Oblique PCB Capacitor Layout for Uniform Current Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing capacitor assemblies on printed circuit boards for resonant tank circuits face challenges in optimizing form factor and current density uniformity, particularly in high-power applications where multiple capacitors are arranged in parallel or series, leading to non-homogeneous current distribution and restrictive PCB design.
Innovation Solution
The capacitor assembly features rows of surface-mounted capacitors arranged in a skewed orientation relative to the main current paths on the PCB, allowing for a flexible form factor adjustment by altering the length-width ratio without compromising current density homogeneity, and enabling design freedom in irregular geometrical constraints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple capacitors are arranged in parallel or series on PCB, then current and voltage rating requirements are met, but current density distribution becomes non-homogeneous
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by arranging capacitor rows at oblique angles (e.g., 30°, 45°, or 60°) relative to the main current flow direction instead of parallel alignment. This asymmetric orientation creates more uniform current distribution across all capacitor elements, preventing hot spots and improving reliability while meeting power requirements.
2Ease of manufacture
If capacitor rows are arranged parallel to current paths, then PCB layout is simplified, but form factor optimization is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces angular orientation as an additional design dimension beyond simple parallel alignment. By allowing capacitor rows to be arranged at various oblique angles relative to current paths, the design provides both form factor flexibility for different PCB sizes and shapes, and maintains manufacturing simplicity through standardized connection patterns.
3Area of stationary object
If capacitor assembly size is reduced, then PCB space is optimized, but current density homogeneity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the orientation angle parameter of capacitor rows relative to current paths. By optimizing this angular parameter (e.g., using 30°, 45°, or 60° angles), the design achieves compact PCB space utilization while maintaining homogeneous current density distribution, thus improving reliability without sacrificing miniaturization.
Data Source
AI summary
Capacitor assembly, comprising a printed circuit board comprising a first conductive trace and a second conductive trace, and a first row of capacitors comprising a plurality of surface mounted capacitor elements. Each of the plurality of surface mounted capacitor elements comprises a pair of outer electrodes, one of the pair being mounted to the first conductive trace and defining a first junction, and the other one being mounted to the second conductive trace defining a second junction. The first junction and the second junction define a first capacitor longitudinal axis. The first conductive trace has a first current flow direction with a first oblique angle relative to the first capacitor longitudinal axis.