Turn-Coupling in Thick-Film Integrated Magnetic Components for Power Converters

Thick-film technology constitutes an alternative to develop low-power integrated magnetic components. This paper explores into the possibilities presented by such technology and proposes new conductor arrangements that allow turn-coupling to be obtained in thick-film magnetic structures. The benefit of having such a coupling is twofold. On the one hand, it allows inductors to be integrated in even smaller volumes. On the other hand, it makes it possible to design flat power transformers using this integration technique. A complete design procedure of both, power inductors with turn-coupling and power transformers, is presented in this paper. A full characterization of these thick-film transformers is also given. Some experimental results are included as well so that the reader can validate the modeling proposed.