Multilayer Balun Attenuation Pole Tuning via Open Line Conductor

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing multilayer baluns face difficulties in adjusting the frequency of the attenuation pole without deviating from the desired pass band, as changing inductance or capacitance often affects the pass band characteristics.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating an open line conductor with one end as an open end, which has a smaller inductance component than the first inductor, allowing for adjustment of the attenuation pole frequency while maintaining the pass band by utilizing its higher self-resonant frequency to minimize impact on signal in the pass band.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the inductance of the inductor or the capacitance of the capacitor is changed to adjust the attenuation pole frequency, then the attenuation pole frequency can be adjusted, but the pass band may deviate from the desired frequency band

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattenuation pole frequency adjustment precisionVSAvoidpass band frequency stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the inductance adjustment function into two separate components: the first inductor (L1) that determines the pass band characteristics, and the second inductor (L2) that adjusts the attenuation pole frequency. By segmenting the inductance elements, each can be optimized independently - L1 maintains the pass band while L2 provides attenuation pole adjustment without affecting the pass band frequency stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The second inductor L2 acts as an intermediary element that mediates between the signal path and ground. It provides a controlled adjustment mechanism for the attenuation pole frequency through magnetic coupling with L1, while its specific design (inductance value, coupling coefficient) ensures that it affects primarily the attenuation pole frequency rather than the pass band center frequency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If the inductance of the first inductor is increased to lower the attenuation pole frequency, then the attenuation pole frequency decreases, but the pass band frequency also shifts

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattenuation pole frequency controlVSAvoidpass band frequency accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the inductance function into L1 and L2, where L1 is designed with fixed optimal values to ensure pass band frequency accuracy, while L2 provides the adjustment capability for attenuation pole frequency. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each inductor's parameters for its specific function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by designing L1 and L2 with different inductance values and coupling characteristics suited to their specific roles. L1 has inductance optimized for pass band performance, while L2 has inductance and coupling coefficient optimized for attenuation pole frequency adjustment, allowing each component to have locally optimized properties for its specific function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables precise adjustment of the attenuation pole frequency without affecting the pass band, allowing for improved frequency characteristics of the multilayer balun.

Implementation Method 1

The second inductor is electrically connected between the second terminal and the third terminal and is magnetically coupled with the first inductor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic coupling: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11005443B2Multilayer balun
Publication Date: 2021.05.11 MURATA MFG CO LTD
  • US11005443B2 patent drawing
  • US11005443B2 patent drawing
  • US11005443B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A multilayer balun includes first, second, and third terminals, first and second inductors, and an open line conductor. The first inductor is electrically connected between the first terminal and ground points. The second inductor is electrically connected between the second terminal and the third terminal and is magnetically coupled with the first inductor. The open line conductor has one end that is an open end and another end that is electrically connected to a via conductor pattern, which is a signal path between the first terminal and ground points.