Coupler and radio frequency front-end module

Abstract

The invention provides a coupler. The coupler comprises an input port; an output port; a coupling port; an isolation port; one end of the main line is connected with the input port, and the other end of the main line is connected with the output port; one end of the coupling line is connected with the coupling port, and the other end of the coupling line is connected with the isolated port; the coupling line comprises a first coupling line part arranged on the first metal layer and a second coupling line part arranged on the second metal layer, and the first end of the first coupling line part is connected with the first end of the second coupling line part through a first through hole; the first extension part extends from the first end of the first coupling line part; the projections of the first extension part and the second coupling line part in the longitudinal direction are at least partially overlapped; by setting the projection overlapping area of the first extension part and the second coupling line part in the longitudinal direction, the size of the formed compensation capacitance can be changed, and the isolation and directivity of the coupler are improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of radio frequency technology, and particularly to a coupler and a radio frequency front-end module. Background Art

[0002] In a radio frequency front-end circuit, a coupler is a device used to transfer high-frequency signals from one circuit to another. Its main function is to transfer high-frequency signals in one circuit to another circuit while maintaining signal stability and accuracy. The working principle of a coupler is based on the principle of electromagnetic induction, and it uses the interaction of electromagnetic fields to transfer signals. The main components of a coupler are two circuits, and signals are transferred between them through the interaction of electromagnetic fields. One circuit is called the "main circuit", and the other is called the "slave circuit". The high-frequency signal in the main circuit is transferred to the slave circuit through the action of the electromagnetic field, thus realizing signal transmission. The working principle of the coupler includes: the high-frequency signal in the main circuit is transferred to the slave circuit through the action of the electromagnetic field. The high-frequency signal in the slave circuit is excited, thus generating a reverse electromagnetic field. The reverse electromagnetic field interacts with the high-frequency signal in the main circuit, thus generating a new electromagnetic field. The new electromagnetic field transfers the signal back to the main circuit, thus realizing signal transmission. The function of the coupler is to transfer the radio frequency signal in one circuit to another circuit while maintaining signal stability and accuracy. It can be used in many different applications, such as wireless communication, radar systems, medical devices, etc. However, existing couplers often have poor directivity problems.

[0003] Content of the Application

[0004] The purpose of this application is to provide a coupler that can ensure directivity in a wide frequency band.

[0005] This application provides a coupler, including: an input port; an output port; a coupling port; an isolation port; a main line, one end of the main line is connected to the input port, and the other end is connected to the output port; a coupling line, one end of the coupling line is connected to the coupling port, and the other end is connected to the isolation port; the coupling line includes a first coupling line portion provided on a first metal layer and a second coupling line portion provided on a second metal layer, a first end of the first coupling line portion is connected to a first end of the second coupling line portion through a first via hole, a first extension portion, the first extension portion extends from the first end of the first coupling line portion; the first extension portion and the second coupling line portion overlap at least partially in the longitudinal direction.

[0006] This embodiment also provides a coupler, comprising: a coupling port; an isolation port; a main line, one end of the main line is connected to the input port, and the other end is connected to the output port; a coupling line, one end of the coupling line is connected to the coupling port, and the other end is connected to the isolation port; the coupling line includes a first coupling line portion disposed on a first metal layer and a second coupling line portion disposed on a second metal layer, and a first end of the first coupling line portion is connected to a first end of the second coupling line portion through a first via hole; a first extension portion extending from the first end of the first coupling line portion; a second extension portion extending from the first end of the second coupling line portion; and at least a part of the projections of the first extension portion and the second extension portion in the longitudinal direction overlap each other.

[0007] In this embodiment, a coupler includes: an input port; an output port; a coupling port; an isolation port;

[0008] a main line, one end of the main line is connected to the input port, and the other end is connected to the output port; a coupling line, one end of the coupling line is connected to the coupling port, and the other end is connected to the isolation port; the coupling line includes a first coupling line portion disposed on a first metal layer and a second coupling line portion disposed on a second metal layer, and a first end of the first coupling line portion is connected to a first end of the second coupling line portion through a first via hole; a first extension portion extending from the first end of the first coupling line portion; and at least a part of the projection of the first extension portion and the second coupling line portion in the longitudinal direction overlap each other. By forming a first extension portion extending from the first end of the first coupling line portion; and at least a part of the projection of the first extension portion and the second coupling line portion in the longitudinal direction overlap each other, by setting the overlapping area of the projections of the first extension portion and the second coupling line portion in the longitudinal direction, the size of the formed compensation capacitor can be changed, thereby improving the isolation and directivity of the coupler. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The drawings herein are incorporated into the specification and constitute a part of the specification, showing the embodiments consistent with the present application, and are used together with the specification to explain the principles of the present application.

[0010] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application or the prior art, the following will briefly introduce the drawings required for use in the description of the embodiments or the prior art. Obviously, for those of ordinary skill in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative efforts.

[0011] Figure 1 is a schematic structural diagram of the coupler of the present application;

[0012] Figure 2Another schematic structural diagram of the coupler of the present application;

[0013] Figure 3 Another schematic structural diagram of the coupler of the present application;

[0014] Figure 4 Another schematic structural diagram of the coupler of the present application;

[0015] Figure 5 Another schematic structural diagram of the coupler of the present application;

[0016] Figure 6 Another schematic structural diagram of the coupler of the present application;

[0017] Figure 7 Another schematic structural diagram of the coupler of the present application.

