Controllable Impedance Elements for RF Signal Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing RF signal processing technologies lack operational flexibility in controlling electromagnetic conditions and current density between conductive layers, limiting their ability to efficiently process RF signals.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with controllable impedance elements, such as switches and variable capacitors, is used between two conductive layers, allowing for adjustable impedance values and spatial distribution to influence electromagnetic conditions, enabling flexible RF signal processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed impedance elements are used between conductive layers, then manufacturing is simpler, but operational flexibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the impedance elements reconfigurable through switching mechanisms. The impedance between conductive layers can be dynamically adjusted by activating or deactivating specific impedance elements via control signals, allowing the system to adapt its electromagnetic characteristics in real-time based on operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by varying the impedance values of the impedance elements through different switching states. By controlling which impedance elements are active and their respective impedance values, the system can change its electromagnetic parameters to suit different RF signal processing needs while maintaining a manageable structural complexity.
2Ease of operation
If controllable impedance elements are used, then electromagnetic conditions can be dynamically controlled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the impedance control function into multiple discrete impedance elements distributed between conductive layers. Each impedance element can be independently controlled, allowing precise local adjustment of electromagnetic conditions without requiring complex centralized control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing impedance elements that can serve multiple functions - they provide both impedance transformation and switching control capabilities. The same structural elements enable both electromagnetic coupling and dynamic reconfiguration, reducing the need for separate control components.
3Ease of manufacture
If impedance elements are distributed throughout the substrate, then integration is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the nested doll principle by embedding impedance elements within the substrate structure itself. The impedance elements are integrated into the substrate layers, with conductive layers positioned above and below them, creating a compact nested arrangement that achieves high integration while using standard manufacturing tolerances for substrate fabrication.
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
This approach enhances operational flexibility and efficiency in processing RF signals by dynamically controlling electromagnetic conditions and current density, accommodating various RF signal processing requirements.
Implementation Method 1
By controlling the impedance value of individual ones or at least some of said plurality of impedance elements, a resulting coupling between the first and second layers may be influenced
Implementation Method 2
An electrochromic switch is disclosed in EP 3 561 890 A2
Data Source
Figure 1~4B
Figure 5~7
Figure 8~9A
AI summary
Apparatus comprising a first layer of electrically conductive material and a second layer of electrically conductive material, and a plurality of impedance elements connecting said first layer with said second layer, wherein an impedance value of at least some of said plurality of impedance elements is controllable.