Dual-Output Asynchronous Power Converter for Carrier Aggregation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing envelope tracking power converter circuitry for wireless communications devices is large and inefficient, particularly when supporting uplink carrier aggregation, which is a challenge for mobile devices with limited space and increased energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
The development of dual-mode envelope tracking/average power tracking power converter circuitry that uses a single integrated circuit to provide both envelope tracking and average power tracking, reducing the size and increasing efficiency by reusing parallel amplifier power converter components to support two power amplifiers with minimal size increase.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate power converter circuitry is used for each power amplifier to support uplink carrier aggregation, then each amplifier can be independently controlled, but the overall device size increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate power converter circuits into a single dual-output power converter circuit that can simultaneously provide power to two power amplifiers. The circuit shares common components including input node, switching elements, capacitive elements, and control circuitry, while providing two independent output nodes that can be asynchronously controlled to support uplink carrier aggregation with reduced device size.
Solution Approach 2:
The dual-output power converter circuit is designed to perform multiple functions: it can independently control and power two different power amplifiers for carrier aggregation, provide asynchronous power delivery to different outputs, and maintain the ability to support envelope tracking for each amplifier separately through shared control circuitry.
2Device complexity
If synchronous power delivery is used to both outputs, then circuit simplicity is maintained, but efficiency is reduced due to inability to independently optimize power delivery
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements asynchronous power delivery where the switching elements at the two output nodes can operate independently with different switching timings and duty cycles. This dynamic control allows each output to be optimized for its specific load requirements while sharing common power conversion components, improving overall efficiency without requiring fully separate power converter circuits.
3Loss of energy
If envelope tracking is implemented for each power amplifier separately, then optimal efficiency is achieved for each amplifier, but the overall power converter size and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the envelope tracking control functionality into a unified control system that manages both power amplifier outputs. The control circuitry receives envelope information and generates appropriate control signals for the switching elements at both outputs, enabling simultaneous envelope tracking for two amplifiers through a single integrated power converter rather than requiring separate converter 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 solution significantly reduces the size of the RF transmitter section while maintaining efficient envelope tracking, allowing for uplink carrier aggregation with reduced transmit power requirements, thus improving battery life and reducing spectral emissions.
Implementation Method 1
a number of capacitive elements and a number of switching elements coupled between the input node, the first output node, the second output node, and the capacitive elements. The switching elements charge and discharge the capacitive elements such that an asynchronous power supply output voltage is provided to the first output node and the second output node
Data Source
AI summary
Dual-output power converter circuitry includes an input node, a first output node, a second output node, a number of capacitive elements, and a number of switching elements. The switching elements are coupled between the input node, the first output node, the second output node, and the capacitive elements. In operation, the switching elements charge and discharge the capacitive elements such that a power supply output voltage is provided asynchronously to the first output node and the second output node.