Russia Shrinks a Core Electronic Component With a New Toroidal Design
Scientists in Novgorod have created an upgraded gyrator—a key building block of electronic circuits—allowing devices to become smaller, more precise, and more energy‑efficient.
Researchers at Novgorod State University have developed an improved version of the gyrator, a foundational element of electronic circuitry that can imitate the behavior of an inductor without using a physical coil. The advancement is significant for modern electronics because traditional inductors are difficult to miniaturize—they remain bulky, heavy, and expensive, especially in high‑precision systems for aviation, space, and communications.
A Gyrator Instead of a Coil
In simple terms, a coil in electronic devices is used to respond to changes in current and voltage over time—for example, smoothing signals or separating useful oscillations from noise. A gyrator performs the same function but achieves it differently: it makes a circuit behave as though a coil is present even when it is not. This gives engineers the desired electrical effect in a much more compact format, enabling smaller components and devices.
Toroidal Construction
The Novgorod team’s design is a toroidal, doughnut‑shaped structure made of three layers. The outer layers consist of a magnetostrictive material that slightly deforms under a magnetic field. Between them is a piezoelectric layer capable of converting mechanical deformation into electrical voltage.
When current flows through the device, it generates a magnetic field, causing the outer layers to deform and transfer mechanical force to the piezoelectric element, which produces output voltage. In reverse mode, the process flips: applied voltage induces current.
The entire structure is enclosed in a magnetic core that keeps the magnetic field inside and prevents interference with neighboring circuit components—critical for precision instruments sensitive to electromagnetic noise. The use of flat electrodes and an amorphous nanostructured alloy reduces energy losses and increases accuracy.
A working prototype has already been built and is undergoing testing. The design will underpin more compact and reliable electronic modules for satellites, radar systems, communications equipment, and robotics.
