High-Frequency Switch Module With Grounded Free Ports
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing high-frequency switch modules require separate design configurations and increased manufacturing costs due to varying wireless communication methods, and they suffer from signal leakage issues between transmission/reception circuits and antennas.
Innovation Solution
A high-frequency switch module with a standardized switch element that includes a FET switch, a high-frequency circuit, and a GND circuit, where some switch ports are connected to the high-frequency circuit and others are used as free ports connected directly to the GND or via an impedance unit, improving isolation by reflecting signals back to the antenna port.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate design configurations are used for different wireless communication methods, then the isolation between transmission/reception circuits and antenna is improved, but the design time and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a standardized switch element configuration that can be used across multiple wireless communication methods (GSM 850/900/1800/1900 MHz and UMTS 2100 MHz). The same switch element design with FET switches, antenna port, and switch ports can serve different frequency bands and communication standards without requiring separate designs, thereby reducing design time while maintaining signal isolation through proper grounding of unused ports.
2Reliability
If separate design configurations are used for different wireless communication methods, then the signal isolation is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized switch element design allows for mass production of identical components that can be configured for different wireless communication methods through software or connection configuration rather than hardware redesign. This universality reduces manufacturing costs by enabling economies of scale and reducing the need for multiple specialized production lines.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the system into standardized switch elements that can be independently manufactured and then assembled into different configurations for various wireless communication methods. This modular segmentation allows each switch element to be produced efficiently in volume while the overall system adapts to different requirements through configuration rather than redesign.
3Speed
If FET switches are used in high-frequency switch modules, then the switching performance is improved, but signal wrapping around occurs causing isolation degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a grounding mechanism as an intermediary for unused switch ports. By connecting unused switch ports to ground, the patent prevents signal wrapping around through the FET switches while maintaining the fast switching performance. The ground connection acts as a mediator that dissipates or redirects potential wrapping signals, thereby preserving both switching speed and signal isolation.
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 for easy adaptation to different wireless communication methods and enhances signal isolation between the antenna and connected switch ports, reducing design time and manufacturing costs while maintaining high-frequency performance.
Implementation Method 1
The FET switch switches the connection between the switch ports and the antenna port
Implementation Method 2
the free switch port is connected to a GND electrode directly or via an impedance unit composed of a circuit element in the GND circuit
Data Source
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AI summary
A high-frequency switch module (1) includes a switch element (SW1), high-frequency circuits (2 to 6), and a GND circuit (7). The switch element (SW1) includes an antenna port (Pa1), switch ports (Ps1 to Ps6), and an FET switch. The FET switch switches connection between the switch ports (Ps1 to Ps6) and the antenna port (Pa1). The high-frequency circuits (2 to 6) connect any of the switch ports (Ps1 to Ps6) to a signal processing circuit. In the GND circuit (7), the switch port (Ps6), which is not connected to the high-frequency circuits (2 to 6), is directly connected to a GND electrode.