[0018] Coupler 100 Coupling line 30 Main line 10 Coupling port 3 Main coil 11 Isolation port 4 Input port 1 Third coupling section 31 Output port 2 Fourth coupling section 32 First part of the coupling line 20 Fifth coupling section 33 First extension 21 First coupling section 34 Third extension 23 Second coupling section 35 Second part of the coupling line 40 Sixth coupling section 36 Second extension 42 Fourth extension 44 Detailed implementation manners

[0019] Next, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present application, rather than all the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without making creative efforts shall fall within the protection scope of the present application.

[0020] It should be noted that all directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back...) in the embodiments of the present application are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement conditions between components in a specific posture (as shown in the accompanying drawings). If the specific posture changes, the directional indications will also change accordingly.

[0021] In addition, the descriptions involving "first", "second", etc. in the present application are only for descriptive purposes, and cannot be understood as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly indicating the quantity of the indicated technical features. Thus, the features defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one such feature. In addition, the technical solutions between various embodiments can be combined with each other, but it must be based on the fact that those of ordinary skill in the art can implement them. When the combination of technical solutions appears to be contradictory or unable to be implemented, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the protection scope required by the present application.

[0022] Next, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present application, rather than all the embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art based on the embodiments in the present application without creative efforts shall fall within the protection scope of the present application.

[0023] It should be noted that all directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back...) in the embodiments of the present application are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement conditions between components in a specific posture (as shown in the accompanying drawings). If the specific posture changes, the directional indications will also change accordingly.

[0024] In addition, the descriptions involving "first", "second", etc. in the present application are only for descriptive purposes, and cannot be understood as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly indicating the quantity of the indicated technical features. Thus, the features defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one such feature. In addition, the technical solutions between various embodiments can be combined with each other, but it must be based on the ability of those of ordinary skill in the art to implement. When the combination of technical solutions results in contradictions or cannot be implemented, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the protection scope required by the present application.

[0025] Embodiment 1

[0026] The present application provides a coupler, as Figures 1-7 shown, including: The present application provides a coupler 100. The coupler 100 includes: an input port 1, an output port 2, a coupling port 3, and an isolation port 4, a main line 10. One end of the main line 10 is connected to the input port 1, and the other end of the main line 10 is connected to the output port 2; a coupling line 30. One end of the coupling line 30 is connected to the coupling port 3, and the other end of the coupling line 30 is connected to the isolation port 4. The coupling line 30 includes a first coupling line portion 20 provided on a first metal layer and a second coupling line portion 40 provided on a second metal layer. The first end of the first coupling line portion 20 is connected to the first end of the second coupling line portion 40 through a first via hole. A first extension portion 21, the first extension portion 21 extends from the first end of the first coupling line portion 20; the first extension portion 21 and the second coupling line portion 40 at least partially overlap in the longitudinal projection.

[0027] In at least one embodiment, the main line and the first coupled line portion may be disposed on the same metal layer. For example, the main line and the first coupled line portion 20 are disposed on the first metal layer. Alternatively, the main line may also be disposed on the same metal layer as the second coupled line portion 40. For example, the main line and the second coupled line portion 40 are disposed on the second metal layer. It should be noted that since the main line needs to transmit high-power radio frequency signals, the metal layer where the main line is located is the MTT thick metal layer away from the substrate in the first chip.

[0028] Among them, directivity is a measure or quality factor of the ability of a coupler to distinguish incident waves and reflected waves in a transmission system. The quality of the directivity of a coupler depends on the electric field component and magnetic field component in the coupling circuit. When the components generated by these two sources are balanced, the directivity is optimal. The values of the electric field component and magnetic field component depend on the coupling capacitance and inductance on the coupling plate. Coupler directivity calculation formula: D(dB) = ISO(dB) - C(dB), where D is the directivity of the coupler; ISO is the isolation of the coupler; C is the coupling of the coupler.

[0029] Among them, the impedance of a capacitor in an AC circuit is capacitive reactance Xc, and the calculation formula is Xc = 1 / (ωC) = 1 / (2πfC), where f is the frequency in Hz, ω = 2πf is the angular frequency in 1 / s. In the RF circuit where the coupler is located, generally, the higher the frequency, the smaller the required capacitance value, and the lower the frequency, the larger the required capacitance value. The capacitive reactance value Xc is an important value to ensure the isolation and directivity of the coupler. In a case of a fixed requirement, for example, assuming that the directivity of the coupler is not less than a preset value (such as 18 dB), the range of Xc can be determined. The higher the frequency, the larger the ω value, and at this time, the capacitance value C is smaller, so that the product ωC of these two values can ensure that it is within a certain fixed value range to ensure that the capacitive reactance value Xc meets the actual requirements.

