DC-DC Converter Inductor Overlap Layout for Leakage Flux Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing DC-DC converter modules face challenges with stable operation due to leakage flux from the micro inductor affecting the control circuit, and the terminal arrangement makes it difficult to design a wiring pattern for input and output capacitors.

Innovation Solution

The DC-DC converter module is designed with the switching transistor arranged under the inductor and the control circuit positioned outside the inductor's overlap area, using projection terminals for the inductor attachment, which reduces the impact of leakage flux and allows for easier capacitor placement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If the control circuit is arranged under the inductor to reduce mounting area, then the device size is reduced, but the control circuit is exposed to leakage flux which hinders stable operation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting areaVSAvoidstable operation of control circuit
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the circuit components into two distinct groups: switching elements (transistors Q1, Q2) placed under the inductor L1, and control circuit elements (IC 33, resistors R1-R6, capacitors C1-C3) placed outside the inductor's overlap area. This spatial segmentation resolves the contradiction by allowing compact mounting while protecting the control circuit from leakage flux.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Area of stationary object

If switching transistors are arranged under the inductor, then the device size is reduced, but the terminal arrangement becomes difficult which adversely affects wiring pattern design for input and output capacitors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice sizeVSAvoidwiring pattern design
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by assigning different functional zones within the mounting area: the region under the inductor is dedicated to switching elements with specific terminal arrangements, while the peripheral region accommodates control circuit elements. This localized functional differentiation enables both compact size and ease of wiring for capacitors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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

This configuration ensures stable operation of the control circuit and facilitates efficient wiring patterns, reducing noise and increasing efficiency by minimizing the influence of leakage flux and optimizing capacitor placement.

Implementation Method 1

when the inductor 90 is operating, the magnetic flux passes through the drum-shaped core 91, which allows leakage flux to occur above and under the inductor 90

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10033275B2DC-DC converter with a switching transistor arranged in an area where an inductor overlaps a substrate
Publication Date: 2018.07.24 PANASONIC SEMICON SOLUTIONS CO LTD
  • US10033275B2 patent drawing
  • US10033275B2 patent drawing
  • US10033275B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A DC-DC converter module includes a module substrate on which switching transistors and a controller IC chip are mounted, stud terminals mounted on a surface of the module substrate, and an inductor attached to the stud terminals such that the inductor faces the module substrate. In a plan view, the switching transistors are arranged within an area where the inductor overlaps the module substrate, whereas at least a portion of the controller IC chip is arranged outside the area.