DDPDT RF Switch for Carrier Aggregation in Mobile Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity and cost of manufacturing mobile wireless communications devices are increased due to the need for complicated front-end modules in LTE devices, particularly in carrier aggregation mode, where multiple frequency bands require complex routing and switching, leading to potential self-interference issues.
Innovation Solution
A mobile wireless communications device with a simplified architecture using a differential double-pole, double-throw (DDPDT) RF switch to manage signal routing across multiple RF bands, reducing the need for complex routing networks and minimizing self-interference, while supporting all 2G/3G/LTE band combinations for carrier aggregation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple band pass duplexers and multiple DPDT switches are used to support multiple RF bands and carrier aggregation, then the device can receive signals across multiple frequency bands, but the front-end module complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple DPDT switches into a single DDPDT switch that can simultaneously control multiple RF bands. This single switch integrates the functionality of multiple separate switches, reducing the number of components while maintaining the ability to route signals across multiple frequency bands for carrier aggregation.
Solution Approach 2:
The DDPDT switch is designed with universal functionality to handle multiple RF bands (e.g., Bands 3 and 7) simultaneously. Instead of requiring separate switches for each band, this single multi-functional switch can route signals for different bands through its multiple poles and throws, reducing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple DPDT switches are used to route signals for different RF bands, then carrier aggregation is supported, but the manufacturing cost and difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple DPDT switches into a single DDPDT switch, reducing the number of components that need to be manufactured and assembled. This consolidation simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces costs while maintaining carrier aggregation capability across multiple RF bands.
3Adaptability or versatility
If more transceivers and frequency bands are added to the cellular device, then the device functionality expands, but the likelihood of self-interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The DDPDT switch acts as an intermediary routing device that carefully directs signals from different RF bands to appropriate receivers. By providing precise signal routing control, the switch prevents signals from different bands from interfering with each other, thereby reducing self-interference while supporting expanded frequency band functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile wireless communications device may include an antenna, primary RF receivers configured to operate at different RF bands, each primary RF receiver having a differential input, and secondary RF receivers also configured to operate at the different RF bands, each secondary RF receiver having a differential input. The mobile wireless communications device may also include first and second RF filters coupled to the antenna and configured to respectively pass first and second RF bands from among the different RF bands, and a first DDPDT RF switch coupled between the first and second RF filters and the differential inputs of respective first ones of the primary and secondary RF receivers.