[0030] In at least one embodiment, a first extension portion 21 is formed by extending from the first end of the first coupled line portion 20; the first extension portion 21 and the second coupled line portion 40 overlap at least partially in the longitudinal projection, forming a compensation capacitor (such as compensation capacitor C7) in the equivalent circuit as shown in Figure 3 By setting the overlapping area of the first extension portion 21 and the second coupled line portion 40 in the longitudinal projection, the size of the formed compensation capacitor C7 can be changed, thereby improving the isolation and directivity of the coupler.

[0031] In this embodiment, the compensation capacitor formed by the at least partial overlap of the first extension portion 21 and the second coupled line portion 40 in the longitudinal direction can adjust the odd-mode and even-mode impedances Z of the coupler at each frequency band. The odd-mode and even-mode impedances Z of the coupler are associated with the coefficient K, and the coefficient K = 10C / 10 , where C is the coupling degree. Therefore, by adjusting the overlapping area in the longitudinal direction between the first extension portion 21 and the second coupling line portion 40, the size of the formed compensation capacitor can be adjusted, and further, the directivity and isolation degree of the coupler within a wide frequency band (especially within the working frequency band range of two frequency points with a large span, such as [1.4 GHz - 2.69 GHz]) can be improved to meet the actual requirements.

[0032] In a specific embodiment, the coupling line 30 further includes a second extension portion 42. The second extension portion extends from the first end of the second coupling line portion 40, and the projection of the second extension portion 42 on the first coupling line portion 20 in the longitudinal direction at least partially overlaps.

[0033] In at least one embodiment, the projection of the second extension portion 42 on the first coupling line portion 20 in the longitudinal direction at least partially overlaps, forming a compensation capacitor (such as compensation capacitor C7) in the equivalent circuit as shown in Figure 7 . By setting the overlapping area of the projection of the second extension portion 42 on the first coupling line portion 20 in the longitudinal direction, the size of the formed compensation capacitor C7 can be changed, and further, the isolation degree and directivity of the coupler can be improved.

[0034] In this embodiment, the compensation capacitor formed by the at least partial overlap of the projection of the second extension portion on the first coupling line portion 20 in the longitudinal direction can adjust the odd-mode and even-mode impedances Z of the coupler at each frequency band. The odd-mode and even-mode impedances Z of the coupler are associated with the coefficient K, and the coefficient K = 10 C / 10 , where C is the coupling degree. Therefore, by adjusting the size of the compensation capacitor, the directivity and isolation degree of the coupler within a wide frequency band (especially within the working frequency band range of two frequency points with a large span, such as [1.4 GHz - 2.69 GHz]) can be improved to meet the actual requirements.

[0035] In at least one embodiment, the projection of the first extension portion 21 on the second extension portion 42 in the longitudinal direction at least partially overlaps to form a compensation capacitor. Therefore, by setting the overlapping area of the projection of the first extension portion 21 on the second extension portion 42 in the longitudinal direction, the size of the formed compensation capacitor can be adjusted to improve the directivity and isolation degree of the coupler within a wide frequency band (especially within the working frequency band range of two frequency points with a large span, such as

[0036] [1.4 GHz - 2.69 GHz]).

[0037] In a specific embodiment, the second end of the first coupling line portion 20 is connected to the second end of the second coupling line portion 40 through a second through hole; the coupler 100 further includes a third extension portion 23, and the third extension 23 extends from the second end of the first coupling line portion 20, and the third extension portion 23 and the second coupling line portion 40 overlap at least partially in the longitudinal projection. Wherein, the second through hole can be a metal through hole.

[0038] In at least one embodiment, the third extension portion 23 and the second coupling line portion 40 overlap at least partially in the longitudinal projection to form a compensation capacitor (for example: compensation capacitor C8) in the equivalent circuit as shown in Figure 7 Figure. By setting the overlapping area of the third extension portion 23 and the second coupling line portion 40 in the longitudinal projection, the size of the formed compensation capacitor C8 can be changed, thereby improving the isolation and directivity of the coupler.

[0039] In a specific embodiment, the coupler 100 further includes a fourth extension portion 44, and the fourth extension portion 44 extends from the second end of the second coupling line portion 40, and the fourth extension portion 44 and the first coupling line portion 20 overlap at least partially in the longitudinal projection.

[0040] In at least one embodiment, the fourth extension portion 44 and the first coupling line portion 20 overlap at least partially in the longitudinal direction to form a compensation capacitor (for example: compensation capacitor C8) in the equivalent circuit as shown in Figure 7 Figure. By setting the overlapping area of the fourth extension portion 44 and the first coupling line portion 20 in the longitudinal projection, the size of the formed compensation capacitor C8 can be changed, thereby improving the isolation and directivity of the coupler.

[0041] Embodiment 2

[0042] The present application provides a coupler 100, as shown in Figures 1-7 Figure, the coupler 100 includes: an input port 1, an output port 2, a coupling port 3 and an isolation port 4. A main line 10, one end of the main line 10 is connected to the input port 1, and the other end of the main line 10 is connected to the output port 2. A coupling line 30, one end of the coupling line 30 is connected to the coupling port 3, and the other end of the coupling line 30 is connected to the isolation port 4.

[0043] The coupling line includes a first coupling line portion 20 provided on a first metal layer and a second coupling line portion 40 provided on a second metal layer, and a first end of the first coupling line portion is connected to a first end of the second coupling line portion 40 through a first through hole. Wherein, the first through hole is a metal through hole.

