Optimizing design and simulation of planar transformers based on integrated software platform

Planar transformers are a good solution for high power density high frequency switching-mode power supplies (SMPS), their research and application are growing in the last decade. Although these kinds of transformers provide a distinct advantage over the traditional transformer, the high frequency parasitic effects have a great influence on the transient performance. This paper presents a method to construct a high frequency planar transformer model with improved accuracy, suitable for design, optimization and circuit simulations. A method of optimizing planar transformerspsila design based on the optimization tool iSIGHT is also presented. Through integrating the circuit simulation tool Saber and the electromagnetic tool Maxwell 3D by iSIGHT, the parasitic effects on planar transformers are studied carefully, and a new method to avoid parasitic oscillations with dangerous high voltage spikes to improve the SMPS performance is established. Simulation results on the optimal design are also included in this paper.