Multilayer Foil Transformer Module for Lower Winding Loss

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing transformer technologies for low-voltage, high-current applications face issues with uneven current distribution and high winding losses due to inconsistent equivalent diameters and long, centralized output connectors in multi-layer PCB structures, leading to inefficiencies in power density and energy consumption.

Innovation Solution

A transformer module with a foil winding structure, where multiple wiring layers are sequentially disposed on a magnetic core with insulating layers in between, and connectors passing through these layers to achieve even current distribution and reduce winding losses.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If multi-layer PCB winding structure is used, then power supply capacity is improved, but current distribution uniformity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower supply capacityVSAvoidcurrent distribution uniformity
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the winding structure into multiple independent PCB layers, with each layer containing partial windings. This segmentation allows current to be distributed across multiple paths rather than concentrated in a single long winding, improving current distribution uniformity while maintaining high power supply capacity through the multi-layer configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a single-plane winding layout to a three-dimensional multi-layer PCB structure. By stacking multiple winding layers vertically and connecting them through vias, the design achieves high power density in a compact volume while distributing current across multiple spatial dimensions, thereby improving both power capacity and current distribution uniformity.

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

2Power

If multi-layer PCB winding structure is used, then power density is improved, but energy loss increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower densityVSAvoidwinding loss
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The winding is segmented into multiple shorter sections across different PCB layers, replacing a single long centralized winding. This segmentation reduces the total length of current paths and minimizes resistive losses while maintaining the required power density through the compact multi-layer arrangement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

By utilizing the vertical dimension with multiple PCB layers, the patent achieves high power density without proportionally increasing winding length. The multi-layer configuration allows current to take shorter paths in each layer connected by vias, reducing overall energy loss while maintaining high power density in a compact footprint.

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

3Device complexity

If centralized output connectors are used, then device complexity is reduced, but current distribution uniformity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnector configurationVSAvoidcurrent distribution uniformity
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent distributes output connectors across multiple PCB layers rather than concentrating them at a single location. Each layer has its own connectors that interface with corresponding external connections, segmenting the current extraction points. This distributed connector arrangement maintains relatively simple device complexity while significantly improving current distribution uniformity across the winding structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 foil winding structure ensures even current distribution across the transformer, reducing winding losses and improving power density, thus addressing the inefficiencies in existing transformer technologies.

Implementation Method 1

the equivalent impedances are almost the same. So the current distribution of the winding in a foil structure is almost even which reduces the winding loss greatly

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical Resistance: Electrical Resistance

Implementation Method 2

a magnetic core, a first wiring layer, a first insulating layer and a second wiring layer being sequentially disposed on the magnetic core

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic Induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11842847B2Transformer module and power module
Publication Date: 2023.12.12 DELTA ELECTRONICS (SHANGHAI) CO LTD
  • US11842847B2 patent drawing
  • US11842847B2 patent drawing
  • US11842847B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides a transformer module and a power module, wherein the transformer module comprises: a magnetic core, where a first insulating layer and a second wiring layer are sequentially disposed on the magnetic core from inside to outside; a first metal winding, wound around the magnetic core in a foil structure, and comprising a first winding segment formed in the first wiring layer and a second winding segment formed in the second wiring layer; and a second metal winding, wound around the magnetic core in a foil structure, comprising a third winding segment formed in the first wiring layer and a fourth winding segment formed in the second wiring.