Modeling of piezoelectric transformers using finite‐element technique

Abstract

In this work, the modeling of piezoelectric transformers using the finite‐element technique is presented. A 3‐D finite element method solver, which employs 20‐node brick‐element formulation, is developed. Using the solver, the characteristics of piezoelectric transformers under different operating frequencies can be simulated. Also, the solver is capable of accounting for the effects of the electrical loadings attached to the output electrodes of piezoelectric transformers. The modeling results for two different types of piezoelectric transformers, the Rosen‐modal‐type and the unipoled‐disk‐type, are presented. For the Rosen‐modal‐type devices, the simulated voltage gains and the phase differences are validated with our measured results. Also, the simulated results of the unipoled‐disk‐type transformers agree with the measured results found in previously published literature. The effects of electrical loadings on these piezoelectric transformers are also discussed.

Key words:

• piezoelectric transformer
• finite‐element method
• cold cathode fluorescent lamps
• electrical loading effect

Notes

Corresponding author. (Tel: [phone]; Email: yjy@ntu. edu.tw)