Flexible RF Module for 5G Antenna Performance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radio-frequency modules face challenges in efficiently supporting high-frequency communications for emerging applications like 5G and mmWave, particularly in compact electronic devices where antenna performance is limited by the device's structure, leading to reduced gain and bandwidth.
Innovation Solution
A radio-frequency module design featuring a flexible second connection member that allows for separate implementation of a front-end integrated circuit (FEIC) and antenna component, with an impedance transformer and dielectric antenna layer, to enhance signal amplification and antenna radiation direction flexibility, thereby compensating for limited antenna performance in compact devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid connection member is used to mount the RFIC and FEIC, then structural stability is improved, but flexibility and adaptability in compact devices deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The connection member is divided into a first connection member (rigid substrate) and a second connection member (flexible circuit board), allowing each segment to fulfill its specific function - the first provides stable mounting for RFIC while the second provides flexible connection to FEIC and antenna
Solution Approach 2:
The first and second connection members are electrically connected to form an integrated connection structure that combines the advantages of rigid mounting and flexible routing, enabling both structural stability and adaptability in compact device configurations
2Device complexity
If the FEIC is integrated with the RFIC on the same substrate, then device complexity is reduced, but transmission path length and signal loss increase
Solution Approach 1:
The second connection member acts as an intermediary between the RFIC and FEIC, providing a controlled transmission path that balances electrical connection with minimal signal loss, while allowing separate optimization of each component's position
3Manufacturing precision
If the antenna component is fixed in position, then manufacturing precision is improved, but antenna radiation direction flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The second connection member is designed as a flexible circuit board that allows the antenna component to be positioned at different locations and orientations while maintaining electrical connection, enabling dynamic adjustment of radiation direction without sacrificing manufacturing precision
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
The design improves energy efficiency and antenna performance by shortening transmission paths and allowing for various frequency bands, even in devices with limited design freedom, enhancing both power consumption and signal transmission capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
The third RF wiring may include an impedance transformer configured to have a first transmission line impedance in a first direction, and a second transmission line impedance different from the first transmission line impedance in a second direction different from the first direction
Data Source
AI summary
A radio-frequency module includes a radio-frequency integrated circuit (RFIC) including a base connection terminal, and a first radio-frequency (RF) connection terminal; a first connection member including a mounting area on which the RFIC is mounted, a base wiring electrically connected to the base connection terminal of the RFIC, and a first RF wiring electrically connected to the first RF connection terminal of the RFIC; a second connection member including a second RF wiring electrically connected to the first RF wiring of the first connection member, and a third RF wiring, at least a portion of the second connection member being more flexible than the first connection member; and a front-end integrated circuit (FEIC) mounted on the second connection member and configured to amplify the first RF signal to generate the first communications signal or amplify the first communications signal to generate the first RF signal.