Diode Circuit With Parallel DC Path For RF Impedance Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Diodes cannot be used in RF paths where a DC current is intercepted by a capacitor, limiting circuit design due to their active element properties and the generation of both DC and AC currents when an RF signal is applied.
Innovation Solution
A diode circuit is designed where a DC path, potentially including an inductor or LC parallel resonator, is connected in parallel to the diode, forming a loop that circulates the DC current, allowing the diode to function like a passive element by using a DC intercepting capacitor to isolate the DC current, enabling its use in RF circuits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a diode is used in an RF path, then AC current is generated and processed, but DC current is also generated which cannot be handled when a capacitor intercepts it
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the diode's current handling by creating separate paths: the AC current flows through the diode to the RF output, while the DC current is directed through a dedicated DC path (containing inductor L1 and capacitor C1) to a DC load. This segmentation allows the diode to handle both AC and DC components independently, resolving the contradiction between RF processing capability and compatibility with DC intercepting capacitors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary components (inductor L1 and capacitor C1) that form a DC path to manage the DC current generated by the diode. The inductor L1 allows DC current to pass while blocking AC, and capacitor C1 intercepts the DC current for the DC load. These intermediaries enable the diode to function in RF circuits with DC intercepting capacitors by providing a dedicated route for DC current.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a DC path is added to circulate DC current, then the diode can function like a passive element in RF circuits, but the circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the diode circuit universal by enabling it to perform multiple functions: AC signal detection/rectification, DC current generation, and impedance matching. By adding the DC path with inductor L1 and capacitor C1, the same diode circuit simultaneously handles both AC RF processing and DC current management, allowing the diode to function like a passive element in various RF circuit configurations without requiring separate DC handling circuits.
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 configuration allows diodes to be used in RF circuits like passive elements, facilitating easier RF circuit design and enabling the creation of impedance modulators and DC current sources, with the ability to modulate impedance based on output power levels.
Implementation Method 1
when an AC signal is applied to the diode, a predetermined intensity of DC current IDC and different frequencies of AC currents i1, i2, . . . , and in are generated due to the parabolic nature of the diode
Implementation Method 2
a DC path that is connected in parallel to the first diode, forms a predetermined loop and circulates the DC current within the loop
Implementation Method 3
The DC path may comprise an inductor connected to the first diode in parallel
Implementation Method 4
The DC path may comprise an LC parallel resonator connected to the first diode in parallel
Implementation Method 5
a DC intercepting capacitor connected in series to a node formed between the first diode and the DC path to intercept an outflow of the DC current generated by the first diode
Data Source
AI summary
A diode circuit having a passive element property, and an impedance modulator and a direct current (DC) source that use the diode circuit are provided. The diode circuit includes a first diode that generates a predetermined DC and alternating currents (AC) when a radio frequency (RF) signal is applied; and a DC path that is connected in parallel to the first diode, forms a predetermined loop and circulates the DC current within the loop. The DC path includes an inductor or an LC parallel resonator. The DC path includes a second diode that is disposed in the opposite direction to the first diode and connected to the first diode in parallel. The present invention can relieve difficulty in designing an RF circuit.