Diplexer Path Isolation Using Distributed Switch Networks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing radio-frequency (RF) diplexer paths face challenges in achieving sufficient isolation, particularly when a path is disabled, as they often rely on a single open switch, which can lead to reduced isolation performance and increased signal interference.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a distributed network of signal paths with multiple switches, where at least one disabled path includes multiple open switches, enhances isolation by configuring the network to have two or more open switches when the first path is enabled, thereby improving signal routing and reducing interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a single open switch is used to disable a diplexer path, then the device complexity is reduced, but the isolation performance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of switchesVSAvoidsignal leakage
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the signal path by introducing multiple switches (at least two) in series within each diplexer path instead of using a single switch. This segmentation allows each switch to contribute to the overall isolation, so that when any switch is open, the path is effectively disabled with improved isolation performance. The segmentation principle directly resolves the contradiction by trading increased device complexity for significantly reduced signal leakage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Object-affected harmful factors

If multiple open switches are used in a disabled path, then the isolation performance is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal interferenceVSAvoidnumber of switches
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple switches into series configuration within each diplexer path, combining their isolation effects to achieve superior signal interference rejection. By placing switches in series rather than parallel or single configuration, the overall isolation performance is the sum of individual switch isolation contributions, effectively merging their protective functions to eliminate signal interference in disabled paths.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Object-affected harmful factors

If multiple switches are placed in series in each path, then the isolation between enabled and disabled paths is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepath isolationVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the switch array and control logic to be universal and multi-functional, where the same hardware infrastructure supports both the enhanced isolation function and various operating modes (carrier aggregation and non-carrier aggregation). The control mechanism can dynamically configure which switches are closed or opened based on the operational mode, allowing the system to achieve superior path isolation while maintaining manufacturing efficiency through a unified design that serves multiple purposes.

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

Data Source

PatentUS10256850B2Architectures and methods related to improved isolation for diplexer paths
Publication Date: 2019.04.09 SKYWORKS SOLUTIONS INC
  • US10256850B2 patent drawing
  • US10256850B2 patent drawing
  • US10256850B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Architectures and methods related to improved isolation for diplexer paths. In some embodiments, an architecture for routing radio-frequency (RF) signals can include an input node and an output node, and a distributed network of signal paths implemented between the input node and the output node. The distributed network of signal paths can include a first path having N switches including a selected switch, with the quantity N being an integer greater than 2. The first path can be capable of routing a first RF signal between the input node and the output node when enabled. The distributed network of signal paths can further include a second path capable of routing a second RF signal between the input node and the output node, with the second path including the selected switch. The second path can include a plurality of open switches when disabled and the first path is enabled.