Capacitive Tuner Module Series Switch Topology

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional capacitive tuner modules in RF applications often require multiple integrated circuits, leading to performance degradation of tuned elements like antennas due to varying design factors and parasitic effects, necessitating a more versatile and efficient tuning solution.

Innovation Solution

A capacitive tuner module with a series-connected capacitor and switch configuration, featuring additional terminals for flexible coupling to RF sources and antennas, allowing for selective activation and deactivation of capacitors and external tuning elements, thereby adapting to different frequency bands and applications with reduced component count.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple integrated circuits are used for tuning applications, then design flexibility is improved, but performance degradation of the tuned element occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedesign flexibilityVSAvoidperformance of tuned element
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple tuning functions into a single integrated circuit module that can selectively couple different capacitors to the antenna. This single module integrates what would traditionally require multiple separate ICs, maintaining design flexibility while eliminating the performance degradation caused by multiple discrete components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The tuning module is designed with universal functionality to handle various tuning applications through a single device. It includes multiple capacitors (first capacitor, second capacitor) and switching mechanisms that can be selectively activated based on different frequency bands and antenna types, making one module replace multiple specialized ICs.

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

2Ease of operation

If conventional tuning circuits are used, then antenna tuning is achieved, but power loss increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveantenna tuning capabilityVSAvoidpower loss
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic switching between different capacitor configurations based on operating conditions. The first switch and second switch can selectively connect or disconnect capacitors from the antenna, optimizing the tuning circuit's performance for different frequency bands and minimizing power loss through adaptive reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The tuning module changes electrical parameters by selectively coupling different capacitors with specific capacitance values. The first capacitor has a first capacitance value and the second capacitor has a second capacitance value, allowing the system to optimize impedance matching and minimize power loss across different operating frequencies.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple modules are used for tuning, then comprehensive coverage of frequency bands is achieved, but space consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrequency band coverageVSAvoidspace consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple tuning functions and frequency band coverages into a single integrated module. Instead of using separate modules for different frequency bands, this single module contains multiple capacitors and switches that can be configured to cover various frequency ranges, significantly reducing the required space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The tuning module employs a nested structure where capacitors and switches are integrated within a single compact package. The first capacitor and second capacitor are both housed within the same module, along with their associated switching mechanisms, creating a space-efficient nested arrangement that replaces multiple external components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentEP4027526A1Capacitive tuner module and method of manufacturing the same
Publication Date: 2022.07.13 INFINEON TECHNOLOGIES AG
  • EP4027526A1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4027526A1 patent drawingFigure 3~4A
  • EP4027526A1 patent drawingFigure 4B~4C

AI summary

Capacitive tuner modules, radio frequency devices and methods for manufacturing capacitive tuner modules are provided. In an example, a capacitive tuner module (10) includes a capacitor (11) and a switch (12) coupled in series between a first terminal (T1) and a second terminal (T3). A node between the capacitor (11) and the switch (12) is coupled to a second terminal (T2).