Isolated Power Source Transformer Layout for Impedance Equalization

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing isolated power source apparatuses face challenges in equalizing input impedance between DC power sources and primary coils of transformers, leading to voltage differences between upper arm and lower arm switching elements, which affects the reliability of power conversion.

Innovation Solution

The apparatus rearranges upper arm and lower arm transformers closer to the power source control unit, reducing differences in input impedances and voltage supplied to switching elements by optimizing transformer placement and wiring patterns on the substrate.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Shape

If upper arm transformer and lower arm transformer are disposed at mutually opposite sides with respect to connection region, then layout symmetry is improved, but input impedance equalization deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelayout symmetryVSAvoidinput impedance equalization
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent deliberately introduces asymmetry in the arrangement of transformers relative to the connection region. Specifically, the upper arm transformer and lower arm transformer are positioned at different distances from the connection region, creating an asymmetric layout that compensates for the inherent asymmetry in wiring lengths and achieves equalization of input impedance between the two arms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

2Reliability

If wiring length between DC power source and primary coils is reduced, then voltage difference is improved, but transformer arrangement flexibility deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevoltage differenceVSAvoidtransformer arrangement flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by optimizing the wiring length specifically for the transformers that require it. The upper arm transformer is positioned closer to the connection region, resulting in shorter wiring length for that particular transformer, while the lower arm transformer maintains its position for other functional requirements. This localized optimization of wiring length addresses the voltage difference issue without requiring a complete redesign of the overall transformer arrangement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Reliability

If transformers are arranged closer to power source control unit, then input impedance equalization is improved, but connection region accessibility deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinput impedance equalizationVSAvoidconnection region accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent resolves the spatial conflict by utilizing the vertical dimension (layer structure) of the circuit board. The connection region is positioned on one layer to facilitate connection operations, while the transformers are arranged on another layer or at different vertical positions. This dimensional separation allows both the optimized transformer positioning for input impedance equalization and the accessible connection region to coexist without interference.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 consistent voltage supply to both upper arm and lower arm switching elements, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of power conversion by minimizing voltage differences and input impedance disparities.

Implementation Method 1

a primary coil capable of being connected to a DC power source, and a secondary coil capable of supplying an upper arm drive power to the upper arm switching element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10498334B2Isolated power source apparatus
Publication Date: 2019.12.03 DENSO CORP
  • US10498334B2 patent drawing
  • US10498334B2 patent drawing
  • US10498334B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An insulation power source apparatus for power conversion circuit provided with series connected circuits each composed of an upper arm switching element and a lower arm switching element. A power source control unit is disposed at one side of a connection region in a specific direction parallel to a plate surface of the substrate, an upper arm transformers are arranged between the power source control unit and the connection region in the specific region, and the lower arm transformer is arranged closer to the power source control unit in the specific direction than to an end portion of the connection region which is opposite side of a portion where the power source control unit is arranged.