Modeling and optimization of thick film solenoid-bar type inductors and transformers

Abstract

The most popular geometries for thick film inductors and transformers have been meander types or spiral types, whereas most macro-scale inductors and transformers are solenoid types. In order to achieve the desired electrical characteristics for the inductors, several types of solenoid-bar structures are considered. In this research, a modified geometry of a solenoid-type transformer is proposed. A fast and accurate approach for modeling solenoid-bar type inductors and transformers is presented. An algorithm that extracts the complete circuit is presented in detail and special attention is paid to inductance calculations. A comparison between conventional and modified transformers occupying the same area is performed. A custom CAD tool is described which is used for the design and optimization of inductors and transformers.