[0044] A first extension portion 21, the first extension portion extends from the first end of the first coupling line portion;

[0045] A second extension portion 42 that extends from a first end of the second coupled line portion;

[0046] Projections of the first extension portion and the second extension portion in a longitudinal direction at least partially overlap.

[0047] In at least one embodiment, based on the coupler directivity calculation formula: D(dB) = ISO(dB) - C(dB). D is the directivity of the coupler; ISO is the isolation of the coupler; C is the coupling of the coupler. In this application, by extending from the first end of the first coupled line portion 20 to form a first extension portion 21, and extending from the first end of the second coupled line portion to form a first extension portion 23, the projections of the first extension portion 21 and the second extension portion in the longitudinal direction at least partially overlap to form a compensation capacitor (for example: compensation capacitor C7) in the circuit as shown in Figure 7 By setting the projected area of the first extension portion 21 and the second extension portion 42 in the longitudinal direction, the capacitance value of the formed compensation capacitor can be adjusted, and further the odd-mode and even-mode impedances Z of the coupler at each frequency band can be adjusted. The odd-mode and even-mode impedances Z of the coupler are also associated with the coefficient K, and the coefficient K = 10 C / 10 , C is the coupling. Therefore, by adjusting the projected area of the first extension portion 21 and the second extension portion in the longitudinal direction, the directivity and isolation of the coupler in a wide frequency band (especially at two frequency points with a large span, for example, in the operating frequency band range of [1.4 GHz - 2.69 GHz]) can be improved to meet actual requirements.

[0048] In a specific embodiment, the second end of the first coupled line portion 20 is connected to the second end of the second coupled line portion 40 through a second through hole; the coupler further includes a third extension portion 23 and a fourth extension portion 44. Among them, the second through hole is a metal through hole.

[0049] The third extension portion 23 extends from the second end of the first coupled line portion;

[0050] The fourth extension portion 44 extends from the second end of the second coupled line portion;

[0051] Projections of the third extension portion 23 and the fourth extension portion 44 in a longitudinal direction at least partially overlap.

[0052] In at least one embodiment, based on the coupler directivity calculation formula: D(dB) = ISO(dB) - C(dB). D is the directivity of the coupler; ISO is the isolation of the coupler; C is the coupling of the coupler. In this application, by extending from the second end of the first coupled line portion 20 to form a third extension portion, and extending from the second end of the second coupled line portion to form a fourth extension portion, the projections of the third extension portion and the fourth extension portion in the longitudinal direction at least partially overlap to form a compensation capacitor in the circuit as shown inFigure 7 The compensation capacitor (e.g., compensation capacitor C8) in the shown circuit. By setting the projected area of the third extension part and the fourth extension part in the longitudinal direction, the capacitance value of the formed compensation capacitor can be adjusted, and further the odd-mode and even-mode impedances Z of the coupler at each frequency band can be adjusted. The odd-mode and even-mode impedances Z of the coupler are associated with the coefficient K, and the coefficient K = 10 C / 10 , C is the coupling degree. Therefore, by adjusting the projected area of the third extension part and the fourth extension part in the longitudinal direction, the directivity and isolation degree of the coupler in the wide frequency band (especially at two frequency points with a large span, e.g.,

[0053] [1.4 GHz - 2.69 GHz]) within the operating frequency band range can be improved to meet the actual requirements.

[0054] In a specific embodiment, at least part of the projection of the first coupled line part and the main line in the longitudinal direction overlap.

[0055] In at least one embodiment, at least part of the projection of the first coupled line part and the main line in the longitudinal direction overlap to form a compensation capacitor (e.g., the compensation capacitor C5 in the shown circuit). Figure 7 as shown.

[0056] As an example, the first coupled line part 20 disposed on the second metal layer and the second coupled line part 40 disposed on the first metal layer can be connected by metal vias or jumpers. It can be understood that the second coupled line part 40 disposed on the first metal layer and the main line 10 are spaced apart and coupled to each other, and at least part of the projection of the first coupled line part and the main line in the longitudinal direction overlap.

[0057] In this embodiment, by making at least part of the projection of the first coupled line part and the main line in the longitudinal direction overlap to form a compensation capacitor, by setting the overlapping area of the first coupled line part and the main line or the coupling distance between the first coupled line part and the main line, the capacitance value of the formed compensation capacitor can be changed. Since the capacitance value of the compensation capacitor is related to the isolation degree of the coupler, therefore, by making at least part of the projection of the first coupled line part and the main line in the longitudinal direction overlap, the capacitance value of the formed compensation capacitor can be flexibly adjusted, so as to improve the directivity and isolation degree of the coupler in the wide frequency band (especially at two frequency points with a large span, e.g., [1.4 GHz - 2.69 GHz]) to meet the actual requirements.

[0058] In a specific embodiment, if the operating frequency band of the coupler is within the range of [1.42 GHz, 2.69 GHz], the projected area of the first coupled line part on the main line is S, where: 810 um 2 ≤ S ≤ 1860 um 2 .

