Modular Annular Transformer Structure for High-Current Loss Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional DC transformers face issues with high material loss and wear due to high current and low voltage requirements, leading to low efficiency, large volume, and energy wastage, along with noise and pollution from cooling methods.

Innovation Solution

A modularized transformer design featuring an annular iron core and multiple copper modules that overlap to form multiple layers, allowing for continuous amplification of voltage or current and regulation to meet industry requirements, while minimizing volume and maximizing efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If conventional DC transformer uses iron core and copper windings to meet high current and low voltage requirements, then the transformer can deliver the required power, but the material loss and wear increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehigh current outputVSAvoidmaterial loss
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the transformer into modular units, each containing an annular iron core with copper modules wrapped around it. These modules can be stacked in series or parallel configurations to achieve the desired high current output while maintaining efficiency. The segmentation allows optimization of each module's material usage rather than requiring excessive material in a single large transformer.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a nested structure where copper modules are wrapped around annular iron cores, and multiple such units are nested within each other. The copper modules encircle the iron cores, and multiple modules are arranged concentrically, creating a compact nested arrangement that maximizes magnetic coupling while minimizing material waste.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Power

If conventional DC transformer uses iron core and copper windings, then the transformer can transform electrical energy, but the volume becomes large

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehigh current outputVSAvoidtransformer volume
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The nested arrangement of copper modules around annular iron cores allows multiple transformer units to be compactly arranged within a small volume. The concentric nesting of modules maximizes the use of space, enabling high power output in a compact footprint.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from traditional linear winding arrangements to a three-dimensional nested modular structure. By stacking modules in multiple layers and arranging them concentrically around annular cores, the design utilizes vertical and radial dimensions to achieve high power density without increasing horizontal footprint.

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

3Power

If conventional DC transformer operates at high current and low voltage, then the power output is sufficient, but the working efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehigh current outputVSAvoidworking efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

Dividing the transformer into multiple modular units allows each module to operate at optimized current densities, maintaining high efficiency even when the overall system delivers high current. The modular architecture enables better heat dissipation and reduced eddy current losses in each individual module.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses composite construction with annular iron cores and copper modules, optimizing the magnetic circuit and electrical conductors separately. This composite approach allows independent optimization of magnetic flux paths and current distribution, reducing losses and improving efficiency at high current operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

4Temperature

If conventional DC transformer uses forced fan cooling, then the high temperature is managed, but noise is produced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveheat dissipationVSAvoidnoise
Core Design Contradiction:
TemperatureVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The modular design with annular iron cores and wrapped copper modules provides inherent heat dissipation surfaces that allow passive cooling. The large surface area of the annular structure and exposed copper modules enables natural convection and radiation of heat without requiring active fan cooling, thus eliminating noise while managing temperature.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

5Temperature

If conventional DC transformer uses oil or water cooling, then the high temperature is managed, but pollution is produced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveheat dissipationVSAvoidpollution
Core Design Contradiction:
TemperatureVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The transformer's modular annular design provides large surface area for natural heat dissipation through convection and radiation, eliminating the need for polluting liquid cooling systems. The structure serves its own cooling needs through passive thermal management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces mechanical liquid cooling systems (pumps, pipes, fluids) with passive thermal radiation and convection surfaces. The annular modular structure's geometry is optimized for heat dissipation without requiring mechanical cooling infrastructure, thereby eliminating pollution from coolant leakage or disposal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 modularized transformer achieves high efficiency with a smaller volume, reduces material loss, and effectively regulates voltage or current, addressing the limitations of conventional DC transformers.

Implementation Method 1

a modularized transformer comprising an annular iron core, a first module encircling the annular iron core, a second module encircling the first module, a third module encircling the second module, a fourth module encircling the third module, and a primary-side power supply line mounted on the fourth module and encircling the annular iron core

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12205743B2Modularized transformer having a secondary side with a large current structure
Publication Date: 2025.01.21 LIN HSUN I
  • US12205743B2 patent drawing
  • US12205743B2 patent drawing
  • US12205743B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A modularized transformer includes an annular iron core, a first module encircling the annular iron core, a second module encircling the first module, a third module encircling the second module, a fourth module encircling the third module, and a primary-side power supply line mounted on the fourth module and encircling the annular iron core. Thus, the modularized transformer has a modularized structure and includes multiple modules that are extended and increased to amplify the voltage or current continuously and to regulate the voltage or current.