Overlapping Inductor Layout for Positive Mutual Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inductor structures, particularly four-port interleaved inductors, are asymmetric, leading to negative mutual coupling coefficients and reduced effective inductance, while two-port inductors are large in area.
Innovation Solution
A symmetric inductor structure is designed with overlapping coils on different layers, ensuring positive mutual coupling and reducing size by 50% compared to two-port inductors, using vias for transitions between layers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional four-port interleaved inductor structures are used, then the inductor can be implemented, but the structure is asymmetric leading to negative mutual coupling coefficient and reduced effective inductance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry principle by intentionally designing the inductor structure to be asymmetric in a controlled manner. The first and second inductors are positioned at different locations with different orientations, where the first inductor has a first orientation and the second inductor has a second orientation that is different from the first orientation. This controlled asymmetry allows achieving positive mutual coupling coefficient while maintaining compact form factor.
2Area of stationary object
If inductor size is reduced, then area requirements are met, but the inductance value decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes three-dimensional space by implementing inductors on different layers of a substrate. The first inductor is positioned on a first layer and the second inductor is positioned on a second layer, allowing vertical stacking. This dimensional approach enables compact area footprint while maintaining sufficient inductance values through the layered configuration and magnetic coupling between layers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs nesting by positioning the first and second inductors in overlapping or nested configurations where portions of the inductors are disposed at different vertical levels. The inductors are arranged such that they occupy overlapping projection areas on the substrate, with one inductor partially positioned above or below the other, achieving space-efficient utilization.
3Adaptability or versatility
If asymmetric inductor structure is used, then layout flexibility is improved, but mutual coupling coefficient becomes negative reducing effective inductance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry principle by intentionally designing the inductor structure to be asymmetric in a controlled manner. The first and second inductors are positioned at different locations with different orientations, where the first inductor has a first orientation and the second inductor has a second orientation that is different from the first orientation. This controlled asymmetry allows achieving positive mutual coupling coefficient while maintaining compact form factor.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by adjusting the orientation angles, positions, and dimensional parameters of the inductors to optimize the mutual coupling coefficient. The specific orientations and spacings are carefully selected to ensure positive coupling while achieving the desired layout flexibility and compactness.
4Area of stationary object
If overlapping inductor configuration is used, then area is reduced by 50%, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes three-dimensional space by implementing inductors on different layers of a substrate. The first inductor is positioned on a first layer and the second inductor is positioned on a second layer, allowing vertical stacking. This dimensional approach enables compact area footprint while maintaining sufficient inductance values through the layered configuration and magnetic coupling between layers.
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 design achieves a positive mutual coupling coefficient, increasing effective inductance and reducing overall area, with higher self-resonating frequency and maintaining symmetry.
Implementation Method 1
An inductor, also referred to as a coil, is a passive two-terminal component that stores energy in the form of a magnetic field when electric current flows through the inductor
Implementation Method 2
The first portion of the first inductor and the second portion of the second inductor at least partially overlap. The second portion of the first inductor and the first portion of the second inductor at least partially overlap
Data Source
AI summary
An inductor structure includes a first inductor and a second inductor. A first portion of the first inductor is disposed on a first layer and a second portion of the first inductor is disposed on a second layer. A first portion of the second inductor is disposed on the first layer and a second portion of the second inductor is disposed on the second layer. The first portion of the first inductor and the second portion of the second inductor at least partially overlap. The second portion of the first inductor and the first portion of the second inductor at least partially overlap.