Inductive HF Switching Assembly for Low-Loss Band Selection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current high-frequency switching technologies face challenges in integrating selective high-quality filters within high-frequency signal paths, leading to signal losses due to external switches, which are not as efficient as those produced by semiconductor technology, and require multiple signal sources/sinks for different frequency bands, increasing chip area and cost.

Innovation Solution

A high-frequency switching assembly with a transformer and switch transistors that alternate reference potentials to select output signals, allowing inductive coupling and reducing the need for series switches, thereby minimizing signal loss and optimizing chip area usage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If external switches are used to switch between different frequency bands, then adaptability to different frequency ranges is improved, but signal loss increases due to finite conductance and parasitic capacitances

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrequency band coverageVSAvoidsignal loss
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the switching function directly into the high-frequency chip by integrating switch transistors within the semiconductor device. This combines the signal source, switch, and filter into a single integrated unit, eliminating the need for separate external switches and reducing signal loss while maintaining frequency band adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediate coupling mechanism using capacitive coupling and inductive coupling elements within the integrated structure. These intermediary elements enable efficient signal transfer between frequency bands while minimizing losses compared to direct external switching.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple signal sources and sinks are provided on the high-frequency chip for different frequency bands, then adaptability is improved, but chip area and manufacturing complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrequency band supportVSAvoidchip area
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal signal path structure where a single high-frequency chip integrates multiple functions: signal generation, switching between frequency bands, and filtering. This multi-functional integration allows one chip to support multiple frequency bands without requiring separate dedicated circuits for each band, reducing overall chip area.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines multiple signal paths and switching functions into a single integrated high-frequency chip structure. By merging the signal source, switch transistors, and filter circuits into one unified device, the patent reduces the total chip area compared to providing separate signal sources and sinks for each frequency band.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If external switches are used instead of integrated switches, then switching performance is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching performanceVSAvoidnumber of external components
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the switching function into the high-frequency chip by integrating switch transistors within the semiconductor device. This integration reduces device complexity by eliminating separate external switches while maintaining reliable switching performance through optimized transistor design and placement within the integrated circuit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The high-frequency chip performs switching operations autonomously using integrated switch transistors controlled by control signals. The chip self-manages the switching between different frequency bands without requiring external switching components, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining switching reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 solution enables efficient high-frequency signal switching with reduced signal loss and improved chip efficiency by allowing selective output signal tapping based on switching states, supporting multiple communication bands without the need for extensive external switches.

Implementation Method 1

a transmitter component having a primary side and a secondary side having a first secondary side terminal and a second secondary side terminal, wherein the transmitter component is configured to transmit a HF input signal applied to its primary side to its secondary side by means of inductive coupling

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInductive coupling: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS9077392B2High-frequency switching assembly, transmitter and method
Publication Date: 2015.07.07 INTEL CORP
  • US9077392B2 patent drawing
  • US9077392B2 patent drawing
  • US9077392B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A high-frequency switching assembly having a first switching state and a second switching state includes a transmitter and a switch assembly. The transmitter includes a primary side and a secondary side having a first secondary side terminal and a second secondary side terminal and is configured to transmit an HF input signal applied to its primary side to its secondary side by means of inductive coupling. The switch assembly is configured to apply, in one state, a first reference potential to the first secondary side terminal. Further, the switch assembly is implemented to apply, in another state, a second reference potential to the second secondary side terminal.