[0059] It should be noted that the operating frequency band of the coupler includes all frequency bands from 1.42 GHz to 2.69 GHz within the range of [1.42 GHz, 2.69 GHz]. For the interval frequency band, as long as the maximum frequency band value is less than or equal to 2.69 GHz and the minimum frequency band value is greater than or equal to 1.42 GHz, it is within the range of [1.42 GHz, 2.69 GHz]. For example: [1.5 GHz, 2 GHz], [1.42 GHz, 1.69 GHz] or [2 GHz, 2.69 GHz] are all within the range of [1.42 GHz, 2.69 GHz].

[0060] In at least one embodiment, by changing the range of the area S projected by the first coupling line portion onto the main line 10 in the longitudinal direction, the capacitance value of the formed compensation capacitor can be adjusted. Specifically, by making the range of the area S projected by the first coupling line portion onto the main line 10 in the longitudinal direction be 810um 2 ≤S≤1860um 2 , so that the capacitance value of the formed compensation capacitor meets the isolation ISO and directivity index D of the coupler in the wide frequency band [1.42 GHz, 2.69 GHz].

[0061] In a specific embodiment, if the coupler is within the operating frequency band range of [1.42 GHz, 1.5 GHz], the area range of the projection of the first coupling line portion onto the main line is [810um, 900um];

[0062] If the coupler is within the operating frequency band range of [1.71 GHz, 2.1 GHz], the area range of the projection of the first coupling line portion onto the main line is [1092um, 1200um,];

[0063] If the coupler is within the operating frequency band range of [2.3 GHz, 2.69 GHz], the area range of the projection of the first coupling line portion onto the main line is [1365um, 1500um].

[0064] Preferably, the overlapping length when the first coupling line portion 20 and the main coil 11 overlap in the longitudinal direction affects the coupling coefficient of the coupler, and the overlapping length and the coupling coefficient are positively correlated. Within a frequency band range (for example: sub3GHz), the overlapping length basically determines the range of the interval value of the coupling coefficient. Especially for two frequency bands with a large frequency band gap, the overlapping lengths when the first coupling line portion 20 and the main coil 11 overlap in the longitudinal direction are often different (for example, there are differences in the overlapping lengths of sub3GHz, sub5GHz, and sub6GHz).

[0065] In a specific embodiment, the distance range between the second coupling line portions 40 on the main line 10 is

[0066] [3um, 8um].

[0067] Preferably, the second coupling line portion 40 and the main line 10 are mutually coupled to form equivalent capacitors (e.g., capacitor C9 and capacitor C6) in the equivalent circuit. The capacitance values of capacitor C9 and capacitor C6 will affect the isolation and directivity index D of the coupler 100. The capacitance values of capacitor C9 and capacitor C6 are related to the distance between the second coupling line portion 40 and the main line 10. The smaller the distance between the second coupling line portion 40 and the main line 10, the larger the capacitance value of the formed equivalent capacitor. In this application, by limiting the distance range between the second coupling line portion 40 and the main line 10 to [3um, 8um], not only can the capacitance value of the formed equivalent capacitor be increased to improve the isolation and directivity index of the coupler 100, but also the miniaturization setting of the coupler can be satisfied.

[0068] In a specific embodiment, if the operating frequency band of the coupler is in the range of [1.42 GHz, 2.69 GHz], then the length range of the first extension portion is [6um, 12um], and / or the length range of the second extension portion is [6um, 12um].

[0069] In at least one embodiment, the projection of the first extension portion 21 and the second coupling line portion 40 in the longitudinal direction at least partially overlap to form a compensation capacitor (e.g., the second compensation capacitor C7) in the equivalent circuit. The projection of the second extension portion and the first coupling line portion in the longitudinal direction at least partially overlap to form a compensation capacitor (e.g., the third compensation capacitor C8) in the equivalent circuit. The projection of the first extension portion 21 and the second extension portion 42 in the longitudinal direction at least partially overlap can also form a compensation capacitor in the equivalent circuit.

[0070] In at least one embodiment, the lengths of the first extension portion 21 and the second extension portion are both related to the operating frequency of the coupler. To satisfy the directivity at the isolation end of the coupler, the higher the operating frequency of the coupler, the shorter the lengths of the first extension portion 21 and the second extension portion 42. In this embodiment, to satisfy the directivity and isolation of the coupler in the operating frequency band range of [1.42 GHz, 2.69 GHz], the length range of the first extension portion 21 is set to [6um, 12um], and the length range of the second extension portion is set to

[0071] [6um, 12um]. For example, the length range of the first extension part 21 is 6um, 8um, 10um, 12um, etc. The length of the second extension part is 6um, 8um, 10um, 12um, etc.; thereby, the directivity and isolation of the coupler in the broadband frequency band (especially in two frequency points with a large span, for example, in the working frequency band range of [1.4GHZ - 2.69GHZ]) can be improved to meet the actual requirements. In the actual application process, a trade-off selection can be made in combination with the working frequency and area of the coupler. Optionally, the lengths of the first extension part and the second extension part can be the same or different.

