Current-Mode Filter Circuit for Independent Gain and Frequency Tuning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing filter circuits in wireless communication systems face challenges in simultaneously controlling gain and frequency tuning, leading to increased power consumption and reduced system bandwidth due to the need for separate programmable gain amplifiers and limitations in filter architectures like Sallen-Key, BiQuad, and Multiple-Feedback filters.

Innovation Solution

A filter circuit incorporating a current mode programmable gain amplifier that allows independent adjustment of frequency response and gain, using current extraction elements and current-to-voltage conversion to generate amplified signals, enabling simultaneous control of gain and frequency without affecting other parameters, and incorporating current mirror elements for programmable amplification.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If separate programmable gain amplifiers are used for gain control, then gain adjustment is achieved, but power consumption increases and system bandwidth is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegain controlVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the programmable gain amplifier functionality directly within the filter circuit architecture, merging previously separate gain control and filtering functions into a single integrated structure. This eliminates the need for external programmable gain amplifiers, thereby reducing power consumption while maintaining ease of gain control through the integrated design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If traditional filter architectures (Sallen-Key, BiQuad, MFB) are used, then filtering functionality is achieved, but simultaneous control of gain and frequency tuning is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefiltering functionalityVSAvoidsimultaneous gain and frequency control
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic control capabilities within the filter circuit, allowing both gain and frequency tuning parameters to be adjusted simultaneously and independently through programmable control mechanisms. This dynamic architecture enables real-time reconfiguration of filter characteristics without requiring separate control circuits, enhancing adaptability while maintaining reliable filtering performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If current mode programmable gain amplifier is integrated into filter circuit, then simultaneous gain and frequency control is enabled, but circuit complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimultaneous gain and frequency controlVSAvoidcircuit architecture
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the filter circuit with multi-functional components that perform multiple operations within a single architectural framework. The current mode programmable gain amplifier is integrated such that it serves both gain control and frequency tuning functions simultaneously, reducing the need for separate dedicated circuits for each function and thereby managing complexity while enhancing versatility.

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

4Ease of operation

If multiple separate components are used for gain amplification, then gain control is achieved, but system bandwidth is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegain amplificationVSAvoidsystem bandwidth
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the gain amplification function directly into the filter circuit's signal path, eliminating the need for multiple separate amplification stages. This integrated approach maintains signal integrity and bandwidth by avoiding additional interface stages and impedance transformations that would otherwise limit system bandwidth, while still providing programmable gain control capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS10560070B2Filter Circuit with Programmable Gain and Frequency Response
Publication Date: 2020.02.11 HUAWEI TECH CO LTD
  • US10560070B2 patent drawing
  • US10560070B2 patent drawing
  • US10560070B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A filter circuit includes a filter and a current mode programmable gain amplifier, where the filter circuit is configured to filter an input signal to obtain an output signal. The filter is supplied with the input signal. The filter comprises at least one current extraction element configured to extract a first output current signal. The current mode programmable gain amplifier is configured to receive and amplify the first output current signal to obtain an amplified current signal. The output signal is derived from the amplified current signal.