An Integrated Planar Inductor Based on a Novel Magnetic Core Structure

An integrated planar inductor based on a novel eight-column magnetic core is proposed in this paper, which can effectively reduce the magnetic size and improve the power density while maintaining a large inductance value compared with conventional magnetic core. In addition, this novel structure requires fewer PCB layers at the same inductance value compared with EI or EE core, which is beneficial to reduce the PCB cost. The magnetic reluctance model is established to guide designs. Meanwhile, the magnetic and current density distribution simulation is implemented by Maxwell 3D software. Finally, a 12-6V, 30W buck prototype is built to verify the performance of the designed integrated planar inductor.