[0072] In a specific embodiment,

[0073] If the coupler is in the working frequency band range of [1.42GHz, 1.5GHz], then the length range of the first extension part is [8um, 12um], and / or the length range of the second extension part is [8um, 12um];

[0074] If the coupler is in the working frequency band range of [1.71GHz, 2.1GHz], then the length range of the first extension part is [7um, 9um], and / or the length range of the second extension part is [7um, 9um];

[0075] If the coupler is in the working frequency band range of [2.3GHz, 2.69GHz], then the length range of the first extension part is [6um, 8um], and / or the length range of the second extension part is [6um, 8um].

[0076] In at least one embodiment, the higher the working frequency band of the coupler, the smaller the lengths of the first extension part 21 and the second extension part, and the lower the working frequency band, the larger the lengths of the first extension part 21 and the second extension part. In the actual application process, the lengths of the first extension part 21 and the second extension part can be flexibly adjusted according to the working frequency band of the coupler 100.

[0077] In a specific embodiment, if the working frequency band of the coupler is in the range of [1.42GHz, 2.69GHz], then the length range of the third extension part is [6um, 12um], and / or the length range of the fourth extension part is [6um, 12um].

[0078] In at least one embodiment, the projection of the third extension part 23 and the second coupling line part 40 in the longitudinal direction at least partially overlap to form a compensation capacitor in the equivalent circuit. The projection of the fourth extension part and the first coupling line part at least partially overlap in the longitudinal direction. The projection of the third extension part and the fourth extension part at least partially overlap in the longitudinal direction can also form a compensation capacitor in the equivalent circuit.

[0079] Among them, the lengths of the third extension part and the fourth extension part are both related to the operating frequency of the coupler. To meet the directivity at the isolation end of the coupler, the higher the operating frequency of the coupler, the shorter the lengths of the third extension part and the fourth extension part. In this embodiment, to meet the directivity and isolation of the coupler within the operating frequency band of [1.42 GHz, 2.69 GHz], the lengths of the third extension part and the fourth extension part are set to [6 μm, 12 μm]. For example: the length of the third extension part is 6 μm, 8 μm, 10 μm or 12 μm, etc. The length of the fourth extension part is 6 μm, 8 μm, 10 μm or 12 μm, etc.; thereby, the directivity and isolation of the coupler in the wide frequency band (especially within the operating frequency band of two frequency points with a large span, such as [1.42 GHz, 2.69 GHz]) can be improved to meet the actual requirements. In the actual application process, a trade-off selection can be made in combination with the operating frequency and area of the coupler. Optionally, the lengths of the third extension part and the fourth extension part can be the same or different.

[0080] In a specific embodiment,

[0081] If the coupler is within the operating frequency band of [1.42 GHz, 1.5 GHz], the length range of the third extension part is [8 μm, 12 μm], and / or, the length range of the fourth extension part is [8 μm, 12 μm];

[0082] If the coupler is within the operating frequency band of [1.71 GHz, 2.1 GHz], the length range of the third extension part is [7 μm, 9 μm], and / or, the length range of the fourth extension part is [7 μm, 9 μm];

[0083] If the coupler is within the operating frequency band of [2.3 GHz, 2.69 GHz], the length range of the third extension part is [6 μm, 8 μm], and / or, the length range of the fourth extension part is [6 μm, 8 μm].

[0084] In at least one embodiment, the higher the operating frequency band of the coupler, the smaller the lengths of the third extension part and the fourth extension part, and the lower the operating frequency band, the larger the lengths of the third extension part and the fourth extension part. In the actual application process, the lengths of the third extension part and the fourth extension part can be flexibly adjusted according to the operating frequency band of the coupler 100.

[0085] In a specific embodiment, the second coupling line portion 40 includes a first coupling segment (34) and a second coupling segment (35). The first coupling segment (34) is connected to the first end of the first coupling line portion 20 through a first through hole, and the second coupling segment (35) is connected to the second end of the first coupling line portion 20 through a second through hole. Among them, both the first coupling segment (34) and the second coupling segment (35) are disposed on the second metal layer and are connected to the first coupling line portion 20 disposed on the first metal layer through through holes. Optionally, the first through hole and the second through hole may be metal through holes.

[0086] In at least one embodiment, participate in Figure 5 and Figure 6 As described above, the first coupling segment (34) and the second coupling segment (35) are disposed opposite to each other, and the extending directions of the first coupling segment (34) and the second coupling segment (35) are the same. The extending directions of the first coupling segment (34) and the second coupling segment (35) are different from the extending direction of the first coupling line portion 20. Preferably, the extending directions of the first coupling segment (34) and the second coupling segment (35) are perpendicular to the extending direction of the first coupling line portion 20. For example: the extending direction of the first coupling line portion 20 is the vertical direction, and the extending directions of the first coupling segment (34) and the second coupling segment (35) are the horizontal directions.

[0087] In a specific embodiment, the extending direction of the first extension portion extending from the first end of the first coupling line portion is the same as the extending direction of the first coupling segment, and / or the extending direction of the third extension portion extending from the second end of the first coupling line portion is the same as the extending direction of the second coupling segment.

