Bypass-Matched Power Amplifier Module for Low-Power Loss

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing power amplifying modules face impedance matching issues between the bypass path and downstream-stage power amplifiers, leading to increased conversion loss in low power mode.

Innovation Solution

A power amplifying module design that includes a bypass line connected to a specific point within the stage matching circuit, reducing the number of devices required for impedance matching and minimizing conversion loss by allowing the bypass line to output signals directly to the stage matching circuit, bypassing the first power amplifier.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a bypass line is added to allow signals to skip the first power amplifier in low power mode, then the gain can be reduced appropriately, but impedance matching issues arise between the bypass path and downstream-stage power amplifier

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegain controlVSAvoidimpedance matching
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

A matching circuit is introduced as an intermediary component between the bypass line and the second power amplifier. This matching circuit (comprising elements such as inductors L21-L24 and capacitors C21-C24) serves as a mediator to transform the impedance from the bypass path to match the input impedance of the second power amplifier, thereby resolving the impedance mismatch problem while maintaining the gain control functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The impedance parameters of the bypass path are changed by introducing reactive elements (inductors and capacitors) in the matching circuit. By adjusting the impedance characteristics of the bypass path through these passive components, the system achieves proper impedance matching with the downstream power amplifier across different operating conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If impedance matching devices are added to the bypass line to improve impedance matching, then reliability improves, but the number of devices and circuit complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimpedance matchingVSAvoidcircuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The matching circuit is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides impedance matching for the bypass path, maintains proper impedance transformation for the main signal path through the first power amplifier, and works across both high power and low power modes. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate matching circuits for different paths and modes, thereby limiting the increase in overall circuit complexity

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

Data Source

PatentUS11817836B2Power amplifying module
Publication Date: 2023.11.14 MURATA MFG CO LTD
  • US11817836B2 patent drawing
  • US11817836B2 patent drawing
  • US11817836B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A power amplifying module includes a first input terminal, a second input terminal, a first power amplifier, a stage matching circuit, a bypass line, and a second power amplifier. The first input terminal receives a first input signal in a first operation mode. The second input terminal receives a second input signal in a second operation mode which is different from the first operation mode. The first power amplifier amplifies the first input signal and outputs a first amplified signal. The stage matching circuit is disposed downstream of the first power amplifier and receives the first amplified signal. The bypass line outputs the second input signal to the inside of the stage matching circuit not through the first power amplifier. The second power amplifier is disposed downstream of the stage matching circuit, and amplifies the first amplified signal or the second input signal and outputs a second amplified signal.