Construction and Simulation of a Planar Transformer Prototype

This paper illustrates the design and building of a planar transformer prototype with a 1:1 transformation ratio for high-frequency applications in power electronics. By using reference literature and considering the ferrite core dimensions, the windings were conceived and exported to Gerber format using PCB design software. The transformer prototype was then assembled and tested under laboratory conditions for frequencies from 800 Hz to 5 MHz, which showed a sinusoidal wave at the transformer output from 1.3 kHz onwards and a better performance starting at 10 kHz, where the loses were significantly reduced and the transformation ratio was closer to the originally designed. As a final step, a finite element method (FEM) análisis was carried out to understand the electromagnetic flux behavior using a 3D Multiphysics simulation software. The 3d building process and details are explained step by step and the resulting magnetic flux density is graphically shown for the core and the windings.

A low-cost printed circuit board design technique and processes using ferric chloride solution

This paper presents a low-cost printed circuit board (PCB) design technique and processes using ferric chloride (𝑭𝒆𝑪𝒍𝟑) solution on a metal plate for a design topology. The PCB design makes a laboratory prototype easier by reducing the work piece size, eliminating the ambiguous connecting wires and breadboards circuit errors. This is done by manual etching of the designed metal plate via immersion in ferric chloride solutions for a given time interval 0-15mins. With easy steps, it is described on how to make a conventional single-sided printed circuit board with low-cost, time savings and reduced energy from debugging. The simulation and results of the printed circuit is designed and verified in the Multisim software version 14.0 and LeCroy WJ35Aoscilloscope respectively. Keywords: Etching, Ferric Chloride, Insertion, Multisim, Metal Plate, Printed Circuit Board