PCB-integrated matrix transformer for high-current power
This technology is a specialized type of transformer — the component that changes voltage levels in power electronics — built directly into a printed circuit board (PCB) rather than as a bulky standalone component. It uses a flat, two-dimensional array of magnetic pillars sandwiched between sheets of magnetic material, with copper wiring patterns etched directly into the PCB layers. The design is specifically optimized for situations where you need to step down a high voltage to a much lower voltage while delivering very high current, such as in data center power supplies. By splitting magnetic flux across multiple parallel paths and maximizing the copper coverage on each PCB layer, it dramatically reduces energy losses from winding resistance, magnetic core heating, and connection points.
What you could build
A PCB-integrated power module for data center voltage regulators or telecom rectifiers, sold to power electronics manufacturers or ODMs building server rack power supplies — buyers include companies like Delta Electronics, Vicor, Bel Fuse, or hyperscaler in-house hardware teams.
Who in Virginia should care
Data center operators and power electronics suppliers with a Virginia presence — including facilities supporting Northern Virginia's massive hyperscale data center corridor — would have direct procurement interest in more efficient power conversion hardware.
Readiness: Prototype likely
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Chao Fei, Fred C. Lee, Qiang Li
- Granted
- February 2, 2021
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 10910140
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.