Transformer Single-Step Rail Voltage Conversion for Compact PCB Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Board mounted switch mode power supplies occupy significant PCB space and require numerous thick copper power distribution layers, making PCB design complex and costly.
Innovation Solution
A transformer-based power delivery apparatus with a feedback loop that performs single-step voltage conversion from a high voltage power waveform to a DC rail voltage, reducing the need for extensive copper layers and compactly delivering power to integrated circuits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If board mounted switch mode power supplies are used for voltage conversion, then reliable power delivery is achieved, but PCB space consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the power conversion function from the PCB-mounted switch mode power supply and relocates it to a transformer-based circuit positioned closer to the integrated circuit. This extraction removes the bulky SMPS components from the PCB, significantly reducing PCB space while maintaining reliable power delivery through the transformer's magnetic coupling mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a planar PCB-mounted power supply architecture to a three-dimensional transformer-based system that operates in a different spatial dimension. The transformer uses magnetic field coupling through air or insulation barriers, enabling power conversion without extensive copper traces on the PCB plane, thus reducing PCB space occupation.
2Reliability
If board mounted switch mode power supplies are used for voltage conversion, then stable power supply is achieved, but copper material usage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the power conversion function from the copper-intensive PCB trace architecture and relocates it to a transformer-based system. This eliminates the need for numerous thick copper power distribution layers, significantly reducing copper material usage while maintaining stable power supply through the transformer's efficient magnetic coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electrical connection mechanism (copper traces and thick copper layers) with a magnetic coupling mechanism. The transformer uses magnetic field coupling through air or insulation barriers, substituting the need for extensive copper material with a more efficient magnetic field-based power transfer system that maintains stable power supply.
3Area of stationary object
If transformer-based single step conversion is implemented, then PCB space is reduced, but voltage conversion complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple power conversion functions into a single transformer-based circuit. The transformer performs both voltage transformation and isolation functions that were previously distributed across multiple PCB-mounted components, reducing PCB space while managing complexity through functional integration in a compact transformer assembly.
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 solution significantly reduces copper usage and PCB space, enabling efficient power distribution with minimal components, allowing for smaller form factors and reduced material costs.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer coupled to the power transmitter, wherein the transformer is configured to receive the power waveform and perform a single step down conversion of the power waveform at the first voltage to an output waveform at a second voltage
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a power delivery apparatus includes a power transmitter configured to generate a power waveform at a first voltage. The power waveform includes a series of successive on-times that are separated by an off-time. A transformer is coupled to the power transmitter, wherein the transformer is configured to receive the power waveform and perform a single step down conversion of the power waveform at the first voltage to an output waveform at a second voltage. A rectifier circuit is coupled to the transformer to receive the output waveform and produce a direct current (DC) rail voltage for use by one or more power consuming devices.