[0088] In at least one embodiment, the extending direction of the first extension portion extending from the first end of the first coupling line portion is the same as the extending direction of the first coupling segment, and the first extension portion and the first coupling segment overlap at least partially in the longitudinal direction to form a compensation capacitor. And / or the extending direction of the third extension portion extending from the second end of the first coupling line portion is the same as the extending direction of the second coupling segment, and the third extension portion and the second coupling segment overlap at least partially in the longitudinal direction to form a compensation capacitor; thus, without increasing the occupied area, the lengths of the first extension portion and the third extension portion can be flexibly adjusted, and further, the overlapping area of the first extension portion and the projection of the first coupling segment in the longitudinal direction, and the overlapping area of the third extension portion and the projection of the second coupling segment in the longitudinal direction can be flexibly adjusted, so as to improve the directivity and isolation of the coupler in a wide frequency band (especially in the range of two frequency points with a large span, for example: [1.4 GHz - 2.69 GHz]).

[0089] In a specific embodiment, the second coupling line portion further includes a third coupling segment (31), a fourth coupling segment (32), a fifth coupling segment (33), and a sixth coupling segment (36). The third coupling segment (31) is disposed opposite to the main line. The fourth coupling segment (32) extends from the first end of the third coupling segment (31) in a direction away from the main line. The fifth coupling segment (33) extends from the second end of the third coupling segment (31) in a direction away from the main coil. One end of the sixth coupling segment (36) is connected to the fourth coupling segment (32), and the other end is connected to the fifth coupling segment (33).

[0090] Refer to the following Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the third coupling segment (31) and the main line 11 are disposed opposite to each other and are coupled to each other. The first coupling line portion 21 is disposed in the upper region of the third coupling segment (31). The fourth coupling segment (32) extends from the first end of the third coupling segment (31) in a direction away from the main line. The fifth coupling segment (33) extends from the second end of the third coupling segment (31) in a direction away from the main coil. One end of the sixth coupling segment (36) is connected to the fourth coupling segment (32), and the other end is connected to the fifth coupling segment (33). In this embodiment, the third coupling segment (31), the fourth coupling segment (32), the fifth coupling segment (33), and the sixth coupling segment (36) are connected to form a coupling coil similar to a quadrilateral to form a branch-line coupler. Compared with a conventional linear-coupler, the branch-line coupler has performance advantages of low loss, good directivity, and high isolation.

[0091] In at least one embodiment, the first coupling segment (34), the second coupling segment (35), the third coupling segment (31), the fourth coupling segment (32), the fifth coupling segment (33), and the sixth coupling segment (36) can be set as straight segments or curved segments, and the specific shape can be selected according to the actual situation, which will not be elaborated here.

[0092] Embodiment 3

[0093] A radio frequency front-end module includes a coupler 100 as in the above-mentioned embodiment. The coupler 100 includes: an input port; an output port; a coupling port; an isolation port; a main line, one end of the main line is connected to the input port, and the other end is connected to the output port; a coupling line, one end of the coupling line is connected to the coupling port, and the other end is connected to the isolation port; the coupling line includes a first coupling line portion disposed on a first metal layer and a second coupling line portion disposed on a second metal layer, and a first end of the first coupling line portion is connected to a first end of the second coupling line portion through a first via hole; a first extension portion, the first extension portion extends from the first end of the first coupling line portion; the first extension portion and the second coupling line portion overlap at least partially in the longitudinal direction. In this embodiment, by making the first coupling line portion and the main line overlap at least partially in the longitudinal direction to form a compensation capacitor, by setting the overlapping area between the first coupling line portion and the main line or the coupling distance between the first coupling line portion and the main line, the capacitance value of the formed compensation capacitor can be changed. Since the capacitance value of the compensation capacitor is related to the isolation degree of the coupler, therefore, by making the first coupling line portion and the main line overlap at least partially in the longitudinal direction, the capacitance value of the formed compensation capacitor can be flexibly adjusted, thereby improving the directivity and isolation degree of the coupler in a wide frequency band (especially in two frequency points with a large span, for example, within the range of [1.4 GHz - 2.69 GHz]) to meet the actual requirements.

[0094] The above are only specific embodiments of the present application, enabling those skilled in the art to understand or implement the present application. Various modifications to these embodiments will be obvious to those skilled in the art. The general principles defined herein can be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the present application. Therefore, the present application will not be limited to these embodiments shown herein, but rather will conform to the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features claimed herein.

Claims

1. A coupler, characterized in that, it includes an input port; an output port; a coupling port; an isolation port; a main line, one end of the main line is connected to the input port, and the other end is connected to the output port; a coupling line, one end of the coupling line is connected to the coupling port, and the other end is connected to the isolation port; the coupling line includes a first coupling line portion disposed on a first metal layer and a second coupling line portion disposed on a second metal layer, and a first end of the first coupling line portion is connected to a first end of the second coupling line portion through a first via hole; a first extension portion extending from the first end of the first coupling line portion; the first extension portion and the second coupling line portion overlap at least partially in the longitudinal projection.

2. The coupler according to claim 1, characterized in that, the coupling line further includes a second extension portion extending from the first end of the second coupling line portion, and the second extension portion and the first coupling line portion overlap at least partially in the longitudinal projection.

3. The coupler according to claim 1, characterized in that, a second end of the first coupling line portion is connected to a second end of the second coupling line portion through a second via hole; the coupler further includes a third extension portion extending from the second end of the first coupling line portion, and the third extension portion and the second coupling line portion overlap at least partially in the longitudinal projection.

