Amplifier Harmonic Terminations for Multi-Band Impedance Matching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional amplifiers are limited to a single frequency band and modulation/coding scheme due to fixed-tuned output matches, which restricts their operational flexibility and efficiency across different modes and frequency bands.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of switchable harmonic terminations and a tunable output impedance match allows amplifiers to operate on multiple frequency bands and modulation/coding schemes by dynamically adjusting harmonic shorts, opens, and impedance matching networks using switches and tunable elements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If fixed-tuned output matches are used in amplifiers, then the amplifier can be designed for a specific frequency band and modulation scheme, but the amplifier cannot operate on multiple frequency bands or modulation/coding schemes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational flexibility across frequency bands and modulation schemesVSAvoidcomplexity of switchable harmonic terminations and tunable impedance matching networks
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic switching of harmonic terminations and impedance matching networks based on the operating mode and frequency band. Switches control the connection of different harmonic shorts and opens, while tunable elements adjust impedance parameters dynamically. This allows the amplifier to adapt its output characteristics for different modulation schemes (e.g., GMSK, 8PSK, H-PSK) and frequency bands, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity by making the system configurable rather than fixed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If switchable harmonic terminations and tunable impedance matching networks are implemented, then the amplifier can operate on multiple frequency bands and modulation schemes, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-band and multi-mode operation capabilityVSAvoidnumber of switches and tunable elements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal amplifier architecture where a single device can perform multiple functions across different frequency bands and modulation schemes. The switchable harmonic terminations and tunable impedance matching networks serve as multi-functional components that adapt the amplifier's behavior. This universal design allows one amplifier to replace multiple fixed-tuned amplifiers, achieving multi-band and multi-mode operation while managing complexity through integrated control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If dynamic adjustment of harmonic terminations and impedance matching is performed, then linearity and efficiency are improved, but the control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelinearity and efficiency performanceVSAvoidcontrol mechanism for dynamic adjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the control system monitors the operating conditions (frequency band, modulation scheme) and dynamically adjusts the harmonic terminations and impedance matching parameters accordingly. This feedback-controlled adaptation ensures optimal linearity and efficiency for each operating mode while managing the control complexity through automated adjustment rather than manual configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS10763798B2Variable impedance match and variable harmonic terminations for different modes and frequency bands
Publication Date: 2020.09.01 PSEMI CORP
  • US10763798B2 patent drawing
  • US10763798B2 patent drawing
  • US10763798B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An amplifier with switchable and tunable harmonic terminations and a variable impedance matching network is presented. The amplifier can adapt to different modes and different frequency bands of operation by appropriate switching and/or tuning of the harmonic terminations and/or the variable impedance matching network.