimension of a section of the first internal conductor orthogonal to a current flowing direction in a direction perpendicular to the reference direction to (ii) a dimension of the section in the reference direction.