Front End Module with Shared Amplifier Circuit for Multi-Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
As the number of communication types supported by electronic devices increases, so does the number of antennas or front end modules required, leading to reduced space for other components and potential interference due to closer antenna placement, which degrades communication performance.
Innovation Solution
A front end module design that uses the same antennas or front end modules for communications with partially overlapping frequency bands, allowing for shared amplifier circuits and bypass paths to reduce the size and complexity of the module, enabling efficient transmission and reception of signals across multiple communication types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the number of antennas or front end modules is increased to support various communication types, then the communication capability is improved, but the disposition space for other components is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The front end module is designed to support multiple communication types (first communication and second communication) through a single module configuration. The module includes switches and amplifier circuits that can be dynamically configured to handle different communication protocols, allowing one physical module to perform multiple functions that would traditionally require separate dedicated modules for each communication type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the functionality of multiple front end modules into a single integrated module. By merging the first communication path and second communication path within one module, the design reduces the total number of discrete components needed, thereby freeing up disposition space while maintaining support for multiple communication types.
2Area of stationary object
If the distance between antennas is reduced due to limited space, then the disposition space for other components is improved, but interference between antennas occurs and communication performance is degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The front end module incorporates dynamic switching mechanisms that allow the system to adaptively configure signal paths based on which communication type is currently active. The switches can dynamically connect or disconnect different amplifier circuits and signal paths, enabling the module to optimize its configuration for the specific communication protocol in use, thereby minimizing interference when antennas are in close proximity.
Solution Approach 2:
The module segments the signal processing paths into distinct first communication paths and second communication paths with separate amplifier circuits. This segmentation allows independent control and isolation of different communication signals, preventing interference between them even when transmitted through closely spaced antennas.
3Reliability
If separate amplifier circuits are used for each communication type, then the communication performance is maintained, but the device complexity and space occupation are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The amplifier circuits are designed with universal functionality to handle multiple communication types. The first amplifier circuit and second amplifier circuit can be selectively activated based on the communication type in use, allowing the same physical hardware to serve multiple purposes. This reduces the need for completely separate dedicated amplifier circuits for each communication protocol.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple amplifier circuits into a shared infrastructure within the single front end module. By combining the amplifier functions and sharing common components where possible, the design reduces overall device complexity while maintaining the performance characteristics needed for different communication types through selective activation and configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
In an electronic device and a method of operating the electronic device according to various embodiments, a front end module of the electronic device comprises: a first terminal connected to a transmission port for a first communication; a second terminal connected to a reception port for the first communication; a first amplifier connected to the first terminal; an amplifier circuit including a second amplifier and a bypass line connected in parallel with the second amplifier; a first switch connecting the amplifier circuit to one from among the second terminal, a third terminal connected to one of a reception port for a second communication or a transmission port for the second communication, and a fourth terminal connected to one of the reception port for the second communication or the transmission port for the second communication; and a second switch connecting an antenna to one of the amplifier circuit and the first amplifier, wherein a transmission signal of the second communication may be configured to be transmitted to the antenna through the bypass line connected in parallel with the second amplifier included in the amplifier circuit, a reception signal of the second communication may be configured to be transmitted to the reception port for the second communication through the second amplifier.