4. The coupler according to claim 3, characterized in that, the coupler further includes a fourth extension portion extending from the second end of the second coupling line portion, and the fourth extension portion and the first coupling line portion overlap at least partially in the longitudinal projection.

5. The coupler according to claim 2, characterized in that, if the operating frequency band of the coupler is in the range of [1.42 GHz, 2.69 GHz], then the length range of the first extension portion is [6 μm, 12 μm], and / or, the length range of the second extension portion is [6 μm, 12 μm].

6. The coupler according to claim 2, characterized in that, it includes: if the coupler is in the operating frequency band range of [1.42 GHz, 1.5 GHz], then the length range of the first extension portion is [8 μm, 12 μm], and / or, the length range of the second extension portion is [8 μm, 12 μm]; if the coupler is in the operating frequency band range of [1.71 GHz, 2.1 GHz], then the length range of the first extension portion is [7 μm, 9 μm], and / or, the length range of the second extension portion is [7 μm, 9 μm]; if the coupler is in the operating frequency band range of [2.3 GHz, 2.69 GHz], then the length range of the first extension portion is [6 μm, 8 μm], and / or, the length range of the second extension portion is [6 μm, 8 μm].

7. The coupler according to claim 4, characterized in that, If the operating frequency band of the coupler is in the range of [1.42 GHz, 2.69 GHz], the length range of the third extension part is [6 μm, 12 μm], and / or the length range of the fourth extension part is [6 μm, 12 μm].

8. The coupler according to claim 4, wherein, comprising: If the coupler is in the operating frequency band range of [1.42 GHz, 1.5 GHz], the length range of the third extension part is [8 μm, 12 μm], and / or the length range of the fourth extension part is [8 μm, 12 μm]; If the coupler is in the operating frequency band range of [1.71 GHz, 2.1 GHz], the length range of the third extension part is [7 μm, 9 μm], and / or the length range of the fourth extension part is [7 μm, 9 μm]; If the coupler is in the operating frequency band range of [2.3 GHz, 2.69 GHz], the length range of the third extension part is [6 μm, 8 μm], and / or the length range of the fourth extension part is [6 μm, 8 μm].

9. The coupler according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein, comprising: The first coupled line part and the main line overlap at least partially in the longitudinal direction projection.

10. The coupler according to claim 9, wherein, If the operating frequency band of the coupler is in the range of [1.42 GHz, 2.69 GHz], the projected area of the first coupled line portion on the main line is S, where: 810um 2 ≤S≤1860um 2 .

11. The coupler according to claim 3, wherein, The second coupled line part includes a first coupled segment and a second coupled segment. The first coupled segment is connected to the first end of the first coupled line part through a first via hole, and the second coupled segment is connected to the second end of the first coupled line part through a second via hole.

12. The coupler according to claim 11, wherein, The extending direction of the first extension part extending from the first end of the first coupled line part is the same as the extending direction of the first coupled segment, and / or the extending direction of the third extension part extending from the second end of the first coupled line part is the same as the extending direction of the second coupled segment.

13. The coupler according to claim 12, wherein, The second coupled line part further includes a third coupled segment, a fourth coupled segment, a fifth coupled segment and a sixth coupled segment. The third coupled segment is disposed opposite to the main line. The fourth coupled segment extends from the first end of the third coupled segment away from the main line. The fifth coupled segment extends from the second end of the third coupled segment away from the main coil. One end of the sixth coupled segment is connected to the fourth coupled segment, and the other end is connected to the fifth coupled segment.

14. A coupler, wherein, comprising a coupled port; an isolation port; a main line, one end of the main line is connected to the input port, and the other end is connected to the output port; a coupled line, one end of the coupled line is connected to the coupled port, and the other end is connected to the isolation port; The coupled line includes a first coupled line portion disposed on a first metal layer and a second coupled line portion disposed on a second metal layer. A first end of the first coupled line portion is connected to a first end of the second coupled line portion through a first via hole; A first extension portion that extends from the first end of the first coupled line portion; A second extension portion that extends from the first end of the second coupled line portion; Projections of the first extension portion and the second extension portion in the longitudinal direction overlap at least partially.

15. The coupler according to claim 14, wherein, if the operating frequency band of the coupler is in the range of [1.42 GHz, 2.69 GHz], the length range of the first extension portion is [6 μm, 12 μm], and the length range of the second extension portion is [6 μm, 12 μm].

16. The coupler according to claim 14, wherein, a second end of the first coupled line portion is connected to a second end of the second coupled line portion through a second via hole; the coupler further includes a third extension portion and a fourth extension portion; The first extension portion extends from the second end of the first coupled line portion; The first extension portion extends from the second end of the second coupled line portion; Projections of the third extension portion and the fourth extension portion in the longitudinal direction overlap at least partially.

17. The coupler according to claim 16, wherein, if the operating frequency band of the coupler is in the range of [1.42 GHz, 2.69 GHz], the length range of the third extension portion is [6 μm, 12 μm], and the length range of the fourth extension portion is [6 μm, 12 μm].

18. A radio frequency front-end module, wherein, it includes the coupler according to any one of claims 1-17.

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