Configurable Transformer Module for Adjustable Turns Ratios
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional transformers in resonant converters have fixed transformer turns ratios, limiting their ability to generate multiple output voltages efficiently, which increases cost and size when trying to accommodate various voltage requirements.
Innovation Solution
A configurable transformer module with adjustable turns ratios achieved through the use of configuration connectors on printed circuit boards, allowing secondary windings to be configured in series, parallel, or combinations thereof, to match desired transformer turns ratios with primary windings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional transformers with fixed turns ratios are used, then the transformer structure is simple and reliable, but the ability to generate multiple output voltages is limited, requiring multiple transformer modules which increases cost and size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the transformer turns ratio adjustable rather than fixed. Configuration connectors allow the secondary windings to be dynamically reconfigured between series and parallel connections, enabling the same transformer module to adapt to different voltage requirements without physical modification or replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a single transformer module that can serve multiple functions - generating different output voltages for different secondary loads. The configuration connectors enable one transformer module to replace multiple dedicated transformer modules, each designed for a specific voltage output.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple transformer modules are used to accommodate various voltage requirements, then different voltage outputs can be achieved, but the cost and size of the system increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple dedicated transformer modules into a single multi-functional transformer module. By combining primary and secondary windings with configuration connectors, the design consolidates what would traditionally require separate transformer units into one integrated solution, reducing both quantity and overall size.
Solution Approach 2:
The transformer module is designed to be universal, capable of providing multiple voltage outputs through configuration connectors that allow reconfiguration of secondary windings. This single module can serve multiple voltage requirements that would otherwise need separate dedicated transformer modules.
3Adaptability or versatility
If configuration connectors are added to enable adjustable turns ratios, then multiple output voltages can be generated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the secondary windings into separate configurable sections that can be independently connected through configuration connectors. This segmentation allows flexible series/parallel arrangements while keeping each winding section relatively simple in structure.
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
Enables the generation of multiple output voltages with the same or different values using the same transformer module, reducing the need for multiple transformer modules and improving efficiency and flexibility in power conversion applications.
Implementation Method 1
A varying current in the primary winding creates a varying magnetic flux in the transformer's core and thus a varying magnetic flux through the secondary winding. This varying magnetic flux induces a varying voltage in the secondary winding.
Implementation Method 2
A transformer is an electrical device that transfers energy by inductive coupling between two or more of its windings.
Data Source
AI summary
A configurable transformer module includes a primary printed circuit board, one or more secondary printed circuit boards, and one or more interface connectors. The primary PCB has planar primary windings formed thereon and openings for accommodating a planar transformer core. Each of the one or more secondary PCB has planar secondary windings and an opening for accommodating the planar transformer core. Some of the secondary PCB has mating terminals formed thereon. The planar secondary windings on a respective secondary printed circuit board are configured by electrical connections provided at a respective interface connector to realize a given transformer turns ratio between the respective secondary printed circuit board and the primary printed circuit board.